The Lions’ victory was set up with an impressive seven-goals-to-one second term.

“There was a lot of patchy performances and we really only played two good quarters of footy,” South coach Damien Herzick said.

“It was an ugly game, but we still won by 50 points.

“This year there seems to be a bit more resolve and belief among the group. It is definitely the best start since I've been at the club.

“Our results have helped the confidence and self-belief of the younger players.”

A major difference between the sides was South Gawler had a key target in attack, Anton Gerardis.

Gerardis gave the Lions a focal point finishing with an impressive eight-goal haul. This journeyman, who was a member of the Central District under 19s 2003 premiership team has adequately replaced the Lions’ 2007 power forward Nick Prokopec.

Craig ‘Chook’ Fowler was stoic and calm in defence, while other Lions who stood out in an impressive team effort included back pocket Luke McCracken, the silky smooth Aaron Bevis, hard-working captain Ronny Lee and wingman Jake McVicar.

The other wingman - indigenous all-round sportsman - Anthony Johnson collected a huge amount of possessions, but his decision-making skills were lacking at times.

Nuriootpa, who had the lead at quarter time were never in the contest after that. They tried to play a high possession game.

Jason Rodda, recruited from the BBH Rams, worked tirelessly all match, while senior players Billy Nicholls and captain Shawn Gibson played their usual productive games.

Gregg Falkenberg was handy with three goals and veteran Adam Feigert competed manfully in ruck and centre half forward.

Nuriootpa was without recruited ruckman Matt Cragg-Sapsford who was sidelined due to an agreement clause in his clearance from South Gawler.

Brett Thiele was also high among the Tigers’ best.

This week, in a BL&G first, South Gawler has a special match at Hamra Homes (Elizabeth) Oval against Gawler Central to celebrate the SANFL’s rivalry round.