Adelaide is preparing itself for a finals-like contest against Port Adelaide in Saturday’s historic Showdown XXXVI, says Scott Thompson.

Showdowns never fail to bring the city to a standstill, but the rivalry will reach a new high this week at the newly redeveloped Adelaide Oval.

A capacity crowd of 50,000-plus is expected for the Round Two blockbuster, and Adelaide midfielder Scott Thompson said the Crows were ready to rise to the occasion.

“There’s a very good feeling amongst the boys,” Thompson said.

“Showdowns always create that, I guess you could say finals-like atmosphere and this [Saturday} is going to be no different.

“The boys are really looking forward to it.”

A veteran of 18 Showdowns since joining Adelaide in 2005, Thompson admits there is an extra edge to this weekend’s derby with both clubs eager to claim Adelaide Oval as their own.

“[It’s] an exciting time for the town with the new ground and huge hype around the game with the lead up,” Thompson said.

“No doubt it will be very hot early, Showdowns always are.”

Port Adelaide will go into the match favourites after claiming both Showdowns last year season and opening 2014 with a Round One win over Carlton a fortnight ago.

Adelaide was also impressive for much of the game in its season-opener against Geelong, but faded late in the match to go down by 38 points.

Thompson said the players were eager to rebound in one of the most anticipated clashes in Showdown history.

“We pride ourselves on winning games of football,” Thompson said.

“We’re looking forward to the game, it’s going to be a good challenge and it’s one that the boys are up for.”

In spite of the excitement and build-up surrounding the contest, Thompson said the Crows must remain focused on the job at hand.

“We approach every game, whether it’s a Showdown or not, as a game that we want to win.”

“It’s going to be a great challenge.”