At the Mount Barker oval packed with die-hard South Australian supporters of two cross-town rivals, it was the Crows who cruised through a six-period match simulation against the Power on Friday.

The two clubs fielded most of their 'A-side' players throughout the majority of the first three periods, before trialling their developing prospects and SANFL squad members in the second half of the game.

The Crows led at the main break by 32 points before the major squad change and ultimately finished 44-point victors after the six periods.

Here are the three key talking points from the match...

Power defence shaken by injury scare and depleted stocks 

Port Adelaide's current defensive injuries led to Miles Bergman playing as a key positional defender down back instead of his usual rebounding role, often matched up with Taylor Walker and Riley Thilthorpe.

It led to the Power conceding goals from the key forwards early in the piece and suffering an early deficit.

Power fans had their hearts in their mouths with defender Ryan Burton limped from the field with an apparent right ankle injury, however he would return in the second half, with the soreness due to no more than an ankle tweak.

Forward Jeremy Finlayson occasionally swung through the backline as support in what was a depleted defensive outfit for Port Adelaide.

Recruits, Soligo impress

James Peatling's first outing in Crows colours since his arrival from GWS was sure to leave Adelaide fans salivating in a clean performance on Friday.

Peatling made his mark instantly with a well-weighted inside 50 that favoured Taylor Walker to take a mark in the goal square, setting up the opening score of the game.

His impact only continued throughout his three-period appearance, amassing close to 20 touches. Should the 24-year-old continue his form in the Crows' Community Series clash, he could boost himself into contention for a starting spot at the centre circle in Round 1.

Alex Neal-Bullen didn't look out of place in navy, red, and gold, playing classily off half-forward.

Jake Soligo was also dominant in the forward half despite his midfielder status, lapping up an undermanned defence and kicking three majors for the evening. Kicking just six goals in 2024, an improved ability to hit the scoreboard in 2025 will take the 22-year-old's game to another level, making his performance exciting viewing for Crows supporters.

Power youngster outshines draft class counterpart

Pick 15 of last year's National Draft Joe Berry was the eye-catcher of the youngsters with veteran-level composure inside forward 50.

Pick 4 Sid Draper was the anticipated headline-maker of the draftees, however he was held relatively quiet in a tough first match-up against Power star Zak Butters.

The Crows will play Brisbane in their final pre-season fixture, while the Power will face the Saints.

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