Melbourne Vs Geelong: Friday April 8th, 2005
Went to see Melbourne destroy Geelong at the wonderful M.C.G. There really is nothing like seeing a game of Australian Football at
this venue .. it's just freaking spectacular.
The missing section opposite where we were sitting is the current construction
site for the last remaining part of the new Northern stand. The Southern stand
was completely replaced about 15 years ago, and now the Northern Stand is
being replaced in sections.
Australian Football is so completely different from American sports. Firstly
it is just non-stop action. Secondly the game itself generates an amazing
amount of excitement .. so there is no need for goofy organists, or cheer-
leaders. Lastly, it really is a 'peoples' game .. we're always sitting near
at least one vulgar, swearing grandma!
Each game starts off with the cheer-squad for each team bringing out
a large banner, through-which the team members
run: (watch a short QuickTime movie). The
cheer-squad is made up from mainly kids, and serious club members.
The game is played as four quarters. Half time is a long 20 minute break,
during which little league kids play on the ground. Quarter and Three-Quarter
time are both quick, the players remain on the field - in fact this is the only time the coach can talk to the whole team! While
a game is in progress, the coach may only send short messages (via a runner)
out to players one at a time. There are no time-outs in Australian Football.
And the part you're all waiting for -
A Goal is scored when the ball is kicked through the two large posts, and is
worth 6 points. A point is scored when the ball is kicked through a big
and small post. The "Goal Umpire" watches the ball carefully and signals
a goal (two flags) or point (one flag).
Melbourne defeated Geelong by almost 10 goals .. it was a fun game!
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