A historic day for Echuca United

At several points during the year, it looked as if all of United’s hard work during the summer months to put a team together would go unrewarded.

But through sheer determination the club’s target was reached and club president Ian Johnson couldn’t have been happier.

“It’s very rewarding to see everything come together after there was so much uncertainty as to whether there would be any junior sport this year,” Johnson said.

“Our junior president Daryl Poole (who also coaches the side) and I were very pleased with how well everything went.

“Women and youth girls football is going from strength to strength every year and we’re glad we can be a part of it.

“We’re looking forward to watching the team grow as people and players in the coming weeks.”

While the Eagles ended the day signing the club song for the first time - courtesy of a 34-point win – sportsmanship was the real winner.

Tatura arrived at the ground with just nine players but that wasn’t going to stop the game from going ahead.

United was more than happy to lend the Bulldogs a hand.

“We had four or five girls rotate through Tatura in each quarter,” Johnson said.

“It was fantastic to see our girls willing to put their hand up and help out the opposition. Doing that is only going to help everyone as players.

“Without their unselfishness it’s very unlikely we wouldn’t have even had a game.

“Our club is all about inclusion so we’re always going to be willing to help out other clubs because we know they will return the favour.”

Johnson also applauded the behaviour of spectators at the game who followed all the COVID-19 protocols which have been put in place.

The Eagles will have another home game on Sunday when they welcome Shepparton United with play to get underway at 10.45am.

Meanwhile, Moama will play its first game of the season against Tatura after having a bye in the first round.

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