Adelaide ruckman Reilly O’Brien has revealed how a Port Adelaide tactic sparked his performance in the Round Eight Showdown.

O’Brien recorded a game-high 34 hitouts in the ruck and told Triple M’s The Rush Hour that it came down to pre-game intimidation.

“Last time, l think the mids (midfielders) and the ruck came over and got into me,” O’Brien said.

“I like it when that happens, gives a bit of fire in the belly to start the game.

“It gets you in the game when you get a bit of a hit.”

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The 23-year-old played in his first Showdown in Round Eight and praised the atmosphere in the stadium.

“Last time was awesome,” he said.

“It was as loud as I’ve ever heard in a stadium.

“It was a Port home game, so hopefully the Adelaide fans can replicate it this weekend.

“Get us excited and get us off to a good start.”

O’Brien is enjoying a breakout season for the Crows, averaging 35 hitouts, 14 disposals and four tackles per game.

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The long-time understudy of Sam Jacobs still praised the Crows’ No. 24 for his advice on-and-off the field.

“Sauce is playing great footy in the SANFL, so I have to be on my toes to hold my spot,” O’Brien said.

“He’s been great, he’s one of the nicest blokes going around.

“Even on the weekend he was there as an emergency, giving me tips throughout the game.

“I really appreciate his help, he’s awesome with that sort of stuff.”

The Crows and the Power will compete for the Variety Showdown Shield this Saturday at Adelaide Oval.