Skipper Matthew Primus led an undermanned Port Adelaide to a 15.14 (104) to 13.8 (86) win over the Western Bulldogs in an AFL practice match at AAMI Stadium.

The Power was lacklustre in the first half and trailed by two goals at halftime, but outscored the Bulldogs 10.9 to 6.3 in the second half to win by 18 points.

Primus, who missed most of last season due to hamstring and knee injuries, was excellent playing mostly as a forward and kicked two goals before spending most of the last term resting on the bench.

The Power was also well-served by defenders Matthew Bishop and Michael Wilson, and forward Kane Cornes.

For the Bulldogs, Patrick Bowden starred with five goals, while midfielders Scott West and Rohan Smith put in typically polished performances.

And in a good sign, key forward Jade Rawlings and defender and skipper Chris Grant both played well and showed they should much improve the side at both ends this season.

Ex-Hawthorn recruit Rawlings kicked three goals in the first half, when he was far too good for the Power's Chad Cornes, although Cornes fought back to keep him goalless in the second half.

And skipper Grant, who suffered a knee injury in his club's opening home and away match last year and missed the rest of the season, moved smoothly back into form in his first game for the season.

Playing at centre halfback, he was able to read the play well to take marks as well as pick up the loose ball on the ground.

Bulldogs star player Brad Johnson appeared to limp off the ground injured late in the match.

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