AnySelected

The South Australian footy scene delivered another action-packed weekend, with thrilling contests across both country and suburban leagues. From surprise upsets to dominant performances, there was plenty to unpack. Here's a rundown of the 10 biggest takeaways from this weekend's matches, proving that the competition is far from settled.

1. AdFL Runner-Up Shows They’re Still Contenders: Last year’s Division One AdFL runner-up emphatically proved they’re not to be written off this season. A commanding home victory demonstrated their resilience and ability to bounce back, keeping their finals aspirations very much alive. The team's renewed energy and strategic adjustments are clearly paying dividends.

2. Glenunga's Resurgence: Glenunga’s return to form is a welcome sight for fans. After a shaky start to the season, they’ve found their rhythm and are showing signs of the team that made a deep finals run previously. Consistency will be key to maintaining this momentum.

3. The Rise of the Underdogs: Several smaller clubs produced stunning upsets, proving that on any given weekend, anything can happen. This unpredictability is what makes local footy so captivating and keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

4. Key Players Stepping Up: Across the board, individual performances shone. Young guns and seasoned veterans alike delivered crucial moments, demonstrating the depth of talent within the leagues.

5. Midfield Battles Defining Games: The contests in the midfield are becoming increasingly fierce, with teams vying for control of the ball and dictating the pace of the game. Strong tackling and skillful ball distribution are separating the winners from the losers.

6. Defensive Walls Holding Strong: Solid defensive structures are proving vital. Teams with tight defenses are consistently limiting scoring opportunities for their opponents.

7. Shooting Accuracy a Major Factor: Converting scoring opportunities is proving to be the difference between victory and defeat. Teams that can consistently hit the scoreboard are gaining a significant advantage.

8. Home Ground Advantage Still Matters: The roar of the home crowd continues to provide a boost for teams playing on their own turf. The atmosphere creates an undeniable advantage.

9. Injuries Impacting Team Dynamics: Several key injuries are forcing teams to adapt and reshuffle their lineups. The ability to overcome these setbacks will be crucial for long-term success.

10. The Finals Race is Heating Up: With just a few rounds remaining, the race for a finals spot is intensifying. Every game carries significant weight, and teams are leaving nothing on the field.