PRESSURE for spots in Port Adelaide’s AFL side is high following an impressive start to the season against Carlton two weeks ago, and a number of solid efforts in the SANFL.

Although the Power stormed home against the Blues at Etihad Stadium two Sundays ago, the slow starts that hindered the team on occasion during 2013 will leave Ken Hinkley demanding a strong performance from his charges this week.

In the debut game at the Adelaide Oval for many players, including the entire visiting Adelaide side, Hinkley will look for every inch to get the edge on the Crows in the historic first Showdown at the venue.

Form Guide

Alipate Carlile could be poised to re-enter the Power’s lineup after a good first hit out in the SANFL against Central District last Saturday.

He was strong in defence, but the step up from defending SANFL opponents to impassioned Crow forwards is a significant one.

When you consider the impressive Round 1 performances of Jack Hombsch and debutant Tom Clurey, selectors will have a headache trying to squeeze numerous in-form defenders into six places on the field.

It was a dilemma faced for the opening round when Cam O’Shea found himself out of the side, such is the form and fitness of the Power’s defence.

Further up the field, the club will assess Paul Stewart who is back training after suffering a calf injury in the Power’s final trial game against St Kilda.

Aaron Young was impressive for the Magpies last week with his high-possession game crucial in a number of defensive and offensive plays against Central.

Injury list

Backmen Cam O’Shea, Tom Logan, Sam Colquhoun and forwards Ben Newton and Cam Hitchcock also pleased the coaches.

With such a spread of form it will make the going tough for spots, but that’s the beauty of pressure - those in the AFL team must perform.

One thing is certain, and that’s Justin Westhoff - the Showdown specialist who kicked five goals in the season opener against Carlton - won’t be squeezed out of the team.

At West Lakes, former Crow best and fairest Richard Douglas will be assessed for an early return from a groin injury.

Port Adelaide will name its Round 2 team at 5:55pm on Thursday night on portadelaidefc.com.au.

Secure your place in the Western Stand at the first Balfours Showdown at the Adelaide Oval plus all remaining 10 home games with an Essential Power membership. Visit weareportadelaide.com.au or call 1300 GO PAFC (1300 467 232) now.

Port Adelaide injury list after Round 1
Paul Stewart - calf (assess)
Andrew Moore - AC joint (1-2 weeks)
Lewis Stevenson - toe (2-3 weeks)
Jarrad Redden - knee (3-4 weeks)
Campbell Heath - shin (3-4 weeks)
Sam Russell - hamstring (8-10 weeks)
Mason Shaw - wrist (TBC)

Adelaide Crows Injury list after Round 1
Richard Douglas - groin (test)
Tom Lynch - shoulder (3-5 weeks)
Andy Otten  - shoulder  (3-5 weeks)
Taylor Walker - knee (TBA)
Ricky Henderson - ankle (TBA)
Nathan van Berlo - Achilles  (TBA)