MPFNL 2023: Edi-Asp to play Division 2 blockbuster in foreign territory

Edithvale-Aspendale has given up home ground advantage ahead of its potentially finals-shaping clash with a fierce rival. Here’s why.

Michael Meehan snaps a goal for Edithvale-Aspendale. He leads the competition goal table with 38. Picture: Valeriu Campan

They’ll be enemies for a few hours on Saturday, but long-time rivals Edithvale-Aspendale and Chelsea have been getting along well this season.

Before the season started the Eagles and Seagulls struck a deal to play both of its matches at Chelsea’s home ground, agreeing to split the profits.

With Edi-Asp’s pavilion knocked down and a new one under construction, it made sense to play the local derby at Chelsea, which has all facilities available.

“We thought we weren’t going to have a premises — it’s actually been okay with the tents and marquees — but we thought if it’s raining the gate and bar and canteen, basically everything, is going to be split fifty-fifty,” Edi-Asp president Peter O’Connor said.

“It’s been good to work with another club. It’s worked well, it’s been good.”

The politeness will be put on hold for a while on Saturday when the clubs clash in a crucial match which could decide a finals berth in MPFNL Division 2.

Edi-Asp is in fifth spot with a 7-5 record, while Chelsea is a game behind on 6-6.

Chelsea could draw level with the Eagles by winning on Saturday.

Flashback to 2007: Tempers flare in a typically hard-fought Chelsea and Edithvale-Aspendale contest.

Edi-Asp and Chelsea have one of the strongest and longest rivalries in local football.

“We like beating Chelsea don’t worry about that,” O’Connor said.

“The rivalry is massive and it’s always existed because obviously they’re closest to us.”

The clubs will play for the Baker-Hart Medal on Saturday.

The game also pits the competition’s top-two goal kickers against each other, Edi-Asp’s Michael Meehan, who has booted 38 majors, and Chelsea sharp shooter Jesse Davies (36).

Edi-Asp knocked off ladder leaders Karingal last weekend and O’Connor said the Eagles were gathering momentum.

“The culture is magnificent, it’s really, really good at the moment, the club,” he said.

Edi-Asp coach Paul McCormack said his side was growing in belief after being relegated from Division 1 last season.

“We got bashed from pillar to post last year, we only won one game,” he said.

“So it takes a while for blokes to learn to win again.”