2025 Round 1 Preview - ANZAC Round

Footy is back, and there's no better way to kick off the 2025 Great Flinders Football League season than with a blockbuster ANZAC Round. This round always carries extra meaning as clubs, players and communities pause to reflect, honour and remember the service and sacrifice of past and present defence personnel. It’s a round steeped in respect and tradition — and this year, it also brings plenty of intrigue on the field.

The Peter Lewis ANZAC medal will be awarded at Cummins, whilst the Dr BW Wibberley ANZAC medal will be presented at Tumby Bay to the player who shows the ‘ANZAC Spirit’ - the player that shows skill, courage, self-sacrifice, teamwork and fair play. These medals will be presented by former servicemen from Cummins & Tumby Bay RSL branches.

Cummins Ramblers vs Cummins Kapinnie

📍 Location: Cummins Oval – New Clubrooms

The local derby returns with even more heat as the Ramblers and Cougars face off at the revamped Cummins Oval, now boasting brand new clubrooms that are sure to be packed with local supporters. Cougars will be out to make an early statement under new leadership, while Ramblers will look to continue their strong form from 2024 with their brand of footy. Expect fireworks from the first bounce as these two familiar foes jostle for bragging rights in front of a bumper crowd.

Key Match-Up: Isaac Hall (Ramblers) vs Charlie Turnbull (Cougars) – Two bulls likely to shape the outcome.

Tip: Cummins Ramblers by 8 points – Experienced campaigners to make the difference.

Peter Lewis ANZAC medallist prediction: Thomas Phelps

Eyre United vs Tumby Bay

📍 Location: Ungarra Oval

The Saints open their season on home turf with a fresh outlook and plenty to prove. Tumby Bay, perennial contenders, enter 2025 with a strong mix of youth and experience. All eyes will be on how Eyre United holds up against Tumby's slick ball movement. This one will come down to fitness and finish.

Key Match-Up: Saints’ rovers vs Tumby’s Waylon Miller – whoever controls the clearances could control the game.

Tip: Tumby Bay by 45 points – experience and class to shine through late.

Dr BW Wibberley ANZAC medallist prediction: Mackenzie Best

Lock vs United Yeelanna

📍 Location: Lock Oval

A genuine heavyweight clash to round out the ANZAC Round, with the Roos hosting the Eagles in what is expected to be a fierce contest. United Yeelanna will rely on their trademark defensive pressure, while Lock roll in with high expectations once again and a midfield that's hard to match. This could be the match of the round, with both teams eyeing an early scalp and a psychological edge heading into the season.

Key Match-Up: United Yeelanna’s half-back line vs the Roos forward entries – the territorial battle will be key.

Tip: Lock by 10 points – forward firepower to shine.

🎖 ANZAC Ceremonies will be held pre-match at all venues, including The Ode, a minute’s silence, and the national anthem. Supporters are urged to arrive early and join in this powerful tradition.

Lest We Forget.

Ready for Round 1? Who are your tips?