Statewide Super League Preview – Norwood

By ZAC MILBANK

Norwood’s Grand Final pain is in the past. 

But before the Redlegs arrived at this point, the entire playing group and coaching staff completed a thorough review of last year’s shock loss to North Adelaide in the days immediately after the title-decider.

Speaking on SANFL TV, Norwood coach Jarrod Cotton said this was important in the grieving process of losing such an important game while also putting pieces into place to ensure his side takes the extra step in 2019.

To address one of Norwood’s areas for improvements, the Redlegs have added delisted Power wingman Dom Barry to add plenty of speed to its group of ball winners led by dual Magarey Medallist Mitch Grigg and Jack Oatey Medallist Matt Panos.

Experienced premiership trio Ben Jefferies, Simon Phillips and Matt Fuller will be missed in retirement but the return of fan favourite Josh Donohue should help nullify Phillips’ absence.

Donohue, 28, was moved to reignite his career in the Statewide Super League after finding himself emotionally invested as a spectator at the 2018 SANFL Grand Final.

Opportunities are also expected to open up for players such as AFL Academy pair Dylan Stephens and Cameron Taheny – who are both on the radar of AFL scouts – as well as promising defender Tyler Martin, who featured in last year’s victorious SA Under-18 team.