Port Adelaide reserves kick-off with a trial match win over Panthers

PORT Adelaide’s reserves side’s debut was a 15-point win over South Adelaide, although both teams were missing key players.

WITH several injured stars still pushing for round one berths, it’s unlikely anyone who played for Port’s reserves in Saturday’s SANFL trial will force their way into the seniors for next Sunday’s clash against Carlton.

But there were a handful who showed they’re ready to go if called upon, including wingman Sam Colquhoun and defender Tom Logan.

Those two produced the most moments of quality in the Magpies’ 15-point win against South Adelaide - while Mason Shaw and Cameron Hitchcock showed good signs in the forward line, combining for five goals.

After South nailed the opener, Port responded with the next five goals and looked like cruising to a comfortable win.

But the Panthers fought back well and looked capable of an upset until late in the final term.

Jake Neade limped off in the fourth quarter and left the oval with ice strapped to his left ankle.

The match wasn’t a great indicator of what to expect when the SANFL season begins because Port’s team will be strengthened by as many as five players dropping down from the seniors.

South was also missing a load of talent, including Nick Liddle, Xavier Gotch, Josh Thewlis, Keegan Brooksby, Joel Cross and Tarak Redigolo.

PORT 4.1 5.3 6.8 9.10 (64)

SOUTH 1.1 3.6 5.7 7.7 (49)