Two big-name midfielders led the way against the Cats, but it was a brave performance from Rory Laird that may be the most interest to Fantasy coaches.

Laird fought admirably in defence with 18 disposals, four tackles and six marks, including several intercepts across half-back for the Crows. The former rookie finished with 82 Fantasy points in what was a promising showing.

The 21-year-old played in a variety of roles last season, including up forward, in the midfield and as a run-with player. He expects to play primarily as a backman this year, but his versatility could see a boost in his Fantasy output compared to previous seasons.

With a price tag of $346,000, Laird is worth consideration as a mid-priced defender and could provide a point of difference to any side. Watch his role closely in Adelaide’s final NAB Challenge hit-out.

The only two Crows to outscore Laird were proven high-scorers Patrick Dangerfield and Brad Crouch.

Crouch continued his impressive pre-season form with a 93-point performance from 23 disposals and a team-high seven tackles against the Cats. It followed a promising 80-point showing in Adelaide’s first NAB Challenge hit-out in Port Lincoln.

The 2013 Rising Star runner-up is one of the hottest prospects in AFL Fantasy this season, yet is currently selected in less than eight per cent of sides with the season proper on the horizon.

There is still plenty of upside to the impressive 21-year-old, which could see his Fantasy scores soar this season. He’s already shown he can post big totals, but if Crouch can improve his ability to impact the scoreboard more regularly, we could soon see some monster scores from the emerging midfielder.

His partner in crime at Simonds Stadium was proven premium Patrick Dangerfield.

‘Danger’ moved well and managed to notch 96 points despite spending much of his time inside forward 50. He showed his typical toughness when injected into the middle too, and finished with 20 possessions, four marks, four tackles and two goals in a well-rounded performance.

Dangerfield is one of only a few players in the competition with the ability to post huge Fantasy tons on his day. He surpassed the 130-point barrier three times last season alone, and has reached the milestone an incredible ten times since his debut in 2008.

With such a high ceiling, Dangerfield will be on the radar of most Fantasy coaches despite losing his dual-position status from last season. If he can rediscover his consistency of Season 2012 – where he averaged 102 points a game – Dangerfield will be one of the ‘must-have’ midfielders in AFL Fantasy.

Another Crow to keep an eye on is Cam Ellis-Yolmen, who was a solid contributor against the Cats with 23 disposals and 70 Fantasy points.

It followed a promising 59-point effort against the Roos, and the dynamic midfielder could be one of the bargain buys at just $120,000 should he retain his spot for Round One.

He is a proven ball magnet at SANFL level, so watch his progress closely in Adelaide’s final NAB Challenge clash with the Power on March 21.

NAB 2: Adelaide v Geelong