Jack Ginnivan Instagram comment backfires as Port Adelaide hold on for thrilling three-point finals win

Port Adelaide fans will finally leave the Adelaide Oval in September satisfied, after their three-point win over Hawthorn in Friday night's semi final.

The Power had to fight until the very end with James Sicily having a kick to put Hawthorn ahead with minutes left.

Sicily hit the post and despite the ball continuing to fly around inside 50, Port Adelaide managed to hold on with the final score 11.9 (75) - 11.6 (72).

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The result left Hawks forward Jack Ginnivan with egg on his face after commenting "see you in 14 days" on Sydney Swans ruckman Brodie Grundy's post after his side sealed a preliminary final spot.

Post-game, Port star Zak Butters admitted Ginnivan's comment had an impact, and may have played a role in verbal blows being shared between coach Ken Hinkley and Sicily after full time.

"They talk all year and that's part of their team, that's where they definitely get some energy from as a group. We looked at it a little bit," he said with a smile to Fox Footy.

"It's footy, you've got to have fun but at the same time we were out there to get the job done tonight. I was really proud and Kenny's a passionate man and that's why we love playing for him."

Port, instead of Hawthorn, will now play the Swans at the SCG for a spot in the grand final.

"They'd be a bit nervous because Port Adelaide absolutely smashed Sydney here a few weeks ago ... Port Adelaide would have their confidence back no doubt about that," Jonathan Brown said on Fox Footy.

"That's their DNA, that's the way they have to play."

Port Adelaide started with the first goal through Connor Rozee and the lead stayed with the Power when it was 2.3 (15) - 0.2 (2) at quarter time.

Hawthorn were back in the contest by half time, with the Power leading by nine points after the Hawks kicked four goals and one behind.

The scoreline stayed tight by the end of the third quarter with Port leading by five points.

In the final term, both sides were locked up at 51-51 early on before the Power kicked on to lead 10.9 (69) - 8.3 (51).

Hawthorn didn't go away though but ultimately it was Port Adelaide pushing through to a prelim.

Port youngster Jase Burgoyne was undoubtedly the star, kicking one goal from half back and collecting 25 disposals.

"He was amazing," Brown said.