Adelaide midfielder Billy Dowling says confidence is growing within the SANFL group after a clinical 84-point victory over South Adelaide on Sunday.
Looking to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Central District in Round Three, the Crows won all four quarters en-route to securing their third victory of the season.
Speaking to AFC Media, Dowling said the squad achieved their goal of making “a statement” in their performance.
“We really wanted to make a statement following the game against Centrals and it was a good four quarter effort,” Dowling said.
“South really brought it to us early, so I thought it was very mature of us to absorb that pressure and then come away with a very strong win in the end.
“You could tell from the opening bounce we were switched on and ready to go, and a win like that gives us a lot of confidence moving forward.”
Dowling was a standout in the win, recording 28 disposals and kicking a goal in just his third game at League level.
He said he loved being exposed to more midfield minutes and praised the work of his teammates.
“It (my performance) was another step in my development and a real confidence builder for me,” Dowling said.
“You are a product of what is happening around you, and fortunately we were on top in the midfield so I was a beneficiary of that stuff which was nice.
“There are still plenty of things I need to work on and I am looking forward to continuing my improvement, but I can take a lot of confidence out of getting that extended time in the midfield.”
The 18-year-old, who was selected with Pick No.43 at the 2022 AFL National Draft, has spent the past six months adjusting to life as an AFL-listed footballer and has loved every minute so far.
“It is definitely everything you dream of and more,” Dowling said.
“You are surrounded by people who genuinely care about you and want the best for you, so in terms of my development my time at the Club so far has been awesome.
“You walk away everyday thinking I am so lucky to be at a place with such great people, and the relationships I’ve developed have really helped me improve.”
Dowling will face his former SANFL Club, North Adelaide, when the Crows take on the Roosters at Prospect Oval on Saturday.
He said he was excited to return to his old stomping ground and square off against some former teammates.
“It will definitely be weird (playing against North) especially being at Prospect,” Dowling said.
“I’ve got a few mates playing in that North side so I am pretty excited to get out there and play against them, and hopefully I can get the bragging rights over them.”
The Crows’ SANFL side takes on North Adelaide at Prospect Oval this Saturday afternoon, with the first bounce at 2.10pm.
