PORT ADELAIDE

ONCE Port Adelaide moves with certainty and locks in Ken Hinkley as coach for the medium to long term (he comes out of contract at the end of 2018) the coach can then deal with what ailed his team more than anything this year – goalkicking.

The Power had 26 shots to 18 on Saturday night against West Coast and could have done without all the heartbreak and drama at the end had they converted even a little better.

It wasn't the first time that inaccuracy like that had cruelled the Power. They lost to the Eagles by 10 points in round seven, this time kicking 12.15 to West Coast’s 15.7.

Port also lost to Richmond in round 15 by 13 points in a game in which it had more scoring shots.

On Saturday night Charlie Dixon could have been the match-winner – he was the club’s only reliable forward. But his return of 3.6 was a big part of the problem. 

ESSENDON

THE BOMBERS will also enter next season with a coach coming out of contract, but John Worsfold can certainly expect an extension after his efforts this year in lifting the reconstituted Bombers into the finals.

Then he can set about injecting more speed and ball-winning ability into the side.

The Dons appear well set in many parts of the ground. They have an excellent spine and all those damaging small forwards, but they need more depth through the midfield with a bit more run. Jobe Watson was past his best this year, but he could still find the ball and that will be the start for Essendon, either through the trade period or the draft.

There was a lot of goodwill towards the Bombers this year and it was a terrific effort to make the finals. But their exit from the finals was inglorious and that won't sit well at such a proud club.

They last won a final in 2004 and with the exception of Gold Coast, which has yet to feature in September, no club has gone as long without winning a final.

Indeed, in their four elimination finals since, they have been knocked over by 96, 62, 12 and now, 65 points. It is the elephant in the room the Bombers need to deal with.

Essendon's elimination finals woes have become the elephant in the room. Picture: AFL Photos