Elizabeth Football Club defeats Central United by 32 points for first win of 2024

A reinvigorated local footy club has achieved its first win of the season in convincing fashion 11 weeks after suffering the biggest loss in SA footy history. Watch the celebrations.

Elizabeth has recorded its first win of the 2024 Adelaide Footy League season 11 rounds after suffering the biggest loss in SA footy history.

The Eagles were dominant from start to finish of their round 15 division six clash with Central United away from home, defeating the Bulldogs 14.7 (91) to 9.5 (51).

It had been a long time coming for the club, which suffered SA footy’s biggest ever defeat during round four of the season with an 82.24 (516) to 0 loss against Fitzroy at home.

The club underwent a significant overhaul after that result, with Matt Switala joining as coach and a number of past and new players arriving at the club to help shift the tide.

“It’s absolutely a relief and just a great feeling,” Switala said of the big win.

Elizabeth A Grade coach Matt Switala said the side’s win was good reward for effort. Picture: Brenton Edwards

“It’s reward for effort for everyone at the club who has been involved in getting us back on track.

“We’ve been building towards this for a fair while now and improving each week so to finally get that win and really drive home what we’re doing is fantastic.”

The Eagles flew out of the gate to eventually build a handy 46-26 lead at the main break and managed to extend the margin through strong work in the contest and quick ball movement.

The side had a number of contributors including Daniel and James Richards at the back but captain Stephen James was the inspirational leader for his side, dominating on the ball and up front to boot five goals and create a number of others for his team.

Elizabeth’s Daniel Melville in action. Picture: Brenton Edwards

Elizabeth fans during the club’s round five clash with Adelaide Lutheran earlier this season. Picture: Brenton Edwards

“Stevey was brilliant but they all played well,” Switala said.

“We always look for a full team effort and we got that today which was really reassuring.”

While the Eagles remain hopeful of recording another win against Ingle Farm, Rosewater or Salisbury before the end of the season, Switala said results were secondary to steady improvement across the club.

“We were probably down to almost bare bones in round four but now we’ve got in excess of 60 registered players and our B Grade has improved as well so there have been great signs,” he said.

“We’re hoping this can be a building block for the rest of this season and then next year after a full pre-season together.

“For now we’re going to enjoy this and have a good night celebrating.”