The Casey Demons couldn't capitalise on a strong start, going down to Port Melbourne after the Borough stormed home in the second half at Casey Fields.
Casey led at every change through the opening three quarters, controlling possession and looking the better side for much of the first half. However, Port Melbourne lifted its intensity after the main break, applying relentless pressure and denying the Demons the time and space they enjoyed early.
The Borough piled on seven second-half goals, while Casey managed just two, with the visitors taking control in the final term as the Demons struggled to wrestle back momentum.
It was a frustrating result for Casey, who were unable to sustain their strong opening performance across the full four quarters.
Aidan Johnson impressed in his first full game back from injury, finishing with a game-high three goals to go with 16 disposals, including 13 contested possessions. He also spent time in the ruck, winning four clearances and providing an important presence around the contest to help drive the Demons forward.
Jack Henderson continued his consistent form with 23 disposals, five inside 50s and six tackles, combining well through the midfield with Tyson Sruk, who collected 21 disposals and four clearances.
Miller Bergman was influential with ball in hand, using his precise kicking to gain territory and spark several of the Demons' forward movements, he finished with 25 disposals.
In defence, Tom McDonald made a strong return, finishing with 19 disposals and three contested marks. Alongside him, Xavier Taylor battled hard, collecting 18 disposals and laying five tackles as the pair stood up under pressure.
Ricky Mentha was influential across half-back, using his run and ball use to launch several of Casey's attacking chains from defence.
Luker Kentfield worked tirelessly inside forward 50, presenting strongly throughout the contest. While he couldn't quite find his range in front of goal, finishing with four behinds, he still had an impact with eight marks, including three contested, as he continually created opportunities for the Demons.
Unfortunately for the Dees, they were unable to close out the game. There is confidence in the knowledge that their best football stacks up well against any opposition, but the focus now shifts to bringing that level for longer and more consistently across four quarters to turn strong performances into complete ones.
CASEY DEMONS 4.3 7.8 9.10 9.12 (66)
PORT MELBOURNE 1.1 5.3 8.7 12.12 (84)
GOALS
Casey Demons: Johnson (3), White (2), Onley (1), Melksham (1), Gatt (1), Gatt (1), Cheffers (1)
Port Melbourne: Tonelli (2), Manton (2), Bedendo (2), Tovey (1), Rudd (1), Polkinghorne (1), George (1), Downie (1), Baldwin (1)
DISPOSALS
Casey Demons: Bergman (25, Henderson (23), Sruk (21), Mentha (19)
Port Melbourne: Hobbs (28), Tovey (23), Gahan (23), Stubbings (21)
