Portarlington to host Drysdale in Anzac Day clash in the BFL

When the players line up, the supporters fall silent, and the bugle sounds around the ground, the hairs on Pete O’Connor’s neck stand up.

Captains from six local footy clubs will meet at Johnstone Park to promote the three local footy matches to be played on Sunday, Anzac Day. BFL. Mitch McGuire (Drysdale) and Will Foott (Portarlington) Picture: Mark Wilson

WHEN the players line up, the supporters fall silent, and the bugle sounds around the ground, the hairs on Pete O’Connor’s neck stand up.

The Portarlington coach is looking forward to his side’s match against Drysdale more than most, with the two clubs set to meet on Anzac Day.

O’Connor said the community that surrounded the club deserved a successful day after the months of preparation.

Mitch McGuire (Drysdale) and Will Foott (Portarlington) Picture: Mark Wilson

“It’s always a special day for both clubs, the community and the whole Anzac movement,” he said.

“The club’s worked really hard, and over the years it has become such an established event, because for such a small community on the Bellarine, it’s a tribute for all the work the community puts in.”

Both Portarlington and Drysdale will face a short five-game turnaround before playing in round five.

But O’Connor said spectacle of the day made the difficulties of the fixture worth it.

“It’s the sort of thing, that even though it might be difficult, it’s worth it to be involved,” he said.

. Mitch McGuire (Drysdale) and Will Foott (Portarlington) Picture: Mark Wilson

“For non-professional players it’s hard because they don’t have the time to do the rehab and the recovery, which can make it hard.”

Drysdale coach Ben Carmichael said it was “a huge privilege” to play on one of Australia’s most sacred days.

“We love playing against Portarlington, they’re a fantastic football club, and we’re extremely grateful that we get to play on such a momentous day for our country,” he said.

“We love sharing it with them, it’s a real showcase for the communities that get involved, and I’m sure the crowd will be treated to a cracking game of footy.”

Originally published as Portarlington to host Drysdale in Anzac Day clash in the BFL