Panthers chief executive officer, Ben Kavenagh was thrilled, despite the result.

“Both the locals and tourists really supported the day. Encounter Bay Football Club did a terrific job in the way they presented the oval, the new change rooms and the catering on the day,” Mr Kavenagh said.

Encounter Bay Football Club president Alan Swain was also pleased with how the day turned out.

“Everything about the whole day went really well, I couldn’t be happier with the way it went,” he said.

“It was also great to report that there was no trouble throughout the whole day and there was no issues with parking,” Mr Swain added.

Mr Kavenagh said the Great Southern Football League area is a strong presence for the Panthers.

“The area is extremely important to the Panthers. We have shown in recent years that we are genuine in our goal of having a predominantly locally produced side,” he said.

“If people from our area are not playing for us, then would want them supporting us.

“The introduction of lighting at Hickinbotham Oval will also assist us to plan home games when local leagues are not scheduled against us.

The Panthers will offer two free tickets to every local player in their zone for the upcoming round six clash against local rival Glenelg at Hickinbotham Oval on May 3.

Mr Swain said Saturday’s success will lead to further games in the Great Southern area and in particular, Encounter Bay Oval.

“I did hear talk on Saturday that the Port Adelaide Magpies could possibly be the team travelling down here next year,” he said.

Mr Kavenagh said Encounter Bay will be the only league venue for the Panthers in the Great Southern area at this stage, with the biggest hurdle attracting opponents away from SANFL venues will be the reluctance to travel.

“The SANFL have advised they are only willing to transfer games away from SANFL venues if both clubs are willing to participate, and they can be assured that the attendance would be greater than it would have been at the SANFL venue,” he said.

“We have transferred an under 18 game to Strathalbyn this year, and are very eager to see how this is supported,” he said.