Australian Football

Match Report

In the final game for the weekend, it was the renewal of a classic SANFL rivalry at the Alberton Oval when the Magpies clashed with the Redlegs. Earlier this season in Round 4, the Redlegs inflicted a 34-point defeat on the Magpies at The Parade. Since that time, the Redlegs hit a couple of stumbling blocks but have recovered in recent weeks with victories against West and South. The Magpies have hit some bumps in the road as well, but last week's win against Sturt as well as the inclusion of a couple of big name Power players have added confidence to the team. The Redlegs were coming in a bit short handed with several frontline players on the injury list. 

The Magpies had the better start, kicking off the afternoon's action with a 4.3 to 3.2 opening term to lead by seven points at the first change. Port would stretch that advantage to 19 points by the half-time break, they added a further 4.2 to the 'Legs 2.2 in the second term. Norwood had some goal-kicking issues in the third quarter as they attempted to bridge the gap, the only thing they managed to do was bring it to within three straight kicks. The Redlegs scored 3.4 to 3.2, reducing the Magpies' lead to 17 points by three quarter-time. But the differences between the fitter, AFL-talent laden outfit and the part-timers would be on show in the finishing term, the home side ramming home 6.4 to two goals and ran out 45-point winners. 

Ollie Wines is sure to earn a Power call up with his best on ground votes for Port, while the Redlegs would name Lewis Johnston as their best.