From http://www.afl.com.au
What went right
The club unearthed some genuine talent in the form of Phil Davis, Rory Sloane, Ricky Henderson and Matthew Jaensch and got some more game time into inexperienced players like Patrick Dangerfield, Kurt Tippett, Taylor Walker and Jared Petrenko.
Small forward Richard Douglas was released into the midfield and repaid the faith of his coaches, with a breakout season. Defender Graham Johncock also produced a career-best year, while Brent Reilly successfully transformed himself into a tagger.
The Crows celebrated their first win over Geelong in four years and also recorded rare away wins at Subiaco Oval and the Gabba.
What went wrong
Andy Otten’s season was over before it even began when he wrecked his knee at training in December and injuries to Jason Porplyzia, Nathan van Berlo, Chris Knights, Bernie Vince, Graham Johncock and David Mackay also contributed to the Crows missing the finals for the first time under coach Neil Craig.
The gamble to keep all four veterans, Simon Goodwin, Andrew McLeod, Tyson Edwards and Brett Burton, failed to pay off, with none of the star quartet left standing by round 22.
To top off Adelaide’s disastrous 2010 campaign All-Australian defender Nathan Bock announced that he would be walking out on the club to join the cashed-up Gold Coast Suns next season and Jon Griffin has also requested a trade back to WA.
Most valuable player
Johncock missed seven games through injury and suspension, but was still able to produce career-best form. He averaged 22 possessions and continued to play as though the season was on the line long after the club slid out of finals contention. He will go close in Adelaide’s club champion award.
Coach’s award for one-percenters
Ben Rutten was one of just five Crows to play every game this season. He was rarely beaten in a one-on-one contest and provided leadership in what was at times a very inexperienced Adelaide defence. Richard Douglas, Scott Thompson, Ivan Maric and Phil Davis also deserve a mention here.
Needs a big pre-season
Bernie Vince emerged as an elite midfielder last year, but struggled to cope with taggers this year. He let his teammates down when he was suspended for a week for an off-field indiscretion in round eight. The Crows need him to stand up next season in the absence of Goodwin, McLeod and Edwards.
Trading places
The Crows are poised to be more aggressive in this October’s exchange period. The club will be desperate to hold onto Chris Knights, but might have to entertain a trade if he fails to re-sign, while Griffin has also put his name on the trade table.
Overall grade: C