Crows' September win masked deeper flaws exposed in semi-final rout
Adelaide's first September win since 2017 was overshadowed by a 53-point semi-final loss to Brisbane that raised questions about their progress.
The Crows' best moment came when Taylor Walker farewelled Adelaide Oval with a win against the Western Bulldogs, their first playoff victory in nine years. Josh Worrell played strong defence and Izak Rankine was in outstanding form.
Adelaide's worst moment came immediately after. In their semi-final against Brisbane, Adelaide's first seven minutes were disastrous.
The Lions scored five rapid goals and opened a 37-point lead that proved insurmountable. Despite a brief second-quarter challenge, Adelaide lost by 53 points.
The collapse exposed a lack of intensity in big games and suggested the team still has significant work ahead to compete with the best.
- 2017
- First playoff win
- 22 points
- Western Bulldogs margin
- 53 points
- Semi-final loss margin
- 37 points
- Brisbane's opening lead
Why it mattersAdelaide's stunning collapse raises doubts about whether they can sustain their improvement and challenge for a flag.
AustraliaAdelaide supporters are left wondering if another year of rebuilding lies ahead, despite the team's mid-season progress.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 18 d ago
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