The Forestville Eagles Men's season is off to a flying start after beating the South Adelaide Panthers by 36 points at Wayville.

Before showing the supporters why they were last year’s Premiers, the club unfurled their Premiership Flag in front of the Forestville home crowd.

The Panthers were only four points behind halfway through the second quarter but the Eagles were just too strong and extended their lead.

After missing some shots early, Eagle Jake Rios ended his night with 33 points and four assists. Rios also had the most court time, playing almost 38 minutes. Trent Fildes was the next best with 16 points and eight rebounds. Eagle Kane Oakley used his height to score 10 points and collect 10 rebounds. Brad Gerlach also had 10 points to his name as well as four rebounds, one assist and one steal.

For the Panthers, Shane Boal was the highest points scorer with 16 but he was fouled out with three minutes left in the third quarter. Closely behind Boal was Bradley Reid with 15 points; Reid also collected a game high 14 rebounds.  

Kyle Howe-Tipene’s first game for Forestville was an interesting, facing his former team but he made the most of it. He scored eight points and collected four rebounds and seven assists.

With the win secured, Eagles’ coach Andy Simons was able to give younger players some court time; Oliver Megins and Mitchell Hilton both played four minutes in the final quarter. They both added two points to the final score.

The Eagles will hope to record another win when they face the Central Districts Lions away from home next round. 

South Adelaide will go into their next round clash with the Woodville Warriors hoping for their first win.

Written by Samantha Thomas

Top Scorers Forestville

Jake Rios 33

Trent Fildes 16

Kane Oakley 10

Brad Gerlach 10

Top Scorers South Adelaide

Shane Boal 16

Bradley Reid 15

Jordan Robertson 10