A PASSIONATE address from legendary coach Laurie Burt last night fired up the Ovens and Murray squad ahead of tomorrow’s crunch clash with the Hampden league.
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Burt, who coached Wangaratta Rovers to four premierships, told the players they represented every person who followed the league.
The O and M Hall of Fame member said he was sick and tired of people telling him the league had dropped off.
“What irks me is that people think the competition has slipped,” Burt told the players after a final training run at Norm Minns Oval.
“We haven’t — the league is just as good, if not better, than when we were around.
“We all know we’re not No. 4 or five, not even No. 2.
“We are No. 1 — but it’s up to you boys to prove it over the next couple of years.”
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Fev has shared his thoughts on the upcoming interleague clash with Border Mail reporter Jake Bourke. His VIDEO INTERVIEW will be released at midday.
The league’s final 22 was unveiled, with Corowa-Rutherglen’s Jamie Seymour the unlucky man to miss a spot in the team.
Yarrawonga champion Craig Ednie will captain the team for the second year running, with Albury co-coach Daniel Maher his deputy.
Jack Di Mizio’s hand injury won’t stop him representing the league for the first time.
Coach Brendan Fevola said Burt’s speech was everything he’d hoped for and more.
“When I first got the job I straight away said I wanted one of the league legends to speak in the lead up,” Fevola said.
“He nailed it.
“It just shows you what interleague means to people.
“The boys know that now.
“We aren’t playing for ourselves.
“We are representing a lot of people.”
Tomorrow’s clash starts at 2.45pm, with all profits made on the day going toward’s James McQuillan’s future fund.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children and concession card holders.
