Adelaide has secured a significant 22-point victory over the Western Bulldogs in the AFL elimination final at Adelaide Oval, marking their first finals win since 2017. The Crows led by 19 points at three-quarter time, but the Bulldogs surged ahead early in the final term. Adelaide responded decisively, with key forwards Riley Thilthorpe, Taylor Walker, and Darcy Fogarty each contributing crucial goals to seal the 14.6 (90) to 9.14 (68) win. (theguardian.com)
Izak Rankine delivered an outstanding performance, amassing 34 disposals, seven clearances, and two goals. Defenders Wayne Milera and Josh Worrell were instrumental, with Worrell recording 34 disposals and 19 intercept possessions. (afl.com.au)
For the Bulldogs, Ed Richards and captain Marcus Bontempelli each gathered 27 disposals, with Richards adding two goals. Despite winning center clearances 17-7 and inside-50s 61-49, the Bulldogs struggled with accuracy, converting only 9 of 23 scoring shots. (westernbulldogs.com.au)
This victory alleviates pressure on Crows coach Matthew Nicks, whose tenure was under scrutiny following last year's straight-sets finals exit. Adelaide now advances to face reigning premiers Brisbane in a knockout semi-final at the Gabba. (theguardian.com)