Adelaide winger Lachie Sholl says working on his contest work is behind a string of strong form this season.
Sholl has had arguably his best season for the Crows, averaging 22.1 disposals and 5.6 marks across 18 games this season.
The 24-year-old starred in Adelaide’s win over the Bulldogs, collecting 34 disposals, eight score involvements, six intercept possessions and 646 metres gained.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Sholl said building on his contest work has had a flow on effect on his game as a whole.
“I think (contest work) has always been something I’ve been aware of, personally, and putting an emphasis on working on that has hopefully held me in good stead,” Sholl said.
“It’s certainly got a long way to go and I’m aware of that.
“But I do want to continue to work on that and it’s something I was more self-aware of.
“You’re always looking at areas to improve and that was one of them.”
Following the victory against the Bulldogs, the Crows are now eyeing a win against crosstown rival Port Adelaide with the upcoming Showdown on Saturday night.
The match is the Power’s home game and Sholl says he is preparing for a “hostile crowd” with a finals-like atmosphere.
“Showdowns are almost like a final in a way and with that comes a real importance on contest and we try to bring that each week,” Sholl said.
“Playing against Port, it’s their home Showdown this time and that will be really exciting to play against a hostile crowd and we are really looking forward to that challenge.
“The intensity will certainly rise again this weekend.
“It’s always really exciting to play in games like this and as I’ve noticed coming over it certainly means a lot to the state.”
Adelaide is expected to make at least one change to its side, with veteran forward Taylor Walker being ruled out due to an eye injury.
Sholl said Walker had returned to light training after eye surgery and was confident whoever was brought in would play their role well.
“(Walker’s eye) is a bit red, but he’s OK,” Sholl said.
“He’s back at the Club, was running today and he’s in good spirits.
“(Lachlan Gollant) kicked a bag on the weekend, he’s been playing really well and his development has been really great to see.
“Whoever it is who comes in will do a great job, I’m sure.”
Adelaide plays Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval on Saturday at 7pm.
