The influence of Phil Walsh loomed large in Port Adelaide’s gritty three-point AFL triumph against Collingwood, Power coach Ken Hinkley says.

But Hinkley says the vital victory washed over him as he continued to mourn the death of his friend.

“I haven’t even thought about the game too much,” Hinkley said at his post-match media conference.

Walsh, who spent last season working as an assistant coach to Hinkley, was allegedly murdered by his son last Friday.

“A bloke like Phil was really important to our footy club – and special,” Hinkley said.

“We had some good times with Phil. It has been tough for everyone. We’re not on our own here, I mean (Walsh’s wife) Meredith and the family – please.

“It’s just a tragic thing that has happened.

“But we stuck together and that is what you do.

“Even when it’s really, really tough, all you can do is stick with your family and Port Adelaide is one big family.”