EDFL: Callum Symons’ ‘emotional’ goal in Aberfeldie’s thrilling win

Callum Symons first senior goal was an “emotional” one as he paid tribute to his cousin who was killed in the Hunter Valley bus tragedy. Aberfeldie coach Adam Marcon opens up on the moment.

Aberfeldie’s win against East Keilor was as emotional as they come.

The Essendon District league powerhouse rallied behind young gun Callum Symons whose cousin Kane was one of the 10 people who lost their lives in the Hunter Valley bus tragedy.

Symons spoke about the relationship he shared with his cousin pre-match with his grandfather also in attendance.

And it was only fitting Symons kicked his first senior goal in the last quarter to all but seal the 11.10 (76) to 6.9 (45) victory in tough conditions on Saturday.

Aberfeldie coach Adam Marcon described Symons’ goal as one of the “highlights of the year” with his side also wearing black armbands in memory of Kane.

Kane Symons was honoured by his cousin Callum with a goal for Aberfeldie. Picture: Carlton Park Surf Life Saving Club

“It was a very emotional day for Cal as he came back into the senior side,” Marcon said.

“He spoke really well in the rooms before the game and him kicking the sealer was a really special moment. We say he’s one of the more experienced guys but he’s been around the club forever.

“I’m really happy to see him have that moment after a really tough week. We’re going to keep supporting wherever we can.”

After leading at every break, there were signs Aberfeldie were beginning to find some of their best footy which they haven’t been able to produce enough this season.

Young ruckman Jack Middleton was impressive as he went to head-to-head with East Keilor duo Chris Stewart and Matt Dennis.

Meanwhile, Max Simpson added “real stability” down back according to Marcon.

Jack Middleton impressed for Aberfeldie. Picture: Stuart Milligan

“I thought Jack had a really honest game and battled hard all day,” he said.

“Dennis and Stewart aren’t just two of the better rucks in the league but in local footy in general. For a young lad, I thought he put together a really good performance.

“Max played a key role for us and helped to control the ball out of defence. We’re still exploring all sorts of unavailabilities from injuries and suspensions to European holidays.

“We’ve got a lot of young guys in the side so we’re learning a lot about ourselves but we’re going to keep backing ourselves in.”

Abers now sit sixth on the ladder with a record of four wins and five losses after nine games.

Importantly, they’ll start to welcome back key players for the second half of the season.

That includes former Essendon Doutta Stars forward Karl Brown who hasn’t played since round one.

“We’re just focusing on effort at the moment,” Marcon said.

“Finals is still a very distant discussion for us, I think there’s still going to be a few ups and downs along the way this season.”

Aberfeldie will now turn its attention to a clash with Avondale Heights away from home.