Port Adelaide forward Indy Tahau says the Round 5 win over Melbourne was a special moment for the group, crediting the team’s relentless pressure, four-quarter consistency and never-say-die attitude.  

Speaking to the media at Alberton on Tuesday, Tahau reflected on the win over an impressive Melbourne outfit, the side’s ability to respond after a disappointing loss in Perth, and the importance of maintaining consistent standards of football across four quarters. 

Fresh off a standout performance that included three goals and 10 contested possessions, the in-form forward also spoke about her return to AFLW after an extended period on the sidelines with injury.  

Port Adelaide now turns its attention to a Round 6 clash against Geelong at Alberton this Saturday. Tickets are on sale now. 

 Tahau on the Round 5 win against an undefeated Melbourne 
“It was an important win for us off the back of last week – we had a really inconsistent game (against the Eagles). So, it was important and just solidified what we need to do to get going. It felt good, and to do it here at home was special. Melbourne had a really good start to their season, and they definitely challenged us all game.”  

“Off the back of last week, we had inconsistent moments with our pressure, and we base our game off how high our pressure can be in every contest, but mostly throughout all four quarters of the game. So last week we just turned inwards and knuckled down on what we needed to do as a group to play our game. Everyone played their role and brought a level of pressure, that click was infectious throughout the whole team and it all just came together.”  

“Looking at the stats, we didn't win any of them, but it never felt like we were going to lose the game. We just had a never say die attitude, and we kept fighting. Everyone played their part, and everyone brought the pressure, and that got us over the line for sure. I thought our defence was very strong on the weekend, and that's where our whole game starts from – it’s a credit to them.” 

“Hopefully the win will set us up for the rest of the season. We've got a fair idea of what we need to get going now. The win is important, but we're just going to focus on Geelong. They’re in the same position as us (two wins and three losses), we’re just going to have to keep rising and doing everything right.” 

 Tahau on her return to AFLW after injury 
“It’s really special. I don't take any game for granted. Knowing how long you can be sidelined for with injury, I won't ever take the guernsey for granted.”  

“There were some low points where I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to be an athlete again. I knew that I'd get my strength back, but to be able to perform and do some of the things that you need to be able to do as an athlete is different. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to come back. Now it feels like it was all just worth it.” 

“I've got so much room for development still, and I'd say my career is still pretty fresh. I had two seasons at the Brisbane Lions, and I was young at that stage. So, I think I’ll just keep building on my strength and the craft of the game. I think I've still got a long way to go, which is exciting.”  

“We’ve got great support staff – our physios and strength team – we're all very connected. If we needed to navigate a different path if something's not working, there are always options they’re looking at. The whole high-performance team keep me going.”  

Tahau on Lauren Young and Janelle Cuthbertson’s availability 
“Lozzy (Lauren Young) is available for selection, she's cleared from concussion protocols, and so is Janelle (Cuthbertson), so it's a good problem to have.”