SANFL awaits SA Health review on Showdown to confirm crowd numbers for opening round at Adelaide Oval
The first two rounds of the SANFL season are locked in. But just how many fans can attend each game will hinge on a SA Health review of Saturday night’s Showdown at Adelaide Oval.
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The number of fans allowed into Adelaide Oval for the start of the SANFL season on June 27 will hinge on a SA Health review of the Showdown crowd on Saturday night.
The SANFL is optimistic of an increased crowd after 2240 supporters were granted entry to the stadium for the clash between Adelaide and Port Adelaide following an easing of COVID-19 restrictions by the State Government.
Currently, the SANFL can have 900 people in the indoor function rooms for the opening-round double headers on June 27 and 28, but the league is still needing clarity on the numbers who can be in the stands.
“We understand SA Health will review the protocols implemented by the stadium management authority and will provide further advice on crowd attendance numbers for round one of the state league competition,” SANFL chief executive Jake Parkinson said.
Chief public health officer Nicola Spurrier was at the Showdown to observe the effectiveness of social distancing rules.
From July 3, crowds of up to 500 people can attend state league games and community football, although there is a possibility that number could significantly grow if restrictions continue to be lifted.
The second round of the state league also involves double headers at Adelaide Oval on July 4 and 5, with the remaining 12 rounds expected to be played at suburban grounds.
The SANFL has released the draw for the first two rounds, with reigning premier Glenelg kicking off its title defence with a heavyweight battle against Norwood in the second game of the double header on June 28.
Central District and Sturt will open the season, being the first game of the Saturday double header.
“In such an extraordinary and challenging year for players, coaches, umpires, club staff and volunteers, we’re thrilled they all have the opportunity to experience a return to competition at the world-class Adelaide Oval,” SANFL general manager of football Matt Duldig said.
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Channel 7 has again partnered with the state league and will televise the Tigers versus Redlegs game, as well as both matches on July 4. Games not telecast by Channel 7 will be live streamed on the SANFL’s digital pass.
The SANFL is waiting for the release of the AFL fixture before confirming the remaining 12 rounds.
The women’s league, reserves and under 18s will start on the weekend of June 27-28 with the draw to be announced this week.
SANFL FIXTURE
ROUND 1
Adelaide Oval
Saturday, June 27
Central District v Sturt (11.50am)
Eagles v South Adelaide (2.40pm)
Sunday, June 28
North Adelaide v West Adelaide (12pm)
Glenelg v Norwood (3.05pm)
ROUND 2
Adelaide Oval
Saturday, July 4
Sturt v Eagles, 12.05pm
Norwood v North Adelaide, 3.05pm
Sunday, July 5
South Adelaide v Glenelg, (11.50am)
West Adelaide v Central District (2.40pm)