Adelaide’s SANFL side held strong to overcome a gallant Woodville West-Torrens by nine points in its third and final trial game at West Lakes on Friday afternoon.
The game was played across three, 25 minute periods.
Here are the five key takeaways from the Crows’ 7.10 (52) to 6.7 (43) victory.
Strachan shows leadership
Ruckman Kieran Strachan was one of Adelaide’s standout performers, competing well for all three periods and winning multiple taps.
Strachan’s work around the ground was also strong, linking up with teammates and taking important intercept marks down the line and in Adelaide’s defensive 50.
SANFL Assistant Coach Matthew Wright said he was most impressed with the leadership Strachan showed.
“He has become a leader amongst the group over the years and he was fantastic again tonight,” Wright told AFC Media.
“Working with that midfield group it’s a different group this year, we have some new youth coming through there which is really exciting, so for him to lead and stand up is impressive.”
Hamill proves versatile
Defender Will Hamill continued his strong form off half-back for Adelaide against the Eagles and his speed was a key asset.
Hamill linked up well with his teammates to create opportunities inside-50, resulting in kicking two goals.
His ball use was another highlight of his game, impressing Wright.
“He had a couple of looks forward as well last week, so I am really pleased he was able to knock over a couple (of goals) tonight,” Wright said.
“He always links up really well, defends really well and he is exciting when he has the ball in his hands.”
Sholl stands up
Midfielder Lachlan Sholl gave Adelaide strong ball use on the outside with his ability to be cool under pressure on display.
Sholl was classy with ball in hand, effective with his possessions in and around the contest.
“His attitude today was first class and he was one that rocked up tonight ready to play,” Wright said.
“I thought he was clean, good in the contest and used the ball really well.
“He was definitely one of the better ones tonight.”
Gallagher fires up front
Irishman Karl Gallagher was crafty inside-50 and was the Crows’ main avenue to goal in the second and third period.
The 22-year-old’s three goals came from set shots and in play.
“He (Gallagher) came in and did some work with the forwards early and then did some work down back, so for him to come in and play a new position I thought he did really well,” Wright said.
“You can see his teammates get around him, the group loves him, so for him to hit the scoreboard this week is awesome.”
Gallagher’s goals helped the side hold on late.
Gollant provides focal point
Forward Lachlan Gollant provided Adelaide with a solid target up forward, taking strong marks when the ball entered Adelaide’s forward 50.
He was also clean below his feet, and set up multiple goals, as well as pinch hitting in the ruck.
“He is not going to always mark them but when he does get good looks he generally clunks them,” Wright said.
“When he is out of position we are big on him being able to get that ball to ground and get others involved in the game which he was able to do.
Gollant was able to get some reward on the scoreboard, booting one goal for the game.
Adelaide’s SANFL side will begin its 2024 season at Noarlunga Oval next Friday afternoon at 2.10pm.
SCOREBOARD
ADELAIDE: 3.2 4.6 7.10 (52)
WOODVILLE: 1.2 6.6 6.7 (43)
GOALS: Gallagher 3, Hamill 2, O’Leary, Gollant.
