Motlop, Pearce star in Power win

Daniel Motlop and Danyle Pearce have helped lead Port Adelaide to an impressive start to their 2009 campaign, playing pivotal roles in the Powers 15.17 (107) to 9.11 (65) win over Essendon at AAMI Stadium.

The Bombers trailed by just 22 points at three-quarter-time, but failed to capitalise in front of goal as the home side pulled away in the dying stages.

Motlop continued his great form from 2008, booting four crucial goals while Pearce was heavily involved throughout the match, picking an impressive 31 possessions.

Pearce used one of his 11 first-quarter possessions to nail his side’s first major as the Power went on to kick seven more goals in the opening eight minutes.

Essendon fought on gallantly, but a two-minute lapse and goals to Motlop and Westhoff, ensured a hard-earned round one victory for the Power.