The creative midfielder sprang into action after the 1/4 time break, finishing with a game-high 28 disposals, four marks, four tackles and equal team-high three goals alongside fellow goal-sneak Andrew Boston.
Speaking exclusively with goldcoastfc.com.au in the SUNS change rooms after the match, Bennell said it was tough defeat to swallow after having chased down a 24-point scoreboard deficit to take a nine-point lead heading into final exchange.
“Really disappointing that we weren’t able to battle on and get the win,” Bennell said.
“We really wanted to drag it back after having been down at quarter-time. We were able to fight on but unfortunately they were too good in the end.”
Having led 17-15 in the inside-50 count after the opening period, Bennell said wasted opportunities around goals cost the SUNS.
“Against a team like Port Adelaide who have shown they’re genuine finals contender this year you can’t afford not to make the most of scoring opportunities and we let a couple slip in the first term,” he said.
With their two remaining matches against bottom-ranked St. Kilda and Greater Western Sydney, Bennell said he hoped the boys would be able to finish the year on a winning note.
“We always respect our opposition and the next two weeks will be no different,” he said.
“Hopefully we can come out strong against the saints and finish the season off with the same high intensity we kicked off 2013.”
