SANFL U18 Semi-Final Match Wraps

By ZAC MILBANK

Woodville-West Torrens’ refusal to give in earned it a spirited three-point win against Sturt in the SANFL U18 First Semi-Final at Thomas Farms Oval.

The Eagles appeared headed for victory when Raymond Sumner put his side 15 points up three minutes into the final quarter.

But the Double Blues were desperate to keep their season alive, high-flying forward Sam Waltham booting consecutive goals before crafty teammate Wil Thomas put the hosts in front nearing the 12th minute.

Waltham again put his side back in front when he replied to Eagle Jack Cook’s major but Jack Gray’s fourth goal for the afternoon, in the 20th minute, would prove to be the difference-maker.

The Eagles, who finished the minor round in fourth spot, will now progress to a Preliminary Final match-up with minor premier Glenelg while the Double Blues’ campaign has come to an abrupt end.

Cook (25 disposals, six clearances), Gray (four goals) and Sumner were all high in the Eagles’ best, as was talented midfielder Kade Herbert (21 disposals), who was also under consideration for selection in the club’s Hostplus League Elimination Final.

Sturt ruck Alex Dodson continued his fine finish to the season with 19 disposals and seven clearances while midfielders Oscar Merrett (19 disposals, two goals) and Harley Barker (17 disposals, two goals) battled hard for the hosts.

Central District jumped out of the blocks to shock minor premier Glenelg en route to a 20-point victory in the SANFL U18 Second Semi-Final at Stratarama Stadium.

Booting 5.1 to 1.1 in the opening quarter, the Bulldogs used this as an ideal platform to earn a week’s rest while booking a berth in the title-decider on Sunday September 15.

Leading at every change, the Dogs were able to keep the Bays at arm’s length for the rest of the afternoon as they dominated the inside 50m entries by 55 to 31.

Versatile Bulldog Matthew LeRay shone to collect a game-high 28 disposals and a goal while James Noack and Charlie Nicholls (three goals) were also influential for the visitors.

Central’s Isiah Nettle, Tallan Rosenzweig and Aidan Schubert booted two goals each.

The Tigers will now confront the Eagles in next Saturday’s Preliminary Final, with Max Disbury and Harry Ramm recognised for their efforts, together with unheralded co-captain Archer Rouvray, who had 15 disposals, five tackles and a goal.

The Bays had Lucas Camporeale (20 disposals, two goals) and Charlie McAuliffe (13 disposals, two goals) booting multiple majors.