BARRY Hall's extreme off-season makeover looks like paying dividends in 2008 with the Swans spearhead leading his side to a 69-point victory in their nab Challenge match against Port Adelaide.

The three-time All-Australian underwent surgery on his, groin, eye and nose in a bid to regain his status as one of the most influential players in the competition.

There were some encouraging signs on Saturday night as he booted four goals in the opening half in the 15.17 (107) to 5.8 (38) win over an undermanned Power side at Sydney's ANZ Stadium.

Hall easily outmuscled Port Adelaide defender Toby Thurstans before being rested for the second half as the Swans ramped up their preparations by bringing back seven premiership players for the clash.

Gun Port Adelaide midfielder Shaun Burgoyne sent a scare through his team's camp after coming off gingerly in the second term.

He seemed to shake off the knock but still headed to the bench.

Two-time Brownlow Medallist Adam Goodes was let off the leash for the first time this season and he carved up the Power while trade-bait Jude Bolton found plenty of the ball.

Ed Barlow showed signs he will be playing more senior football this season as the Swans rolled out the changes in the second half, a relaxed Michael O'Loughlin signing autographs in civilian clothing.

But the more things change, the more they stay the same with battle-hardened Brett Kirk having his head taped up by the second term following a head knock.

The Swans opened up a two-goal buffer by the first break before stretching it out to an eight-goal advantage by half time.

Fringe Swans player Kristin Thornton appeared to sustain a serious knee injury in the second term while Amon Buchanan appeared dazed when he left the field.

Port Adelaide open their season proper in a grand final rematch against Geelong on March 20 while the Swans open their proceedings against St Kilda at Telstra Dome on March 22.