No prize this year, but proud Betts competitive
Eddie Betts is a proven performer in Sir Doug Nicholls Round and he’ll be disappointed he didn’t add a third Goal of the Year contender to his portfolio of two wins. But the Crows superstar was still a valuable contributor, kicking two classy majors and collecting 15 disposals. His ability to bring others into the contest remains a strength of his game … his two-on-one marking contest set up the Rory Atkins goal in the third quarter.

Win against the odds
Greater Western Sydney star Dylan Shiel described the victory as one of the greatest in the club’s history. The Giants were staring down the barrel of five losses in a row against a side they’ve only beaten once in their previous nine encounters. But they played with the desperation and flare that have made them one of the most exciting sides in recent seasons. Adding to the spectacle, very few teams surrender the lead to the Crows in the fourth quarter and go on to win comfortably. 

Crows supporters leave early
Fifteen points down and three minutes to go … that was the breaking point for hundreds of Crows supporters who left Adelaide Oval early. To be fair, it was the right call … Jeremy Cameron’s third goal snuffed out any chance of a remarkable comeback from the home side. Adelaide fans should be praised for turning out in force for the twilight encounter as well …. 44,120 spectators against a side that doesn’t generally draw a crowd is admirable.

Powerful Patton silences critics
Often the whipping boy of the Giants' line-up, Jonathon Patton reminded the competition he’s an imposing big man when he’s firing. Patton was particularly influential in the first half and finished with 15 possessions, 11 of which were contested. With Patton imposing himself on the game the Giants look a better side – opposition teams are struggling to find the right match-up to lessen his impact.

Long-range goals keep Crows in contest
The Crows were playing catch-up for most of the match but remained in striking distance by making the most of their opportunities. In the opening term, a quick handball from Betts set up a running goal from 50m by Paul Seedsman. The former Magpie repeated the effort in the second term, but this time following a bounce and from a tighter angle. Not to be outdone by his teammate, Lachlan Murphy chased down a clever Darcy Fogarty kick and converted a low bomb through from long range. Trailing by 18 points early in the third quarter, Wayne Milera marked and got connection from 55m to give the home crowd hope of a come-from-behind victory. Josh Jenkins and Fogarty joined in the long goalkicking contest in the fourth term.