Swans AFL gun Kennedy back to haunt Crows

AFL ladder-leaders Adelaide won’t need reminding of just how devastating Sydney skipper Josh Kennedy can be.

Last time the two sides met, Kennedy had an enormous 42 disposals, 10 clearances and eight marks as the Crows were sent packing in the second week of the finals.

It was part of a big September for Kennedy, who was unlucky to be overlooked for the Norm Smith Medal after an imperious performance in the Swans’ grand final loss.

And with the finals again looming, Kennedy is back to haunt the Crows.

The midfield bull has overcome a minor hamstring strain and is a big inclusion for Friday night’s blockbuster clash at Adelaide Oval, replacing rookie Nic Newman.

“It is fantastic to have him back,” Swans coach John Longmire told the club’s website.

“He has done everything this week and then some. He has looked really sharp at training and it is great to have him back in the team.”

The Crows, who are 9-2 at their home fortress this season, will field an unchanged line-up for a second straight week.

Skipper Taylor Walker will play his 150th game after recovering from a toe injury sustained during last week’s win over Essendon.

Midfield gun Rory Sloane has also been cleared to play despite copping a knock to his knee in the Etihad Stadium clash.

The Crows have barely put a foot wrong this season but coach Don Pyke says the heavyweight stoush will test their progress.

“It’s a good chance to see the areas (where) we think we have improved on against a high-quality opponent,” he said.

“That was a disappointing way to end our season last year.

“And we get a chance on Friday night … to see how far we have come.”

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