NWMCA: 10 members of Tierney family unite to play for West Coburg’s Fifth XI
It truly was a family affair when West Coburg’s Fifth XI took to the field recently.
Local Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Sport . Followed categories will be added to My News.
It truly was a family affair when West Coburg’s Fifth XI took to the field in Round 14.
The team, which plays in the North West Metro Cricket Association’s Brian Moss Shield, boasted almost a full complement of one family, reuniting for one last match together.
Ten of the 11 players were related to the Tierney family.
OFF-SEASON HQ: LATEST COACH, PLAYER MOVES IN LOCAL FOOTY
TARGET 1000 CAMPAIGN: HOW YOU CAN HELP COBURG VFL
IS THIS THE BEST BOWLING PERFORMANCE OF THE SUMMER?
CAN DONS HOLD ON TO WIN DROUGHT-BREAKING TITLE?
WHY LOCAL FOOTY GREAT HAS RETURNED TO VERMONT
Team captain Neil Tierney said the idea started when his brother, who lives in Tasmania, flagged an idea that he wanted to play with him one day.
“Then another brother said he would like to be involved as well,” Neil said.
“We went from there and thought we’d try to get all of us involved in one match.”
Neil said all the players — six brothers, three brothers-in-law, one nephew and a family friend all aged between 45 and 65 — had all played cricket at West Coburg “at one stage or another”.
“To try and get 11 guys all available on one Saturday can be hard, but it all fitted pretty well,” he said.
“The club had no problems with it as well, which was good.”
Neil said he was excited to get the chance to play with his family — while a strong contingent was also in attendance to cheer them on.
“It brought the family together,” he said.
“Other nieces and nephews were there, my kids, the extended family — everyone was pulled in for a day like that.
“My mother and father would have been over the moon.
“It means a lot to have this opportunity to play with all your relatives for a game for points.
“The opportunity to get together in a situation like that and play together is fantastic.
“And with one of my younger brothers battling cancer at the moment, it will be really good to do that with him as well.”
Airport West St Christophers made 5-193 batting first in the fixture, with Peter Tierney snaring 3-18 among 10 bowlers used.
The Tierney XI ensured it would be a day to remember by competing a four-wicket triumph in 32.4 overs.
Opener Mark Mickelthwait was bowled for 99, while Robert Tierney made 34 and skipper Neil (31 not out) was at the crease for the winning runs.
“It was good day, long day, really good for everybody,” Neil said.
MORE LOCAL SPORT NEWS
WHY FOOTSCRAY IS OPTIMISTIC DESPITE TOUGH SUMMER
EPPING TASTES SUCCESS IN NORTHERN REGION T20 FINAL
Can Green Gully rebuild deliver finals return?
After a disastrous 2024, Green Gully has made major changes ahead of its 70-year anniversary season. New coach David Chick discusses recruiting and expectations.
Kew school’s American football dream becomes reality
Most students at a Melbourne primary school had never heard of flag football 12 months ago. Now they are preparing to represent Australia alongside American football’s biggest names.