Adelaide Captain Jordan Dawson is challenging the side’s leaders to step up as the Crows look to bounce back in this weekend’s Showdown.

The Crows clawed their way back in their Round Two clash with Richmond and got within one point, before falling to the Tigers by 32 points at Adelaide Oval on Saturday. 

Speaking to the media on Monday ahead of Showdown 53, Dawson said it was up to the more experienced players, including himself, to lift the side.

“Us, as leaders, we need to be better at stepping up in those moments and taking charge of the group,” Dawson said.

“It’s probably myself, Doeds, Smithy down back… and everyone stepping up in their role and having clarity on what they’re doing.

“We’ll work through that stuff and I’m sure we’ll turn it around.”

Dawson will Captain his first Showdown, after being named Skipper in February.

He said being able to swing the momentum back into the Crows’ favour would be a focus this week.

“It’s exciting to lead the Club in the first Showdown,” Dawson said.

“Growing up, watching Showdowns, it didn’t really matter where each team sat on the ladder, it was always a tight game.

“I think our whole team defence, especially in that second quarter (against Richmond), really hurt us.

“Then stopping the run, going back to the basics of footy, not trying to win in that moment and becoming lost a bit, especially in that second quarter, where they got a run on.

“(But) I back our team no matter what. The 22 who are on the field, we have full confidence that they can get the win.”

Adelaide takes on Port Adelaide in an away Showdown at Adelaide Oval on Saturday, with the first bounce at 7pm.