Late Change Sparks Tension Ahead of Crucial Port Adelaide vs Sydney Clash
We’ve got a big one on our hands this weekend as Port Adelaide faces off against the Sydney Swans at Adelaide Oval in a pivotal Round 15 AFL matchup—and there's already a twist in the tale. Just before the bounce, Port Adelaide made a late change, with young forward Joe Berry ruled out due to illness. His replacement? Jeremy Finlayson, who will step into the action as the Power's substitute. On the Swans' end, Riley Bice has been named the sub.
This match has a lot riding on it for both clubs. Port Adelaide is coming in hot, riding a wave of momentum after back-to-back wins. Their recent 25-point victory over Melbourne was particularly impressive, marked by clinical forward efficiency and some big performances across the ground. Mitch Georgiades lit it up with seven goals and 10 marks, while stars like Connor Rozee, Jason Horne-Francis, and Zak Butters each had standout games, dominating possession and setting the tempo.
Also Read:- Tensions Explode as Padres-Dodgers Rivalry Boils Over in Wild Series
- Darden Might Say Goodbye to Bahama Breeze After Strategic Shake-Up
Meanwhile, Sydney enters the clash fresh off a bye and hoping to continue their rebuild after a tough mid-season slump. A win over Richmond before the break helped stabilize things, but with a 5–8 record, the Swans are still under pressure to get their season back on track. They’ve made some bold moves with four key inclusions: Errol Gulden returns for his first game of 2025, joined by dynamic forward Tom Papley, tall target Joel Amartey, and hard-nosed defender Matt Roberts. These names bring not just talent but leadership and structure to a side that’s been struggling to find rhythm this season.
However, Sydney has also made some notable omissions. Veteran Jake Lloyd, Tom Hanily, and Corey Warner have all been dropped, while Taylor Adams misses due to a hamstring injury. Coach Dean Cox is banking on fresh energy and sharper execution to take on a rejuvenated Power outfit. He's pointed to the team's focus on game management and consistency, hoping the Swans can apply the lessons from their bye-week reset.
Port, for their part, is still hunting for a place in the top eight, sitting at 6–7 and gathering steam. They're playing with confidence again, and home ground advantage at Adelaide Oval only boosts their chances. But the Swans have some history to correct—they haven't won at this venue in quite a while and they know this is their shot to turn things around.
So, with late changes, key ins, and both teams with something major to prove, this Saturday twilight clash is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing of the round. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a casual observer, it’s worth tuning in—this one could go down to the wire. Catch the game live from 4:15pm AEST on 7mate, Kayo or Fox Footy.
Read More:
0 Comments