Mitch Georgiades shines for Port Adelaide as the Greek helps Power reach top-four

Greek Australian Mitch Georgiades played a critical role in Port Adelaide’s dominating win against Carlton on Saturday, combining for three goals and being named by AFL.com.au as one of the best performing players in the match.

This was the first time Port Adelaide played at the MCG in 637 days, and their 28-point victory over Carlton showed their ruthlessness and determination to defeat Carlton at their home field.

The Power were helped strongly by forwards Robbie Gray and Mitch Georgiades, who bagged three goals apiece. Georgiades was found in the air for most of the match, landing crucial marks and kicking three goals from 15 disposals.

One of his best games for the Power, the Greek Australian was praised by Melbourne champion Garry Lyon for his great score involvements, as well as hits points on the board.

“He takes his opportunities … it’s a really good body of work for a second key forward,” Lyon said on Fox Footy.

“As important for me is he‘s playing on Liam Jones, who’s been in absolutely incredible form as a defender. Liam Jones has had two possessions.

“He‘s been having 15 and 13 intercepts over the last couple of weeks; he’s got his hands full with Georgiades, which speaks to me of a player who’s moving really well, who’s moving his defender around, he’s not static or an easy target.

“That‘s a pretty exciting prospect for Port.”

From the midfield, Ollie Wines led all comers with 32 disposals, while Sam Walsh (29 disposals, eight clearances) battled hard to keep the Power in front.

Carlton’s problems were compounded when key defender Jacob Weitering was forced off for an extended period in the third term with a head knock, allowing Georgiades and Dixon to continue having their way with an outgunned Blues backline.

Weitering eventually returned, but four straight Port Adelaide goals to finish the third quarter had put Carlton out of touch.

Robbie Gray came out in a blistering heat in the first half at the MCG, with his fire unable to be extinguished. The most influential player on the field, Gray finished with three goals from 16 disposals on another impactful night.

Port Adelaide’s win saw them re-enter the top-four of the competition.