That's what Adelaide onballer Scott Thompson said after Saturday's win, crediting his teammates for sticking with the side’s game plan.
“Sydney is a quality side and has proved that by being in the last two Grand Finals. They play a tough one-on-one brand of footy. Tonight, I thought we were pretty good around the stoppages and it was a credit to the boys that we were able to win,” Thompson said.
It was the eighth time in the past nine games against Sydney that Adelaide has had the Swans’ measure.
The Crows matched the Swans in contested possession and, most importantly, finished off their hard work better.
Leading the way was Thompson, who laid seven tackles on Saturday night. He’s made a 23 tackles this season, eight more than any of his teammates, while averaging 24 possessions a game. He said playing the Swans’ brand of footy for four quarters was physically demanding.
“It is quite tough, actually. Sydney are probably the benchmark when it comes to contested ball. We knew if we were going to win tonight, we would have to match them in that area. It is pretty taxing on the body and you’re nice and tired by the end of the game.”
During the week, Adelaide rewarded rookie Andrew McIntyre for his good form in the SANFL with elevation to the senior list to help cover the club’s ever-growing injury list.
Despite missing as many as seven first-choice players, the Crows didn’t disappoint its fans, producing another impressive performance while giving youngsters Chris Knights, Richard Douglas, Bernie Vince and Jason Porplyzia more experience.
“It just goes to show we’ve got some great depth in the squad. There’s a lot of confidence and belief in the group and it’s showing at the moment,” Thompson said.
“It will be great to get those experienced guys back, but in the meantime we’re doing pretty well with the team we’ve got.”
The win was particularly important as the club’s first home win of the season (the win over Port Adelaide in round three was technically an away game). Thompson said the result was a big step toward re-establishing AAMI Stadium as a ground teams feared to visit.
“You never want to lose anywhere, but especially not at home. It's great to see all our supporters getting down here tonight because we love playing in front of a big crowd.”
Adelaide continues to mock those who predicted a slide down the ladder this season, finishing round four with three wins and one loss. But another big challenge awaits the Crows next week when they head west to take on the Dockers.
“It’s a good start but it’s another big game next week. It’s always tough to go over to Perth and play the Dockers on their home deck, but if we play the footy we’ve been playing the last couple of weeks, we shouldn’t have any trouble.”
