SATURDAY at Bill Smyth Oval Narooma was a day to be remembered in local AFL history as the two closest rivals the Narooma Lions and the Bermagui Breakers amalgamated to play in the senior practice match against the Ainslie Football Club.
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On a day when the weather gods were shining so too was the unique combination which payed dividends as both, playing in the Lions colours, completed the game triumphantly on the paddock and on a personal level.
It was prearranged that Ainslie were bringing numbers and so the Lions approached the Breakers to combine so that both clubs could get a chance to iron out the cobwebs, before the official start to the season on April 14.
Both teams hosted 30 players with 24 on the paddock and six on the bench, but it was not all plain sailing for the Lions as their start in the first quarter began in second gear and Ainslie took advantage kicking three quick goals. A quarter time spray by Lions coach Tony Bromage worked wonders and the Lions came out kicking, hauling eight goals and a comfortable 33 point lead at half time, with the score Lions 10.5 = 65 v Ainslie 4.8=32.
Third quarter and it appears all the Lions mojo was left in the sheds as Ainslie found form and came back with a vengeance. End of the third quarter the Lions were still to the fore but only by a couple of goals. Third quarter huddle and it's amazing what that bit of discussion does as the Lions held their composure and worked together for a winning 20 point margin with the final score Lions 13.11=99 v Ainslie 11.14=79.
The game as a whole was played in good faith and sportsmanship with both teams showing their admiration with heartfelt handshakes. The Lions appreciated Ainslie’s attendance and applauded the side off the paddock. The Ainslie coach reciprocated the applause and spoke highly of the Lions and their winning combination and performance.
Whether this winning combination is to be repeated is anyone's guess but it was a great day for two local towns to come together and be united as one.
Earlier in the day the two junior grades the Lions and Breakers in U12 and U14.5 had practice matches and the kids were keen as mustard to play and display their skills.
Yes footy is back, alive and kicking on the far south coast.
The next footy fair is on Saturday, March 31 and Narooma are playing Bermagui in the first match at 10am of the Sapphire Coast AFL Lightening Premiership at Dickinson Oval Bermagui. Hope to see you all there!
