And now the Magpies, after suffering a set back in their campaign in a 13-point loss to the reigning premiers last Saturday, must play South in a knockout preliminary final on Sunday afternoon.
“We started well with the first goal of the game, but we just couldn’t stay in it for a little bit,” said Port Adelaide coach Garry Hocking on the defeat.
“That first half was a little disappointing, which the players understood.”
“Full credit to Norwood with their pressure, that’s something that’s made them successful over the last three or four years.
“We played one good quarter and hit the front, but one quarter doesn’t get the job done.”
The Magpies and Panthers get underway at 2:40pm at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday.
After going down to the Panthers in Round 15, Hocking is wary of an opponent that has won the last six games in a row.
“South are playing really well at the moment,” said Hocking.
“They average between 350 and 400 possessions, so we need to make sure we get to the ball first.
“The important thing for us is trying to win centre bounces and get the ball into our half.
“If you worry about too much of what they do, you forget about what you need to do.
“It’s going to be a great game and one we’re looking forward to.”
