Port Adelaide host the ladder-leading Sydney Swans on Saturday night at Adelaide Oval in a clash that could shape the rest of the season for both sides.
Port is in fine form coming off a 14-point victory over Carlton, which takes them to 7th on the ladder after four wins from their last five matches. The Swans, however, are in somewhat of a form slump, losing to the Western Bulldogs by 39 points in Round 20.
For the Power, Ollie Wines was outstanding against the Blues with 25 disposals and 10 clearances, while Conor Rozee (24 disposals) and Jason Horne-Francis (23 disposals and one goal) got the best of Carlton’s midfield.
The Swans will welcome James Rowbottom back from injury after missing a fortnight with a sore cheekbone, while Dane Rampe and Lewis Melican remain sidelined. Aaron Francis is set to play his fourth match this season, named in the red and white line up.
The last time these two sides met it was a thriller in Sydney, with Port Adelaide prevailing by two points back in Round 4 in 2023. Ollie Florent had the chance to snatch the game on the siren for Sydney, but his kick fell just short handing Port the win.
On that occasion Jeremy Finlayson booted three goals for the Power while Zak Butters and Xavier Duursma were among the best for the visitors.
Former Swan Aliir Aliir will run out for his 150th AFL match on Saturday night against his old side and said he’s looking forward to the challenge.
“To be able to play 150 and to play against my old team is a little bit strange but its still a proud moment for myself and my family,” Aliir said.
“It does mean a lot considering where I’ve come from and not growing up with the game and I hope it gives a chance for the African youth and for the multicultural kids given an opportunity you can go anything with your life.
“It’s a big game… for us we are expecting their (Sydney’s) best and from rounds 1-15 they were ranked in the top three for almost every stat there is, so we are going to be expecting that on Saturday.”
