ADELAIDE coach Brenton Sanderson has described the Crows' 69-point victory over Melbourne as vital because it was achieved at the MCG on the eve of finals.

The Crows had lost their previous six games at the MCG; their last victory there was in round 20, 2009, when they defeated Hawthorn.

"It's really important that you play well at this ground, that you have confidence when you come here," Sanderson said.

"It was important today that we showed glimpses that we're a good side and that we can play well here."

Sanderson said he was mostly with the win, which was locked in when the Crows kicked 10 goals to three in the third quarter.

The ruck-midfielder combination of Sam Jacobs and Scott Thompson inspired the Crows to a 74-point lead at the last change.

With the steam out of the game, Melbourne won the last quarter by kicking three goals to two.

"No disrespect to Melbourne, but at times we took our foot off the gas," Sanderson said.

"I didn’t like our last quarter, to be honest.

"Really good sides put sides away, play their way for four quarters.

"I thought we just flirted a bit — but at the same time if you were to ask me about that performance before the game I would have taken it.

"We had a few guys who were quiet, a few guys who need to improve pretty quickly, but overall we're really happy with the team performance.

"A 70-point win at the MCG this close to September is really important for the group."

Sanderson was pleased that key forward Kurt Tippett was able to play himself into some form after a quiet performance last week against Brisbane Lions, his first match back after three bouts of concussion.

Tippett took 11 marks and kicked three goals against Melbourne while forming a potent partnership with fellow key forward Taylor Walker.

"I was able to clunk a few today, but there's still plenty of room to move." Tippett said.

Sanderson said the Crows were looking forward to play the Gold Coast at AAMI Stadium next Saturday — and then they would turn their attention to the finals.

The Crows are level on top with Hawthorn and Sydney Swans but third on percentage.