Adelaide came to the Gold Coast two wins out of the eight and with its season on the line. They leave with a solid victory and a step closer to getting back to the finals after an even team contribution. The next four weeks will define the Crows' season though, with matches against West Coast (home), Collingwood (away), Geelong (home) and Fremantle (away). Brenton Sanderson's men showed some life – and a four-quarter intensity – against the Suns, but will have to step it up a notch or two to play in September.
Reilly's pain is Wright's gain
What looked a disaster for the Crows – and may well still be for Brent Reilly – didn't work out all that bad. The rebounding half-back barely saw 60 seconds of action before dislocating his right shoulder in an awkward fall with Sun Steven May. He went to the sheds and did not return, paving the way for sub Matthew Wright to get an earlier-than-expected call-up. Wright did not disappoint, kicking a match-high four goals, including two in the crucial second quarter where the Crows arrested momentum.
Jacobs jumps back to form
After a stellar 2012, Sam Jacobs has been in indifferent form to say the least so far this season. After Richard Douglas called on the experienced players to lead a Crows revival during the week, the big ruckman stepped up. As he should have, Jacobs monstered inexperienced duo Tom Nicholls and Dan Gorringe and gave his midfield some first class service at the stoppages. He had 38 hit-outs (44-20 overall to the Crows) and 16 disposals, but more importantly helped the Crows cut even with the Suns' midfield at the stoppages (clearances 34-all).
Ablett v Dangerfield
They are the two best players in the game according to the Official AFL Player Ratings, and Ablett and Dangerfield put on quite a show. Ablett got the early points with two first quarter goals, but the Crows superstar found his groove after quarter-time and was influential in almost everything good the Crows did. Ablett finished with 30 touches and two goals, but despite copping a huge hit from Steven May that winded him during the last quarter, Dangerfield had the last laugh – and got the points – with 27 disposals, a goal, and more importantly, the win.
