Adelaide have had an ideal tune-up for their start to the AFL season, beating reigning premiers Brisbane by three points. The Crows need a strong opening more than most, and their recruits shone at Brighton Homes Arena on Thursday night as they came back in the last quarter for the 14.13 (97) to 13.16 (94) win.
Former GWS players James Peatling and Isaac Cumming, new vice-captain Alex Neal-Bullen, and youngster Sid Draper all performed prominently for Adelaide. While the Lions blew their lead under the humid conditions, the only negative from the night was the concussion to premiership defender Brandon Starcevich during a marking contest, which will rule him out of the Lions' season opener against Geelong next Thursday at the Gabba.
Brisbane led by 22 points midway through the last term before Adelaide kicked the last four goals. Captain Jordan Dawson's goal put the Crows in front with less than four minutes left, but Cam Rayner and Jaspa Fletcher missed set shots for the Lions.
After finishing 15th last season, following a dismal 0-4 start, the Crows are focusing on their upcoming round-one home clash against St Kilda on March 16, leaving finals aspirations on the back burner. Though it was merely pre-season, this win against the premiers and the visible improvement among their new players bodes well for Adelaide.
It was also significant for Adelaide to win such a tight game, especially since they lost six matches last season by fewer than two goals. Peatling had 13 contested possessions, Cumming scored during the last term, Neal-Bullen had seven inside 50s among his 20 possessions, and Draper, the No. 4 draft pick, impressed with five clearances among his 14 disposals.
On the other hand, Brisbane's Lachie Neale dominated the match with 30 disposals and 10 clearances. A significant factor for the Lions' premiership defense will be managing life up front after Joe Daniher's retirement. Eric Hipwood, returning for the first time this pre-season, kicked two goals, and small forward Kai Lohmann impressed early with two spectacular marks as Brisbane took control initially, leading by 14 points at quarter-time.
Adelaide's ability to steady and level the scores by half-time was notable. The game continued to ebb and flow throughout the third term, with each side scoring three goals, leaving the Lions with just a three-point buffer at the final change.
Despite controlling the game halfway through the last quarter, Brisbane's inability to maintain their lead proved costly, as Adelaide booted four consecutive goals to snatch the win. Peatling’s contributions highlighted his importance, adding depth to the Crows' midfield. Alongside him, fellow new addition Cumming celebrated his transition with solid performances on the wing.
For Adelaide, the victory not only signifies pre-season success but serves as foundational momentum heading toward their upcoming matches, making it clear they are eager to make amends for last year’s disappointing performance.
Dawson's stellar performance was capped with two goals and 24 disposals, solidifying his role as Adelaide's captain and key playmaker. Meanwhile, Brisbane will need to regroup after this close defeat, as they prepare for their upcoming match against Geelong.