Crows down the Dees

Adelaide managed to pick up a hard fought win against Melbourne on Sunday. The game wasn't pretty and Melbourne really struggled to put some goals on the scoreboard. When the Demons did provide some scoreboard pressure, the Crows were resilient enough to regain control of the game.

As far as watching this game goes, it was one of the worst games I've ever seen. There wasn't much scoring and the skills weren't great from either side. When you see those sorts of games, the only thing that makes you happy is the 4 points at the end. So 4 points from an away game in terrible conditions is something you can't complain about too much.

Simon Goodwin didn't seem like he had a massive impact so I was amazed to see he had amassed 35 disposals and 10 marks. It's great to see that despite the fact he is an aging player that he can still be a strong contributor. 

It's worth noting that most of Adelaide's top disposal winners in this match were playing in the back line. A lot of the forward options were kept quiet due to poor delivery from midfield and a solid defence from Melbourne. There was however one exception...

Kurt Tippett played what I would consider to be his best game for the Adelaide Footy Club. He picked up 19 disposals, 5 marks, 4 tackles, 19 hit outs and managed to boot 2 crucial goals. Despite Griffin coming into the side this week as the No.1 ruck choice, I think Tippett really outclassed him. Tips showed he has a great 'never say die' attitude. When the ball was on the ground, Tippett was one of the first diving on the ball and this helped him create numerous opportunities for the Crows midfield. It's always pleasing to see young players with this sort of work ethic.

Bernie Vince has been another Crow who has stepped up his game this year. After having played only 36 AFL games, Vince has averaged 25 disposals during the first 5 rounds of 2009. This includes his 33 disposals (16 kicks and 17 handballs) against Melbourne. Bernie has been one of the unheralded stars for the Crows this season. With a lot of young players at the club, it's good to see a player like Vince who has taken his opportunity and ran with it. It also takes a bit of pressure off the more senior players. Hopefully the form of Vince will continue.

Unfortunately a couple of the clubs young guns could face scrutiny at this weeks selection table. Jared Petrenko and Taylor Walker combined for a total of 10 disposals against Melbourne. I expect Walker should be fine but Petrenko could be asked to spend a week in the SANFL.