HEATHERTON emphatically spoiled the Springvale Districts’ celebration for 300-gamer Rob Burns last Friday night at Springvale Reserve.
It was the first game under lights at the reserve for several years, and it was Heatherton which best adapted to the conditions, running out the 46-point winner in the Southern Football League (SFL) Division Two game.
The disappointment of the loss was compounded, considering club legend Burns was playing in his 300th game. Springvale Districts president Doug Pearce said the game was almost an anti-climax after such a troubled build-up.
“The adrenalin in the rooms before the game was great. It was a shame the boys couldn’t win it for Burns,” he said.
Pearce said the night game attracted a fair crowd, but had the potential to be a lot bigger.
“I really think the SFL could have done a lot more in terms of helping the club market and expose the event,” he said. “SFL didn’t really get well and truly behind the night.”
The night-time spectacle provided a financial gain for the club, but Pearce said the league needed to work more closely with clubs to ensure their survival.
“The league needs to look beyond the people who go to SFL on Saturdays if they want recognition,” he said. “Things have to be done differently.”
Another night game at Springvale Reserve has yet to be scheduled, but Pearce said it was a future possibility.
“The winter months make it colder, but we’d like to do it again,” he said.
The club is holding a tribute night for Burns on Saturday, 27 May at the Springvale Town Hall.
A $40 ticket includes a three-course meal, guest speakers and a live band.
Call Tony Cooper on 0421 322 472 to secure a seat.
