The changes
Like Hawthorn, Port Adelaide have named an unchanged line-up for Thursday’s night blockbuster clash.
Dangerous forwards Chad Wingard (calf) and Angus Monfries had seemed the most likely chances to be called upon this week but Power coach Ken Hinkley has instead opted to persist with the side that narrowly lost to Geelong last week.
What to expect
Port Adelaide have made somewhat of a return to the level of football they were playing in Hinkley’s early years at the helm.
Having missed finals the previous two seasons, the Power have regained their contested, hard-running game style reputation, evidenced by their rankings in key statistical categories.
Power rate first in the competition for inside 50s, second in clearances and third in contested possession.
Port Adelaide’s improvement can also be largely attributed to the form of Brad Ebert, Ollie Wines and Jared Polec, who are all enjoying career-high disposal averages.
Read: Hawthorn announce Round 11 side
Players to watch
Ollie Wines is one of only 15 players that is averaging over 13 contested possessions this season.
At just 22 years of age, Wines has earned the right to be regarded among the league’s elite midfielders.
Appointed to the vice-captaincy at the start of this year, Wines’ brute strength is matched by great football intelligence and a maturity beyond his years.
Meanwhile, Brad Ebert, Wines’ partner in crime this season, is recording a year of monumental improvement.
Playing his 200th game on Thursday night, Ebert’s 10-year career has reached new heights this year, averaging 26.3 disposals after a previous best of 23.2 in 2015.
This pair, who thrive on the contest that this match-up promises, pose as the Hawks’ biggest threat if they are to steal a victory from the home side’s clutches.
