An Old-Fashioned Spray

Glenelg v Adelaide, Glenelg Oval, 3 July 2021

The Tigers were at a disadvantage, working out what a damp and chilly day would bring: an early start, an opposition (and supporters) that sometimes don’t turn up at all (metaphorically and literally, respectively). Only this time the Crows had turned up, ready to play. With an impressive list of 17 AFL stars, they matched Glenelg, and more, for the first 3 quarters, leading at every change. At three-quarter time, Adelaide led by 8 points with the breeze more from the west than the south. It was time for an old-fashioned spray, which is what the team got from Coach Brett Hand (see main image).

It worked: the team responded and outpointed a spirited opposition 8 goals to 4, winning in the end by a modest 15 points. Luke Partington was best afield; he kicked 3 goals along with Marlon Motlop, who co-designed the Bay’s indigenous guernsey for the day (see above). The old firm of Proud and Curran down back kept the Crow’s stars in check (Alex Martini also had a great game and kicked a goal into the bargain), Max Proud keeping Hindenberg? Hasselhof? Huffenpuff? No, Himmelberg – scoreless on the day.

Up forward Reynolds and McBean kept the scores ticking, along with brilliant midfielders Snook, Turner, Allen, Bailey and Bradley showing grace under pressure. A new lad with football-royal name: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera – did some nice things on the day.

12 – Zip for the win / loss tally: an improving Sturt next at the dog-walking park they call Unley Oval.

Glenelg 17.8 (110) Adelaide 14.11 (95)