Despite some inaccurate kicking for goal the Redlegs have banked another 2 premiership points with a hard fought yet at times ugly 13 point victory over South Adelaide at Hickinbotham Oval, Noarlunga on Saturday.

Jamie Vlatko (hamstring) and Stuart Bown (sickness) were late withdrawals from the named squad of 23, forcing senior coach Trevor Hill into a last minute reshuffle. James Gallagher won the toss and kicked with the wind to the Southern End in the first quarter, the Redlegs dominated possession but were wasteful in front of goal scoring just 2 goals from ten (10) attempts on goal as the homeside push extra men into defence.

The Panthers reduced their 13 point deficit to 7 by half time, just 3 of 8 goals for the half being scored against the breeze. During the last half of the game scoring to the Northern end of the ground became easier as the wind subsided, South managing three goals in the third quarter while the Redlegs failed to capitalise opportunities again scoring just 2 goals from 10 attempts in the third quarter.

Their was a definite sense of urgency in the huddle at three quarter time, the homeside no doubt sensed a long overdue victory while Trevor Hill made very clear to his charges the importance of securing the two points in the context of the whole season. With Matt Thomas sidelined for the remainder of the day with an ankle injury and after Michael Handby kicked the first goal of the last quarter to move the Panthers within one point the Redlegs steadied courtesy of back-to-back goals to Adam Cockshell and pushed the margin back to 26 points in a quarter that produced a game high 9 goals.

Redlegs were relieved to run out winners by 13 points at the final siren in a game generally riddled with skill errors and poor decision making by both sides.

For the second week running Adam Cockshell was terrific both up forward and in ruck - he won many significant hit-outs around the ground, took a number of telling marks in defence and along with Taylor Walker kicked for goals and presented strongly when up forward. Defender Nick Duigan provided great energy, pace and rebound from half back often carry the ball forward to initiate many attacking movements. Tim Weatherald set the example in the midfield, physically strong at the contest, tackling with effect and one of few to use the ball with efficiency for four quarters. Fellow midfielder David Trotter picked up plenty of possessions and used the ball with effect while vice-captain Brett Zorzi was as usual resolute and desperate on the last line restricting direct opponent Ben Warren to three (3) goals.

The reserves side were forced to make another eight (8) changes for their game, with twelve (12) eligible for junior football, however they played with great spirit and tenacity to record a 23 point victory. Simon Muster, Brendan Littler and Dean Rossi (2 goals each) were three of ten goal kickers in an even team performance. Defender Brad Thomas was the teams best contributor for the day from his defensive post, Ziggie Alwan, Brendan Littler and Heath Culpitt were the best of the midfielders while Andrew Kirwan was his usual reliable self on one half-back back flank while Craig Holm on the other is quickly finding his feet at reserves grade level.

There was only a goal between both sides in each of the junior games at Coopers Stadium. The Under 19's depleted in stocks due to injury, sickness and unavailability in the two senior sides toughed out a 6 point win with tom Sclanders kicking 5 goals and Mal Douglas 4. It was the reverse result for David Oatey's team, a 4 point loss, with Dylan Reinbrecht, Joel Aish (3 goals) and Mitchell Grigg named amongst the best players.

Ben Speight, Ryan Schoenmakers and Alex Stopp were all significant contributors in South Australia's 34 point victory over Victoria Country at Casey Fields in Melbourne on Saturday. Ben kicked two goals and was named in the best players playing in the midfield, Ryan was a focal point across half forward, kicking a goal while Alex Stopp was his usual reliable and accountable yet rebounding self in defence. The boys play their last game of the National Under 18's Championship on Wednesday at Telstra Dome against NSW/ACT. The Norwood Football Club is extremely proud of the efforts of these three exceptional young men.

The Redlegs now return home to Coopers Stadium next Saturday for a crucial game against fellow finals aspirant North Adelaide. Stuart Bown and Peter Marshall both missing this week through sickness will be available while Jamie Vlatko, Luke Nitschke (both hamstring injuries), Joel Coombes and Kenrick Tyrrell (both ankle) and Brad deVries (knee) will be assessed early in the week with a view to being available. A much improved level of performance will be required to beat a Roosters outfit keen to reverse their loss at home to the Redlegs back in round 8.

David J Bean
League Team Manager