MPFNL Division 2: Rye ends 22-game losing streak with rousing win over Hastings

A heartwarming story has emerged from Rye’s drought-breaking win — and the role Portarlington footy club played in it.

Clayton Barnes takes a kick for Rye. Picture: Valeriu Campan

A heartfelt video from a Barwon league club has inspired Rye to its first win in almost two years.

Rye surged clear to beat Hastings by 26 points on Saturday, ending a 22-game losing streak that stretched back to 2022 in the Mornington Peninsula league’s Division 2.

Rowley Reserve was pumping on Saturday night — and across the bay at Portarlington footy club they were also raising a glass to Rye.

The two clubs — both nicknamed the Demons — now have a close bond after Portarlington president Steve Cogger sent Rye a video of encouragement during the week.

Like Rye, Portarlington had gone through a long losing streak (68 games) before breaking through for a rousing win last month.

Rye assistant coach Andrew Brady read of Portarlington’s story and contacted Cogger, searching for a left-of-centre way to motivate the Rye players.

Portarlington celebrate. Picture: Mark Wilson

Cogger was so moved by the call for help that he filmed a nine-minute video, filled with emotion and outlining his club’s journey through a testing period, and sent it to Rye.

The video was uploaded to the Rye players page and Cogger’s heartfelt words were listened to intently in the lead up to Saturday’s game.

In the video, Cogger spoke of the effect Portarlington’s breakthrough win had on the local community.

“Grown men had tears in their eyes,’’ he said.

“It meant a hell of a lot to the town.’’

He urged Rye to stick at it. “You can turn it around and if you can turn it around it’s the excitement and exhiliration you achieve by changing that result to winning.’’

Cogger not only did the video but also bought a Rye membership, pledging his allegiance to his “other Demons’’.

Brady said all at Rye were appreciative of Cogger’s support.

“It’s community spirit…everyone working together for a common cause,” Brady said.

“He had a strong message in there. He went over and beyond.’’

Rye coach Brendon Moore.

Rye sing their song on Saturday.

Rye coach Brendon Moore said his young side began like a rocket on Saturday, kicking five goals in the first quarter to establish a 19-point lead.

“To get off to a good start was really good,’’ he said.

“To be able to put scoreboard pressure on which we haven’t been able to do was crucial.’’

Jess Hawkins was dynamic for Rye with seven goals, while captain Campbell Robbins got the first three centre clearances of the game and maintained his intensity throughout.

Rye’s trio of Dandenong Stingrays listed players Henry Hayes, Justin Barnes and Sonny Campbell Farrell were also influential.

“They were great and gave us a lot of bite, they’re quick and they use the ball well,’’ Moore said.

“They’re really good for us.’’

Zach Byrns was also vital for Rye with his experience and leadership, while Kalani Ryan and Tom Hughes, who kicked three goals on his birthday, were prime movers.

More highlights were to come after the game as the Demons celebrated.

Rye’s women’s side played under lights on Saturday night — and made history.

“They won their first game and kicked their first goal,’’ Moore said.

Moore said Rye was ticking boxes on and off the ground and Saturday’s win was good reward for a lot of work.

“It’s just good to have that many people around the club,’’ he said.

“On Thursday night we did a record number of meals (103). It’s good.’’

Cogger’s message about the emotion that comes with a cherished win was spot on. Rye club stalwarts Reg Chadwick, Mick O’Rourke and Colin and Scott Beel were peacock proud on Saturday night.