“Taking a Hit”: Lloyd’s Take on Why Port Adelaide’s ‘Emotional’ Struggles Have Emerged in 2025

Port Adelaide’s dramatic drop from securing 16 victories and holding second place on the ladder in 2024 to their current position can be primarily attributed to the club’s decision to announce a coaching succession plan ahead of the season.

That’s the view of Matthew Lloyd, particularly after the Power suffered their third heavy defeat of the year in round 10.

On Saturday, Geelong handed Port Adelaide a staggering 76-point defeat at the Adelaide Oval, marking only the third heaviest loss for the Power this season.

Lloyd argues that Port Adelaide has long been a team swayed by the emotions surrounding coach Ken Hinkley, a pattern that was evident during their significant win against Hawthorn in Gather Round and their commendable effort in last week’s Showdown loss.

However, with Hinkley aware that his tenure is nearing its end and assistant coach Josh Carr set to take over in 2025, Lloyd believes this has adversely affected the team’s performance.

Lloyd commented, “There’s something amiss there,” during Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.

“They aren’t just losing; they’re being thrashed. The only matches they’ve managed to get up for recently were against Hawthorn, a team they have a historical rivalry with, and in the Showdown.”

“Emotionally, Port Adelaide has always been viewed as an emotional team, and with a coach on his way out, they experience high moments but also far too many lows. This is the crux of the issue.”

“Successful teams, like Collingwood and Brisbane, demonstrate consistency. In contrast, Port Adelaide is stuck on a rollercoaster.”

When directly questioned, Lloyd expressed that he does believe the decision to part ways with Hinkley has affected the Power’s performance this year in 2025.

“I think that has to factor in,” he acknowledged.

“Consider Ken Hinkley; we’ve observed the emotional toll it takes. When you’re aware that you’re leaving, it’s a significant challenge.”

“They’ve traditionally been a top four side, yet now they find themselves fifth from the bottom. They’ve dropped quite a way this season.”