PORT ADELAIDE will face off against Norwood in a blockbuster Easter Thursday clash at the Parade.

Despite having just four days to prepare for the match, the Magpies are fresh off their best performance of the year, beating North Adelaide by 21 points at Alberton last Sunday.

The reigning premiers were put under pressure from the outset by a much tougher Port side which attacked the ball with a newly found furiosity.

In a highly pleasing performance for coach Matthew Lokan, the Magpies dominated after half time and led the disposal count (417 to 351) and inside 50s (56 to 42) at the final siren, but also worked hard on defence to win the tackle count by three.   

The undefeated Redlegs look once again a strong outfit but will be without superstar, duel Magarey Medallist Mitch Grigg for the Port clash after he was suspended for one match for striking Sturt’s Steve Slimming last Friday night.

Even without Grigg, Norwood still have plenty of star power with Matt Panos, Lewis Johnston and Dom Barry all in good form as the Redlegs sit on top of the SANFL ladder after three rounds.

In the Port Adelaide camp Jack Trengove has hit the ground running in 2019, gathering 44 disposals in Round 1, 42 in Round 2, and following it up with 34 against the Roosters last week.

Trengove has also laid a season-high 24 tackles across the competition.

Todd Marshall found some form last week with four goals and five towering marks, while Jarred Lienert was also on fire across half back with 33 disposals.

The Magpies will take to the field against Norwood on Thursday night with the first bounce at 7.20pm.