Veteran Adelaide Forward Taylor Walker says back-to-back six day breaks were the reason behind the decision for him to be rested for last week’s clash against Geelong.
Walker featured in the Crows’ first two matches of the season, and was particularly impressive against the Bulldogs in Round Two, booting three majors.
But as he embarked on his 19th AFL season, Walker said he and the Club were being more proactive in his management program and thought it would be best if he did not make the trip to GMHBA Stadium.
“The main reason was we had back-to-back six day breaks, and then after Fremantle we’ve got another six day break,” Walker said.
“So we wanted to look after the old body and not have three six day breaks in a month, so just trying to keep the end (of the season) in mind.
“We just wanted to be a bit more smart and pro-active with it. In the past couple of years we’ve had the luxury of being more reactive in making the decision on how I pulled up from games.
“We were keen to get on the front foot with it this year.”
Walker watched on from home as the Crows fell to Geelong by eight points in a tense Thursday night encounter.
He said the group was clear on where it had to improve off the back of two consecutive losses.
“The boys couldn’t get over the line at the Cattery, but showed some really good signs,” Walker said.
“There are still a couple of areas we need to tweak and tighten up on, and I think our game will start to get going.
“Those areas are just small things we aren’t executing consistently as a group, and if we can do that, then look out.”
Adelaide will get an opportunity to return the winners’ list when it hosts an in-form Fremantle at Adelaide Oval on Friday night.
“They are a really good side and are playing some very good footy at the moment,” Walker said.
“They’ve got animals ahead of the ball in Treacy and Voss and then the two small forwards in Murphy Reid and Shai Bolton are in outstanding form too.
“Throw in their midfield of Brayshaw and Serong and their strong behind the ball, so we’re looking forward to a big challenge in what is going to be a massive game for our footy Club.”
Adelaide takes on Fremantle this Friday night, with the match to begin at 6.45pm (ACDT).
Get your tickets here.
