Port Adelaide Football Club finds itself in the crosshairs of AFL legend Kane Cornes, who has launched a blistering attack on the club's recruitment philosophy following speculation about Jaidyn Stephenson's potential move.
The 'List Clogger' Accusation That's Rocking AFL Circles
Cornes didn't mince words when assessing Port Adelaide's recent list management decisions, describing the South Australian club as developing a worrying reputation for collecting underperforming talent.
'They're becoming a list clogger haven,' Cornes declared during his appearance on SEN SA Breakfast. 'If you're a list clogger, you're heading to Port Adelaide.'
Stephenson Speculation Sparks Fury
The former Collingwood and North Melbourne forward has become the centre of attention after reports emerged linking him with a potential move to Alberton. Stephenson, who was delisted by North Melbourne after 26 games this season, represents exactly the type of recruitment that concerns Cornes.
'I'm not sure what they're doing down there,' Cornes continued, highlighting the disconnect between the club's premiership ambitions and their recruitment strategy.
A Pattern of Questionable Decisions
Cornes pointed to several recent acquisitions that have failed to deliver consistent performance, suggesting the club's list management approach needs urgent review.
- Ivan Soldo: The ruckman's inconsistent form has raised eyebrows
- Brandon Zerk-Thatcher: Has struggled to cement his position
- Jordon Sweet: Yet to prove his worth in the senior side
'They've brought in Soldo, Zerk-Thatcher, Jordon Sweet - they're all fringe players,' Cornes analysed. 'If you're bringing in Stephenson, what does that say about your list strategy?'
The Premiership Contender Paradox
What makes Cornes' criticism particularly damning is Port Adelaide's positioning as a genuine premiership contender. The club finished third on the ladder in 2023 and boasts one of the competition's most talented midfield groups.
'They're a top-four team, they should be challenging for a premiership,' Cornes emphasised. 'But their recruitment suggests they're building for mediocrity, not greatness.'
What This Means for Port Adelaide's Future
The timing of this criticism couldn't be more crucial, with the AFL trade period approaching and list management decisions becoming increasingly scrutinised. Port Adelaide faces a critical juncture where their recruitment philosophy will either propel them toward premiership success or condemn them to also-ran status.
As Cornes bluntly put it: 'They need to stop collecting other clubs' problems and start building a list that can actually win a premiership.'
The pressure is now on Port Adelaide's football department to prove their critics wrong and demonstrate that their list management strategy aligns with their premiership ambitions.
