ADELAIDE has turned to former rugby union internationals Jim Love and Darrel Shelford to help its ailing tackle rate.

The pair has considerable tackling experience with Love having coached Tonga at the 2003 Rugby World Cup and Shelford representing Scotland at international level.

As directors of the New Zealand Sports Academy, they have also previously helped NRL club the New Zealand Warriors.

Tackling was one of coach Brenton Sanderson's constant annoyances last year and despite making it a focus over the pre-season, the Crows were out-tackled 73-47 by Essendon in their round one loss.

Sanderson said it was a "fortunate coincidence" that Love and Shelford were able to offer their expertise, as they were in Adelaide to observe his club's football program.

He said the duo offered technical tips on Tuesday, but would be available for individual consultation if necessary.

"They actually came to us to have a look at our program. I asked if it was ok while they were here, with their backgrounds, if they could just take us through a little tutorial," Sanderson said.

"We might send a couple of guys to them in the next two days just to make sure any little problems or little deficiencies might be able to be ironed out.

"We didn't want to bash and crash into each other today... it's just more about some technique stuff and some triggers that help our guys with some of the method.

"A low tackle count last week and tackling was a major concern for us last season, so the opportunity to get a bit more advice has been good for our guys."



Harry Thring is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_Harry.