It’s time for the Power to prove to the football world whether they’re capable of playing a part in this year’s September action. Despite only going down to the West Coast Eagles by eight points in round nine, Port is yet to beat a side in the top eight – now is its chance. The Bulldogs would be an enormous scalp, although it won’t come easily.
One of the most exciting teams in the league, the Bulldogs venture to Adelaide Oval having knocked off the Eagles last week to re-take fourth spot on the ladder.
The midfield battle here looms as a tantalising one: Robbie Gray, Travis Boak and Ollie Wines up against the likes of Marcus Bontempelli, Lachie Hunter, Jack Macrae and Mitch Wallis.
LAST FIVE TIMES
R19, 2015, Western Bulldogs 19.14 (128) d Port Adelaide 9.10 (64) at Etihad Stadium
R10, 2015, Port Adelaide 16.4 (100) d Western Bulldogs 9.8 (62) at Adelaide Oval
R14, 2014, Port Adelaide 19.14 (128) d Western Bulldogs 8.8 (56) at Adelaide Oval
R10, 2013, Western Bulldogs 10.7 (67) d Port Adelaide 8.10 (58) at TIO Stadium
R12, 2012, Western Bulldogs 13.17 (95) d Port Adelaide 8.9 (57) at Etihad Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. The Western Bulldogs thrashed Port Adelaide the last time the sides played, winning by 64 points in round 19, 2015 at Etihad Stadium. Jack Redpath and Jake Stringer kicked four goals each.
2. The Bulldogs have enjoyed recent success against the Power, winning eight of the last 10 matches. Port Adelaide’s last win was in round 10, 2015.
3. The Bulldogs have travelled only twice so far to Adelaide Oval, both times to face Port Adelaide with both games resulting in losses.
4. The highest attendance to watch these teams is 40,907 in round 10, 2015 at Adelaide Oval and the lowest is 7,850 in round 10, 2013 at TIO Stadium.
5. Did you know there haven’t been too many close contests recently between these sides, since 2008 there has been just one match decided by less than six goals?
6. Marcus Bontempelli’s superb 30-possession performance last week as acting skipper saw the 20-year-old move up into the top five in the Schick AFL Player Ratings. Bontempelli was the youngest AFL/VFL captain to ever lead a side to victory last week.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Charlie Dixon
While held goalless last weekend against the Magpies, Dixon’s recent from has been building impressively. He’ll need to continue that trend on Saturday, when his side will require a serious performance from him if its to stand a chance.
