Adelaide defensive coach Marty Mattner says business as usual for round one but Fischer McAsey could debut against Swans
Crows defensive coach Martin Mattner has revealed Adelaide’s defiant approach to the season opener against Sydney and the rookie who could debut.
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There were COVID-19 temperature checks before a surreal training session at West Lakes but Adelaide insists it’s ‘business as usual’ entering Saturday’s season opener against Sydney.
AFL is adapting to the new normal with fans barred from spurring on 200-game favourite Rory Sloane at the club’s Tuesday training which was instead live streamed to engage the faithful.
Adelaide defensive coach Marty Mattner says there is no option but to prepare as if Saturday’s clash against the Swans will proceed despite the shadow COVID-19 pandemic casts over the competition and society in general.
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“I think it is business as usual, there is a bit of uncertainty around I guess but we are planning to play on Saturday and looking forward to it,” Mattner said.
“The rest of the week is pretty normal, the boys trained, come off the track do their weights which they would normally do. Wednesday is a day off and Thursday is our main session.
“Coaching will be selection and match committee and preparing for Saturday.
“Even though there is a difference and a bit of uncertainty it is still a preparation ready for round one.
“For us it is all about consistency, how we get that into a game.”
Adelaide veteran Taylor Walker revealed teammates were parking cars in the same place every day while getting temperatures and heart rates checked for any ‘fluctuation’.
Officials are on red alert for any player reporting COVID-19 symptoms that would trigger a competition suspension and potentially derail the season.
Adelaide trained against the backdrop of the construction site that surrounds the club headquarters.
Dirt mounds dominate the vista while jackhammers, forklifts and other heavy machinery ruled the airwaves.
Crows head coach Matthew Nicks split his squad into defensive, midfield and forward groups with players in a jovial mood despite the prospect of a 20 per cent pay cut, reduced 17-game season and panic buying unfolding at nearby shops.
“We had 14 defenders so it was quite a tight little group which is good. We were able to train for an hour which was really pleasing,” Mattner said.
Mattner hinted No. 6 draft pick Fischer McAsey could debut against the Swans in a backline that has lost key defender Alex Keath to the Western Bulldogs.
“He has been very impressive and hasn’t really put a foot wrong at all. He is quite a keen guy, wants to learn and get better which is great for a young kid coming into the program,” said Mattner of All-Australian under-18 star McAsey
“He has worked really closely with Daniel Talia, Kyle Hartigan and coaches. He is a ripping kid and will be a really good player and hopefully gets an opportunity in round one.”
Mattner won’t have to worry about four-time Coleman Medallist Lance Franklin who is sidelined for the opening two rounds.
Franklin is gaining condition following knee surgery in January but Callum Sinclair – released from ruck duties – or versatile Sam Reid could replace dual premiership forward.
“It is still a bit uncertain about their team,” said Mattner.
“Sam Reid played a little bit in their pre-season, he might comeback in, Sam Naismith has comeback as a ruck so Sinclair has been playing as forward so there are a couple of new things.”