Port Adelaide is gearing up for an exhilarating semi-final clash against Hawthorn this Friday night, with a crucial lineup adjustment. The team has confirmed the return of Todd Marshall and Josh Sinn for the highly anticipated match.
Marshall, who had been sidelined with a concussion since Port Adelaide’s Round 22 encounter with Melbourne, is now fully recovered and set to rejoin the action. His return is a significant boost for the Power’s forward line. Alongside him, Josh Sinn makes his comeback, having last played in Round 16 against St Kilda. Sinn, at just 21, is eager to showcase his skills and contribute to the team’s efforts in this critical game.
Unfortunately, Ryan Burton will not be participating due to a minor calf injury. Burton’s absence opens the door for Sinn to step in, adding a new dynamic to the squad. Additionally, the team has made several strategic placements, with Marshall, Travis Boak, Francis Evans, Quinton Narkle, and Jackson Mead all named on the bench. The final tactical substitution will be announced an hour before the match starts.
Port Adelaide’s previous encounter with Hawthorn was a nail-biting affair, with the Power narrowly securing a victory by a single point in Round 10 at Adelaide Oval. This victory has given them a strong position heading into the finals, with the home crowd expected to deliver robust support. The semi-final is scheduled to commence at 7:10 PM ACST, and gates will open at 5:30 PM. Fans are also invited to participate in the pre-match March from Festival Plaza, which will begin at 6:00 PM.
The selected team for the semi-final is as follows: Backline: L Jones, B Zerk-Thatcher, M Bergma Half-Back: J Sinn, A Aliir, L Evans
Midfield: J Burgoyne, O Wines, W Drew
Half-Forward: D Byrne-Jones, E Ratugolea, W Rioli
Forward: M Georgiades, C Dixon, C Rozee
Rucks: J Sweet, J Horne-Francis, Z Butters
Interchange: T Marshall, T Boak, F Evans, Q Narkle, J Mead
Emergencies include D Williams, W Lorenz, and D Visentini. The upcoming game promises to be a thrilling encounter as Port Adelaide aims to continue their successful run in the finals.