Crows combat stifling tactics
ADELAIDE is close to unlocking the secret to combating stifling opposition tactics, coach Don Pyke says.
Pyke says there has been a trend of negative ploys from opponents to try to curtail the Crows, who host reigning premiers Western Bulldogs tonight.
Opposition sides are placing high numbers of players on Adelaide’s attack in a bid to stop the Crows’ renowned scoring power.
The tactic has achieved some success with Adelaide’s stunning six-game winning streak to start the season a distant memory — it has lost four of its past eight games.
“We just have to adapt,” Pyke said yesterday.
“I thought last week at times we struggled to get the ball off Carlton ... (their) numbers back made it less efficient in terms of our scoring.
“And that is the nature of how some opposition are playing us now.
“That takes some learning, some education from us as coaches, and the players experiencing it.
“We have got that right a couple of times, and a couple of times we haven’t.
“We think we’re on the right path though in terms of adapting our style to what sides are now playing against us.”
The Crows remain the league’s highest-scoring team and sit in second spot with 10 wins and four losses.
They host a Bulldogs outfit whose premiership defence is wobbling — the reigning champions are in 10th spot, though just one win outside the top eight.
Pyke predicted a fierce approach from the Dogs amid forecast rain and strong winds at Adelaide Oval.
“The Bulldogs are a highquality opposition and really pride themselves on their pressure around the ball,” he said.
“So we know that is going to be on to start, wet or dry.
“And if it’s wet, it’s just going to mean it will be more of a field position game where its important you take ground when you get the opportunity.”