The stakes are high as clubs across VFL, NEAFL and WAFL leagues begin their 2019 campaigns with the season openers set in place for this weekend. Final practice matches saw a number of player push for contention in their respective senior sides, with many showing promising signs and strong cases.
SANFL
Sturt 8.13 (61) def. by Adelaide 14.9 (93)
The SANFL season is underway as Adelaide secures the win in the first round against Sturt.
Former Tiger Tyson Stengle played a key role in Adelaide’s 32-point win, bagging four of the Crows' 14 goals for the game. Stengle came ready to impress, finishing up with a notable 18 disposals, four inside 50s and three tackles to compliment his four goals.
Finishing with three goals, Myles Poholke played consistently, tallying a total of 25 possessions, seven marks and five inside 50s. The 20-year-old put on a best on ground performance and looks to advance into the senior side, as he continues a strong performance off the back of previous practice matches.
Coach Heath Younie was proud of the sides first round efforts; “Their intent and effort today was outstanding from the first bounce to the end, and to beat a formidable opponent in Sturt will hopefully set us up for a good year.”
Adelaide move into the second round with a win, hoping to come home with the same result when they face Glenelg later this week.
West Adelaide 8.6 (54) def. by Port Adelaide 11.19 (85)
With nine new players, Port Adelaide defeated West Adelaide by 31-points in the SANFL season opener. Coach Matthew Lokan was pleased with the win, happy that they were “able to dominate the statistics and scoreboard.”
Jack Trengove rose to the occasion and emerged as best on ground after a stunning 44 disposals, 11 tackles and a goal. The ex-Demon played only three AFL games for Port Adelaide last year however continues to push for more.
Strong winds made it difficult to score but that didn’t stop Sam Gray from making an impact, finishing with four goals and an outstanding 33 disposals.
Players also earning praise include midfielder Joe Atley (27 disposals and 11 clearances), Matthew Broadbent (27 disposals) and Boyd Woodcock (20 disposals and a goal), their efforts earning them all a place in the best.
Port Adelaide will host South Adelaide on Saturday as they look to continue a winning streak.
