Adelaide got its SANFL finals series off to a strong start, defeating Norwood by 55 points at Adelaide Oval on Sunday afternoon.
The 18.9 (117) to 9.8 (62) Qualifying Final victory means the Crows will now battle North Adelaide this weekend, with the winner progressing to the SANFL Grand Final.
Boyle steps up
Adelaide midfielder Jay Boyle enjoyed a solid game, with SANFL coach Michael Godden opting to put him back in the centre square.
Boyle made the most of the added responsibility and was one of Adelaide’s major ball winners, finishing with a team-high 28 disposals, seven clearances, seven inside 50s and a goal.
The on-baller's work rate pleased Godden.
“He’s had some really good games this year for us,” Godden told AFC Media.
“Unfortunately at times he gets pushed out to a wing or a different position due to the different AFL mix we have in the midfield.
“He hasn’t played midfield for a few weeks, so for him to come in and play the way he did was really pleasing.”
Tackling Turner
Adelaide mid-season draftee Brett Turner was one of the Crows’ standout players, making a large impact through all four quarters with his contested efforts.
Turner’s hunger to win the ball was on full display, as he recorded 26 disposals, eight clearances and a game-high 15 tackles.
“Obviously when he came into the club in the mid-season he was injured at the time,” Godden said.
“He’s had to work really hard and he’s been a little frustrated which is understandable,”
“He had some freedom in the midfield today and we really took control and showed today what he is capable of.
“It was a great performance.”
Turner also had a game-high eight clearances, along with four inside 50s.
Strachan wins ruck battle
Ruckman Kieran Strachan had his work cut out for him against the Redlegs, having to battle against Norwood big man Harry Boyd all game long.
Strachan did not shy away from the challenge winning the hit-out battle, as well as working hard around the ground to leave his mark on the game.
Strachan finished the game with 43 hit-outs, 17 disposals and seven inside 50s.
“Winning the ruck battle was huge,” Godden said.
“They came at him pretty hard down at Norwood Oval last time and we know that is value they put on Kieran so he knew that he had a challenge today.
“He organised the midfielders and they had really good connection today.
“He’s been consistent throughout the year so another solid effort.”
Pedlar gives spark
Luke Pedlar continued his strong form, making an impact for the Crows up forward.
Pedlar was damaging each time he had the ball, finishing the game three goals and six inside 50s.
The 20-year-old also showcased his booming right leg, bombing home two of his three goals from outside 50.
“Peds just needed continuity in his game,” Godden said.
“Obviously he has had a few injuries since he’s been in the AFL system but we know what he is capable of.
“I think everyone saw it today on show.
“That’s really exciting for us as a footy club because not only did he perform well for us, we know in the future what he is going to bring at AFL level.”
Experienced League players set the tone
Adelaide’s development players Isaya McKenzie, Louis Sharrad and captain Matthew Wright showcased their SANFL experience, providing valuable on field leadership for Adelaide.
McKenzie gave Adelaide an x-factor inside-50 and he used his pace to break lines, while also providing forward-line pressure, recording with seven tackles.
Sharrad provided Adelaide an edge in the middle of the ground with an aggressive attack on the ball, collecting 17 disposals and 11 tackles.
The Skipper, meanwhile, was clinical in front of goal, displaying his clever forward craft to finish with a game-high five goals.
Adelaide will play North Adelaide in the Second Semi Final at Adelaide Oval on Sunday, with the first bounce at 3:15pm.
ADELAIDE: 4.0 8.5 15.7 18.9 (117)
Norwood: 2.2 4.3 5.5 9.8 (62)
GOALS:
Adelaide: Wright 5, Pedlar 3, Gollant, McKenzie 2, McAsey, Nankervis, Himmelberg, Boyle, Taylor, Smithson.
Norwood: Panos, Kennerley 2, McLean, Nelligan, Lowe, Jarvis, Lowden.
