BRENDAN Fevola has made an unforgettable debut for Yarrawonga.
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The former AFL star kicked seven goals, was reported and sent off in the Pigeons’ thrilling draw with Lavington yesterday.
Former coach Craig Ednie had an opportunity to win the match for Yarrawonga after the siren, but from 45 metres out on a tight angle could manage just a single point.
An estimated 8000 people flocked to Mulwala’s Lonsdale Reserve to see the two-time Coleman medallist in action.
While his spectacular marking and accurate kicking for goal proved a highlight, attention from the crowd reached boiling point when Fevola — who was involved in a number scuffles throughout the game — was reported by boundary umpire Darren Mann for striking Josh Hamilton in the second quarter.
Hamilton didn’t return after half-time, however, the former Carlton and Brisbane star was not worried about the incident.
Neither Lavington nor Yarrawonga had last night asked for the incident to be heard by the tribunal.
“It wouldn’t be country footy without it,” Fevola said after the game.
“The crowd love it.
“No one was hurt.
“I was reported in the second quarter so I don’t know why I didn’t go off then.
“I don’t know what he was doing.
“Maybe he just wants to get his name in the paper.
“The bloke tried to clean me up and came off second best.
“Hopefully I get off.”
The Pigeons take on Wodonga Raiders at Birallee Park next Saturday, a match Fevola hasn’t ruled out playing in despite signing for only home games.
The former AFL champion said he thoroughly enjoyed his first Ovens and Murray outing.
Adam Butler, Matt Lee and new coach James Saker all spent time opposed to the 623-goal AFL veteran.
“It’s a great standard of footy,” Fevola said.
“It’s tough and blokes just go hard at the ball.
“It’s what AFL footy used to be.
“It’s just good to go out and play footy again.
“I’m only 31 and I think I’ve still got plenty of good footy left in me.
“Country footy came back with a big bang today and hopefully it can continue for the rest of the season.”
