Fans of Australian football flock to Melbourne at this time of the year. If they can’t get a ticket to the game they can soak up the atmosphere and watch it on the big screen at the Federation Square live site, which is just walking distance from the big stage at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Sitting back and taking it all in was Neil Heywood, a 53-year-old school teacher at St Joseph’s college, who comes from Echuca on the Murray River near Victoria’s border. He’s a St Kilda supporter who has seen his team’s last five appearances in the Grand Final and was at the 1966 match when they won by a point over Collingwood.
“I was nine. I don’t remember much of it but it was a great celebration—the only flag ever. And we will cherish it until about 5 o'clock tomorrow and then it will be game on, celebrations for a year I think.”
Neil, as one can expect from a man in his profession, was rudimentary about the cultural support for the two teams.
“It is a real ABC Grand Final which means that you barrack for anyone but Collingwood—unless you are a Collingwood fan.”
Any sign of the Collywobbles? The Magpies have become famous for choking in finals. However, this year they show no indication of any imbalance. No wobbles.
“Well wait for it,” he said. “The time is right for it. Let’s hope we can win it. It will be great.”
Sitting back and taking it all in was Neil Heywood, a 53-year-old school teacher at St Joseph’s college, who comes from Echuca on the Murray River near Victoria’s border. He’s a St Kilda supporter who has seen his team’s last five appearances in the Grand Final and was at the 1966 match when they won by a point over Collingwood.
“I was nine. I don’t remember much of it but it was a great celebration—the only flag ever. And we will cherish it until about 5 o'clock tomorrow and then it will be game on, celebrations for a year I think.”
Neil, as one can expect from a man in his profession, was rudimentary about the cultural support for the two teams.
“It is a real ABC Grand Final which means that you barrack for anyone but Collingwood—unless you are a Collingwood fan.”
Any sign of the Collywobbles? The Magpies have become famous for choking in finals. However, this year they show no indication of any imbalance. No wobbles.
“Well wait for it,” he said. “The time is right for it. Let’s hope we can win it. It will be great.”
