Australian Football League R9 Port Adelaide Power Vs Melbourne Demons 5/22 0640EST

Although having lost their last three matches, the Demons are not the wooden spoon contenders that they were in 2008-09. The Demons have pushed both the Magpies and Bulldogs although narrowly losing both - last weeks game against the West Coast however was a disappointment. Over at Port Adelaide the season is travelling along nicely as they are sitting in eighth position after eight rounds. The Power may have dropped last Sunday's clash against Carlton at AAMI Stadium, but it was after three consecutive wins against St Kilda, Adelaide and Essendon. In addition the Power also started the season with back-to-back wins and overall has five wins to its name and only in weeks 4 and 5 have they not been in the top eight.

Jack Watts, the 2008 No.1 NAB AFL Draft pick, returned to play his first AFL match for the season last week - his fourth overall - and showed some good signs against West Coast. The key forward has been under immense scrutiny and will be given time to settle in the coming weeks. Although he is no longer an official part of the Power's leadership group, Kane Cornes remains one of its integral players. He was important again last round against the Blues, winning 27 touches and holding Marc Murphy to eight touches in the first half.

Melbourne plays their first home match in the Northern Territory this round. How will they adapt to the different climate and conditions? On the other hand, the Power has played at TIO Stadium four times. Will this prove to be a significant advantage over the Demons?

Had this match been played at the MCG, Melbourne may have entered as favourites considering they have won seven of eight matches against Port Adelaide at the 'G. Although this is a home game for the Demons, the Power has greater experience in the Top End and may acclimatise more easily. Port Adelaide also has the form on the board over the past month so I'm taking Port Adelaide -10.5 (-107 available at pinnacle) for 2 units.





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