SANFL Hostplus League – Second Semi-Final Preview

Matthew Wright (Adelaide) v Alex Spina (North)

The respective captains could line-up on each other inside Adelaide’s attacking 50m arc, in what looms as a critical battle for the Second Semi-Final.

Crows skipper Wright wound back the clock with an influential five-goal haul, together with collecting 14 disposals, four marks, five tackles and four inside 50s in the Qualifying Final win against Norwood.

The 32-year-old is an extremely clever footballer when it comes to reading the play, ensuring North will need to pay him the ultimate success by assigning skipper Alex Spina to keep him quiet.

Spina would have benefited from a week’s rest after helping guide his team to the minor premiership so if he can curtail Wright while providing his customary rebound, it will be invaluable for the Roosters.

Luke Pedlar (Adelaide) v Campbell Combe (North)

The exciting and powerful Pedlar helped break the Qualifying Final open with two sensational long-range goals in the second term.

The Glenelg draftee finished with three for the match, together with 12 disposals, eight tackles and six inside 50s in relishing the big stage in his first SANFL final.

If Pedlar spends time on fellow left-footer Campbell Combe inside the centre square, it will test his defensive skills given Combe loves to get his hand on the ball first at the stoppages.

Combe, the 2020 Magarey Medallist, will be looking to match Pedlar’s penchant for hitting the scoreboard, noting that contributing with a goal or two is an ongoing area for improvement.