Adelaide Footy League: The Norwood Hotel Division 1 April 7 preview

IN their 90th year, Prince Alfred Old Collegians were victorious over TTG to win the 2016 division 1 premiership. The question is, can they go back to back?

Prince Alfred Old Collegians celebrate after their Division 1 grand final win.

IN their 90th year, Prince Alfred Old Collegians were victorious over TTG to win the 2016 division 1 premiership. The question is, can they go back to back?

The Reds start their title defence at home against Rostrevor Old Collegians, who will be keen to improve on their fifth place last year.

The loss of grand final BOG Wade Thompson to Padthaway is a blow but should be adequately covered by the great depth across the Reds’ five teams.

This is going to be a ripping

contest that might be won or lost in the midfield.

Rostrevor, with the likes of former medallist Craig Holm, clearance king Will O’Malley and in-and-under mid “Handsome” Tom Hurley will be sure to serve it up to the league’s best.

The Reds to pinch this one, just.

Port Districts hosts newly promoted St. Peters.

The Dizzys have added some talent to their list in the form of the Carlisle brothers.

They lacked height last year and two key position players of this class could really be just what the doctor ordered.

SPOC is no stranger to Division 1, winning the premiership in 2012 and will be very keen to have an impact early.

Port should win at home.

Goodwood uncharacteristically missed finals last year but with the return of the Tuck brothers it is likely to be around when the whips are cracking in 2017.

It hosts Salisbury North, which finished third in 2016 and will be keen to start the season well. Player’s numbers are questionable and depth may be tested at times this year but Coach Gav Chaplin and Skipper Joe Hay are sure to have the team up for a contest each week.

The Saints at home should be too strong.

TTG faces off against Division 2 premier Modbury in a local derby in Round 1 that is sure to attract a huge crowd.

Several changes in personnel and coaches have raised questions as to whether Gullies will be as

strong this season, while Modbury appears to have retained most of its list under master coach Nathan Grainger.

New boys the Hawks to get the chocolates in an upset.

PNU hosts Adelaide Uni and will be well aware despite finishing third at the end of the minor round last year it was beaten twice by a hungry Blacks outfit.

Off-season recruits Josh Donahue and Matthew “Brutus” Brunoli should provide extra grunt and run to the Falcons midfield.

Expect them to be too strong for John Paynter’s Uni.