Port Adelaide lock up top two finish after dominating Essendon
They’re often overlooked in premiership conversations, but Port Adelaide can’t be ignored any longer after they dished up another demolition job.
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Port Adelaide fans can begin making fans for a home final in the first week of the serious action after the Power took care of business against Essendon on Saturday.
The dominant 11.13 (79) to 4.5 (29) victory locks Port Adelaide into a top two finish on the AFL ladder.
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A sluggish opening quarter saw the Bombers grab a five-point lead, but after two goals in the opening term they only managed two more for the remainder of the game.
The Power clicked into gear as they kicked six unanswered goals to put the contest beyond doubt and claim their 13th win on the season.
Despite their dominance throughout the entirety of the home and away season they’ve often found themselves lower down the order when it comes to premiership favourite conversations.
Midfield trio Tom Rockliff, Ollie Wines and Travis Boak were at there damaging best in the less than ideal conditions as they combined for 83 disposals and 10 clearances.
Boak added a cherry on top of his game with a goal in the final quarter, courtesy of a masterful little tap from star Robbie Gray.
Robbie Gray is too slick 😎#AFLPowerDons pic.twitter.com/AAzMPLdys9
— AFL (@AFL) September 12, 2020
Monster forward Charlie Dixon was once again at his damaging best in front of goal, slotting two goals and pulling down a mark of the year contender in the opening moments.
A top two finish on the ladder secures a home final in the first week for Port Adelaide with one game remaining.
The loss for Essendon adds to what has been a nightmare second half of the season as the club’s fall sinks to new depths.
After looking hungry in the opening quarter, the Bombers completely lost their bite as the Power took control of the contest and outscored them 71-16 over the final three quarters.
Port Adelaide take on Collingwood to wrap up the home and away season next Monday. Entering the game the Power will know who they will be facing in the first week of finals and could rest several big name players to ensure they’re fresh for the big action.
Essendon finish their horrid season against Richmond on Saturday afternoon, a game the Tigers will be looking to win to remain in third place on the ladder.
Originally published as Port Adelaide lock up top two finish after dominating Essendon