Williams endured the season from hell last year, as he tried to right the Power’s frustratingly inconsistent form and negotiate a highly publicised new contract at the same time.
Craig has copped some heavy criticism following the Crows’ shocking start to the season, with people questioning everything from his game plan and training techniques to whether his players have enough fun.
Williams appeared relaxed at a joint coach’s press conference to promote the showdown on Friday and said it was nice to have most of the questions directed at Craig for a change.
“In this town it’s either you or the other bloke (being scrutinised) and it’s a lot easier to get to sleep at night when you’re winning," Williams said.
"I was smiling when you were talking about fun at the club because it’s only fun when you’re winning.”
On Wednesday, an afl.com.au pre-season survey of all 16 AFL coaches identified Craig as one of the toughest coaches to coach against, behind Geelong’s premiership-winning coach Mark Thompson.
Williams remained coy as to whether he was one of the two coaches to vote for Craig and said winning this week would still be a tough proposition, despite Adelaide’s 0-5 start.
“Neil’s an outstanding coach… I don’t get any votes,” Williams said.
“This week we’ve looked at the best of the Crows and what they’ve done to us in the past.
"Two weeks ago is not long enough for it to leave your memory in regards to how poorly we can play.
"As a team we’ve been going along okay, but we’ve got a lot of improvement in our side and we look forward to keep producing.”
Young ruckman Matthew Lobbe has kept his spot in the side after Nathan Krakouer failed a fitness test on Friday, still being hampered by a groin complaint.
Lobbe was considered unlucky to be omitted from the team when it was named on Thursday night and Williams said the 21-year-old was deserving of a second chance, having made a solid debut against St Kilda last weekend.
“There was a lot of indecision at selection last night (as to whether to play Lobbe) and today we didn’t think Nathan was exactly right,” Williams said.
“Dean Brogan was really encouraging us to play Lobbes as well. Last week it meant that he had some real competitive players (in the ruck) while he was off the ground and he thought that was a real bonus for him.”
On Friday afternoon less than 100 tickets remained for Saturday’s clash and Williams said his side was looking forward to playing in front of a packed house at AAMI Stadium.
“We don’t play in front of these big grounds very often, so it’s a pretty exciting time for our guys," Williams said.
"The Crows belted us last time we played them, so we’re very mindful of the fact that we have to bring our best game to the table.”
