FootyGoss :: SANFL

Magpies forward on target again for Port Adelaide

One week on, one week off seems to be the go for Port Adelaide Magpie full forward Daniel Hargraves as he proved the match-winner again with seven goals in his sides’ 24-point victory over West Adelaide at Richmond Oval on Saturday.

Before the bye last week, Hargraves missed a chance to seal a win for the Magpies while previous to that a 10-goal performance led Port over his old side North Adelaide. Now his seven goals was the difference between winning and losing against the Bloods.

In a match involving the last and second last teams, the Magpies responded to two late charges from West Adelaide with a gritty display. Port Adelaide seemed in control midway through the third term but the Bloods reacted bravely to come within 11 points in time-on of the last quarter.

After a tight first half that saw seven lead changes, Port piled on five unanswered goals in the second and third terms. But West Adelaide refused to fold as small forward Salim Hassan sparked his side into action.

Turnovers again hurt the home side but it was a considerable improvement from previous weeks.

Power-listed Nathan Krakouer (25 disposals), consistent onballer Jeremy Clayton (24), rising star Steven Summerton (24) and youngster Mark Dolling (24) proved the magpie drive through the midfield.

Seventeen year-old Hamish Hartlett, brother of Carlton youngster Adam, looked a likely forward option for the Bloods finishing with 3.3 in an impressive effort.

Port Adelaide held off West Adelaide to scored their second win of the season, 17.12 (114) to 13.12 (90).

Stephen O’Loughlin