VFL football returns to Bendigo this Saturday night when Geelong plays Collingwood at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Less than nine months after Bendigo Gold played its final home game in the competition, the Cats will return state league football to the region in the first of two VFL games at the QEO in 2015.
Geelong VFL Manager Troy Selwood, himself drafted from the region along with his three brothers Joel Adam and Scott, is looking forward to returning to Bendigo in the battle of the two AFL standalone sides.
“We are excited to be taking the VFL back to Central Victoria and providing local supporters the opportunity to enjoy a great game of state league football,” Selwood said.
“To have our AFL and VFL players compete on the famous Queen Elizabeth Oval, in front of hopefully a few thousand people, will be a fantastic experience for them.
“It is a great promotion for the Victorian Football League, with both Geelong and Collingwood looking forward to showcasing the elite talent within our playing lists.”
Two former Gold players are likely to return to QEO this Saturday night in Matt Farrelly (Geelong) and Jesse Wallin (Collingwood), both named on a wing for their respective new clubs.
Selwood has been impressed with the form of Farrelly so far this season, and hopes he overcomes a slight ankle strain against Richmond last round to return to the QEO.
“A great story to come out of our off season recruiting is that we have been able to provide an opportunity for Matt to continue his VFL career,” Selwood said.
“Matt jumped at the opportunity to relocate himself down to the Geelong region and commit to our VFL program.
“His work ethic, dedication and passion to improve all areas of his individual game has seen Matt rise through the ranks of our VFL list to become one of the most consistent performers in the first month of the 2015 VFL season.
“His ability to run and carry the football out of defence whilst at the same time locking down on a small forward has really pleased Paul Hood and our coaching staff.”
In further positive news for the region, Bendigo Pioneer and NAB AFL Academy Level 2 member Tom Cole will play as 23rd player for Geelong.
Match starts at 6pm Saturday night. Geelong Cats members (Home Team) – Free | Collingwood Magpies members (Away Team) – $5 | Adult – $10 | Concession/Pension – $5 | Children U15 – Free
The second game to be played in Bendigo will be Essendon versus Footscray in Round 19.
Last Modified on 08/05/2015 14:18