The PAC, St Peter’s, Sacred Heart and Rostrevor players to watch in the biggest SA Intercol footy games of 2021
Some of SA’s best young footballers will do battle this weekend in the two biggest Intercol matchups. See which rising stars you should keep an eye on.
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The biggest weekend in SA college football is here, with 10 teams ready to go up against their respective rival in First XVIII Intercol 2021.
Headline clashes Prince Alfred versus St Peter’s and Sacred Heart taking on Rostrevor are both packed with multiple top talents.
Based on the season so far and with the input of coaches we’ve picked the stars to keep an eye on in the two biggest games.
Here are our players to watch.
HARRY TUNKIN
(PRINCE ALFRED)
Tunkin has been in stunning form all season and as captain of the Reds he’ll be looking to lead by example on Saturday.
A bull at the contest, Tunkin wins plenty of important ball for his side and sets the tone with his pressure.
Look for him to work tirelessly to cover ground for PAC and slot a couple important goals.
KANE MCAULIFE
(PRINCE ALFRED)
McAuliffe has been a matchwinner for PAC in recent fixtures with his work rate and effective disposal causing big issues for opposition teams.
He has the ability to win plenty of inside ball and get it moving efficiently and quickly.
With his penetrating and accurate kick a handy asset for the Reds, St Peter’s will need to pay close attention to this versatile midfielder.
MATTHEW ROBERTS
(ST PETER’S)
Roberts has had an enormous year in his early career, impressing in South Adelaide’s league team and for St Peter’s to put his name up there with SA’s biggest AFL draft prospects.
The big-bodied midfielder has great balance inside and outside of the contest, often leading by example in the way he puts his head down and gets to business.
Roberts also hurts the opposition by foot, often finding targets with ease and splitting the game open with decisive disposal.
MORGAN FERRES
(ST PETER’S)
The Saints key forward has been in brilliant form this season, dominating in front of goals and often successfully spending some time in the middle.
Ferres’ power and versatility makes him a headache for opposition teams and PAC will undoubtedly be looking to quell his impact early on.
If he can get going in the opening term and boot some early goals, St Peter’s will look the goods.
LUCA WHITELUM
(SACRED HEART)
Sacred Heart skipper Whitelum is a major focus for his side forward of centre and for good reason.
The talented centre half-forward has improved each week this season and will look to make a big impact against Rostrevor.
His ability to read the ball and either find the big sticks or create for his teammates means he is a constant danger.
JACOB OWENS
(SACRED HEART
Owens has been a breakout star for Sacred Heart this year, dominating around the ground and getting himself selected for the state under-19 squad.
The on-baller tirelessly covers ground for Hearts and regularly hits the scoreboard, especially in big games.
He’ll undoubtedly be a standout on Saturday and one Rostrevor needs to stop.
TYSON WALLS
(ROSTREVOR)
Rostrevor’s best on ground in this matchup last year as a Year 11, Walls is poised for an even bigger performance this weekend.
Vice captain of the side, Walls is hard as nails and sets the tone for his teammates.
His attack on the footy is almost unmatched across First XVIII football, making him a key factor in any matchup.
MAX MICHALANNEY
(ROSTREVOR)
Michalanney has been one of Rostrevor’s most consistent performers this year and is making a name for himself as one of the league’s best key defenders.
He has a healthy habit of locking down opposing forwards and often shows great courage in aerial contests.
With the ability to read the ball well, and find teammates efficiently by hand and by foot, he’s the full package.
Don’t be surprised if he leads Rostrevor to an upset against Sacred Heart on Saturday.
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