Back to the future for representative football with Glenelg heading north again

SANFL giants Glenelg set to repeat their 1985 visit to Darwin for a representative game against the NTFL Buffaloes

Glenelg big man Liam McBean celebrates a goal. His Tigers are tipped to play in the Top End in January. Picture: Sarah Reed

SANFL giants Glenelg have emerged as likely opponents for the NTFL Buffaloes when representative football returns to the Top End football calendar in January.

The NT News understands Glenelg and Woodville-West Torrens were short-listed for the January 23 night game at TIO Stadium before the Bays edged ahead.

In a twist, Glenelg played the NTFL in the first Australia Day clash at Gardens Oval in 1985 before a succession of AFL clubs took over the mantle.

AFLNT boss Stuart Totham said the Territory’s opponents, times for the clash and the Buffaloes’ coaching staff will be revealed next week.

“Everything about the game will be announced next week, including the fact we’re playing a men’s and women’s clash as well as a third game as a curtain-raiser, possibly an interleague game,’’ he said.

“So we could have a tripleheader if everything can be worked out in time for January.’’

The much anticipated return of representative football will not affect the annual Waratah-Wanderers Foundation Cup match.

Traditionally played on Australia Day at Gardens Oval as a means of remembering the two clubs who began official competition, the game has become a permanent addition to the NTFL calendar.

“That’s something we want to keep going as an annual event, unless it falls on a Saturday which may mean a change of date is forced on us,’’ Totham said.

Australia Day falls on a Tuesday next year, meaning a rare midweek clash for both sides.