Round 17 SANFL U18 Match Wraps

By ZAC MILBANK

Sturt made a statement as it claimed the 2025 SANFL U18 minor premiership with a comprehensive 73-point win against North Adelaide at Thomas Farms Oval.

Restricting the Roosters to just one goal in the first half, the Double Blues ensured they would finish top with commanding advantages in clearances (33-23) and inside 50s (56-27).

Key Sturt midfielders Will Ekberg (24 disposals, one goal) and Noah Roberts-Thomson (26 disposals, one goal) produced powerful performances while Eli Anders added solid support with his 18 disposals and a goal.

North officials praised the efforts of Ethan Zagar Jones, Zackariah Young (22 disposals) and Ryan Paul as they prepare for their final match of the season in Round 18.

Central District put itself in pole position for a top-four berth with a comfortable 47-point victory against West Adelaide at X Convenience Oval.

The Bulldogs – who led at every change – are currently in fourth spot but must defeat Glenelg in Round 18 to maintain their place for the major round.

Central captain Matt LeRay turned heads with 33 disposals and 11 marks while roaming forwards Cameron Nairn  (30 disposals, 12 marks) and Aidan Schubert (20 disposals, 14 marks, four goals) were dominant.

Strongly-built Bloods midfielder Logan McCabe continued his strong form with while ruck Lincoln Pitt also battled valiantly.

Woodville-West Torrens made the most of Glenelg’s inaccuracy in front of goal as it secured a thrilling four-point triumph at Stratarama Stadium. 

The Eagles booked their spot in the major round by kicking 1.3 in the final quarter compared to the Tigers’ wasteful six behinds.

Seb Cavallaro was a determined force for the visitors while his teammates Joel Hill and Romario Clemente each gathered 22 possessions to also be prominent performers.

The Bays – served well by Travis Wilson (32 disposals, 15 tackles), Tim Alver (32 disposals) and Harvey Croker (36 disposals) – must defeat Central in Round 18 to qualify for the major round.

South Adelaide surged over Norwood in the fourth quarter to bank an impressive 51-point win at Magain Stadium.

Holding a slim 13-point advantage at the final change, the Panthers powered past the Redlegs by slamming on 6.2 to no score in the final term.

Panthers Kodah Edwards (19 disposals, five goals), Angus White (16 disposals, three goals) and Elliott Duffield (19 disposals) were key architects in the result.

Norwood captain Darcy Speyer again fought against the tide to collect a game-high 28 disposals while being supported by James Van Wyk and (21 disposals) and Tom Felice (22 disposals).