Port Adelaide takes on Adelaide in the first Showdown for the year. PortAdelaideFC.com.au goes Behind Enemy Lines to see what’s been happening at West Lakes.
The Crows
Adelaide is sweating on the fitness of two key players for Sunday’s Showdown.
The Crows are hoping for senior players Graham Johncock and Ian Callinan to be fit for the Power clash after missing the clash with the Giants.
Callinan will be tested prior to selection whilst Johncock is listed as being available.
Jared Petrenko, subbed off early in Saturday’s game after being knocked out, is also expected to play.
The selection uncertainty follows news that key Crow Bernie Vince would miss the Showdown with a broken hand.
Crows coach Brenton Sanderson is also calling for an end to “cute” ball usage after struggling against the Giants at home last week.
A former assistant coach at the Power, Sanderson is wary of a tougher approach to footy at his old side.
“I think they’ve (Port Adelaide) improved over the summer and they’re in good form,” he said.
“We have been watching Port pretty closely and I think they’re playing a style that is going to win them games long-term. It’s a really good test.”
Crows will confirm their final selections tonight.
Crows team
B: Sam Shaw, Ben Rutten, Graham Johncock
HB: Michael Doughty, Daniel Talia, Brent Reilly
C: David Mackay, Scott Thompson, Brodie Smith
HF: Ian Callinan, Taylor Walker, Matt Wright
F: Patrick Dangerfield, Kurt Tippett, Jason Porplyzia
FOLL: Sam Jacobs, Rory Sloane, Nathan van Berlo
INT: Rick Henderson, Matt Jaensch, Jarryd Lyons, Brodie Martin, Shaun McKernan, Andy Otten, Jared Petrenko
In: Callinan, Johncock, Lyons, Otten
Out: Vince (hand)
