The Hawks are sitting solid in 5th place on the ladder, while Port needs a boost down in 15th spot. Port has been emotionally thumped with losses to the Gold Coast and North Melbourne in their previous two games. So, the Hawks will win, won't they?
But, over the past five encounters Port have won 3, including the last game they played at AAMI Stadium (Port Adelaide 13.14.92 v Hawthorn 12.12.84). In fact AAMI Stadium has a strong home-ground advantage for Port with an 8 to 3 win ratio over the Hawks. The ground is compact and the Port crowd passionate. In a passionate game this home-ground advantage counts for much. So, Port will win then, won't they?
But, the Hawks are fresh and ready coming off a bye last week. That is an extra week to get their players ready and prepare for the game at AAMI Stadium. So the Hawks will win then?
But, despite the Hawks' current form the stats show that since 2000 they have only won 6 games to Port's 12. That is only half. So Port will win?
The experts are divided, and many are saying that this game has all the ingredients for an upset in Port's favor. Whatever the outcome this will be a game worth watching Friday night 8.40pm (AEST).