Scans have confirmed Port Adelaide forward Sam Powell-Pepper has suffered a ruptured ACL during an incident in the Power’s win over St Kilda.
Powell-Pepper landed awkwardly after flying for a mark in the third quarter at the Adelaide Oval, taking no further part in the match, with the Power confirming on Saturday the worst possible news.
“We are incredibly disappointed for Sam,” Power Head of Medical Services Tim O’Leary said in a statement.
“Sam is a dedicated and diligent athlete who attacks his training with unrelenting intensity, and will no doubt approach his rehab the same way. He will continue to be as involved as he can, as a leader and important member of our playing group.
“It’s such a tough injury for a footballer to go through. We’re all behind him and we know he’ll come out the other side stronger and more determined.”
The blow will end Powell-Pepper’s season, while Port defender Aliir Aliir has also been ruled out of their Showdown clash with Adelaide on Thursday night, having sustained a concussion in a tackle from Saint Jack Higgins on a night of carnage for Ken Hinkley’s team.
The Power could be forced into a third change before the blockbuster match, with captain Connor Rozee racing the clock to be fit for the Showdown after sustaining a low-grade hamstring strain.
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The star midfielder will be vigorously tested before the blockbuster match.