Adelaide’s SANFL season has come to an end after a 27-point loss to Glenelg in the preliminary final on Sunday afternoon.
At Adelaide Oval, Glenelg were quick to hit the scoreboard, kicking four unanswered goals to start the match.
The Crows fought back and had the lead at half-time, after kicking four goals in a row in the second quarter.
However, Glenelg took control in the last two quarters, finishing 16.9 (105) to 11.12 (78) winners and earning a spot in the grand final.
Darcy Fogarty imposed himself on the contest both up forward and in the middle, finishing with 15 touches, five marks, four clearances, four inside 50s and two goals.
Forward Shane McAdam was an important target inside 50, marking strongly and kicking two goals.
In the middle, Patrick Wilson (29 disposals and seven clearances) and Myles Poholke (18 touches and six inside 50s) created plenty of opportunities for their side.
In what was his final game for the Club, Andy Otten was as reliable as ever, finishing with 15 disposals and 11 spoils.
Andy Otten leaving the field for the last time. Thanks for everything, Andy #weflyasone pic.twitter.com/T2dJccayO6
— Adelaide Crows (@Adelaide_FC) September 15, 2019
Paul Hunter played one of his best games for the year, recording 14 disposals, 24 hit-outs and four clearances to go with one goal.
Captain Matthew Wright was also influential with 17 disposals and seven rebound 50s.
Jordan Gallucci and Tyson Stengle both kicked multiple goals.
State League coach Heath Younie said the Crows’ brand of footy shone through in the middle portion of the game, but Glenelg were too good in the end.
“I thought we were playing our way, we were getting field position and were able to lock the ball in and score,” Younie said.
“We lost the contest air and ground and to their credit, they were able to be more efficient when they went forward.
“Well done to Glenelg, they deserve to be in the grand final, they’ve been the best team all year.
“I’m really proud of the guys, they are a young group and I’m really proud of how they fought it out.”
Glenelg will take on Port Adelaide in next week’s SANFL grand final.
ADELAIDE 2.2 7.6 8.7 11.12 (78)
GLENELG 4.3 6.4 11.7 16.9 (105)
GOALS:
Adelaide: McAdam 2, Gallucci 2, Stengle 2, Fogarty 2, Davis, Hunter, Mathews
Glenelg: Reynolds 5, McBean 4, Scott 3, Motlop 2, Partington, Snook
BEST: Fogarty, Wilson, McAdam, Otten, Poholke, Hunter, Wright