David Mackay made a strong return after a lengthy injury lay-off, in the SANFL on Saturday.

The Crows wingman, who need shoulder surgery after round one this season, picked up 17 possessions in South Adelaide’s 15-point win over the Eagles. He rushed a couple of early touches but then showed his class.

Daniel Talia had his best game at league level since returning from injury. The 19-year-old defender won his battle with important Eagles key forward Adam Grocke, picking up 16 possessions, ten tackles and making 11 spoils. Myke Cook was also solid for the Panthers, showing good attack on the ball and picking up 18 possessions on a wing or at half back.

For the Eagles, Brodie Smith (14 possessions) spent time on the wing against Crows team-mates Mackay and Cook and worked hard for his touches.

Tony Armstrong had his best game for North since returning from injury. Playing at halfback against Glenelg, he had 22 disposals and provided quality run and delivery. James Sellar rucked for Glenelg and finished with 14 possessions and 14 hit-outs.

Brad Moran (22 disposals, seven marks) was one of West Adelaide’s best in its 11-goal loss to the Port Magpies. He played most of the game at centre half back but also had a run on the ball. For Port, Ivan Maric worked hard sharing the ruck duties and had 14 possessions and 20 hit-outs.

Sturt was thrashed in its Friday night clash with Norwood and two young Crows battled to have an impact. Aidan Riley finished with 19 possessions and Brodie Martin 23.

Jarryd Lyons was the pick of the players in the SANFL reserves. The 18-year-old midfielder had 16 possessions and kicked two goals. Sam Shaw (Glenelg) copped a heavy knock after picking up a dozen possessions in about a half of game time and Will Young (Norwood) also copped a knock and was off in the second term after picking up five possessions as a forward.

Rookie Lachlan Roach was good for North with 18 disposals, Tim Milera (Port) had about a dozen possessions and Jack von Bertouch (six possessions) did not have many opportunities in a struggling Eagles side.