That is the question facing Port Adelaide’s coaching group ahead of Saturday night’s elimination final against Collingwood at the MCG.
And it seems the answer may involve another question, ‘how many players do we tag?’
Having successfully used Kane Cornes to quell running defender Harry O’Brien’s influence on the game in Round 14 (he dominated against the Power in Round 4, 2012), Port will consider running multiple tags against the Pies this weekend.
“There is a possibility (of using two run-with players),” Richardson told The Advertiser.
"Kane did a good job on O'Brien last time so that is something we will consider again while Dom gives us real versatility in that we like the work he does as a defender and from a clearance point of view but he can also stop and control quality opposition midfielders.”
Cassisi has done some big jobs for the Power in 2013, most notably his work on Gary Ablett in Round 4, when he moved onto the Brownlow Medallist after quarter time and significantly limited his influence on the game.
Having been cleared by the Match Review Panel on Monday for a tackle on Marc Murphy, Cassisi is free to play – the coaches must now decide how he’s used.
portadelaidefc.com.au examines the Collingwood candidates to be tagged on Saturday night
Scott Pendlebury – all class, he was this week recognised by the coaches as the best player in the game, winning the AFL Coaches Association Award. His ball-winning ability in close and his vision to set up play, mean keeping the ball out of his hands goes a long way to stopping the Pies at stoppages.
Likely match-up: Dom Cassisi
Dane Swan – the Brownlow Medallist is a running machine. When he’s given space, he can make teams pay, not just with setting up play, but finishing on the scoreboard too. He’s had 30 or more touches in 11 of his past 13 matches. The two games he didn’t get to 30 possessions – against Port Adelaide and North Melbourne – the Pies were defeated.
Likely match-up: Kane Cornes
Dayne Beams – there is no doubting Beams’ importance to the Pies. He adds another dimension to Collingwood’s midfield and since returning to the side from injury in Round 16, has racked up 42 clearances in just 7 games.
Likely match-up: Unlikely to tag given Pendlebury and Swan’s influence
Harry O’Brien – many were surprised when Cornes went to O’Brien in Round 14. Despite giving away height and weight to O’Brien, Cornes was brilliant, restricting Harry O to 20 touches and stifling his much needed rebound from defence.
Likely match-up: Cornes, if he doesn’t go to Swan
Heath Shaw – the quick, running defender is accustomed to receiving a tag. The way he sets play up from defence is vital to Collingwood’s game plan
Likely match-up: Tom Logan or Angus Monfries
