PORT Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley doesn’t think his side is anywhere near where it needs to be in order to push the League’s best, but he’s also adamant the Power are on the up.
The Power have started to build momentum over the past few weeks, thrashing the Brisbane Lions last weekend in a result that delivered a much-needed confidence boost.
The 77-point win followed another strong win over Richmond in round six.
Hinkley pointed to improved defensive statistics as proof that his side was beginning to find its groove, but added that the club’s current form wouldn’t be enough to challenge teams at the top end of the ladder.
"If we can deliver the numbers that we have in the last couple of weeks it gives us every opportunity to win – it doesn’t guarantee us wins, but it gives us a much better opportunity," Hinkley said.
"It’s pretty obvious that we’re defending better.
"The tackle count’s high for us, scores against are where we need them to be … we’re starting to improve.
"There’s still a long way to go, we’re nowhere near where we need to be. If we’re going to compete against the best sides in the competition, what we’re doing now is not going to be good enough."
Hinkley admitted he still felt "nervous" about which Port unit would turn up from week to week.
The coach has spoken on numerous occasions this season – and since his appointment as senior coach in 2013 – about the side’s need to find consistency.
The Power will face a stern test on Sunday against the Blues, who have strung together three straight wins.
"This time of week you always start to get anxious again … you want and need to expect that the boys will come out and play with the same sort of actions that we’ve been able to play with over the last couple of weeks, but there’s always an element of nervousness," he said.
"We’re playing against a good side who’s in good form – won their last three.
"We understand that there’s a real challenge on."
The Power will again play without Robbie Gray, who will miss a third game with a hamstring injury.
Gray was close to selection this week, but with the club unwilling to take any chances on his fitness, he’s likely to return to the squad next week against West Coast at Adelaide Oval.
