“It was unreal,” centre Campbell Graham enthused.

“The boys came out and did a captain’s run yesterday (Friday) and were really impressed.”

After the match, hundreds of fans spilled onto the ground to grab autographs.

“It was great to see so many people here,” Souths’ coach Wayne Bennett said.

“The crowd’s been wonderful, I think it’s been a great day for everyone.”

Albury Sportsground was beaten for last year’s Ovens and Murray Football League grand final by Wangaratta’s Norm Minns Oval.

After two poor years of crowds at Lavington Sportsground, albeit one marred by rain, the decider bounced back with 7146 fans at a superbly presented complex.

However, O and M officials would have to wonder whether Albury is worth a shot after the bumper crowd of around 5000 watched a foreign game in mid-February.