With a new audience watching Masters football, the highly anticipated clash between the Pigeons and Gisborne certainly lived up to expectations.
Adding another layer of intrigue was local product and Masters star Matt ‘Blocka’ Wilson lining up against his two younger brothers, Luke and Josh, with plenty of family bragging rights on the line.
Before the opening bounce, both clubs gathered in the centre of the ground to pay their respects to a recently lost member of the Gisborne community. Following a minute's silence, players shook hands before turning their attention to the contest.
Gisborne burst out of the blocks, applying relentless early pressure to the Yarrawonga defence. However, inaccurate kicking in front of goal kept the Pigeons within striking distance.
The missed opportunities proved costly, Yarrawonga capitalised in spectacular fashion, moving the ball coast-to-coast to kick three quick majors through Brett Gatt, Hayden Long and Dean Briffa, swinging the momentum firmly in the Pigeons' favour.
Dodge provided plenty around the stoppages after moving into the ruck, while Brett Harding continued his outstanding season with strong run and carry through the midfield.
As the sun disappeared at half-time, an unexpected challenge emerged when only half the ground's lights came on, leaving one side of the oval in near darkness. Despite the unusual conditions, play continued.
Gisborne gradually regained control before Luke "Frosty" Wilson suffered a hamstring injury while charging towards goal.
Hayden Long snaps his way for goal after a strong weekend down forward.
Photo by
L.GARBUTT
While there was genuine concern from players on both sides, older brother Matt appeared to show far less sympathy, quickly providing plenty of laughs around the ground.
Gisborne lifted another gear late in the third quarter, reclaiming the momentum with two important goals to put the Yarrawonga defence under sustained pressure. Thankfully, the lighting issues were resolved before the final term.
Gisborne struck early in the last quarter with a couple of crucial goals that ultimately proved the difference.
After several more fierce contests and a few heavy knocks, the match was brought to an early close, leaving plenty of sore bodies scattered across the ground.
In the end, Gisborne ran out deserving 14-point winners, but the respect shown between both clubs after the final siren perfectly captured what Masters football is all about.
A huge thank you must go to the Mulwala Lions Football Netball Club for hosting the match and providing the opportunity to showcase Masters football to a new audience in front of a fantastic crowd.
Both clubs are extremely grateful for the use of the facilities and the opportunity to hold the post-match presentations in the social club. Your support and hospitality were greatly appreciated.
The Wilson family rivalry continued during the presentations, with ‘Blocka’ joined by his two younger brothers to share stories from years gone by.
Awards: TNR Transportables (Nagles Off the Hook): Brad Gleeson, HL Building Solutions: Brett Harding, Attwood Builders: Nathan Beasley, Tradie Packs: Trent Russell, Crop Smart Voucher: Ben Douglass, Yarrawonga Osteopath (Heat Pack): Phil Freestone, Ferocious Pigeon: Brett Gatt.
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