Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks has labelled Saturday night’s clash with Sydney as the biggest game of his tenure.
The Crows will host the Swans at Adelaide Oval at 7.10pm with a loss condemning the Club to missing finals in 2023.
A win, however, keeps the season alive ahead of the final home-and-away match against West Coast in Round 24.
“There is no bigger challenge - it’s an elimination final for us,” Nicks said.
“We’re coming up against a team in really strong form, five wins on the trot and back to their best.
“They have a lot of run and gun, we’re expecting a hot contest.
“The stage will be big and the lights will be bright… We have incredible home support and we’re glad we're playing here.”
Izak Rankine returns on Saturday night after missing the last three games with a hamstring injury.
Nicks said the Club considered rolling the dice for Brisbane but opted against “taking the risk”.
“He (Rankine) brings high-end talent and is fresh,” Nicks said.
“We’ve been trying to slow him down this week… I think he’s broken the record for high speeds in a training session.”
Earlier this week, Crows wingman Paul Seedsman announced his retirement to the group with an emotionally charged address at West Lakes.
Nicks, who attended Seedsman’s retirement presser, said the effects of the player address would never “wear off”.
“He spoke with so much passion and honesty,” Nicks said.
“It was tough to hear and (specifically) hear the details of what he’s going through.
“It won’t fade away, the doors will always be open and we’ll always be there for him.”
Adelaide will face Sydney at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night at 7.10pm.
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