Before Saturday’s trial match, it had been 511 days since Brad Crouch had played competitive football.
As the midfielder prepared to face the action for the first time since Adelaide’s 2017 grand final loss, the nerves crept in.
That was until he stepped out onto Thebarton Oval, where he did not miss a beat in the Crows' 11-point loss to Port Adelaide.
“I was a little bit nervous actually, definitely when I woke up this morning, but that went away pretty quick, especially after five or ten minutes in [to the match],” he said.
“I felt great out there, I’ve felt great all pre-season and I’ve had a lot of match practice already, so I felt really strong and I’m looking forward to the next couple of JLT games.
“I pulled up absolutely fine, I feel really good.”
MATCH REPORT: New Crows impress in trial game
With the new rules in play, Crouch reflected on the impact of the 6-6-6 structure at centre bounces.
“It was good, you definitely felt there was more space around the centre bounce and if you win it clearly, you can run out of the stoppage more,” he said.
“I think it’s really good and it gives the forwards every chance as well if you can get it in there pretty quick.”
As the most experience Crow out there, Crouch said he was impressed by several of the Club’s new recruits and draftees.
“I thought [Tyson] Stengle and [Shane] McAdam were both really good and showed really good glimpses, it’s good for those two boys to get a run and gain the experience,” he said.
“I thought both Chayce [Jones] and Ned [McHenry] were really good and I also liked [Lachlan] Sholl and [Jordon Butts] in the backline, they all played well and adjusted well because it can a bit of a step up in intensity for them.”
ON TRACK: Brad's road to recovery
With Adelaide’s first JLT match against Port Adelaide next weekend, Crouch said he would push for selection for both as he makes his bid for Round One.
“It’ll be good to get up there [Port Pirie], it’s going to be very hot so it’s good we got a hit out today, I think it’s been 32 or 33 today so I think that’ll hold us in good stead up there,” he said.
“At this stage, I’m hoping to put my hand up for both.”
The Crows take on the Power at Port Pirie Oval from 3.40pm on Saturday, March 2.
