Crows forward Tom Lynch says Adelaide will need to be at its ‘absolute best’ to topple Port Adelaide in Sunday’s crucial Showdown XLIII.
The clash between the cross-town rivals is of extra significance this week as both teams look to consolidate their spots inside the top eight.
Adelaide remains in top spot after an incredible draw with Collingwood last round, while Port Adelaide sits in fifth following a thrilling victory over St Kilda with the final goal of the game.
Three of the past four Showdowns have been decided by under three goals and Lynch expects another tough contest come Sunday.
“Every game we play against Port is usually close. It comes down to willing yourself from contest to contest and being prepared for a fierce battle,” Lynch said.
“They’ve been playing some fantastic footy and had another thrilling win on Saturday night.
“We know we’re going to be in for a real tough contest and we’ll have to be at our absolute best to challenge them and beat them.
“I think the next Showdown is always the biggest Showdown! I’m not sure if this one is the biggest, but this one is pretty important for both teams coming into the pointy end of the year.
“There’s not much more enjoyment than playing in Showdowns.”
Adelaide hopes to regain the services of key players Eddie Betts, Brad Crouch and Jake Lever, who all missed last week’s trip to the MCG.
Lynch backed the trio to take their place against the Power but said the Club wouldn’t take any unnecessary risks despite the magnitude of Sunday’s match.
“Those guys will be given every opportunity to get themselves up, but we're not going to take any risks if they're not 100 per cent," Lynch said.
"We've got full faith in our medical staff and our fitness staff who have been able to prepare those guys and get them ready for another Showdown.
"They'll have to get through Thursday's session and then the session later in the week on Saturday.
"We're really confident those boys will be right to go, but we're not going to play them if they're not 100 per cent.”
Lynch is set to play his 100th AFL game against the Power after beginning his career with St Kilda in 2010.
The Showdown Medallist has overcome several injury setbacks to become one of Adelaide’s most important players.
He’s kicked 25 goals so far this season and is No.1 at the Club for marks in his first year as part of Adelaide’s senior leadership group.
“I’m rapt for the opportunity that the Adelaide Football Club gave me,” Lynch said.
“It’s enjoyable to go out there and play footy with these guys every week.”
