As anticipation builds for the Hostplus SANFL League Grand Final, Norwood and Glenelg will take to their training grounds tonight as they prepare for their historic clash at Adelaide Oval on Sunday, September 22.
We’ve gathered all the info on the Grand Final, how to get there, where to watch it from home, the historic rivalry, players to watch and all the deets on the after parties;
This Sunday’s Grand Final is not just about bragging rights – it’s a chance for both teams to etch their names in SANFL history. For Norwood, a victory would add to their storied legacy, while Glenelg will be eager to secure a consecutive win.
The Historic Rivalry
Glenelg come into the match as reigning premiers – winning the 2023 grand final – but they won’t have an easy time keeping that title. They last time they faced the red legs in a final was 2022 when Norwood emerged victorious, defeating Glenelg by 28 points. However, their recent Round 16 clash saw Glenelg claim the upper hand with an 81-47 win, proving that both teams can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Tigers coach, Darren Reeves says it will be “one hell of a challenge”.
“We are going to have to be really strong around the footy and try our best to keep it down our end,” he added.
2024 marks the 123rd SANFL season and this match marks the first time Norwood and Glenelg have met in a Grand Final in 42 years, igniting a fierce rivalry that has captivated fans for generations.
Red legs captain, Jacob Kennerley says he is so proud of the team and club for their hard work this year.
“We’ve put it lots of work to get to Sunday and we are ready for it,” he said.
The team rivalry is rich with the two clubs having met on the field a staggering 269 times.
Norwood leads the overall head-to-head record with 158 wins compared to Glenelg’s 110. But both teams have proven themselves formidable contenders in recent years, with each side has claimed three victories in their last six encounters.
Who to Watch
Both clubs boast talented rosters filled with players capable of changing the game. For Norwood, the experienced Matt Panos, playing his 150th game, will be a key player to watch. His leadership and skill will be crucial as he aims to guide his team to victory. Make sure to also keep an eye on Norwood ruckman Harry Boyd, joint-winner of the 2024 Magarey Medal.
On the other hand, Glenelg will look to capitalise on the form of their stars, with many players stepping up in high-pressure situations throughout the season.
How to Get to the Final
In a bid to alleviate game day congestion, Adelaide Metro are giving free rides to all fans heading to the Grand Final this Sunday. Fans with a valid Grand Final ticket can access complimentary travel across all bus, tram, and train services provided by Adelaide Metro.
The transport initiative encourages spectators to embrace public transit solutions over private vehicle use, aiming to streamline the travel experience amidst the high-volume traffic traditionally associated with major sporting events.
With an anticipated crowd of over 25,000 spectators, the event promises not only intense on-field rivalry but considerable logistical demands concerning transportation to and from the venue.
Watch it from Home
For those unable to attend, the Grand Final will be broadcast live and free on Seven and 7plus, as well as streaming on SANFL Now and AFL.com.au. Fans can also tune in to live radio coverage on SEN, Triple M, Fiveaa, and ABC Radio.
For those driving into the city, some roads surrounding the oval will close from 10:30am, so please follow the directions of traffic controllers and allow extra time when travelling. Find real-time updates on traffic conditions at Traffic SA.
Training Sessions
Tonight, the Norwood Red Legs are inviting fans to enjoy a drink and bistro meal in the Norwood Function Room while overlooking their Senior Men’s squad train on Norwood Oval from 5:30pm.
Meanwhile, the Glenelg tigers are looking forward to seeing a field of yellow and black tonight at Glenelg Oval. Fans are invited to come hear from premiership coach Darren Reeves and enjoy a meal at the bistro while watching the seniors train from 5:45pm. Also, make sure to also take advantage of the extended merchandise hours to get match-ready for Sunday.
Training Sessions:
Norwood Red Legs
Where: Norwood Oval
When: Thursday 19th of September from 4pm
More info: https://norwoodfc.com.au/
Glenelg Tigers
Where: Glenelg Oval
When: Thursday 19th of September from 5:30pm
More info: https://glenelgfc.com.au/
The Reserves
SANFL’s AFL Draft class of 2024 will shine in the U17 Futures match at Adelaide Oval on Hostplus SANFL League Grand Final day. Starting at 9am, the traditional clash between the Yellow and Blue team will be the curtain-raiser for the SANFL Reserves game.
Norwood are also in the reserve finals at 11am on Sunday facing Sturt. Watch it live on SANFL Now.
Red Legs coach, Jade Rawlings says to have two teams in the finals is a huge deal for the club.
“The players are the ones that have done all the work,” he added.
“The player consistency, emotional and physical investment and their capacity to drive up those standards is testament to why we continue to progress.”
U17s SANFL Futures Game
Where: Adelaide Oval
When: Kick off 9am on Sunday, September 22
SANFL Reserves Grand Final
Norwood Reserves v Sturt Reserves
Where: Adelaide Oval
When: Kick off 11am on Sunday, September 22
After the Game
Following the final, an expert panel will vote on a 3-2-1 basis for the Jack Oatey Medal winner, awarded to the Best on Ground player in the Grand Final to be presented by Marina Oatey, granddaughter of Jack.
Party with the players after the Grand Final with after parties locked in at Glenelg Football Club’s Stratarama Stadium and Norwood’s Coopers Stadium from 5.30pm.
Grand Final After Parties
Norwood Red Legs
Where: Coopers Stadium
When: Sunday 22nd of September from 5:30pm
More info: https://norwoodfc.com.au/
Glenelg Tigers
Where: Stratarama Stadium
When: Sunday 22nd of September from 5:30pm
More info: https://glenelgfc.com.au/
As the countdown to the Grand Final continues, excitement is reaching fever pitch with a historic rivalry at stake and both teams vying for supremacy.
Will Norwood nab the title, or can Glenelg continue their premiership legacy?
Fans will find out on September 22, where the battle for SANFL glory will unfold on the hallowed grounds of Adelaide Oval for the 84th time in history.
Hostplus SANFL League Grand Final
Where: Adelaide Oval
When: Kick off 2:30pm on Sunday, September 22
More info: https://norwoodfc.com.au/
SANFL Reserves Grand Final
11:00am | Norwood v Sturt | Live stream on SANFL Now
9:00am | U17s SANFL Futures Game
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