Port Adelaide and Hawthorn

Port Adelaide and Hawthorn engage in a thrilling contest to determine a place in the preliminary final.

PORT Adelaide has withstood a late surge from Hawthorn to achieve one of the club's most significant finals victories, thereby securing a place in the preliminary final against Sydney at the SCG following a thrilling semi-final triumph by three points on Friday night.

The Power faced their detractors following a significant 84-point loss the previous week and demonstrated resilience in a crucial victory for coach Ken Hinkley, securing a score of 11.9 (75) to 11.6 (72).

POWER v HAWKS : The Power faced their detractors following a significant 84-point loss the previous week and demonstrated resilieIn a tense conclusion, they remained resolute after Hawthorn captain James Sicily struck the post with a long-distance set shot that could have secured a two-point advantage for his team, while Esava Ratugolea successfully intercepted the Hawks' last offensive push.

The final was exhilarating from beginning to end, culminating in a notable incident as Power coach Hinkley and Sicily engaged in a heated exchange following the siren, while the teams formed a guard of honour for the 300-gamer Luke Breust.

The victory propels the Power into their fourth preliminary final under Hinkley, placing them just one win away from achieving their inaugural Grand Final with him as coach. Had the Power been eliminated in straight sets, Hinkley would have faced significant pressure regarding the retention of his position.

 This victory marks their inaugural finals win over the Hawks, having previously suffered defeats in the preliminary final of 2014 and the semi-final of 2001, both of which were determined by a margin of three points.

The victory achieved by Port was founded on their ability to apply pressure and an unwavering dedication to the contest, characterized by continuous efforts as their midfield stars excelled alongside emerging talents who made their mark in a crucial final.

Jase Burgoyne, with 25 disposals and a goal, delivered an exceptional performance in a half-back position, complemented by Logan Evans, who recorded 22 disposals and four rebound 50s. Meanwhile, Willie Rioli showcased his dynamism in the forward line, contributing 15 disposals and two goals.

Young key forward Mitch Georgiades led the team with three goals, while Jason Horne-Francis consistently posed a threat as he surged forward from stoppages, although he experienced cramping in the fourth quarter, which necessitated a shift to a forward position.

Vice-captain Zak Butters made a significant impact in the physical final, having recovered from a substitution last week due to bruised ribs. He not only managed the scrutiny surrounding him but also executed eight formidable tackles during the match.

The focus was on how the Power would commence following a week of intense criticism, and their response was exemplary. They adopted a fierce approach to the contest, quickly placing the Hawks on the defensive.

Port excelled in the early stoppages, delivering a series of impactful tackles. Captain Connor Rozee set a strong precedent by collaborating with Willie Rioli to secure a holding the ball free kick, which led to the opening goal.