What do you think? Vote for Adelaide’s best Showdown victory in the poll on the home page.

What has been Adelaide’s finest Showdown performance in the 26 Showdowns since 1997?

The come from behind win in the wet in Showdown II was a season defining game in 1997. Maybe Showdown XV is your favourite, when Adelaide finally stopped Port’s winning streak of seven consecutive Showdown’s.

The “Ultimate Showdown” in 2005 where Adelaide dominated Port in a semi final to win by 83 points is many a supporter’s most memorable victory.

Read afc.com.au’s summary of the best and then vote for your favourite on our poll.

Showdown II; Round 19, 10/8/97: Adelaide 9.11 (65) def Port 9.4 (58)

In wet and windy conditions the Crows struggled to make up ground after an ordinary first quarter, going into the last quarter 23 points down. However, Adelaide kept Port scoreless and managed to kick 4.6; giving the side a courageous, season defining victory. Brett James was the Crows’ best performer on the day. The Showdown victory was Adelaide’s first, with both sides now having had a taste of what was becoming South Australia’s most talked about matches.

Showdown IV; Round 19, 9/8/98: Adelaide 22.12 (144) def Port 10.10 (70)

The Crows kept Port Adelaide at bay in the first half, leading by 22 points at the main break. However, in the second half Malcolm Blight’s team took control and kicked away from their opponents. Peter Vardy was dominant in a best on ground performance, kicking seven goals from 13 attempts. Andrew McLeod and Mark Ricciuto were also outstanding. In a terrific team effort, the Crows stormed ahead to win by 74 points.

Showdown VII; Round 7, 23/4/00: Adelaide 14.14 (98) def Port 13.13 (91)

Early in the third quarter it looked as if the game was over, with Adelaide 42 points behind and looking well and truly outclassed. Enter Mark Ricciuto, who took the game by the scruff of the neck amassing over 40 possessions and kicking four goals for the day. Matthew Robran was also outstanding on the dangerous Warren Tredrea. The Crows charged on with renewed confidence, snatching a memorable seven point victory.

Showdown XV; Round 7, 8/5/04: Adelaide 17.17 (119) def Port 13.9 (87)

Andrew McLeod’s 200th game brought relief to Adelaide’s Showdown drought of seven straight losses, as the Crows took the impressive win by 32 points. Experienced big man Matthew Clarke led the charge, with Adelaide out-muscling Port with a revamped attack and a defence that refused to allow their opponent space. Along with Clarke, Ricciuto and McGregor were impressive and Graham Johncock kicked four goals.

Showdown XVII; Round 3, 10/4/05: Adelaide 18.16 (124) def Port 8.8 (56)

Perfect playing conditions at AAMI Stadium would give few excuses to either side. From the first bounce, Adelaide played an attacking brand of football that left Port Adelaide stunned. Adelaide then threw the knockout punch in the second half and blew their opponents away. It was a commanding performance where all Crows players contributed. Four quarters of quality football ensured a memorable 68 point victory for the club. Graham Johncock was again terrific along with Simon Goodwin and up and coming star Martin Mattner.

Showdown XIX; 1st Semi Final, 10/9/05: Adelaide 18.15 (123) def Port 5.10 (40)

It was the match that separated a state; regarded as the “ultimate showdown” with the two local rivals facing off in a semi final. There was never more at stake, with the winner pushing deeper into the finals and the loser bundled out of the 2005 season. This was one of South Australia’s most hyped matches in history. 50,521 people watched in awe as Adelaide dominated proceedings, out classing their shell-shocked opponents all over the ground. It is regarded as one of Adelaide’s most memorable matches, as they went on to win the final by the huge margin of 83 points. Standing out among the many fantastic performers were Simon Goodwin, Tyson Edwards and Ben Rutten.

Showdown XXII; Round 3, 14/4/07: Adelaide 13.9 (87) def Port 8.15 (63)

Adelaide starved its pacy opponent of the ball and denied an in-form Port Adelaide side the opportunity to play the game on their terms. The Crows defence provided plenty of rebound and kicked long and direct to their forwards, with McLeod and Torney leading the way from half back.

Showdown XXIII; Round 18, 4/8/07: Adelaide 9.19 (73) def Port 10.5 (65)

Adelaide overcame a 12 point deficit and tough conditions to win the important Showdown by eight points. Although behind for most of the match, Adelaide continued to pressure Port Adelaide – who tired in the last quarter. Adelaide nullified Port’s big guns, took the lead and were composed enough to hold off their opponent’s late charge. Goodwin and Torney were Adelaide’s best.

Showdown XXIV; Round 3, Adelaide 12.13 (85) def Port 11.13 (79)

Adelaide squared the Showdown ledger at 12 all with a gutsy performance. Down to 19 fit men at one stage, the Crows weathered a fierce second quarter to maintain a slim lead. The game was played at a fierce tempo and despite three late Port goals Adelaide held on for a memorable victory. Bernie Vince was brilliant with two goals and was judged best on ground in his 12th AFL match.