Star Port Adelaide midfielder Jason Horne-Francis has produced an excellent display on return in his team's comprehensive 69-point win over Essendon Friday night at Adelaide Oval.
The 20-year-old starred alongside his captain Connor Rozee in what was his first game for the Power in three weeks after battling a hamstring complaint.
The powerful midfielder gathered a career-high 31 disposals – 13 of those contested – had ten clearances and gained more than 600m for his team.
Last night's performance backs up his 20-disposal two-goal effort against the West Coast Eagles in Round 1 as the former number one draft pick looks set to take his football to another level in 2024.
The Wardaman man is forming a devastating midfield combination with Rozee and Zak Butters in what many believe may be the best on-ball trio in the entire competition.
Port Adelaide were far too strong for the Bombers last night winning 17.9 (111) to 6.6 (42) in front of over 47,000 people.
Power coach Ken Hinkley told reporters post-match that Horne-Francis' performance was of little surprise due to his strong off-season at the club.
"Should give him a couple of weeks of more often perhaps?" Hinkley joked to reporters.
"There has been a lot said over the pre-season – Jason has had a great pre-season – he has started the season really strongly, had a little interruption but come straight back in and looks pretty good."
Tiwi man Willie Rioli was also excellent for Port Adelaide, kicking a season-high three majors, including a snap goal in the second term while being spun by Bombers defender Mason Redman.
Yorta Yorta man Jeremy Finlayson booted three goals and was a strong presence all night, finishing with 19 disposals – 18 of which were kicks – and eight marks.
Fellow Yorta Yorta man Jade Gresham was one of Essendon's better players last night kicking three goals, including two in the opening term.
Kokatha man Jase Burgoyne showed solid signs with 10 disposals and six marks after starting the match as the Power's medical substitute while Yanyuwa man Lachie Jones collected nine disposals playing in the backline.
Port Adelaide move to third position on the ladder and will face Fremantle next weekend, while the Bombers now sit in tenth place and will take on the Western Bulldogs next Friday night.
