The Swans had only won one of their past 11 home and away games against the Crows, but put that record to rest with a highly disciplined and skilful display.
The visitors were dominant throughout and punished a wayward Adelaide with high intensity and a rejuvenated approach with a combination of new players and eager youngsters.
“It was a really good win. We’ve had a lot of trouble winning against Adelaide. They’re a terrific side and that’s as good a win as we’ve had in a fair while", Roos said after the game.
“For us, it’s a really important step in the development of our footy club and where we’ve come from last year, so it’s a terrific effort.
“We’re still finding out a bit about ourselves to be honest. We were hoping after last week that we’d play well, but you’re not too sure because you’ve got new players from other clubs ... and young kids.”
Roos said not playing finals footy last year enabled his side to work hard on fitness during the pre-season, which he hoped would hold them in good stead deep into the season.
Four of the Swans recruits gained during trade week contributed 11 of the side’s 18 goals, including a career best five-goal haul to Ben McGlynn, a player Roos has always been fond of.
“I think we’ve certainly improved as a side from last year, which is really important in the off- season and we were more disciplined for longer (than in the past against Adelaide) today.
“Personnel change helped and the blokes we had in today were really good. (Ben) McGlynn kicked five and (Daniel) Bradshaw, (Mark) Seaby and (Josh) Kennedy kicked two.
“I was a big fan of Ben McGlynn and Joey (Josh) Kennedy, and seven goals between them is fantastic ... We didn’t have to give back much to get them”.
Roos' coaching from the sidelines appears to be paying dividends in his final year as senior coach.
The 2005 Premiership coach said if his troops continued to put in performances like today, it would make leaving a lot more difficult.
“It’s definitely a lot different from the bench than up in the box and I think the bench remains a lot calmer
"The players feed off that as well, but we were able to make some changes a lot quicker.
“If we play like that every week, I’ll miss it (coaching) definitely.”
Games at the SCG are electrifying. See the Swans take on Richmond this Saturday night. Grab your tickets now at www.ticketek.com.au. Please note first bounce for our Round 3 fixture Sydney Swans v Richmond is 7.10pm. Gates open at 3.45pm.
