Round 18 SANFL Snapshot – Sunday

A stunning solo performance from Ryan Garthwaite propelled South Adelaide to a memorable nine-point win against Port Adelaide at Flinders University Stadium.

After performing strongly in defence for the first three quarters, the former Richmond utility was shifted into attack by South coach Jarrad Wright as his side trailed by five points at the final change.

Port’s advantage was soon stretched to as much as 17 points after consecutive goals to captain Cam Sutcliffe and Nick Moore after the opening four minutes.

But Garthwaite was soon influencing the contest after producing a clever tap into his own path before running into an open goal from 20m.

With the deficit cut to nine points, it was soon trimmed to three when Panthers veteran ruck Keegan Brooksby kicked his 35m set shot after a heavy fall.

Garthwaite then snaffled a strong contested mark 20m in front of goal, his conversion putting his side in front 22 minutes into the final term.

The Coles Value Player then took another timely mark at half-forward and while winding the clock down, the final siren sounded with his side in front.

He then produced a treat for the Panthers’ faithful by launching a 60m torpedo goal which sailed through to the southern end, prompting all of his teammates to circle him in celebration.

It was a perfect way for the hosts to pay tribute to forward Sam Overall, who was playing his 114th and final League game after announcing his retirement during the week.

Garthwaite finished with 19 disposals, 10 marks and four tackles to go with his match-defining three goals.

South defender Joseph Haines and midfielders Hayden Sampson and Mitch O’Neill each collected 32 disposals while Brooksby was a huge contributor with 20 disposals, 10 tackles, seven clearances, 31 hit outs and two goals.

Fighting to finish the season strongly, Port was again led by Sam Mayes, who tallied a game-high 34 disposals, nine marks, five clearances and six tackles.

Skipper Sutcliffe had 27 disposals, seven clearances, five tackles and two goals while experienced defender Trent McKenzie chalked up 22 disposals and six marks.