It was a big day of footy, camaraderie and hard contests, with the EMUs facing two strong opponents in Melton and Woodend in the main draw.
Coaching legend Kevin Sheedy was attending in a recruiting capacity, so all players were aiming for peak performance despite the difficult, windy conditions.
In the opening game against Melton Panthers, the EMUs were met by a well-drilled and connected side.
Despite the challenge, the Echuca outfit fought hard across the ground.
Aaron Prewett and Jeff Abela were lively in the forward line, Rob Guerra battled valiantly in the ruck, and the midfield brigade of Chris Hagan, Daniel Fleming and Damian Hammond worked tirelessly.
Up forward, Garner Smith and Jon Beach presented well, but in the end, Melton proved too strong, icing the game with some late goals.
The EMUs regrouped for their second match, this time against Woodend Hawks in what was a tightly strung contest.
The work of Dave Chapman inspired the EMUs with the ball, locking into the forward line at every opportunity.
Thanks to some top-up players from other clubs, Jon Beach finally found someone willing to kick it to him, and he repaid the trust with four majors for the day, along with some well-rehearsed goal celebrations.
Further up the ground, latecomers Phil Arnott and Craig Danswan gave plenty of drive in what was an impressive team performance.
When Woodend started to get going, Paul Elso, Adam Richter and Bruce McCahon were impenetrable in defence, repelling repeated attacks from Woodend until the final siren went with the Emus in front by two goals.
While the EMUs didn’t progress to the finals, the carnival was a success for the club, with many players stepping in to assist other sides throughout the day – a testament to the spirit of AFL Masters football.
The formidable Surf-Coast Sharks won the title for the second year in a row, and we need to give a massive shout-out to Mark Davidson, who umpired tirelessly throughout the carnival.
The EMUs will hold their presentation night this Saturday, September 6 at Echuca Workers Club, and although the club is starting to look towards next year, training continues throughout the off-season every Wednesday evening at 6.
New players and well-wishers are always welcome, or get in touch via the club’s Facebook page.
