As the final round of the AFL season approaches, the Fremantle Dockers are set to take on the Premiership-contending Port Adelaide Power in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. While the Dockers might not have a shot at September action, they are poised to play the spoiler role against a Power team aiming to secure a top-two finish and a coveted home final in the first week.
Dockers To Take It Up To The Power
Join NowDockers Playing for Pride and Development
Sitting outside the finals race, the Dockers enter this match with pride and player development on their minds. Although they won’t see September action this year, recent performances suggest that they are far from a pushover. Their home ground advantage and recent decent form make them a dangerous proposition for any team, even a powerhouse like Port Adelaide.
Power’s Pursuit of a Top-Two Finish
Port Adelaide sits comfortably in third place, with a real shot at finishing in the top two if they can secure victories in their remaining games and get a bit of luck with other results. Despite a recent dip in form, which has seen them go 1-4 over the past five games, the Power have demonstrated their ability to contend with the best. Injuries and tough matches against strong opponents have taken a toll, making this clash against the Dockers an important opportunity for them to regain momentum.
Factors Pointing Towards a Competitive Game
Several factors suggest that this match could be much closer than anticipated:
- Home Advantage: The Dockers have shown a propensity to perform better on their home turf. Their recent encounter against the Brisbane Lions, where they narrowly missed out on a win, serves as evidence of their capacity to challenge strong opponents on their home ground. Additionally, they managed to defeat Port Adelaide at this venue last year, adding to their confidence.
- Impact of Luke Jackson: When Luke Jackson assumes full-time ruck duties, the Dockers transform into a more formidable side than their ladder position implies. Jackson’s ability to contribute as an additional midfielder enhances the team’s competitiveness, particularly in the center square contests.
- Banana Peel Scenario: Port Adelaide’s recent form, marked by injuries and a series of tough matches, might lead to a dip in performance. The team’s focus could be shifting towards the imminent finals and the pre-finals bye, allowing them to recover and recharge. With this in mind, an away game that doesn’t necessarily dictate their finals fate might result in a lower level of effort and performance.
Tip: Dockers +11.5
Considering the various dynamics at play, there’s a solid case for the Fremantle Dockers to not only keep the game close but even secure a victory. The +11.5 handicap line looks appealing, considering the Dockers’ home advantage, the potential influence of key players, and Port Adelaide’s recent struggles.