Adelaide debutant Oscar Ryan has credited former teammate Brodie Smith for inspiring his memorable first goal in the Crows’ 72-point win against Essendon Sunday evening.

Ryan was pivotal during the match, clocking up 19 disposals and a goal that he says was inspired by watching the exploits of his mentor and 250-game Crow, Brodie Smith. 

"I was actually watching Brodie Smith highlights before the game, so that’s probably where it came from,” Ryan said on Crows Live after the match. 

"I didn't know what to do; I just saw the lane and took it, and luckily enough it went through." 

The defender also acknowledged two current Crows and the impact they had on his journey, which began when he got drafted at the end of 2023.  

"Smithy (Brodie Smith), Junior (Wayne Milera), they've all been helping me throughout the whole three years, and Lairdy (Rory Laird), so I'll thank all those boys." Ryan said.

The 21-year old reflected on the memorable experience, and how he adapted to his first taste of AFL football. 

"It was much different, much quicker, but I felt up to it,” Ryan said. 

"Like I said, I've been here for three years against Keaysy (Ben Keays) and all those boys in practice matches, so I felt fine.” 

Ryan also commended fellow debutant Archie Ludowyke, who similarly booted his first AFL goal late in the fourth quarter. 

"Archie is a great kid; he's worked so hard for this opportunity. It's really good to play alongside him." Ryan said.

The pair of first-gamers were joined by special company post-match, with their fathers joining the circle of players to sing the song with pride. 

"Its very special. They've let in about 20 close people to me in here and Dad was lucky enough to go through with the song,” Ryan said. 

"I don't reckon he knew any of the words, so we'll have to go through and clip that." 

Adelaide will feature in their next home game this Saturday night against Richmond at Adelaide Oval, starting at 7:05pm (ACST).

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