Muddy, cold, wet and windy conditions did not deter Port

In spite of playing on slippery water logged turf, and in mud that looked like something from one of those obstacle game courses on TV, and in spite of Williamstown playing 16 Western Bulldogs players, Port won the day 15.7.97 to Williamstown 6.1.46. Observers expecting more tension given the clubs' traditional rivalry and that both are on top of the ladder were disappointed because Port stayed convincingly ahead from the start.