Guthrie says this week the Cats will address their game plan to ensure another shootout doesn’t occur when they take on the Lions at the Gabba on Sunday.

In the first half of Thursday’s opening battle the Cats booted a bag of 11 goals and the Crows closely followed with nine.  

According to Guthrie, the Cats need to tweak a number of facets in their game ahead of Round 2.

“I think at times we ¬attacked a bit too fast and they (Adelaide) got us back the other way, kicked a few easy goals, which we weren’t too happy with,’’ Guthrie told News Limited after Thursday night’s game.

“We needed to be a bit more composed with the footy and make sure we limited our skill errors, as well.

“We managed to do that in the second half, I think.’’

Going into the second half, fortunately for the Cats, their more senior players were able to reduce the Crows leg speed and win back control.

“Some of the more experienced guys understand the situation and lock down,” ¬Guthrie said.

James Kelly collected 24 disposals, six marks and five tackles, while Corey Enright delivered his usual gallant performance with 20 disposals, seven tackles and one goal.   

“Guys like James Kelly put in a super effort back in the ¬defensive 50 late, ‘Boris’ (Corey Enright) and Harry (Taylor) as well. I thought Josh Caddy had a great last quarter, too,’’ ¬Guthrie said.

“It isn’t a game for individuals, but you do need guys stepping up at the right time and, fortunately, our boys did that.’’

Thursday night Guthrie was up against the Crows most dangerous performer Patrick Dangerfield.

“He is a very powerful ¬player, he does it all,’’ Guthrie said of Dangerfield, who had 21 possessions.

“He took that great hanger in the back pocket and kicked a couple of great goals, which was a little bit disappointing from a personal point of view, but he is a great player.

“I’d reckon he is in the top five players in the comp right now, so it was great to have the chance to play on a guy like that and learn from it.’’

However, as Guthrie concludes, it’s early days and the Cats still have a lot of time to improve and settle their game before the real pressure hits.

“I think you sort of feel your way through the first couple of rounds and become more comfortable as the games go on,’’ he said.

“Hopefully next week against Brisbane we can ¬address that and continue to develop it over the year.’’

Guthrie gave another exciting performance, despite being in the hands of Dangerfield, taking the Cats highest number of tackles with a total of 11 and 13 touches.