In-form defender Matt Jaensch says Adelaide’s win over St Kilda will breed confidence in the playing group.
The Crows led from start to finish, winning all four quarters to record a commanding 86-point win– the Club’s first of the season. Jaensch was confident the Crows could build on the performance.
“There were a few smiles and laughs this morning. It’s always a happier place when you’ve had a win. I’m not too sure how much you can gather (from the win), it’s only one win. The boys just become a bit more confident,” Jaensch said on Monday.
“During the week, we spoke about belief, and that it’s a marathon and not a sprint. We spoke about everyone playing their role and sticking to the team structure.
“Everyone did that yesterday, it worked and we got the four points.”
Coach Brenton Sanderson described the win as Adelaide’s “first four-quarter performance” of the season. Jaensch said the team had every confidence it could improve its mindset of the previous three weeks and run out games strongly.
“We knew we were fit enough. I think you guys (in the media) were the ones questioning our fitness. We know in ourselves the work we did in pre-season … we’ve done the kilometres,” he said.
The Crows will now turn their attention to Greater Western Sydney at Adelaide Oval on Sunday.
Adelaide is yet to experience victory at its new home ground. Jaensch said it was important the Club rewarded the support of its members and fans with a win.
“Our fans really want that (first win at Adelaide Oval) and we really want that for him. They came out in droves against Sydney … they deserve a win,” Jaensch said.
“GWS got some great players and we’ve got to play our best footy to beat them.”
Forward Tom Lynch will be hoping to play his first game of the season against GWS.
Lynch, who dislocated his shoulder in a pre-season trial against the Giants, starred in Adelaide’s SANFL loss to Sturt on Saturday.
“Lynchy’s had a bit of head wobble up in the change rooms this morning,” Jaensch said with a laugh.
“Apparently he played really well … and got a heap of the ball. I daresay he’d be good to go this week. Whether Sando picks him or not is a different thing. He always trains and prepares exceptionally well.
“I’m sure his name will definitely come up.”
Mitch Grigg and Jason Porplyzia (corked buttock) will also be available for selection.
Swingman Andy Otten is hopeful or returning in a week. Jaensch said it was pleasing to see a few players start to return from injury.
“Hopefully, we get blokes like Tom back, and Andy Otten and Taylor Walker, who is on the cusp of coming back as well, and then Crouchy (Brad Crouch),” he said.
“Hopefully, we get a few more wins over the coming weeks and they can come in, be confident in the group and gel into hopefully what’s building towards some good footy for us.”
Sunday’s game will be Jaensch’s 50th and two-time Club Champion Scott Thompson’s 250th.
Thompson was back to his best on Sunday, amassing 32 possessions and seven tackles.
“Thommo is a superstar. I love playing with him. He’s the heart and soul of the team,” Jaensch said.
“He probably didn’t have the start he would’ve wanted, but we know what he’s capable of. He’s such a hard head and he brought his crash helmet yesterday. David Mackay also played well and Matt Crouch is in the same mould as Scotty.
“The midfield was really good yesterday.”
Sunday’s clash with GWS is the perfect opportunity for fans who have missed out on the Club’s first two matches to experience Adelaide Oval. Secure your tickets at afc.com.au/tickets