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Hawthorn Captain’s Provocative Remark Intensifies AFL Rivalry with Port Adelaide
A high-stakes Australian Football League (AFL) encounter is on the horizon as Hawthorn and Port Adelaide gear up for a weekend clash, heightened by a reported inflammatory ten-word remark from Hawks captain James Sicily. This upcoming match is already being billed as a grudge match due to escalating tensions stemming from their previous encounter.
Fiery Exchange Ignites Tensions Ahead of Hawks-Power Showdown
Animosity between the two AFL clubs reached boiling point during a gripping 2024 semi-final, where Port Adelaide narrowly defeated Hawthorn by a mere three points. The tightly contested knockout game concluded with significant controversy.
Coach’s Conduct Under Scrutiny
Following the narrow defeat, Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley faced AFL disciplinary action, receiving a $20,000 fine for verbally confronting Hawthorn players. This post-match conduct added fuel to the already burgeoning rivalry.
Sicily’s Sharp Retort
Hawthorn captain James Sicily, known for his fierce protectiveness of his teammates, reportedly took strong exception to Hinkley’s behavior. Sources indicate Sicily was physically restrained by teammates during the incident, highlighting the intensity of the moment.
Alleged Sledge Unveiled
News reports suggest that in the aftermath of the semi-final, Sicily unleashed a scathing remark directed at Port Adelaide, reportedly stating: “You have been a f***ing nowhere club for eight years.” This alleged sledge has further inflamed tensions leading into their next match.
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Background to the Conflict
Hinkley attributed his heated reaction to a social media comment made by Hawthorn player Jack Ginnivan. According to Hinkley, Ginnivan’s post served as a significant motivator for Port Adelaide in the sudden-death final, adding another layer to the unfolding drama.
Hawks captain James Sicily reportedly took exception to Power coach Ken Hinkley’s actions.
Ginnivan’s Social Media Post
Ginnivan’s comment, posted in response to Sydney ruckman Brodie Grundy on Instagram, stated, “see u in 14 days,” a clear reference to the preliminary finals. This perceived overconfidence is believed to have irked the Port Adelaide camp.
Hinkley Remains Unrepentant
With the focus intensifying on Sunday’s rematch at Adelaide Oval, Hinkley has indicated a lack of remorse by stating he has not communicated with anyone at Hawthorn since the semi-final incident.
Coach’s Perspective
“I have no need to speak to them and I’m sure they didn’t really want to speak to me,” Hinkley stated, maintaining a firm stance.
“Ultimately my job is to do what I can to help Port Adelaide, and that’s all I spend my time on,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to his team.
“Honestly, I said what I said at the end of last year’s game,” Hinkley acknowledged, referencing the semi-final incident.
“Emotions boiled over, I was disappointed in that myself, I’ve said that, and I’ve apologised publicly,” he admitted, though seemingly ready to move past the controversy.
“I think it’s time to move on for me and I’ve got to focus on our performance this week,” Hinkley concluded, shifting attention to the upcoming game.
Hawthorn’s Lingering Displeasure
Hawthorn players have evidently not forgotten Hinkley’s post-match actions, particularly his targeting of young forward Jack Ginnivan following the semi-final defeat. This lingering resentment is expected to contribute to the match’s intensity.
Ginnivan’s Potential Celebration
Adding another layer of intrigue, Ginnivan, a prominent member of Hawthorn’s youthful forward line, has hinted at a possible ‘aeroplane’ goal celebration should he score in front of Port Adelaide’s home crowd. This playful yet provocative suggestion further fuels the rivalry narrative.
Port Adelaide Braces for Intense Match
Hinkley anticipates a highly charged Hawthorn team eager to avenge their semi-final loss and expects them to bring significant pressure from the first bounce. He has urged his Port Adelaide side to be prepared for an aggressive contest.
Hinkley’s remarks to Ginnivan came after the young player’s social media activity was perceived as disrespectful.
Jack Ginnivan has hinted at a possible ‘aeroplane’ goal celebration if he scores against Port Adelaide.
Anticipating a Fierce Contest
Reflecting on the upcoming match and the previous encounter, Hinkley stated, “When you ultimately lose in the end-of-season game by a small margin, clearly there’s a sting,” acknowledging the lingering disappointment for Hawthorn.
“The reality is for us we expect that [intensity] to be coming our way,” Hinkley added, preparing his team for a highly motivated Hawthorn.
“But every team who’s played them has felt their pressure and we’re not going to be separated from that,” he noted, recognizing Hawthorn’s consistent aggression.
“We know it’s coming our way and we look forward to the challenge,” Hinkley concluded, signaling Port Adelaide’s readiness for a potentially explosive AFL match against Hawthorn.