1. Watts responds to Hinkley challenge
After languishing in the SANFL, Jack Watts was implored by coach Ken Hinkley to "own" his position on his return to the Power line-up. The former Demon had more of an impact on the contest than the young forward Todd Marshall had in the win over Carlton. With 17 possessions, eight marks, 82 per cent efficiency and a more competitive edge, Watts did enough to keep the Power's project player out of the side for now.
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2. Power consistency achieved but best yet to come
Port Adelaide's five game winning streak included stirring performances over Richmond and Melbourne, a bullying of the Bulldogs and a scrap against the struggling Blues. There was a clear gap in personnel and confidence between the Power and St Kilda and again they did what was required to bank another four premiership points. Port will be satisfied with the block of games but hopeful they can reach an even higher level of footy heading towards finals. Can its best defenders stay fit and find some continuity? Can Charlie Dixon convert his fierce attack on the ball into a big bag of goals and can he find a regular tall foil in attack?
Is he the ruckman or the rover?
— AFL (@AFL) July 7, 2018
Superb start from Paddy Ryder #AFLPowerSaints pic.twitter.com/dz58vQPAX2
3. Port's defensive depth to be tested
Tom Jonas looks set to join Jasper Pittard on the sidelines after injuring his knee after being tackled in the third quarter. This season has been a mixed bag for Jonas who is in career-best form but has been sidelined twice with an ongoing hamstring complaint and now another setback. Expect Jack Hombsch to return to the line-up next weekend. The 25-year-old has been serviceable in his eight games and will be keen to cement a spot in the team. The Power has been bullish about Jack Watts up forward but could he be considered as a backup option in defence?
Tom Jonas won't return after hurting his knee in this third-quarter contest.
— AFL (@AFL) July 7, 2018
Injury update thanks to MLC. #AFLPowerSaints pic.twitter.com/pdoMIZvw3E
4. Motlop celebrates milestone
Steven Motlop is finding his niche in the Port Adelaide line-up and he didn't disappoint in his 150th match. Best known for his flashy goals, his milestone game was instead about creating space and opportunity for his teammates in a 28-disposal, six-tackle, three-clearance performance. He was a valuable player at Geelong but he's already shaping as a gem for the Power which is looking to tap into his versatile game on most parts of the ground.
5. Set shots sprayed in shabby first half
Starting well at Adelaide Oval is crucial for the visitors and while the Saints matched the Power they couldn't put the score on the board. Tim Membrey missed a set shot from 25 metres and Jack Newnes kicked a behind from a little further out. Mav Weller and Paddy McCartin were on the boundary for their attempts but were inaccurate. The radar was off in the second term but this time it was the Power. The home side could have opened up a match-winning lead but didn't make the most of four goal-scoring opportunities. Robbie Gray from close range and Justin Westhoff were the worst offenders with Westhoff missing everything, 40 metres out, straight in front.