Crows' 'Truck' Rutten gears up for toughest test against Brown

ADELAIDE Crows fullback Ben Rutten is too modest to reveal the secret of stopping Jonathan Brown, describing the assignment as the toughest test in the game.

Jonathan Brown

ADELAIDE Crows fullback Ben Rutten is too modest to reveal the secret of stopping Jonathan Brown, describing the assignment as the toughest test in the game.

That might be wise, for it pays not to provoke the Brisbane Lions colossus.

But if anyone can get hold of Brown it is Adelaide's "Truck", one of the few defenders with a knack for containing one of the AFL's most feared spearheads.

Tomorrow night's expected battle between Rutten and Brown will extend a rivalry between the pair that stretches back to 2005.

Since 2007, the big Crow has owned those duels, conceding only seven majors in five outings.

He kept Brown goalless in their most recent contest, in round 10 last year, although Brisbane's skipper still managed 17 disposals and 11 contested possessions in a 40-point win.

Rutten refused to take credit for personal victories, with Nathan Bock also playing a key role before his move to the Gold Coast.

"It's a massive challenge. There's no bigger test in the game," the 29-year-old said.

"Having pressure further up the ground helps. That dictates how well the defenders can go."

Rutten versus Brown is a heavyweight clash to savour.

Nicknamed "Truck" for his size and no-frills style, Rutten gives away only 4cm and 2kg to the Lions' key forward (194cm and 102kg).

"He's a powerhouse," Rutten said. "I respect him for what he's done, playing in the hardest position on the ground.

"In terms of leadership, I've played on some captains in my time and he's probably the best.

Knowing you're going to match up on him can be mentally draining as much as it is physical."

Along with West Coast's Darren Glass, Rutten remains one of the premier fullbacks.

He has conceded only 25 goals from 19 games for the second-placed Crows.

Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson has the added option of using 20-year-old Daniel Talia, who has conceded only 21 goals to direct opponents from 19 games.