Port Adelaide put on an emphatic display during the AAMI Community Series, securing a convincing pre-season win over St Kilda with a final score of 14.9 (93) to 7.7 (49) on Saturday at Moorabbin.
From the onset of the match, Port Adelaide dictated play, keeping the Saints goalless during the first quarter. The Power jumped out to a fast start, kicking 6.3 to just one behind for St Kilda, with Joe Richards kicking the first goal and racking up 10 disposals early. The dominance continued as Port defenders and midfielders worked effectively to establish early control.
Port Adelaide was led by captain Connor Rozee, who gathered 39 disposals, alongside Jason Horne-Francis, who added 31 of his own. Horne-Francis, displaying sensational form, was instrumental in maintaining the pressure on St Kilda, which struggled to find target options and was often found wanting at key moments during the match.
While the Saints showed improvements after half-time, their early performance left coach Ross Lyon with significant concerns as they prepare to face Adelaide Crows on March 16 for their season opener. Highlighting St Kilda's woes was the injury to Mitch Owens, who was involved in a significant clash and left the match with shoulder troubles. Assistant coach Corey Enright commented on Owens' toughness, stating, "We know he's tough... it must have been a significant clash for him to do whatever he's done," signaling the challenges the Saints are currently facing.
The Saints did manage some brighter moments; newcomer Hugh Boxshall caught the eye as he kicked their first goal 10 minutes after half-time, and his performance looks promising as he vies for a round one debut. Alongside him, Jack Macrae stood out with 32 disposals, trying to drive the Saints forward.
Port Adelaide's defense also saw notable performances. With Esava Ratugolea and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher sidelined due to injury, Jeremy Finlayson shifted to defense, finishing with 29 disposals, marking himself as a potential key player when the season kicks off. His strong performance was complemented by contributions from Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and the effective use of marking across the field, which allowed Port to maintain possession.
Even with injuries taking their toll—star midfielder Zak Butters sidelined for six weeks due to knee surgery—Port's depth shone through during the match. Scorers included Willie Rioli, who kicked three goals before being managed for the remainder of the game, and Jack Lukosius, who made his presence felt with two goals and nine score involvements throughout the game.
Looking toward the season opener against Collingwood on March 15, Port Adelaide appears ready to deploy numerous players with good form and efficiency established during this game. Coach Ken Hinkley will likely take these performances as positives as they gear up for the challenges to come.
St Kilda's list, on the other hand, is currently facing significant injury hurdles. With Owens' shoulder injury coupled with Cooper Sharman's hand issue, and uncertainty surrounding the condition of players like Rowan Marshall and Max King, there is urgent need for recovery before the Crows clash. With pivotal players missing, the Saints' depth will be tested right from the start of the season.
This match-up served as more than just practice—it exposed weaknesses and highlighted players poised to shine, all of which could have lasting repercussions as teams fine-tune their strategies heading toward the 2025 season.
Overall, with strong displays from both teams' potential stars, this pre-season clash has set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season of Australian rules football.