SUMMARY
This is a huge chance for both sides to show whether they can seriously challenge for the top four. The Power are absolutely flying after comprehensive wins over Carlton and Brisbane Lions in the past fortnight. The Power's backline has been outstanding, conceding the least amount of points in the competition, while they also have plenty of weapons in attack. The Eagles will be desperate to shed their reputation as flat-track bullies. Victories away from fortress Subiaco have been few and far between, but they did get back in the winner's circle with a dominant victory against cross-town rivals Fremantle last weekend. The Eagles have an impressive record at Adelaide Oval having beaten the Power in their last two visits to the venue. The midfield battle will be sensational, while the Power's young defenders have a tough challenge in shutting down Eagles star Josh Kennedy.
WHERE AND WHEN: Adelaide Oval, Saturday, May 6, 4.05pm ACST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R9, 2016, West Coast Eagles 14.10 (94) d Port Adelaide 13.8 (86) at Adelaide Oval
R6, 2015, West Coast Eagles 11.12 (78) d Port Adelaide 10.8 (68) at Adelaide Oval
R5, 2014, Port Adelaide 10.10 (70) d West Coast Eagles 7.14 (56) at Domain Stadium
R5, 2013, Port Adelaide 12.12 (84) d West Coast Eagles 10.19 (79) at AAMI Stadium
R21, 2012, West Coast Eagles 14.14 (98) d Port Adelaide 6.14 (50) at AAMI Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. Eagles spearhead Josh Kennedy was the difference between the sides when they last played, kicking seven goals. Ruck duo Nic Naitanui and Scott Lycett combined for a 71 hit-outs to the Power's 15.
2. The Power are one of the highest scoring sides this year, ranked second kicking 117 points per game. In the last two games, they've kicked 42 goals to 16 and won by a combined 173 points.
3. Port Adelaide and West Coast meet for the 29th time. The Power hold the advantage, winning 17 games to 11. The last four contests have been decided by an average margin of nine points.
4. The Power are one of the stronger clearance teams this year, ranked fourth with 39.3 per game, well ahead of the Eagles at 10th with an average of 37.3.
5. West Coast is one of the few visiting teams to have enjoyed success at Adelaide Oval, winning four of five games at the venue with two over Port Adelaide.
6. Power forward Charlie Dixon has moved up the Schick AFL Player Ratings after a strong start to the season. Ranked 191st at the end of last year, Dixon has improved 34 places in the first six rounds to be 157th overall.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Chad Wingard
Known more as a dangerous forward, Wingard was outstanding for the Power through the midfield in last weekend's win against the Brisbane Lions. His pace adds an X-factor to the Power's engine room, which faces a big test taking on the talented midfield group of the Eagles.
PREDICTION: Port Adelaide by 12 points.
