Now, 21 rounds and 14 victories later, Eade and his Dogs will again look to use the Crows as a springboard, this time as they prepare for just their second finals campaign in eight years.
“I think after last season's disappointment, we had a fairly solid pre-season and it was a matter of getting some wins on the board to cement some belief,” Eade said on Friday.
“There was a bit of anxiety amongst the group going in to round one, but having a victory early I think was a catalyst for us to get a good roll-on to the next seven or eight weeks.
“I think in that aspect we're a lot more confident in ourselves individually and collectively.”
The Bulldogs have known for over a month where and against whom they will play in the first week of September action, but for Adelaide, the stakes are high with a home elimination final up for grabs.
With finals now just one week away Eade said it was important for his side to generate some momentum.
“Whether we win or lose we're going to be in the same position on the ladder,” he said.
“So, it's more about us getting our processes right and certainly the style, but more importantly, we thought we turned the corner a little last week, as far as form for some individuals and as a team, so we'd like to keep that going.
“I think it probably has been [difficult] for the last four or five weeks for the guys [get motivated] to be honest. But last week, for probably three quarters, our form was pretty good, so I think, a week out from finals, the players want to continue that on so then we can take some momentum into September.
“We've got a lot of respect for the Adelaide football club. They really are a good honest side that just work hard for each other.
“Even if they weren't playing for a home final you know you're going to get a great contest from them, so it's a great lead-in for us for finals there's no doubt.”
Saturday afternoon will also serve as Scott Welsh and Ben Hudson’s first trip back to AAMI Stadium against their old side.
Both players left Adelaide after the 2007 season but played in the round one win in Melbourne.
'That [the first game] is always a big build-up for a player who changes clubs and I think then to play them after that initial game there's not as much anxiety,” Eade said.
'Scott's been really good for us. He's had a bit of a flat patch but his form last week was pleasing and kicked five goals a couple weeks ago.
“Ben's been on a little bit of a downer, but he's certainly looking forward to playing well tomorrow.”
