James Murphy
THE time-honoured tradition of South Gambier and North Gambier playing on Anzac Day will continue today for their Round 1 meeting.
This year the Demons will host the match at Blue Lake Sports Park, with the home team eager to secure the bragging rights again in both football and netball.
South finished 2023 as minor premiers in the football but eventually fell at the final hurdle against Millicent in the grand final.
After a couple of years on the brink of a premiership, the club will have a point to prove as it enters the first round of the Western Border competition.
However, the Demons have had plenty of player movement over the off-season and it remains to be seen what they will deliver this afternoon.
The Tigers on the other hand are arguably the most settled A Grade lineup in the league, with minimal losses and a couple of handy pickups.
As such a close encounter could unfold and spectators should be in for a treat.
On the netball courts South will also look to defend its Anzac Day win from last year.
That result came as an upset, after many years of North supremacy on the traditional day.
Both teams have lost some experience from last year and will test some new-look combinations.
Another tight tussle could unfold, but North will still be favoured for the win.
As always, footballers will be playing for the Tony Casadio Medal and the best netballer on court will receive the Shirley Underwood Medal.
The A Grade football is scheduled for a 2.20pm start, following the Reserves football at 12.15pm.
The netball is to be played at 2.30pm.
