​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

Port Adelaide finals target remains firmly in place as coach Josh Carr backed the club’s expectations ahead of their AFL Round clash with Richmond on Saturday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Power sit at 1-2 following a shock loss to West Coast Eagles last week, increasing pressure early in Carr’s first season in charge and reinforcing the importance of meeting the club’s pass mark of playing finals.

Port Adelaide entered the season with expectations of competing in September, and club president David Koch reaffirmed that stance earlier this week. Despite questions around the playing list after the loss to West Coast Eagles, Carr said the coaching group and administration remain aligned on direction and standards.

Carr Confident Despite Early Setback

From the media session on Friday, Carr spoke calmly about the external pressure, pointing to the club’s long standing expectation to contend regardless of circumstances. The loss to West Coast Eagles, decided by just two points, exposed moments where Port Adelaide struggled to control field position late in the game.

Carr indicated that the team’s focus has been on maintaining structure and composure rather than reacting to outside noise. He said the goal of reaching finals does not change, regardless of squad profile or short term results.

In last week’s match, Port Adelaide showed strong patches through the midfield but were unable to convert key forward entries in the final quarter. That inefficiency proved costly as West Coast Eagles capitalised on limited opportunities to secure the win.

Ollie Wines Returns to Strengthen Midfield

Port Adelaide have recalled Brownlow Medallist Ollie Wines for the clash with Richmond after he returned from suspension through the SANFL. Carr said the decision was made to ensure Wines was match ready before stepping back into AFL intensity.

Wines’ inclusion is expected to add experience and physical presence around stoppages, an area where Port Adelaide showed inconsistency in the opening rounds. His ability to win contested possession could help stabilise the midfield against a Richmond side under pressure.

According to recent AFL match statistics, Port Adelaide’s clearance numbers have fluctuated across the first three rounds, highlighting the need for a more consistent midfield performance. Wines’ return is likely to address that gap.

Richmond Facing Injury Challenges

Richmond enter the match at 0-3 and dealing with multiple injuries following their 60-point loss to Fremantle last week. The Tigers have lost Jasper Alger, Harry Armstrong, Noah Balta, and Hugo Ralphsmith, further testing their depth ahead of the MCG encounter.

Nathan Broad is set to return from a calf issue, providing some defensive stability. However, Richmond’s recent performances have shown difficulty containing opposition attacks, particularly when turnovers occur in their defensive half.

From a tactical perspective, Richmond may look to slow the game and limit Port Adelaide’s forward entries, while Port Adelaide are expected to focus on cleaner ball movement and improved efficiency inside 50.

Match Importance for Both Sides

As the game approaches, the importance is clear for both teams. Port Adelaide are looking to avoid slipping further behind early in the AFL season, while Richmond are chasing their first win after three consecutive losses.

The atmosphere at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is expected to build as both sides search for momentum. Early control in contested ball and territory could prove decisive, particularly given both teams’ recent struggles with consistency.

For Port Adelaide, the match represents an opportunity to respond to last week’s disappointment and reinforce their finals ambitions. For Richmond, it is a chance to reset their season under difficult circumstances.