Four Crows were involved in the first two games of the opening round of SANFL league football on the weekend.
Defender Luke Thompson started well for the Eagles, who were upset by Port Magpies under lights at Thebarton Oval on Friday night. He finished with 18 disposals and took seven marks. Chris Knights had 12 possessions playing as a half forward or midfield.
Ruckman Ben Dowdell had a tough introduction to SANFL league football with South Adelaide at Noarlunga on Saturday night. The former basketballer, recruited by the Crows as a rookie, played off the bench and had seven hit-outs and three possessions.
Brad Crouch also made his league debut for winners West Adelaide. The 18-year-old played through the midfield and had 13 possessions and should improve as he adjusts to senior football.
Nick Joyce, Cam Ellis-Yolmen and rookie Sam Martyn played for the Eagles reserves while Rory Laird was in West’s reserves side. Eight other Crows listed players were involved in SANFL trials last weekend.