Port Rocked by Rozee Blow Ahead of Crucial Geelong Clash
So, heading into Round 21, Port Adelaide has been hit with a massive curveball just before their big clash against Geelong—their captain, Connor Rozee, has been ruled out due to illness. That’s right, just when the Power were hoping to steady themselves after a rough patch, they’ve lost one of their most influential players. Rozee had already been battling through adversity, playing with a broken hand in recent rounds, including last week’s Showdown. But this time, the call has been made to pull him out, and Dylan Williams has come in as his replacement.
Now, this is no small loss. Rozee isn’t just a name on the team sheet—he’s the captain, the midfield engine, and a game-breaker. His absence is definitely going to be felt, especially against a Geelong side that’s been in serious form lately. The Cats are coming off a monstrous 101-point win over North Melbourne and are chasing a top-four finish with one of the friendliest runs home.
Also Read:- Earthquake Rattles New Jersey, Sends Tremors Through New York
- Loons Push Club América to the Brink in Wild Leagues Cup Clash
Geelong, by contrast, comes into this one completely unchanged. They’re stable, confident, and frankly, pretty scary right now. Over at Port, there’s a bit more movement. In addition to Rozee’s late withdrawal, exciting young forward Jack Whitlock is set to make his AFL debut. The 200cm SANFL talent has been turning heads with his recent form and will get his first crack at the big stage at GMHBA Stadium. He joins Will Lorenz and Mani Liddy as the other inclusions, while players like Jack Lukosius, Miles Bergman, and Logan Evans miss out due to injury and illness.
Whitlock’s debut isn’t the only milestone to watch—Travis Boak is playing his 384th game, which puts him seventh on the all-time VFL/AFL games played list. Plus, if he collects just 11 disposals, he’ll overtake none other than Gary Ablett Jr. on the all-time possession tally. Not bad company to be in.
From a broader lens, this clash feels like a potential turning point. Geelong is trying to lock in their top-four spot, and Port—losing three of their last four—is desperately searching for form. With Rozee sidelined, the odds are stacked just a little more in the Cats’ favor.
The game kicks off at 3:15pm AEST at GMHBA Stadium, and it’s set to be a fascinating one. Whether you’re watching for the milestones, the debutants, or the top-eight implications, it’s definitely a match worth tuning into.
Read More:
0 Comments