The Crows will aim to defy expectations of the AFL captains and return to the top eight this year.

In the annual AFL survey, the 18 captains were confidentially asked which seven other teams – apart from their own – could make the finals in 2014. Only two skippers backed Adelaide to taste finals action this season.

A total of 12 different clubs were considered possible chances to contest the finals by the club captains. Reigning premiers Hawthorn, 2013 Grand Finalists Fremantle and 2012 premiers Sydney were unanimous picks for September action, each receiving 17 votes. Sixteen captains backed Geelong to maintain its stranglehold on the final eight, while 12 tipped Collingwood to secure a berth.

Of last year’s non-finalists, West Coast was the favourite to rocket up the ladder – 11 captains tipped the Eagles to respond to a disappointing 2013 season. North Melbourne (9), Essendon (7) and Adelaide (2) were the other non-finalists to receive votes. Richmond (9), Port Adelaide (7) and Carlton (2) were also tipped to be around the mark. Six clubs didn’t receive a vote: St Kilda, Brisbane Lions, Western Bulldogs, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney.

In 2013, the captains correctly nominated Hawthorn, the Geelong Cats, Fremantle, the Sydney Swans and Collingwood, but missed Richmond, Port Adelaide and Carlton.

The captains were also asked which other club, apart from their own, could make the grand final. Hawthorn (10), Sydney (five) and Fremantle (three) were the only clubs considered for a grand final berth. Seven captains picked eventual premier Hawthorn in 2013, while one captain also nominated Fremantle to make the Grand Final.