Adelaide Assistant Coach James Rahilly says players are embracing the weight of expectations, following three strong wins in a row.

The Crows kicked off the AFL’s inaugural Gather Round, beating Carlton by 56 points at Adelaide Oval on Thursday.

It came after solid triumphs against Port Adelaide and Fremantle, respectively.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Rahilly said the Crows channelled the pre-game energy well and remained composed, despite the big occasion.

“Being the first game (of the round) and playing the way we did was pleasing,” Rahilly said.

“Nicksy spoke about how we embraced it and didn’t shy away from it.

“I reckon it feels a little bit different and it feels like the boys are ready for it.

“We knew it was a big game with a bit going on, people in the rooms and that sort of thing and the boys controlled themselves really well.

“I thought throughout the game, they played a very strong, controlled game, with the ball and defensively, in areas we had been working on, we were really strong.”

Rahilly was also pleased with the forward line, with Adelaide having 10 individual goal-scorers against the Blues.

“Since I’ve been here, we’ve added a lot of talent to the forward line,” Rahilly said.

“We are sort of still playing the same way, but we are delivering the ball so much better. 

“Our midfielders and our defenders, the way they’ve been able to move the ball and kick the ball inside 50 has really improved and we’ve been able to showcase what we’ve had for a couple of years.”

After playing at Adelaide Oval for the past four rounds, the Crows will be on the road for their Round Six clash and travel to Launceston to face Hawthorn on Sunday.

Rahilly hoped Adelaide would use the momentum it had built but would be wary of the Hawks, who would be searching for a second win.

“It’s been a great advantage for us (being home) and I’m glad we’ve got a couple of wins but now we are ready to get on the road,” Rahilly said.

“They (Hawks) are very strong down there and we haven’t had a great record against Hawthorn.

“They are a young, up and coming team as well, so we’ll put some time into them.

“They can be very dangerous on their day.”