Footy is like a religion in Lao

Hanoi and Saigon are about to enter their final week of preparation prior to the long awaited clash between the Vietnam Swans and Lao Elephants.

Yesterday, Charlie, the coach of the north was imploring the “brave mighty Swans” to get to training. WIth only last night’s and next week’s training sessions in Hanoi, “it’s time to step up and get out and support the Club on the track”. Stirring words.

Charlie then added that for anyone who missed footy training the previous week, “Mr Tuong showed us an excellent German Bia Hoi on the lake opposite the stadium. Spot on Tuong – a footy player if ever I saw one.”

Meanwhile, in Saigon, the last training session will be held at RMIT tomorrow at 3pm.

Confirmed players from Hanoi include: Mark Willy Williams, Patty Nickol, Charlie Williams, Mick Francis and Daniel Kindness.

Joining them from HCMC are: Drew Franklin, Sam Grigg, Gus McEwin, Scott Stacey, Phil Johns, Shannon Leahy, Nick Shiels, Greg Armstrong and possibly Matt Johns.