LADDER-LEADING Port Adelaide is out to put an end to its mini mid-season slump when it takes on Melbourne at the Gabba tonight from 7.50pm AEST.

THE LADDER Where is your team sitting?

Port has dropped two from its past four games and was belted by St Kilda in the final term last week, sparking fears that it is about to begin a massive slide down the ladder (a trend we've seen in previous seasons under Ken Hinkley). 

01:30

Match Previews R9: Melbourne v Port Adelaide

Sportsbet's Nathan Brown and Matthew Richardson preview the game between the Demons and Power at the Gabba

Published on Jul 30, 2020

Last year Port was fifth after six rounds but ended the year in tenth. And the year before, Port was in the top four after 15 rounds but also ended up out of the finals and in tenth spot.

MATCH CENTRE Check out all the stats  

Meanwhile, Melbourne is hoping to return to the winner's list and find the form that took it all the way to a preliminary final in 2018.

The Dees will be hoping Christian Petracca can continue his rich vein of form and, along with Max Gawn, drag his team up the ladder after its sluggish start to the season. 

02:26

His numbers need to increase: Why SPP's job is under threat

Neroli Meadows and Champion Data's Daniel Hoyne preview the Thursday night matchup between the Demons and Power

Published on Jul 29, 2020

Melbourne has again dropped veteran defender Neville Jetta for the clash, while Harley Bennell has been rested due to the upcoming fixture cram.

FULL TEAMS Check 'em out

Tom McDonald is back after he was left out last week despite recovering from an eye injury, while youngster Tom Sparrow returns. 

The Power have made two changes, recalling former Brisbane skipper Tom Rockliff and Jarrod Lienert. 

THE FULL INJURY LIST Who is racing the clock?

Key forward Todd Marshall is out as he nurses his broken thumb, while Riley Bonner will miss with soreness.