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Emerging forward Darcy Fogarty gave Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks a glimpse of the future with three goals in the AFL loss to Geelong.

Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks has full faith Darcy Fogarty will fulfil his potential at AFL level as the fifth-year forward continues his development.

Fogarty kicked three goals as a shining light in attack for the Crows in their 42-point loss away to Geelong on Saturday.

The 22-year-old was his team's only multiple goal-kicker and his season-best tally was a welcome return as he played the lead role in an undermanned forward line.

Taylor Walker (virus protocols) and rising star Josh Rachele (rested) were both missing but are expected to return against West Coast in round 12.

Nicks saw some positives in his side's competitive display against Geelong - the Crows closed to within eight points during the third quarter - and was full of praise for Fogarty.

"He's put in so much work and been challenged and I thought today he stood up and gave us exactly what he's been working on," Nicks said.

"He's now got to go and work even harder but it's just another example of our development and where we're getting to.

"It will come and it will come really quickly."

Nicks said the next challenge for Fogarty is to have a big impact alongside Walker when the veteran spearhead returns to the line-up.

The 2017 No.12 draft pick has only once booted more than three goals in 47 games to date.

"That's our challenge. We want Darcy to be the man and step up," Nicks said.

"I've got no doubt that he'll be able to do that and today was a really good step in the right direction."

Nicks was also happy with Reilly O'Brien's response against Geelong after the ruckman's stint in the reserves.

O'Brien fought hard in a losing cause, racking up 28 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 46 hit-outs, nine clearances and seven tackles.

"Really pleased with Reilly. He came back in and competed as part of that midfield group," Nicks said.

"When you talk about our fight, he's a big part of that.

"He gives us an opportunity for first hands (on the ball).

"He's a big, strong lad and got work in around the ground as well."

Nicks will consider playing O'Brien alongside Kieran Strachan in a ruck combination going forward.