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BREAKING: Adelaide Crows coach Matthew Nicks says his team has

Adelaide Crows coach Matthew Nicks acknowledged that his team has faced setbacks and struggled with the pressure of expectations this season. Despite this, it appears that he intends to stick with the current lineup and avoid making significant changes ahead of the upcoming match against North Melbourne, who are yet to secure a win, in Hobart.

“We’ve seen a decline in an aspect of our game that we’ve historically prided ourselves on,” Nicks remarked, indicating a shift in performance standards.

He suggested that the pursuit of more refined performances might be where his players have faltered, emphasizing the mental aspect of the challenge. “It’s clearly a psychological hurdle. It’s an area we need to address,” Nicks stated, highlighting the need for improvement.

He acknowledged the difficulty for a younger squad in finding the right balance and admitted that they hadn’t quite achieved it this season.

Nicks expressed confidence in Josh Rachele’s ability to bounce back after a series of marking errors in the previous game, praising his response to the situation. “He’s handled it admirably. He’s acknowledged his errors and understands the need for improvement,” Nicks affirmed.

“Our focus right now is on encouraging our players to display resilience, fight, and bring intensity to every contest,” Nicks added, emphasizing the team’s current priorities.

Sam Berry has been ruled out for Saturday’s game, and Brodie Smith’s participation is uncertain following his absence from the main training session. However, Matt Crouch will make a return from suspension, while Dan Curtin and Billy Dowling may have to wait longer for their debut appearances.

 

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