A loud rendition of the Ardmona team song, one that had not been sung since July 2015, was belted out after Shane Crawford's outfit defeated Longwood 25.22 (172) to 6.9 (45).
Players may have struggled with remembering the words to the song, however, the passion in their voices shook the brick walls at Ardmona Recreation Reserve.
Followed by a big rendition of— Aydin Payne (@AydinPayne) @SCrawf9 “THAT’S WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT!!!” #MMGSport @SheppNewsSport pic.twitter.com/Ua30JosCQAMay 8, 2021
Even if you were unaware of Ardmona's struggles in recent years, one glance of the tears and hugs shared among life-time supporters following the 127-point triumph gave you all the evidence you needed of how important today's victory was to the Bush Cats' clan.
Beloved figure Beau Jackson had a day out with six majors, while Cameron Hall (three) and Paul Scanlon rounded out the better players for Ardmona.
Olympic gold medallist Steve Hooker even got in on the act in his third appearance with the club and showcased his talents in the air.
Crawford may not have promised premierships before the season started, but he did hope to help win Ardmona some games and that's exactly they did in the Kyabram District League round five encounter.
"It was an amazing win for the club. It gives everyone a bit of hope going forward," a proud Crawford said post-match.
"I got a feeling everyone will celebrate tonight. Six years is a long time without being able to sing the song.
"Footy is great. Community football is what it's all about. It's really important we get behind and help these clubs out."
Pick up Monday's News for the full coverage.
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