Adelaide's Showdown medallist Rory Sloane praised his side's ability to absorb the pressure in their 17-point victory over cross-town rivals Port Adelaide.
The vice-captain led from the front for the winners, collecting 31 disposals, including 24 contested possessions, five marks and a goal to help square the Showdown ledger at 21 apiece.
Sloane says it was the most pressure-filled match between the fierce rivals he had ever played in and was pleased the Crows held on after being challenged by the Power mid-way through the final term.
"I think it's the hottest first quarter I've ever played in a Showdown," Sloane said.
"Normally it (the pressure) lasts about a 10-minute period where there is just real solid heat on the ball. But it seemed to last a whole quarter.
"I think our contest work was really good, but our composure tested out with a bit of Port's pressure.
"I did hear during the week it was 21-20 and I was like 'it would be nice to be even or even in front', but that's not our focus going into the game.
"We just wanted to get another win, really."
Sloane praised Charlie Cameron and Wayne Milera, who hurt Port with their lightning speed through the middle.
Despite Mitch McGovern going down with a suspected hamstring injury, Adelaide's list remains relatively healthy and Sloane expected the battle for spots to continue to heat up.
"It (their speed) certainly helps me because I probably lack a bit of leg speed at times," he said.
"It's nice to be able to flick the ball out to those boys on the outside and they can start running with it and I'll just do the dirty work inboard.
"Guys like Andy Otten, Curtly Hampton, Wayne Milera, these guys come in and we just expect them to play their role and that's what they are doing for us."
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