Port Adelaide cops inevitable dose of reality in JLT Series loss to West Coast

PORT Adelaide went into the 2018 season full of optimism. But after one game, some quiet recruits and a possible suspension, the inevitable dose of reality has already hit the club.

Brad Ebert handballs for the Power on Sunday. Picture: Getty Images

PORT Adelaide hit 54,000 members on pre-season hope triggered by an influx of star recruits but its JLT series opener against West Coast offered the inevitable dose of reality in Perth.

Compounding a two-point Port loss, Robbie Gray’s immediate playing future could rest with the match review officer after a first-quarter collision with Jeremy McGovern that took the Eagles defender out of the game. Having beaten an off-season battle with testicular cancer, brilliant Gray may face a different ordeal this week.

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Gray appeared to collect McGovern with a high hit while the Eagle’s head was over the ball late in the first quarter.

Gray could miss the JLT round-two Showdown with Adelaide — or more matches — if review boss Michael Christian takes a hard line with head contact. Gray braced, but didn’t intentionally hurt McGovern.

A short, sharp JLT series added urgency, interest and meaning to the 2017 elimination final rematch at Leederville Oval in stifling conditions.

Paddy Ryder in action for Port Adelaide. Picture: Getty Images

The Eagles hit the front with a minute to go following a 65m Lewis Jetta long-bomb — replicating their elimination final heist against the Power.

The Power appeared in control of the contest and took a six-point lead into the final quarter but was ultimately punished for poor finishing — again.

Jack Redden (12 contested possessions) impressed in his quest for a starting midfield berth and set the Eagles on their way with a goal seven minutes into the first quarter. Charlie Dixon’s third had the Power in the box seat for victory with a six-point advantage but the Power couldn’t hold on — a repeat of its theme of 2017.

The on-ball collective might of Andrew Gaff (35 possessions) Redden and Luke Shuey (26) prevailed.

The major interest in the contest for Port centred on the arrival of recruits including Jack Watts, Steve Motlop and Dom Barry.

Barry had spent an AFL sabbatical in the outback but could prove a wildcard for Port with his pace and carry. Barry cashed in on his start with Port’s first goal and 20 touches, nine contested. Jasper Pittard excelled in defence.

Watts had five disposals for the first half. He competed, chased and tackled hard before fading in the second half.

Jack Watts and Charlie Dixon celebrate a goal for the Power. Picture: AFL Media

Motlop didn’t impact as he would have liked and missed an open shot on goal in the third term, to rub salt into the wound.

Watts’ first goal and Port’s fourth in the final term would have encouraged Ken Hinkley to smile. Barry, Travis Boak, Brad Ebert, Charlie Dixon and Gray completed a coast-to-coast chain before Watts booted Port’s fourth.