Adelaide have impressed many in 2016. Lots of people didn’t expect them to make the top eight because of the tragic death of coach Phil Walsh in 2015 and the Paddy Dangerfield trade.
But they have proven critics wrong this year and are now an outside premiership contender. They finished fifth despite being in the top four for much of the second half of the year.
They also lead the way for individual All Australian honours with six in the 40-man squad, reflective of how shared the workload has been in 2016.
Some notable contributors to Adelaide’s success this year are Rory Sloane, Rory Laird and Josh Jenkins.
Sloane leads the Crows in contested possessions averaging 13, an impressive seven tackles and is the only Crow – and one of few AFL players – to average above 100 fantasy points a game. He is said to be one of the hardest-working players at the club and that has this season been reflected by his week in, week out consistent performances.
The hard-nosed midfielder was an outside chance to win the Brownlow Medal but received a regrettable suspension late in the season. He could cap off a ripper season with a best and fairest though which he goes in comfortable favourite to win.
He has also been selected in the extended All Australian squad and seems destined to receive a maiden All Australian honour
Rory Laird is a half back flanker who is making a name for himself as a quick running back flanker. He is second at the club for disposal efficiency with 82 per cent this season.
This season he has conceded well under a goal a game on his direct opponents, impressive numbers for a player in just his fifth year. he has visibly improved every season and in 2016 received a nomination for the 40-man All Australian squad for the second year running. he looks more likely than last year to get a spot in the final 22 despite playing just 17 games, five down from 2015 home-and-away season.
Josh Jenkins had a great year in 2016. He received interest from rival clubs before Adelaide signed him long term. He is second at Adelaide with 60 goals, behind only Eddie Betts. His 28 contested marks is also an impressive figure. His few bad games have come in Adelaide losses generally, such is his importance to the team. He will need to be at his best come finals if Adelaide can go deep.
Adelaide remains alive in 2016 and should at least win one final but in 2017 some of their younger players look ready to take the next step, meaning Adelaide could become more dangerous in the years to come. 2017 will result in a certain top four finish for the Crows.
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We’re taking a look at one player from each team that needs to make a difference this week, starting with the ANZAC Day games.
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