Video: The Crows’ top 10 moments in a historic AFLW debut season

VIDEO: In a magical, history-making debut year, Adelaide’s women’s team has defied gloomy pre-season predictions to claim a spot in the AFLW grand final. Here are 10 of the Crows’ best moments.

The Crows have had plenty of reasons to celebrate in the AFLW’s inaugural season. Picture: Sarah Reed

IN a magical, history-making debut year, Adelaide’s women’s team has defied gloomy pre-season predictions to claim a spot in the AFLW grand final. Here are 10 of the Crows’ best moments.

1. Kellie Gibson kicks the Crows first AFLW goal

In pouring rain in Round 1, Kellie Gibson received the give to run in and kick the season-opener from 50m out. The drop punt never looked like missing, bouncing over the goal line. Gibson was immediately engulfed by the roar of the crowd ... and her teammates.

2. Ebony Marinoff nominated as Round 1 rising star

Ebony Marinoff, 19, was nominated for NAB Rising Star after an impressive 20-disposal performance against the Giants at Thebarton Oval. The young gun proved vital in her debut, with her speed and on-ball presence becoming crucial in the win. In the post-match interview, Marinoff shed tears, speaking of her happiness and excitement to have reached the AFLW.

3. Right foot snap from Jenna McCormick

JENNA McCormick looked good under pressure at Whitten Oval in Round 2, kicking a right foot snap around the body, giving the Crows a handy lead going into the final quarter against the Western Bulldogs.

4. Erin Phillips boots matchwinning goal from beyond 50

PROVING she can do everything, Erin Phillips wowed the crowd with a monster kick from 50m out, with a game-sealing goal against Carlton. Her athletic ability has never been doubted, but showing her team and the fans she could present in key moments was something extra special.

5. Erin Phillips, with a ‘No Way’

WHEN no one else would dare, Erin gave it a crack. And what a result! In Round 4 against Fremantle, on an angle, close to ‘Eddie’s pocket’, Phillips threw the footy on the right boot, curving it brilliantly. The footy bounced through for a goal ... pure class.

6. Jenna McCormick sparks her teammates

WHEN the Adelaide Crows needed something special in Round 4 against the Dockers, Jenna McCormick provided a spark. The former Canberra United soccer player had a huge influence in the second half, with a set shot in the third quarter and, appropriately, a “soccer” goal in the fourth.

7. Sarah Perkins takes a classic contested mark

WITH more than 12,000 watching on, Sarah Perkins took a fantastic contested mark against the Lions, above the head and with the sun streaming in her eyes. She sealed with an easy set shot and celebrated with fist pump.

8. High flying Erin!

High flying Erin Phillips took a contender for the mark of the AFLW season. After being beaten as Phillips took a mighty one-on-one grab, Dee’s player Melissa Hickey could only laugh. Coach Bec Goddard later said it was nice to give something to the crowd, despite a heartbreaking loss.

9. Perko kicks 4!

Sarah ‘Tex’ Perkins returned from a quiet week against the Dees to lead the goalscorers with four majors. The forward was lethal, with strong contested marks and accuracy at goal.

10. Crows win through to grand final

The Adelaide Crows came through in a high-pressure match to go through to the inaugural AFLW grand final. They desperately needed a win over Collingwood to edge Melbourne out of the “big dance”. It’s wasn’t easy, with a tug of war in the first half. But Sarah Perkins and Erin Phillips, with seven goals between them, turned up the heat as Adelaide won its spot in the decider.