SUMMARY
This looms as a crucial match in determining which teams make the top four, in Don Pyke's first time coaching against West Coast. The Eagles are seventh heading into round 12 while the Crows are eighth, but both are only one win behind the fourth-placed Western Bulldogs. A vast amount of forward talent will be on display: Adelaide's firepower includes Josh Jenkins, Taylor Walker and Eddie Betts while West Coast will bring Josh Kennedy, Jack Darling and Mark LeCras to the party. If the game pans out as expected on the wide expanses of Domain Stadium, it could prove to be one of the most entertaining contests of the season. That's not to mention the potential for the McGovern brothers to match up on each other, with Adelaide's Mitch showcasing the same natural ability as Jeremy.
For the Eagles' midfield to be at its best Luke Shuey needs to fire. Picture: AFL Media
WHERE AND WHEN: Domain Stadium, Saturday, June 11, 5.40pm AWST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R22, 2015, Adelaide Crows 19.12 (126) d West Coast Eagles 10.9 (69) at Adelaide Oval
R15, 2015, West Coast Eagles 22.15 (147) d Adelaide Crows 14.7 (91) at Domain Stadium
R19, 2014, West Coast Eagles 20.16 (136) d Adelaide Crows 16.9 (105) at Adelaide Oval
R23, 2013, Adelaide Crows 19.15 (129) d West Coast Eagles 5.13 (43) at Domain Stadium
R15, 2013, West Coast Eagles 11.9 (75) d Adelaide Crows 9.15 (69) at AAMI Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. Last time these teams played, Adelaide booted eight goals to none in the first quarter. Josh Jenkins kicked six for the match and Brodie Smith racked up 29 disposals.
2. The Crows are the No. 1 scoring team in the AFL this season, while the Eagles are fifth.
3. Since 2011, five of the eight clashes have been decided by at least eight goals.
4. Of the 17 clashes at Domain Stadium, West Coast has won 12.
5. Adelaide is ranked 18th for tackles, while the Eagles are 11th.
6. The Crows had two players in the top five of the Schick AFL Player Ratings last week: Rory Sloane at No. 4 and Josh Jenkins at No. 5.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR… Luke Shuey.
West Coast's midfield was smashed at the contest by the Western Bulldogs last week and Shuey was slightly down on his normally very high standards. He will want to rebound against the Crows.
PREDICTION: Adelaide by two points.
