Winning remains the best preparation for Adelaide’s upcoming finals campaign, says Crows coach Don Pyke.
Adelaide has already locked away a top-two finish and two home finals ahead of Sunday’s clash with West Coast at Domain Stadium.
Victory would cement the Club’s first minor premiership in more than a decade, but the Crows could still claim the McClelland Trophy without the four points depending on other results.
Pyke said building winning form at the business end of the season was the Club’s major motivation come Sunday afternoon.
“Our focus this week is to go and play a brand of footy that we want to take into finals,” Pyke said.
“The result becomes important for us because winning is a habit. We want to create good habits.”
Pyke confirmed All Australian defender Daniel Talia (ankle) would be named in the squad on Thursday evening to tackle the Eagles on Sunday.
"He did a little bit this morning," Pyke said.
"He'll do a bit more tomorrow and then we'll assess him from there.
“If he’s not right we won’t risk him, if he is he’ll come and play.
"It's a matter of how it settles down and how comfortable he is and how restricted his movement might be."
Captain Taylor Walker (toe) and vice-captain Rory Sloane (knee) both trained on Thursday and are expected to take their place at Domain Stadium.
Pyke remained steadfast in his belief of continuity rather than resting players on the eve of finals.
“I’m pretty strong on making sure we keep playing. If there’s no risk with guys playing, we’ll keep playing them,” Pyke said.
“One of the challenges at this time of the year is A: to go into the finals series with good form, both individual and as a team, and also the right preparation to be ready to play.
“I think the players enjoy the continuity. The players train to play, and they like to play.
“If you don’t play, you remove the risk of getting injured, but you also remove the chance to learn something and get better.”
Andy Otten is expected to return from an ankle injury in the SANFL this weekend.
Fellow defender Kyle Hartigan made a successful return from a hamstring injury with Adelaide’s state league side last round.
The former rookie hasn’t played at AFL level since the Club’s Round 15 win over Carlton at the MCG.
“Kyle is a guy who was in our side until injured against Carlton and is an AFL player. He gives us that flexibility, can play tall or small,” Pyke said.
“We will be looking for opportunities to get him in the team but there is also Paul Seedsman, Wayne Milera.”
Pyke said hot competition for spots would bring the best out of his playing group.
“Our best side is based on form,” Pyke said.
“For the next six weeks we’ll need a number of players, not just 22. It’s often said that it’s not teams that win finals and Grand Finals, it’s squads.
“We’ve got some guys who will be important for us.
“In this game, you’re only one or two injuries or suspensions away from bringing in a few fresh players.”
