Zak Butters: Power Star Expected to Play Through Sore Ribs in Semi-Final
Butters' Status Uncertain
Port Adelaide midfielder Zak Butters is expected to play through pain in Friday night's semi-final against Hawthorn, despite suffering sore ribs in their qualifying final loss to Geelong.
Butters, a two-time All-Australian, wore a protective cap during training this week, indicating no contact. However, he participated in some light drills and is said to be "giving himself every chance to play."
Hawthorn Expected to Test Butters' Injury
Port Adelaide teammate Willem Drew believes Hawthorn will target Butters' ribs during the sudden-death semi-final.
"I've got no doubt, if he's got sore ribs, he will probably get a few hip and shoulders and whatnot," Drew said. "But I'm sure he'll be expecting that."
Port's Finals Woes Continue
The Power face the prospect of consecutive finals exits after their heavy qualifying final defeat to Geelong. Despite being at home, Port lost by an embarrassing 84 points.
However, Drew denies that the club is mentally scarred by their recent finals struggles. "Personally I don't think so, but our record obviously isn't great," he said.
Review Held and Lessons Learned
Following their latest finals flop, Port Adelaide players were summoned to a review on Saturday. They had "open and honest conversations" about their performance, particularly regarding their workrate and effort.
"It was a massive game for us and for some reason we didn't show up," Drew said.
Hawks Seeking Revenge After Elimination Final Victory
Hawthorn enters the semi-final after a convincing 37-point victory over the Western Bulldogs in the elimination final. The Hawks' Jack Ginnivan stoked the rivalry by responding to ex-Collingwood teammate Brodie Grundy's post-match celebration, hinting at a potential rematch in two weeks.
Drew dismissed Ginnivan's comments as "fine" and said it didn't give the Power any additional motivation. "I suppose it's up to individuals to do what they do," he said.