An eerie stillness enveloped the Currie Oval last Saturday, just moments before 2.30pm.
The turf, lush from the morning showers cleared. The oval was bathed in the soft light of the Autumn sun which peeked through a thin veil of clouds. Spectators, clad in team colours, gathered in anticipation and a buzz of excitement was in the air.
The opening game of the 2024 KIFA season and the new Senior start time proved successful, drawing a larger-than-usual crowd, eager to witness the season’s first clash under ideal playing conditions.
The game was a highly anticipated Grand Final rematch between the Grassy Hawks and the Currie Robins, who both fielded a mix of familiar faces and new talent, adding to the intrigue of the match.
The game started with a rucking contest between Ryan Frosi and Jack Worrall, setting the tone for a fiercely competitive match. Grassy immediately pushed forward, with Dale Reed (Reedy) marking just forward of the wing.
Despite their initial push, Grassy struggled to convert their early opportunities, with neither Bryce Haneveer nor Arnold Stellmaker able to capitalise on Reedy’s kick to the top of the square.
Tristan Forrest made his presence felt early in the game, receiving a pass from Ciaran Boyce, and kicking the first minor score of the season. Currie’s coach, Joel Williams, opted for the corridor via Tyler Smith for the kick-in, but Grassy’s defence intercepted the ball before Currie could advance.
Grassy rushed through another behind, with Andrew Johnson (Grinner) showcasing his experience and skill in the early stages of the match. Despite Currie’s efforts to gain possession and control the game, they struggled with their disposal and were only able to register behinds.
Currie managed to break the deadlock when Michael Laskey scored the league’s first goal of the season, much to the delight of the Currie faithful. The first quarter saw most of the play in Grassy’s forward half, with Reedy and Haneveer forming a strong marking set.
Haneveer’s goal at the end of the quarter gave Grassy a boost, but Currie maintained a narrow one-point lead at quarter time. Currie started the second quarter with renewed determination, with Worrall kicking a goal to extend their lead.
They continued to dominate the position game, with Grassy struggling to capitalise on their limited opportunities. Despite their efforts, Currie led by just 6 points at halftime, keeping the game finely poised.
Grassy came out strong in the third quarter, showing a renewed hunger and intensity. Currie’s defence, particularly Stellmaker, proved to be a formidable barrier.
Currie took advantage of the corridor, resulting in goals to Bell and Morris, extending their lead to 40 points by the final break. Grassy opened the final quarter with a quick goal, setting the tone for a thrilling finish.
J Taylor’s defensive efforts in the middle of the ground were crucial for Grassy, as they managed to reduce the deficit to just 4 points midway through the final term.
Currie responded strongly, with Graham and Bellchambers sealing the victory with late goals. The final minutes of the game were intense, with both teams fighting hard for every possession.
When the final siren sounded, Currie emerged victorious, winning by 14 points in what was a thrilling and hard-fought contest.