Coach Brenton Sanderson says one of Adelaide’s most stirring AFL triumphs in recent times will mean zilch if they lose to Carlton.

The Crows travel to meet the Blues at the MCG on Sunday buoyed by their last-start victory against Collingwood.

“(It) was really impressive but it means nothing if we don’t back it up,” Sanderson said.

“We have to turn up with the same determination and enthusiasm.

“They repaid the faith a bit … but we still have a fair way to go to ensure that we play finals this season.

“We found some mojo last Thursday night, hopefully we can sustain that.”

The Crows sit in 10th spot on the ladder, a win ahead of the 13th-placed Blues who concern Sanderson.

“Carlton have won three of their last four, they’re full of talent, they’re really well coached,” he said.

“This is going to be a really tough game for us.”

Adelaide’s key forward Taylor Walker returns to the MCG for the first time since he injured a knee there in round five last year, also against Carlton.

But Sanderson was confident Walker, who required a knee reconstruction and made a comeback last Thursday night in the win against Collingwood, wouldn’t be spooked.

“It’s not an issue for us,” he said.

“Tex (Walker) is back bigger and stronger than even before the injury last year. He seems fitter, lighter – I don’t think it will be an issue at all for Tex.

“He is looking really sharp.”

Sanderson expected an improved showing from his attacking trump card following a solid yet goal-less comeback game.

“All the training that you do, and even playing at state league, nothing can replicate AFL speed,” he said.

“Those four quarters last week, adjusting back to AFL tempo, I think we’ll see a much improved Tex again this week.”