'I do dream': Nervous Port Adelaide fans throw support behind Ken Hinkley for Cats clash
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Port Adelaide is determined to break the cycle of finals heartbreak as it prepares for Thursday night's crucial qualifying final against the Geelong Cats.
"I do dream, we have to win this one, we win this one we've got half a foot in the door," supporter Lyn said.
"But we've been here before, and I've had my heart broken before."
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The Power has made the finals three out of the past four seasons, but a grand final appearance has remained elusive, with Ken Hinkley now holding the unfortunate record of the most games coached without reaching the decider.
"I think if you look at our journey, four or five years of experience… we can't look back, but we can understand that we've learnt all the way through that journey," Hinkley said on Wednesday.
The Power celebrate victory over St Kilda, led by Zak Butters. via Getty Images
As anticipation builds, the last remaining tickets for Thursday's clash sold out. Geelong arrived in Adelaide this afternoon, expecting a hostile reception.
"Port do a great job of pumping things up, and they actually pump the opposition up as well, so the boys can't wait to get out there," Cats assistant coach James Rahilly said.
Just ten weeks ago, Hinkley was booed by his team's own supporters, but now the fans are united behind him, hoping to see him finally lift the premiership cup.
Ken Hinkley, Port Adelaide coach, directs his men during round 21. AFL Photos via Getty Images
"I just think there's lots of things that we're in a really healthy position," he said.
"I think we're a mature team. I think we've earned our right to be second on the ladder. We look forward to playing at home in front of a big crowd."
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
