After three seasons of using
major round systems involving all clubs, the SAFA adopted the
Argus finals system involving only the top four teams for the first time.
First Semi-final Second Semi-final South Adelaide played a hastily arranged exhibition match against North Adelaide to entertain the spectators who had turned up. Kneebone had been an SAFA umpire up to the 1901 season, but had not returned in 1902. Late in the season, in response to a shortage of umpires, the SAFA umpire committee had made a resolution to extend an invitation to Kneebone, which Kneebone had declined. Still facing a shortage of available first-rate umpires for the second semi-final, the committee appointed Kneebone, which he this time accepted. Kneebone went on to umpire the following week's grand final. At a separate meeting on 8 September, the formal matter of second place was discussed, with a conflict arising between the convention that the losing grand finalist (South Adelaide) be considered runners-up, but rule 29 stating that minor placings be decided on overall premiership points (Port Adelaide). The Association ruled South Adelaide be considered runners-up, relegating Port Adelaide to third.
Grand final == References ==