Six goals from key forward Josh Jenkins has led Adelaide to a 16-point win in a high-scoring SANFL Showdown on Saturday afternoon.
After a fast start, the Crows led all day and won 18.13 (121) to 16.9 (105) at Alberton Oval.
It was a tight contest with Port Adelaide challenging repeatedly throughout the afternoon, but Adelaide held firm to claim the win.
Along with his goal haul, including a great set shot from the boundary after the final siren, Jenkins also had 22 disposals, seven marks and five tackles.
He was ably supported inside 50 by small forward Tyson Stengle who kicked four goals, while Darcy Fogarty kicked two in his first game of the year playing forward.
Both Paul Seedsman (23 disposals, seven marks) and Richard Douglas (13 disposals, six clearances) had successful returns from injury, both making solid contributions.
Young defender Jordon Butts played his best game of the year, finishing with 21 disposals, 11 marks and kicking at 100 per cent efficiency.
While happy to get the points, State League coach Heath Younie said the team was lucky to win.
“Full credit to Port, they competed strongly and we were beaten around the contest, they got field position and we had to score more out of our back half,” Younie said.
“But to our guys credit, they fought out the game.”
Younie was pleased to see Jenkins rewarded for his hard work.
“I thought he was outstanding,” he said.
“He moved strongly, he got rewarded with six goals but most importantly his competition ahead of the ball was fantastic."
There were no injuries reported during the match.
The SANFL Crows have a week off next weekend due to a split round and will next play on Saturday June 1 against North Adelaide.
ADELAIDE 5.3 11.5 14.8 18.13 (121)
PORT 2.2 5.5 11.6 16.9 (105)
GOALS:
Adelaide: Jenkins 6, Stengle 4, Fogarty 2, Davis, Douglas, McAdam, Poholke, Strachan, Wilson
Port: Cox 4, Davidson 2, Hill, Trengove, Appleton, Ladhams, Marshall, Mead, Wong, Woodcock, Sutcliffe
BEST: Jenkins, Wright, Otten, Stengle, Seedsman
