League Match Report – Round 4

After a different start to our 2024 campaign, it was nice to return to Hisense Stadium for the first time as a Senior and Reserves group.

A good crowd was on show for our Anzac Round clash against South Adelaide, the importance of the round not lost on our Club as we reflected throughout the week on the significance of Anzac Day, as well as the wellbeing of our great mate Sam May.

Tom Morrish and Joel Stevens were set to play in their 50^th League game for the club as Jesse Thackeray and Harvey Bock returned to League level for the first time in 2024, both having a positive influence on the game. JT compiled 27 disposals and a goal through the midfield, and Bocky clamped down on the dangerous and in form Liam Fitt who kicked 4 goals the week prior.

The game itself was an arm wrestle in the first half from a scoreboard perspective. In terms of our KPI’s, the game looked how we wanted it too, but we were letting ourselves down with method of ball-use and we needed to make a slight adjustment to our defensive system. These adjustments were executed well by our playing group and the rewards were reaped with a 13 goal to 3 second half.

The most pleasing thing from a coaching perspective was the even distribution of contributors across the ground. As total team performance as I have been a part of since taking on the role of Head Coach. Will Patton continues to improve on a weekly basis, defending well and providing offence. Kobe Ryan was tough and hardworking through the midfield and Brady Searle played his best game for the club.

We look forward to our Round 5 clash against top of the table Central District Football Club.

Finally, I would like to finish by thanking all within our club and the wider SANFL community for the support you have shown myself and our playing group following the unfortunate events in Port Lincoln.

Goals: L. Delahunty (3), I. Johnson, L. Redfern, K. Ryan, N. Stevens (2), R. Corbett, M. Laudato, M. Maguire, D. Minchella, J. Thackeray, D. White (1)

Best: Will Patton, Kobe Ryan, Michael Laudato, Brady Searle, Riley Corbett

League Head Coach – Adam Hartlett