Snapshot
Few believed the Power were capable of replicating their tremendous 2013 season, fewer still thought bettering it was possible. The football world's collective jaw hit the ground then when Port raced to the top of the ladder in the first half of the season, and brave play made for an exciting brand of football that ultimately took them to within a kick of a Grand Final.
The coach
A brilliant season for the Ken Hinkley brand, with his on-field results and style of coaching helping to significantly increase the club's membership base. Hinkley has created a culture at Alberton whereby his players would do anything for him, highlighted by the way they so often finished strongly this year.
What worked
The Power were defensively rock solid in 2014. They ranked third for least opposition points a game thanks to their team-defence philosophy, but while defence came first, Port attacked with venom when it won possession. The side was second in the League for points per game thanks largely to its wide spread of goal kickers. Matthew Lobbe was forced to ruck on his own for most of the season, but Jackson Trengove was a superb pinch-hitter. It allowed Justin Westhoff to remain an attacking threat for the most part and was highly effective.
What failed
With such a young list playing a daring brand of football, the Power inevitably made a number of costly mistakes. Taking the game on worked more often than not, but when it didn't, missed targets in defence usually resulted in opposition scores.
MVP: Robbie Gray
As devastating as it was at the time, Gray credits his 2012 knee injury on reigniting his career. The 26-year-old changed his outlook during his rehabilitation, becoming more professional, and has quickly become one of the most damaging players in the League. Gray took out the Coaches Association Player of the Year Award averaging 25 possessions a game, booting 42 goals and a competition-high 33 goal assists.
Surprise packet: Robbie Gray
Everyone knew Gray had the weapons to hurt opposition teams, but few expected him to develop into the player he is now, or at least as quickly as he has. Last year was an exceptional return to football after his knee injury and it was a return some doubted would happen. However, his change in mindset saw him promoted into the leadership group, and his rise to AFL dominator in 2014 has been astounding.
Best rookie/first-year player: Jarman Impey
Port targeted a need for speed as well as a further defensive option and found the package in Impey. His competiveness and confidence made him an instant hit and the 19-year-old played 18 games in his debut season. Impey's tackling pressure was first rate, as was his ability to back his speed and run with the ball.
Disappointment: John Butcher
With the club having flagged its desire for another tall forward to stake his claim, the scene was set for Butcher to cement his place in the side. But whether it's his kicking itself or a confidence issue, his inability to execute the fundamental skill quickly saw him slip out of the side after round three and he never returned.
Best win: 22-point win over Fremantle, semi final, Patersons Stadium.
The Dockers had won 28 of their past 30 games at home and earned a double chance - history said they would win through. The first half gave fans no reason to think otherwise, but an inspired third term from Robbie Gray, in which he kicked four goals, saw Port storm home in the second half and into its first preliminary final since 2007.
Low point
As gallant as their effort was to remain in the game, ultimately the Power ended its season four points shy of a Grand Final berth and that has to sting. Their inaccuracy in front of goal in the opening quarter (3.9) was made to haunt them, as the Hawks hung on for a third-straight season decider.
What needs to improve?
Port needs to get better at halting an opposition's momentum. At various times, including the semi and preliminary finals, opposition teams were able to kick strings of goals that forced the Power into a corner. Their running game helped produce a number of inspiring fight-backs this season, but a more consistent performance would make the going much easier.
Who's done?
Retirements: Dom Cassisi retired mid-way through the season and, although Tom Logan hasn't announced anything, he's out of contract and might also call time on his career.
Delistings: The club hasn't made anything official just yet, but out-of-contract trio Brent Renouf, Brandon Ah Chee and Cam Hitchcock could all be cut free.
Trades/free agents: Things just don’t seem to be happening for John Butcher and perhaps a change of environment is required to re-invigorate his career.
What they need
The Power remain on the hunt for an established tall forward who can also spend time in the ruck. Mitch Harvey is being groomed, but remains a way off an AFL debut. Paddy Ryder has been linked to the club and would be a great fit. Their small forward/midfield stocks are solid, but they could do with increased defensive depth.
