Fitzroy legends, Brisbane Lions executives and fans, and local politicians, swelled the ranks of the faithful at Brunswick Street Oval yesterday as the home team took on the undefeated St Kevins Old Boys (SKOB).
In front of a large home crowd, Fitzroy took it right up to SKOB and led at every change before being run down in the final quarter.
SKOB won their 10th game in a row, 14.15.99 to 11.8.74.
Over 100 guests attended the pre-game Rotary lunch, including Fitzroy champion and Brownlow medallist,Kevin Murray. Guest speaker, Fitzroy legend and Brisbane Lions board member, Ross Thorntonreminisced about his playing days including his controversial best and fairest in 1984, his great coaches including David Parkin (a great orator and Robert Walls, his best opponents (Wayne Johnson and Peter Daicos), his first game against a relative unknown Malcolm Blight, and his best team mates (unfair to single one out from Bernie Quinlan, Gary Wilson, Paul Roos and Michael Conlan).
Speaking as a Director of the Lions, Thornton said the greatest challenge facing the AFL is equalisation how to keep the competition even. He encouraged Fitzroy fans and former supporters to get on board with the Lions and maintain their support and memberships.
Given the Fitzroy royalty in the crowd, the Seniors team didnt disappoint, taking an early lead and fighting hard throughout the game. They led by two goals heading into the final term but St Kevins tall forward line proved a bit too strong.
It was cold comfort that no other team has pushed SKOB as hard this year.
For Fitzroy, Tom Cheshire was the best player, with Sam Baker and Ross Borland also drawing praise from the coach.
Fitzroy maintains fifth spot on the ladder and will travel to take on AJAX next week, who are equal on 16 points.
Fitzroy goal kickers: C. Doherty 2, T. Cheshire 2, M. Brown, W. Fenton, S. Baker, M. Davie, N. Ligris, C. Stevic, L. Baker
Fitzroy best players: T. Cheshire, S. Baker, R. Borland, A. Green, M. Davie, D. Patcas
Earlier the Reserves also went down to SKOB 7.7.49 to 18.17.125.
