While some things are meant to be, others are not. And as much as we worked and fought, Saturday was not our day to be victorious, falling to the mighty Hammersley-Carine by nearly 5 goals.
The day started off on the right foot with the team arriving at TJ Perrott Reserve in the right state of mind. After such a big win the previous week, it's always a concern a let-down will occur, but this was not the case. The team arrived fired up and ready for another upset bid. Taped up and boots on, I was anxious to get on the field and face Dan and his team (one of only 2 teams we hadn't yet beat during the season). It was a bright and sunny day as the oval overlooked the Swan River and as a crowd of nearly one-thousand watched over us. You could feel the electricity in the air.
From the first bounce the Scarborough Eagles looked poised for an upset as we kicked the first goal of the match. With a gusty effort on only one leg (he had a torn calf muscle), Willow started us off right and got us going early. From around the ground every player was making incredible plays as the tempo picked up every quarter. From the stands the crowd couldn't believe what they were seeing as we continued to lead at quarter, half, and three-quarter time (it should have been more at this time because we had the breeze to our back but we couldn't capitalize).
But sadly those present were ready for an upset that would never come. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, Hammersley-Carine began to show their true colors as they kicked two quick goals to cut the lead to just one goal. From then the tide had turned and they could smell the victory and wouldn't be denied. Despite our most valiant efforts, once the final siren went the mighty Eagles had fallen by nearly 5 goals. It was a sad sight, but nothing to be ashamed of as we played better than we ever believed and gave the opposition (the best in the competition) their hardest victory in a long time.
So at last, the curtain has closed on my footy career Down Under. What started way back in January has come full circle with many ups and downs along the way. From beginning to end this has been an incredible journey and something that I will take with me until I die. I can only hope that others will make this same leap of faith that will undoubtedly change their lives forever.
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2 comments:
Patty: Sorry for your loss, but you wrote about it so vividly, it was like I was there. Thought about writing a book on your experience?
Now you can focus on coming home. We all miss you (although, I suspect not as much as a certain girl in Wisconsin). Safe travels home... and thanks for taking us all along the ride of your Adventures Down Under.
...From beginning to end this has been an incredible journey and something that I will take with me until I die. I can only hope that others will make this same leap of faith that will undoubtedly change their lives forever..."
From the beginning Patrick, when you asked about this I told you I was the wrong person to ask because I would tell you to go...I am so glad that there are no regrets. I look forward to seeing you when you get home it will be so exciting. have a safe trip
Aunt Mary
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