The SANFL Crows will play Norwood next Sunday in a semi-final after going down to Port Adelaide by 30 points at Adelaide Oval.
A tightly contested first three quarters meant there was just three points in it at the final break.
However, Port kicked away in the final term to record a 12.13 (85) to 8.7 (55) win.
For the Crows, Andy Otten was as reliable as ever with 24 disposals, seven rebound 50s and five marks.
With ruckman Kieran Strachan ruled out pre-game with concussion symptoms, Elliott Himmelberg shouldered the ruck-load, recording 17 disposals, 10 hit-outs and four clearances.
Skipper Matthew Wright (20 disposals, nine marks and six inside 50s) and midfielder Patrick Wilson (19 disposals, eight tackles and six marks) were influential through the middle.
Development squad member Jordon Boyle kicked two goals in crucial moments, while Matt Merrett was strong in defence.
State League coach Heath Younie said despite the loss, he could not fault his side’s effort.
“Our guys were terrific for three quarters – we came in with a clear plan today and I thought the guys executed to a ‘T’ until three-quarter time and gave ourselves a chance,” Younie said.
“We obviously had some hiccups throughout the course of the week, that’s footy, but we re-grouped and came up with a clear plan and the players bought into it.
“I’m really proud of the guys, but in the end, credit to Port Adelaide, they were just too strong.”
Younie said the team’s mindset will quickly change to the match against Norwood.
“We‘ll move on pretty quickly, because we have worked hard throughout the year to get the double chance.
“We are going to be better for the hit out and we are thoroughly looking forward to seven days’ time and having another crack against Norwood.”
Next Sunday, the semi-final between Adelaide and Norwood will get underway at 12.15pm at Adelaide Oval.
ADELAIDE 3.1 4.3 7.6 8.7 (55)
PORT 3.1 6.3 7.9 12.13 (85)
GOALS:
Adelaide: Stengle 2, Boyle 2, Fogarty, Jones, McAdam, Press
Port: Mayes 3, Ladhams 2, Cox 2, Woodcock 2, Hayes, Lienert, Farrell
BEST: Otten, Himmelberg, Boyle, Wright, Wilson, Merrett
