Goodwood Saints relegated to Adelaide Footy League division two after loss to Broadview

A division one Adelaide Footy League juggernaut has been relegated to division two for the first time in 33 years after a nail biting loss in the final round of the season.

The Goodwood Saints have been relegated from the top division of the Adelaide Footy League and will play in division two for the first time in 33 years after a close loss in the final round of the 2023 season.

The Saints – who held a one-point advantage over St Peter’s OC on the ladder – either needed an away win over sixth spot Broadview in coach Luke Donaldson’s final game in charge, or a Port District home win over now eighth spot SPOC to survive relegation.

However, a spectacular five-goal performance by Jonnie Read gave SPOC an unlikely 89-82 win over the Magpies at Largs Bay, while the Saints could not hold on to a 36-24 halftime advantage at Broadview, the Tigers coming back to win 11.12 (78) to 10.9 (69) behind inspired displays by captain Jay O’Leary and star midfielder Xavier Gotch.

Goodwood's Aryan Sareen. The Saints have been relegated from division one for the first time in 32 years. Picture: Adelaide Footy League

The side went into the season undermanned after losing key players throughout the pre-season but had picked up its performance in the back half of the year with the return of captain Ben Holzbauer.

The loss means 2024 will mark the first season the Saints play in division two since 1990.

“It’s been a challenging year, we almost could’ve played finals if a couple close results went our way but there have definitely been some positives,” coach Luke Donaldson said heading in to the Broadview game.

“I’m really proud of the group and how united they’ve become so I think there’s some success to look forward to soon.”

Reigning division one medallist and Goodwood vice captain Nick Favretto. Picture: Adelaide Footy League

Donaldson also said that while the club had lost some players, the youth coming through would be able to provide a boost as it gained further experience.

“I absolutely think the challenging season we’ve had can be a springboard for the next attack at success.

“The club is in a really good spot with its juniors, the B and C Grades have also been very strong and with some of the young guys coming through there’s reason for excitement.”