The hardline approach of Port Adelaide coach Matthew Primus has been vindicated, according to Power defender Troy Chaplin.

Primus' tough decisions to axe two stalwarts last week was followed by Port's breakthrough first win of the season, over arch rival Adelaide.

In his first full year as coach, Primus has also banned gifted forward Daniel Motlop and fined young gun Hamish Hartlett for drinking alcohol.

Chaplin says Port's triumph over the Crows justified the hard decisions taken by Primus.

"Hopefully it takes him to another level," Chaplin said on Monday.

"It is just so satisfying for us to see him get the win.

"It was great for us and the supporters as well but probably a fair bit of relief for him.

"He has been under a fair bit of criticism for the last few weeks but he's come out and made a stand, made some changes to the team and put himself out there."

Primus dumped triple best and fairest Kane Cornes and 118-gamer Danyle Pearce ahead of the showdown with the Crows.

After three consecutive losses, the dumping was seen as Primus stamping his authority.

"He is very astute in how he goes about things," Chaplin said.

"He has always said that he has got a plan in place for the way he wants us to play and the way he wants the club to move forward and he hasn't gone away from that.

"He has been adamant that this is the way he wants us to play and the players are starting to buy into it."

The Power host lowly newcomers Gold Coast on Saturday in a fixture Chaplin said would test Port's professionalism.

"Everyone seems to write off Gold Coast ... and they are probably going to find it hard this year," he said.

"But we have got to worry what we can control, and that is our professionalism and the way we train. It will be a huge focus for us this weekend.

"You can't underestimate Gold Coast. In previous times where we have underestimated teams, we have come out with a poor result.

"It's important we bring the same intensity we brought on the weekend ... we need to get the four points and start to get our season back on track and it's a good opportunity to get a win."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP