Banyule Friendly

No, it's not an April Fool's joke.  On the first of April, a "scoop" of Hobsons Bay Pelicans were up early and flew north west to the Macleod Recreation and Fitness Centre to play as special guests of the Banyule Walking Football Hub.  Check out their web site: https://activeseniorsleague.com.au/

Alex and his crew of a dozen players gave us a warm welcome when we arrived.  Helen led us through an impressive series of warm up stretches and exercises.  Alex explained the house rules:

1. Any players from both sides can enter the goal semi-circle
2. Scoring shots can only be attempted from the top third of the court
3. Corners are taken a metre forward of the backline
4. Attackers must vacate the top third of the court when the goalie is kicking in.

We started with a Pelicans vs Banyule 5 a side match, and quickly adapted to these variants (although your correspondent had great difficulty actually crossing that yellow semi-circle!).  After 20 minutes the hosts came away with a 2-1 win.  Well played everyone.

After a quick drinks break we then had a further 3 matches with mixed players and mixed teams - tagging Kon gave me an extensive workout.

The two hours passed quickly and all us Pelicans had a great time - the Banyule crew play in a very friendly spirit.  We then kicked on with them at the Watsonia RSL where $20 buys you a Tradies Lunch comprising a steak sanger or burger with chips and a schooner - great value at a very pleasant venue.

Thank you @Alex and @Banyule - we had a blast and must do it again.