Adelaide has suffered its first SANFL loss since Round Two, going down to Port Adelaide by five goals in the annual regional Showdown on Saturday afternoon.
Elliott Himmelberg kicked three goals, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Magpies from recording a 15.9 (99) to 10.9 (69) win at Port Pirie’s Memorial Oval.
Port Adelaide had the better start to the game, leading by 26 points at quarter time.
The Crows fought back in the second and third quarters and got runs of goals, but were never able to reduce the margin past two goals.
The experience of trio Bryce Gibbs, Andy Otten and Sam Jacobs was evident all game.
Gibbs had 25 touches, seven clearances and six inside 50s, while Otten had 24 disposals, seven rebound 50s and six marks.
Jacobs had a good battle with Magpie Peter Ladhams in the ruck, collecting 31 hit-outs and a goal.
Darcy Fogarty spent time in the midfield throughout the match, utilising his strong frame to lay eight tackles and collect four clearances.
Jordan Gallucci impressed with 18 touches, eight tackles, seven inside 50s and six clearances.
Development squad member Tom Hutchesson also stood out with 22 disposals, five clearances and four marks.
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State League coach Heath Younie said the result came down to Port Adelaide being more effective going forward.
“It was two quality sides going head to head and one side was able to take their chances inside 50,” Younie said.
“The inside 50s and contested ball were pretty even, but they put four quarters together and we played two and a half.”
Midfielder Patrick Wilson suffered concussion early in the first quarter and sat out the rest of the game.
He will be assessed further during the week.
ADELAIDE 1.2 5.5 9.7 10.9 (69)
PORT 5.4 7.5 12.7 15.9 (99)
GOALS:
Adelaide: Himmelberg 3, Strachan 2, Boyle, Fogarty, Gallucci, Jacobs, Wright
Port: Frampton 6, Woodcock 4, Atley, Corcoran, Davidson, Johnson, Ladhams
BEST: Gibbs, Otten Jacobs, Hutchesson, Fogarty
