Sturt versus Norwood stirs up 1978 controversy ahead of SANFL final
Free kick or mark, the call that helped Norwood to a SANFL grand final victory has been contentious for 48 years, but the eastern suburbs rivals are about to set the record straight.
The 1978 Sturt versus Norwood grand final at Football Park remains a controversial match in South Australian football history. Sturt was favored to win, but the Redlegs mounted a comeback in the final quarter, ultimately winning by one point. A contentious free kick was awarded to Norwood's Phil Gallagher, who kicked a goal to make it 2-1.
Field umpire Des Foster had initially given Gallagher a weak free kick, but later admitted it was the wrong decision, explaining that his field of vision was obscured. The incident, which occurred in front of 50,000 spectators and a live television audience, is still remembered and discussed today. Sturt captain Tom Lewis recalled the disappointment he felt after the 1978 final and urged his team to make amends.
Norwood, the current favorites, will face Sturt in the 2025 SANFL Grand Final at Adelaide Oval, with the match set to commence at 2:30pm on Sunday.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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