GSFL 2025: Two Saturday games in opening round highlighted by Lions and Bulls preliminary final replay

A replay of last year’s epic preliminary final between Mt Barker and Royals will headline the two Saturday games in the opening round of the 2025 Great Southern Football League competition. The new GSFL season gets under way with the traditional Anzac Day blockbuster between Railways and North Albany before games on Saturday. The Bulls and Lions battled in an outstanding preliminary final in 2024, with the Lions holding on for a gripping seven-point win to advance to a grand final. The Bulls return this year with a new coach at the helm, with Gary Pope stepping up to take the reins from Brad Hook. Hook coached the Bulls through two competitive seasons, guiding them to an elimination final in 2023 and a preliminary final in 2024. Pope stood at his side as assistant coach through both of those seasons, but has taken the reins this year as the Bulls set their sights on being a premiership contender with a strong wave of young talent coming through. They will have to cover the loss of star trio Zach Jackson, Ashley Wallam and Tyreice Brown, but have regained Tristan Ballard plus new recruits Darcy Clarke and Dante Wiseman. The Lions will be out to start the new season on a winning note after losing the 2024 grand final to rivals Albany. Bouncedown for the Lions and Bulls clash will be at 2.30pm at Sounness Park. Reigning premiers the Sharks will aim to have a winning start under new coach Roy Addis as they face Denmark-Walpole at Retravision Stadium starting at 2.30pm on Saturday.