The Adelaide Crows have identified a fast start as vital to success against AFL surprise packets Greater Western Sydney.

The Crows (fourth) travel to meet the Giants (fifth) on Saturday with concern over their sluggish starts to games this season.

Adelaide have won just three of seven first quarters, a trend which forward Tom Lynch says needs arresting.

“It’s something that as a playing group we’re not too pleased about,” Lynch told reporters on Wednesday.

“We don’t obviously go out there to start like that and claw our way back.

“We haven’t started well the last few weeks and we definitely can’t play catch up against this side. We know if we give them a good start, they’re going to go on with it.

“It’s important we really put it to them and not let them get their confidence.”

Adelaide’s defence needs reshuffling for the clash, which holds unlikely top-four status – both clubs have banked five wins this season.

The Crows have lost Matthew Jaensch (knee) for the season while Brodie Smith (concussion) has been ruled out.

Lynch said Adelaide were wary of the Giants, who hope to recall ex-Crow Phil Davis after a one-match absence because of a corked leg.

“They seem pretty well-balanced,” Lynch said.

“They have got some players in (Shane) Mumford and (Ryan) Griffen in the last few years who have really added to their leadership, and some kids growing into men. So they have got really good players.”