For nearly 20 years, matchups between Portarlington and Newcomb have rarely been box office affairs.
The occasional Good Friday meeting somewhat elevated the significance of Demons-Power meetings, but for the most part, they were battles between two clubs that have shared the past 16 Bellarine wooden spoons.
However, Saturday’s meeting at Ron Evans Oval is different.
After another fruitful off-season, Portarlington finally has the talent to escape the bottom rungs of the ladder and had the better of Ocean Grove last week.
Undefeated Newcomb is coming off arguably its best win since claiming its most recent premiership in 2007 after beating two-time reigning premier Torquay.
First-year Demons coach Darren Findlay is keen to ensure the Power don’t make a similar start to last week against the Tigers, where they jumped to a 16-point lead at quarter-time.
It proved crucial in the end result, with Newcomb hanging on for an 18-point victory.
“They’ll be confident coming in; they have full right to be that, beating the reigning premiers,” Findlay said.
“We’ve just got to make sure we get things right on the day.
“That’s most probably the key thing for us – do our homework and just go to business as usual for us now.
“They’ve obviously got some keys.”
One of Newcomb’s keys is big man Jarrod Stafford, who will have a crucial battle with fellow veteran big Scott Greenhough.
However, Stafford says his focus is on helping the Power pass its 2024 win tally by the end of April.
“I’m really looking at the team focus on the opportunity to go 3-0, which is a huge opportunity, and giving our boys the crack at it,” he told K rock Football’s Beyond the Boundary podcast.
“I just know that we bring the pressure, we win the game, is how it’s going to pan out for me.
“I’m excited that we’ve got the opportunity to do that and really dig deep and have a go at it.”
Saturday marks Portarlington’s first appearance at home following an off-season of improvements around the venue.
The changerooms and outdoor seating areas have received a much-needed refresh as the Demons prepare for a bumper holiday crowd.
“We’re pretty excited about playing the first home game,” Findlay said
“Having the win last week gets the enthusiasm of the whole town up and about
“Look, I’m really, really excited about this game. Coming off a win, everyone’s in high spirits.
“We’ve got a bit of a point to prove this week, you know. So, in that regard, we want to find our best showing.
Portarlington could welcome back key defender James Goetz, while the experienced Richie Hollins returns for Newcomb, replacing Nathan McDonald.
X: @krockfootball
