Nathan van Berlo training at Adelaide Oval. Picture: Stephen Laffer Source: News Limited
ADELAIDE has identified former captain Nathan van Berlo as its underrated and almost secret weapon as it prepares for its season opener against North Melbourne at Adelaide Oval today.
Van Berlo completed a strong pre-season after missing all of last year to an Achilles injury, and those who have watched him closely say he is back to his old best.
He remains one of the fittest and dedicated players on the Crows list, much like Brett Burton before him, and assistant coach Matthew Clarke said he couldn't have impressed more over summer.
``It's sort of slipped under the radar a little bit (van Berlo's return),'' Clarke said. ``Because his pre-season has just been so seamless.
``I guess we've forgotten that he's been out for quite a while.
``But he's done all the work and he's obviously a super professional and there are a number of examples of guys coming back from that injury now.
``He'll be ready. He'll be fine and we wish him really well.
``He's moving pretty well. Come out on the training track and see if you can keep up with him.
``He's done really well. He's flying.''
The calls on van Berlo comes as the Crows gave Adelaide's Oval surface a high rating despite a major event being held there only days before their first match.
It reinforces the venues ability to continue to grow by adding midweek and non-football or cricket matches.
``Surface looks really good,'' Clarke said. ``In fact most of the players were actually commenting that it's probably a bit softer than it was last year.
``Obviously last year was the first year (of AFL football at the ground) and it's had another year to bed in.
``It's come up really well.''
The other two players who will be watched closely are former Hawk Kyle Cheney, who will hold down a key defensive post, and fellow backman Kyle Hartigan, who missed the back of last season to injury.
Clarke was confident both were primed to make an immediate impression.
And then there's Cam Ellis-Yolmen, who made headlines during the practice matches for his outstanding form.
He has only one game to his name, but Clarke was confident he would not be flustered by the occasion today.
``His a fairly relaxed character,'' Clarke said. ``I think he will handle it okay. He has played his first game, last year, but this will be a really big opportunity for him.
``He deserves the opportunity. He's played really well in the pre-season and that was put on the table early — that form will be rewarded — and it has in his case.
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