PLAYING a career-best game in a crushing elimination final loss provides little solace - just ask Adelaide utility Scott Stevens.
On Saturday, Stevens could do no wrong as he held the Crows’ forward line together with six goals, including three in a momentum-shifting second quarter.
The home side led by 12 points at the main break before Collingwood piled on 12 goals to five in the second half. But coach Neil Craig said the game would’ve been over a lot earlier if not for Stevens’ contribution.
“In the end, Scott kept us in the game there for a long period of time,” Craig said.
“But, if you look at the goal scorers, Collingwood had something like 14 [individual goal kickers] and had a fantastic spread, and we had eight.
“Scott’s game certainly needs to be acknowledged. He’s been a really flexible player for us this year, down back, in the midfield and then to go up forward and kick six goals in a final. You talk about being recognised in finals; well, that needs to go on his resume.”
Stevens, who finished with 19 disposals, eight marks, three inside 50s and an accurate return of 6.1, lamented his side’s ongoing battle with consistency.
“I thought we played well for most of the first half. We got ourselves right in the game and into a good position, but we couldn’t go on with it, which was disappointing,” Stevens said after the game.
“It’s how we’ve been a bit all season. We’ve played really well for periods, but we just haven’t been able to play consistently well for the whole game.”
Just seven days ago, the Crows were poised to finish fourth and, in doing so, secure the double chance. Now, in a true reflection of just how tight the competition is, their season is over.
Saturday’s 31-point loss also signalled the end for a much-loved character at West Lakes.
Veteran defender Nathan Bassett, who stayed on the ground for a kick with his nephews after the game, can walk away with his head held high after an inspirational display in his AFL swansong.
“'Bass' plays the same way always. He plays with courage, gives his all out there and leaves nothing in the tank, so he was no different today,” Stevens said.
“It was disappointing not to give him a better send off because 'Bass' been fantastic for the club. Everyone sees what he does on the field, but I think, off the field, he’s done as much if not more for this club than almost anyone. He’s been great for us and will be a huge loss.”