ADELAIDE Crows coach Brenton Sanderson says team spirit played a big role in Saturday night's win over the Sydney Swans at the SCG.

Despite a fast start - Adelaide held a 28-point advantage entering time-on in the second quarter - the visitors had to come from behind at three-quarter time to come away gutsy 15.9 (99) to 14.10 (94) victory.

Adelaide earned the four premiership points despite coming off second best in the tackle count, 98-64, and in inside 50s, 67-45.

Sanderson also noted last week's Showdown against cross-town rivals Port Adelaide, and having to travel after a six-day break.

"It was a fantastic win, a lot of spirit from the team," Sanderson told reporters after the match.

"We probably were beaten on the night in a lot of areas of the game but I guess the spirit, the will to win, the desire was something that the boys should be really proud of."

In particular, Sanderson highlighted a courageous mark from Brent Reilly late in the final quarter, when the match was in the balance and the Swans were coming home strong.

"To his credit, Radar was going to take a lick, but just went back with courage," Sanderson said.

"There were a lot of those things during the night."

The star forward of the evening Taylor Walker, who finished the game with a best-on-ground five goals, said he was pleased to back up from a six-goal haul against Port Adelaide last week with another good game.

Walker said the forward line group, including players such as Kurt Tippett, Ian Callinan, Jason Porplyzia and Jared Petrenko.

"I think we are starting to jell very well together," Walker said.

"If we can keep building as a group, as a forward line, we will get a lot better," Walker said.

Tippett kicked only one goal against the Swans and was quiet for most of the game.

However, he was swung into the ruck in the final term and Sanderson said the 24-year-old made an important contribution.