Hahndorf Football Club flies to 8-0 start in 2023 after painful 2022 grand final

A Hills football power has gone the first two months of season 2023 undefeated after an agonising grand final loss, with the return of a former Crow boosting his side to premiership favourite.

An Adelaide Hills footy juggernaut has gone the first two months of the 2023 season undefeated after a historic grand final loss in 2022.

Hills Football League division one power Hahndorf has been bolstered by the return of former Adelaide Crow Matt Jaensch in season 2023 and currently sits 8-0 at the top of the ladder.

The Magpies had won the previous four HFL premierships before their dramatic three-point loss to Lobethal after two periods of extra time in the 2022 grand final, a result which coach Matt Golding said had motivated his side to reach another level.

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“When that game didn’t go our way the boys were as motivated as ever to get back to that last game in 2023 and make amends,” Golding said.

Hahndorf captain Sam Williams (left) with coach Matt Golding and teammate Sam Hayden at last year's interleague game. Picture: Mark Liebich

“We didn’t dwell on the result too much in the pre-season but you do play it back out in your mind from time to time and it’s never fun to look back on, but I think it has definitely sparked the guys and has been a positive for us.”

Hahndorf has seen an even contribution from its side so far this season, defeating every team in the competition with big performances from stars like Jaensch, Adam Trenorden, Sam Hayden, captain Sam Williams, Joel Parker-Boers and many more.

Golding said he was pleased with the even spread of production in his side and praised the influence of Jaensch, who returned to his hometown club after missing season 2022.

“We’ve had a strong start and I think it has been due to the even contribution from the whole squad – we’re not just reliant on three or four guys, the next wave of players from five to number 28 have been really reliable and played their roles well,” he said.

Matt Jaensch coaching during this year's interleague game against River Murray FL. Picture: Mark Liebich

“We’ve had some new guys in like Jesse Landers from Uraidla Districts and Adam Trenorden back from Sturt so there’s been some adjusting and we’re still figuring out the best combinations.

“The energy and spark Matt (Jaensch) has brought to us has been big on and off the field as well – he drives high standards having played at the highest level and is very knowledgeable.

“He’s passionate about Hahndorf and he’s still the best kick in the competition, he’s super important for us.”

With a number of improved sides in the competition this season, including Nairne Bremer – led by goalkicking machine Darcy Hourigan – and Mount Lofty, the Magpies will need to remain at their best to win silverware in September.

Hahndorf's Troy Parker-Boers against Onkaparinga Valley in round eight. Picture: Mark Liebich

While Golding said there was room for improvement despite the undefeated start to the season, he believed his team had what it would take.

“We’ve managed to beat everyone so far but we’ve probably still underachieved during some games so we want to find that consistency through four quarters and keep improving.

“Nairne Bremer has obviously done a great job to improve and sides like Mount Lofty, Uraidla Districts, Onkaparinga Valley and Lobethal should all be around the mark as well.

“Every side is a challenge but we do have a level of confidence that we can go far again.”

The Magpies will take on Blackwood this weekend.