The 20-year-old showed plenty of promise through the Hawks’ NAB Cup campaign early in the year, and continued his fine form by racking up 17 disposals, seven inside 50s and a goal against the Crows.
Savage was modest when asked about his own performance in the midfield and across half-forward, which saw the Dandenong under-18s product step up and prove he belongs at AFL level.
"From a personal view it was pretty exciting going into the game, especially coming interstate to Adelaide which is a tough gig," Savage said.
"It was good just to get a game out there and get some experience."
Hawthorn was in control for most of the first half, boasting a 19-point lead at the major break, before Adelaide steadied in the final two quarters to close the margin and run out eventual winners.
"It was disappointing that we couldn’t get the win on the board but full credit to Adelaide, they played well," Savage said.
The third term was where Adelaide set up the victory, with Taylor Walker booting three goals and Patrick Dangerfield two in a dominant display by the young Crows pair.
Hawthorn struggled to get their hands on the ball, with speedsters such as Shaun Burgoyne, Clint Young and Cyril Rioli unable to find the freedom they enjoyed in the opening half.
"We probably needed a bit more run from our mids," Savage said.
The new substitution rule was again the hot topic of the night at AAMI Stadium, with Adelaide's Jason Porplyzia subbed out due to a shoulder injury within the first five minutes of the match, and Brad Sewell rested after racking up 25 possessions in an outstanding display for the Hawks.
However, Savage is still undecided on the rule, which many experts say is inducing extreme levels of fatigue among players and may lead to higher incidences of soft tissue injuries.
"Personally, I didn’t really feel too fatigued," Savage said.
"I thought when Whitecross came on he had a bit of an impact but I do think it’s good that a player can come on fresh if another player gets injured.
"Other than that I’m not too sure."
Hawthorn will be eager to bounce back and register their first win of season 2011 when they take on Melbourne next week at the MCG.
