The Vietnam Swans will be looking to get their 2015 AFL Asia campaign off to a good start when they welcome the Malaysian Warriors back to Hanoi for their first game on the lush green fields of the United Nations International School (UNIS) since 2011, thanks to the generous support of Game Day sponsors The Republic, Vietnam Backpackers and the Moose and Roo.
The day will start with an Auskick clinic for all kids aged 6-12, to be coached by Swans legends Mick Francis and Dan Lucardie.
The Swans and Warriors have built a friendly but competitive rivalry over many years, with the Hanoi Swans first touring Malaysia in 2005 and the Warriors returning the tour the year after, in a game that was also played at UNIS in 2006! Since then there have been many ‘friendlies’ with both teams now committing to an annual home and away series, with the winner to be decided at the conclusion of the second game scheduled to be played in Penang, Malaysia in September.
Hanoi Swans vs Malaysia, UNIS 2006
The last time these two teams met in July 2014 in Kuala Lumpur, the Warriors gave an injury depleted Swans an old fashioned touch up, winning 120-50. This was a massive 159 point turnaround following the Swans 100-11 ANZAC Day thrashing of the Warriors.
Both teams come into the game in good form, with the Warriors impressively defeating Thailand in Phuket in their season opener, while the Swans had a solid run in the inaugural Nth vs Sth Phil John’s Cup in Danang on March 7.
The game will likely feature many new faces for the Swans, with plenty of new recruits impressing in Danang, including a strong Irish contingent from the Saigon Gaels and Viet Celts Gaelic Clubs.
It should be a great day for all the family so bring your throw-rug and footy gear down to UNIS and enjoy some of Asia’s best footy action!
After game function at The Republic from 6pm.
Please note no alcohol is to be consumed on UNIS grounds.
1.30pm – Auskick (All kids 6-12 welcome)
2.30pm – Swans vs Warriors
