Former Port Adelaide star and now outspoken media commentator Kane Cornes has launched another brutal broadside at ruckman Ivan Soldo, dramatically declaring him the worst recruitment decision in the Power's history.
Cornes, never one to shy away from controversy, has doubled down on his scathing assessment of the former Richmond big man, whose move to Port Adelaide has failed to deliver on expectations.
The Bombshell Accusation
In a stunning on-air declaration that's sent shockwaves through the AFL community, Cornes didn't mince words when evaluating Soldo's impact since joining the Power.
"I've never seen a more disappointing acquisition in my time watching this club," Cornes stated, his voice dripping with frustration. "The investment versus return has been catastrophic for Port Adelaide."
What's Gone Wrong for Soldo?
The criticism comes after Port Adelaide invested significant draft capital to secure Soldo's services, a move that was expected to solidify their ruck division and push them toward premiership contention.
Instead, Cornes points to several key areas where the recruit has fallen short:
- Lack of on-field impact in crucial moments
- Failure to dominate in the ruck contests
- Minimal influence around the ground
- Questionable fitness and mobility
Cornes Unfiltered: The Full Critique
What makes Cornes' assessment particularly damning is his intimate knowledge of the Port Adelaide system as a former club champion. His comments carry weight because they come from someone who understands what it takes to succeed at the highest level wearing the teal, black and white.
"When you look at what they gave up to get him and what he's delivering on the field, it's just not adding up," Cornes explained during his media appearance. "For a club with premiership aspirations, this level of underperformance from a key position player is simply unacceptable."
AFL World Reacts
The football community is divided on Cornes' take, with some applauding his honesty while others question whether the criticism is too harsh for a player still finding his feet at a new club.
What's undeniable is that the spotlight now burns brighter than ever on Ivan Soldo, who faces increasing pressure to prove his doubters wrong and justify Port Adelaide's significant investment in his talents.
The coming weeks will be crucial for both player and club as they navigate this very public scrutiny in the cut-throat world of AFL football.
