Crows debutant Patrick Wilson can showcase a billing as SANFL’s best kick against Hawthorn

WHY Patrick Wilson can showcase a billing as SANFL’s best kick and Adelaide’s faith on debut against Hawthorn at the MCG.

Adelaide’s Eddie Betts (left) and debutant Patrick Wilson at training at West Lakes ahead of the round 13 clash against Hawthorn. Picture: AAP/David Mariuz.

PATRICK Wilson can showcase a billing as the SANFL’s best kick and Adelaide’s faith on debut against Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday.

Mature-age midfielder Wilson’s decision making and precision delivery won an AFL call-up with Cam Ellis-Yolmen and Lachy Murphy axed.

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“We thought he was the sort of guy who could find the ball, good user, lovely kick of the ball,” said Adelaide coach Don Pyke of Wilson, rated SANFL’s premium distributor by Sturt boss Martin Mattner.

“He gets his chance and it’s always exciting when you bring in a first gamer.

“He is ready, form and fitness is good and brings confidence. I am encouraging him to play, bring energy and excitement and see what you have got.”

Pyke, noted the rare journey to AFL for his fifth debutant this season.

Wilson, 23, fell out of love with football in 2015, sat out Sturt’s 2016 flag through a shoulder injury before winning a flag under Mattner last season.

“It’s a great story for Patty coming in,” said Pyke

“His SANFL form has been good. It is great to reward a guy who has been getting good numbers and playing some solid footy for us.

“He is really excited about the opportunity, plays generally as a mid-forward so great for him.”

Adelaide welcomes back Kyle Cheney for his first game since its losing 2016 semi-final against Sydney and fellow defender Andy Otten. Half-forward Jordan Gallucci is the Crows’ fourth change from the unit vanquished by Fremantle.

Pyke is set on snapping a three-game losing streak, his longest at West Lakes.

“Cheney and Otto are back which is good for us, a bit of experience,” said Pyke.

“Chenes has had a bit of an injury interrupted season so to get him some form and a few weeks in the SANFL has been really good. We know he can play tall and small down back.”