Gun mids fire Legs past Panthers

A Mitch Grigg inspired performance helped Norwood record an impressive nine-point victory against South Adelaide at Noarlunga yesterday afternoon.

After what was a shattering loss at the hands of Glenelg last weekend, the Redlegs were desperate to respond claming their second victory against the Panthers in 2021.

Grigg, was at his Magarey Medal best against the hosts as he racked up including a clever checkside along the ground late in the fourth quarter – featured in the clip below – to seal victory.

Despite a bit of a slow start, the Redlegs worked their way into the match as they piled on four goals in the second term to lead by five-points at the main break.

In what was Joel Cross’ 200th SANFL game, the Redlegs know the Panthers were going to be up for the fight as the hosts kicked back-to-back goals early in the third term to take back the lead.

The Redlegs, however were not to be denied as returning star Dom Barry made no mistake from point blank range before Grigg and promising youngster Henry Nelligan kicked truly to post a 10-point advantage at three-quarter time.

With all the momentum and strong support from the away crowd, Norwood continued to press on with their lead in the final term as goals to veteran trio Grigg, Cameron Shenton and Richard Douglas all but cemented the two Premiership points on offer.

South kicked two goals towards the end through Ben Heaslip and Bryce Gibbs however it wasn’t enough to overpower the Redlegs.

Midfielder Jacob Kennerley went head-to-head with Gibbs for most of the day, while Norwood’s defence was up to the task as they held Panthers star Joel Cross to 18 disposals and one goal.

Norwood captain Matthew Nunn collected 29 disposals, seven marks, five tackles and five clearances while Nik Rokahr (23) and Brad McKenzie (20) also reached the 20-disposal mark.

Shenton had just nine disposals for the game but made his presence felt by matching Grigg with three goals while Dom Barry made a welcome return to the League team to boot 2.2 from his five kicks.

The Redlegs will now enjoy a break before facing Central District in Round 12 of the SANFL Statewide Super League on June 26th.

SCOREBOARD:

SOUTH ADELAIDE: 3.5 4.6 6.10 9.12 (66)

NORWOOD: 1.0 5.5 8.8 11.9 (75)

GOALS: Grigg 3, Shenton 3, Barry 2, Binder, Nelligan,

BEST: Grigg, Nunn, Douglas, Hamilton, Shenton, Rokahr