The finals kick off with a Thursday night blockbuster for the second year in a row. This year, the best team of the home and away season, Adelaide, take on the pre-season premiership favourites in GWS.

The Crows were brilliant during the home and away season, but still have question marks over them in finals, while the Giants finally have a near full list to choose from following an injury ravaged season.

Adelaide gave the Giants a lesson in round one, bringing the flag favourites back down to earth a thud thanks to a 56-point thumping.

Finals is a different game and will be played at a frenetic pace. Both sides possess potent forward lines, but lot will hinge on the midfield battle, with Rory Sloane looming as a key figure.

The star Crows’ mid has surgery during the week to remove his appendix and is touch and go to take his place in the team.

With Sloane the Crows have a chance to win the midfield battle against some of the most talented onballers in the competition. However, if Sloane misses, the Giants could gain control in the middle of the park.

However, the Crows are very tough to beat at Adelaide Oval, winning nine of 12 games at the venue this season. They also have a 7-1 record over the Giants.

Veteran Steve Johnson is likely to be dropped for the Giants.

Tip: Adelaide by 12

Score Breakdown

	1	2	3	4
	3.4 22	8.7 55	12.8 80	12.12 84
	1.4 10	1.5 11	5.7 37	6.12 48

Best On Ground