SOUTH Australian footy fans have had the gauntlet thrown down by The Footy Show's Sam Newman, who says if 40,000 people get to Saturday night's Balfours Showdown he will be 'tarred and feathered' in Rundle Mall.

Newman made the offer on last night's episode of The Footy Show

As at 9am on Friday morning there were fewer than 2,000 tickets left for sale to the public for the match.

"We have been targeting a crowd of 40,000, and Sam Newman has just given South Australians a massive new incentive to get to the game," says Power Chief Executive Mark Haysman.

"Seeing Sam 'tarred and feathered' next to the Malls Balls is surely something South Australians have been waiting for years for.

"The Ticketmaster phones should be running hot today - South Australians should have 136 100 on speed dial.

"And if you already have a ticket make sure you use it - or give it to someone who can get there and push the crowd over the magic number."

Haysman said he would approach Showdown sponsor Balfours to have Sam coated or 'tarred' in Balfours chocolate in the Mall - and then 'feathered' in Crows and Power coloured feathers.

"I'm sure there will be plenty of willing volunteers to apply feathers to Sam next week should we get that 40,000 figure."