Fire in the BellyBarely thre
e seconds of playing time was left in the second AFL semi-final between the Sydney Swans and Geelong at the Sydney Cricket Ground on 9 September, 2005. Geelong clung to a 3 point lead. The Cats had played their most committed football for the season. At three-quarter time they led by 17 points. The final quarter became an epic struggle. Sydney's score inched closer and closer to Geelong's. As the seconds ticket away, Geelong supporters prayed for the siren so they might claim victory and set a date with St Kilda the following week for a place in the Grand Final. Then the unthinkable unfolded. In the final play of the night, an inexperienced Geelong ruckman was beaten in a contest in the Swans' forward line. Sydney's Nick Davis, pounced on the ball, got it to foot and goaled. Sydney led by 3 points. Seconds later the wailing siren pierced the night. The Cats' ninth life had expired. Their season was over. Inside the Geelong dressing rooms looks of despair and disbelief covered every face. The deathly silence was punctuated only by hoarsely whispered words of consolation to the gutted players. Shattered Coach Mark Thompson fought his own inner demons as he addressed the team. He wanted to release some of his pent-up frustration, disbelief and disappointment. But he knew his players had given their all. This was not the time for recriminations or blame. Close to midnight the now deserted stadium was about to be closed. The ghosts of the SCG may have noticed a tight Group of Geelong officials talking quietly. Coach, Mark Thompson, CEO, Brian Cook and President, Frank Costa. They were devastated, but they understood that in football only one team wins. They knew their players had played their hearts out. They knew that this night had somehow been destined not to be their night. But on this fateful September night a steely resolve formed in their hearts and guts to ensure their team would amends in 2006 and go all out to return the AFL Premiership Cup to Kardinia Park. |