Entering an AFL game as the team’s substitute is not always the easiest role.

But Crows midfielder Sam Berry took it in his stride, used it to his advantage and was rewarded.

Berry was named as part of Adelaide’s starting 22 for last weekend’s clash against West Coast after featuring as the substitute across the past three games.

The 23-year-old repaid the coaches’ faith finishing with a career-high 26 disposals, to go with nine tackles, seven score involvements, four clearances and a goal.

Speaking on this week’s episode of Crows Live - the Club’s post-game show - Berry said he was pleased his hard work and patience had paid off as he was ready for an opportunity.

“I’ve had a bit of a taste this year playing sub, and I was just so eager to get out there,” Berry said.

“I was showing what I could do, I felt fresh, I haven’t played the 10 or the 11 games everyone has played, so I was trying to use that to my advantage.

“I think everyone has their own strengths - I’ve always been lucky with my build - but turning that little bit of fat into muscle and getting more explosive and just chipping away at that over time.

“I’ve done a lot of work with the strength department at the Club - Josh Manuel (Head of Strength and Athletic Development) - shout out to him because he’s got the boys in really good nick.”

Berry, who made his AFL debut in 2021, said being in and out of the side this year came with its challenges.

But credited the Club’s depth for the solid form so far this season, with the Crows sitting in fourth spot on the ladder with a 7-4 win/loss record ahead of Round 12.

“It’s tough but it’s also really good for the Club,” Berry said.

“Individually, everyone has their challenges with it, but it just shows the Club is in a really good space with the depth.

“Blokes playing in the SANFL this week, there’s so many performing who are putting their hands up for selection.

“It’s really positive and it’s also good… If there are any injuries, we fully back anyone who’s coming into the side.”

Adelaide will be looking to secure its eighth win of 2025 when it faces Sydney this Saturday night at the SCG.

The match will be broadcast live on Channel 7 Adelaide, Fox Footy and Kayo from 7pm.