Territorian Steven Motlop shooting for a first AFL grand final in his fourth preliminary final

Reigning AFL premier Richmond standing in the way of Territorian Steven Motlop’s AFL grand final ambitions

Another goal, another step towards a breakthrough AFL grand final appearance for the Territory’s own Steven Motlop. Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images.

PORT Adelaide forward Steven Motlop needs no reminding the hardest game to win in any form of sport is the preliminary final.

Only the players know how much hurt and disappointment can come from watching an AFL grand final from the grandstand instead of being an active participant.

Motlop is one of four Territorians with an AFL grand final in their sights this week — Daniel Rioli can play in his third if Richmond beat Port, while Brisbane’s Zac Bailey and Geelong’s Brandan Parfitt are aiming for their first Big Dance.

Motlop played in three losing preliminary finals with his former club Geelong, losing to Hawthorn in 2013 by five points, Sydney in 2016 and Adelaide a year later.

And they don’t come any tougher than tonight’s knockout preliminary final against reigning premier Richmond, already stung by a finals loss to Brisbane two weeks ago.

Motlop played a major role in Port’s win over Geelong a fortnight ago, kicking three vital goals in his side’s 18-point win.

And tonight the 29-year-old Wanderers and Territory Thunder junior product will have to do it again if he is to play in his first grand final.

“Obviously it’s going to be a tough game, they’ve (Richmond) been the benchmark for the last few years and they won’t want to lose a preliminary final,’’ Motlop said.

“As a forward group you try and contribute in some way and with players like Zac Butters and Connor Rozee around me I was lucky enough to get opportunities to score and I was able to do that.

“Everyone wants to see this game and with Richmond, like ourselves, in good form and the stakes as high as they are, it should be a great match.’’

Motlop said the players are confident they can beat Richmond with a home crowd behind them at the Adelaide Oval and a consistent year that saw them on top of the ladder for all 18 minor rounds.

“The battle will be in the midfield where Richmond has got some great players and so have we and if we can match them in that area and make the most of our opportunities going forward the scoreboard will tell the story,’’ he said.

“There’s only going to be 30,000 fans there but they will sound like 50,000, they’re pretty

passionate at both clubs.’’