Port Adelaide’s Willie Rioli faces possible sanctions from the AFL’s match review officer after an incident involving Western Bulldogs’ Bailey Dale during Saturday’s crushing defeat. The Power suffered a significant loss, with the Bulldogs claiming a 90-point victory in Ballarat, finishing the match at 20.11 (131) to 5.11 (41). This result adds to the pressure on Port Adelaide amid the coaching transition from Ken Hinkley to Josh Carr.
The game was marred for the Power by Rioli’s off-the-ball strike on Dale, resulting in the Bulldogs midfielder falling to the ground. Ben Dixon, a former Hawthorn player, commented on the incident during the Fox Footy broadcast, noting Rioli’s disappointment after the match and suggesting that the match review officer would certainly scrutinise the action.
Amid the Bulldogs’ dominant performance, Ed Richards stole the spotlight with a remarkable goal. From the left-forward pocket, about 30 metres out, Richards expertly executed a left-foot banana kick that sailed through the goalposts. His exceptional execution prompted praise from Bulldogs legend Brad Johnson, who described it as an “elite finish.”
Richards’ goal took place in front of a sparse crowd, as the stadium, Mars Stadium, is currently undergoing renovations set to double its capacity from 5,000 to 10,000. Johnson light-heartedly remarked on the celebration, acknowledging the lack of spectators apart from a solitary construction worker.
In terms of individual performances, Tim English, Marcus Bontempelli, and Aaron Naughton all contributed three goals each, while Dale led the way with 31 disposals. Richards was also a standout, amassing 30 possessions and scoring two goals. Additionally, the match marked a milestone for Bulldogs’ star Jason Johannisen, who celebrated his 200th AFL game with a convincing victory.
On a separate note, St Kilda also delivered an impressive performance on Friday night as they handed Fremantle a heavy 61-point defeat. Cooper Sharman was a highlight for the Saints, scoring four goals during the match, including a stunning effort from the right-forward pocket, finishing with a total of 16 touches as St Kilda triumphed with a scoreline of 14.10 (94) to 5.3 (33).