AFL Internal Trial: Dawson’s five key takeaways

Adelaide’s preparations for its 2025 AFL campaign continued with an internal trial in Port Pirie on Friday afternoon.

The match was played in windy conditions across four, 28-minute quarters, with a ‘blue’ and ‘yellow’ team.

Teams were reset at half-time, and scores were also changed to replicate match-like situations.

The match marked the culmination of the Crows’ Community Camp in Port Pirie, which included coaching clinics, school visits and an open training session.

Skipper Jordan Dawson spoke with AFC Media after the internal trial game. Here are his five key takeaways.

Alex Neal-Bullen’s influence

Recruit Alex Neal-Bullen has made an immediate impact both on and off the field since being traded from Melbourne to the Crows, according to Dawson.

Neal-Bullen’s run and carry was on show during the internal trial, as was his ability to hit a target both by hand and by foot.

The 29-year-old booted two goals, impressing Dawson across all facets of the game.

“Nibbler just plays his role, he knows exactly what he has to do,” Dawson said.

“He got on the end of a few and set up a few goals, too… He was really important and is going to be a massive inclusion for us.

“Nibbler knows his role inside and out and will do anything for the team, and he was really impressive today.”

Quick forward movement

It was evident from the first bounce that both the blue and yellow team were looking to move the ball quickly into attack.

The Crows played a run-and-gun style of footy through the middle, while the forward line found space, creating options inside-50.

Dawson said the depth and different styles of players the Crows had was helping to switch things up.

“We are always looking to improve our game in all aspects,” Dawson said.

“We are tinkering with a few different speeds of ball movement and trialling a few different things.

“It depends on the personnel going through the midfield as well, but there is a clear decision to move it at different paces at different stages of the game.”

Walker dominant inside-50 and around the ground

Ahead of his 18th AFL season, Taylor Walker enjoyed a solid hit-out during the Club’s internal trial.

Walker finished the match with four goals, while setting up many of his teammates.

Dawson said the veteran’s game knowledge and experience was invaluable.

“He’s a very smart footballer and he’s really trying to get the younger guys involved and make sure everyone feels a part of the team in the forward line,” Dawson said.

“Tex is always impressive, he knows how to get it done and his team-oriented stuff has been really important for us as well.”

Sid showing promise

First-round draft pick Sid Draper was described as one of the most explosive players in the 2024 AFL draft pool, and he proved to be just that on Friday, according to Dawson.

He burst out of stoppages, read the play well and used the ball efficiently.

Draper finished the match with a goal, showing he could be dangerous around the big sticks, too.

“Sid is very raw but he’s a natural footballer,” Dawson said.

“He’s got explosive pace and real agility, he’s really exciting around the ball and whenever he gets his hands on it.

“He’s putting every foot forward in the right direction, we don’t want to put too much pressure on him, but he’s a great fit and he’s really learning the game plan fast.”

Curtin’s switch to the forward line

Curtin began his AFL career as a defender but a mid-season switch in 2024 led to him ending his debut year as a mid/forward.

The 19-year-old lined up predominantly at half-forward, while spending a bit of time floating through middle on Friday, and Dawson said Curtin was adjusting well to the new role.

“For a big guy, he’s got a lot of presence in the air, but his quick feet on the ground has been a real standout over the past few weeks,” Dawson said.

“Dan has the ability to play up on the wing or on-ball or down back as well, so his flexibility and versatility will be really important.

“He is adding strings to his bow and he’s starting to get really confident in his body at this level, so I’m looking forward to watching him go about it this year.”

Adelaide will take on Port Adelaide in a match simulation at the Summit Sport and Recreation Park, Mount Barker next Friday, February 21.

Gates will open at 3pm, with the game to kick off at 5pm.

The game will be broadcast on Fox Footy, available on Kayo Sports and Foxtel.

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