Adelaide utility Niamh Kelly says bringing “an element of fun” to her game has helped propel her to new heights in 2023.
Kelly - who came to Adelaide from West Coast prior to Season Seven - has played a crucial role on the wing for the undefeated Crows in 2023, using her game-breaking speed and skill to great effect.
The 28-year-old Irishwoman showcased her talents in Friday night’s 42-point victory over the Western Bulldogs, recording 24 disposals, taking six marks and kicking a goal.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Kelly explained how a shift in mindset had helped transform her game.
“One thing Doc said pre-game that really stuck with me was to bring an element of fun to the game, and I just ran out there bursting with excitement to be honest,” Kelly said.
“This year my main focus has just been to be injury-free, it has been nice to get a good run at it so far and I’ve loved being able to show off my weapons a bit more this season than last.
“The way we were able to shift the ball and play with speed definitely helped me, and I just went out with the intention of taking the game on whenever I had the ball.
“It’s always nice getting on the end of the team’s good work and it (Friday night) was such an enjoyable game to be a part of.”
Kelly also produced one the highlights of the night in the second quarter, showcasing her speed to run past multiple Bulldogs defenders, before composing herself to put through a long-range goal.
She recalled what was going through her head as the play unfolded.
“I didn’t really know how far I’d run until after I kicked it to be honest,” Kelly said.
“Once the ball got switched to me I just took off, was lucky enough to get the one-two from Hatchy, and then just kept going.
“I didn’t really think I was on for a goal until I entered the forward 50 and then when I saw the goals within my range I just went for it and it was lucky enough to go through.”
Adelaide’s attention now turns to a clash against fellow top-four side Brisbane at Brighton Homes Arena on Saturday.
Kelly said the squad would have to bring a similar level of intent to this clash as it did against the Bulldogs to make it eight wins from eight starts.
“The Bulldogs brought a high level of pressure and were intent on taking on the game at all cost, so it was nice to be able to deal with that and come away with a solid win,” Kelly said.
“It’s nice to get to seven wins from seven games, but there are still three big games to go before the finals, so the focus now is taking the momentum from the Bulldogs game into this weekend against Brisbane.
“Brissy always bring a high level of pressure and is a very fit team, so if we can replicate what we did on Friday and build off that, I think it will put us in good stead.”
