Phil Ghasseb (pictured at last month’s Manila Cup), reports on last weekend’s match between the Vietnam Swans and AFL Masters.
Phil Ghasseb, the Swannies Most Determined Player of 2012, was there on Saturday for the match against the AFL Masters in Saigon.
Phil was one of 11 players acknowledged for playing his last game for the Swannies as a resident of Vietnam.
Below, in yet another stunning piece of brilliant journalism for the Swannies, Phil provides us with a match report that reflects his playing style: all guns blazing.
Last Saturday saw a Vietnam Swans side enjoy an emphatic victory over a travelling AFL Masters team from Oz. It was also a farewell game for many Swannies who will head back home or other places to broaden their horizons.
The Masters were not a team to take for granted. Many of their players displayed skills that I’m sure would have troubled opponents during their heydays. For the Swannies, there were outstanding performances from the old firm including Dueksy, Dave.O, Revo, Billy, The Milner Boys, Hornblower, Dirty Brian and… yours truly, Phil G.
During the breaks, Coach Andy pleaded with his boys to congratulate goal kickers and play makers when they had produced great work – a high five here and a caress on the backside there. High fives were good enough for me.
The backline was solid all day with run outs from Nathan Milner, Dave.O and Hornblower; on the wings were Dueksy, Nicko Shiells and Sean Milner; and up to the forward line which consisted of Revo, Billy and Moggy – all taking very strong marks.
Big Luke Miller battled all day (after making his comeback from injury which has sidelined him since before ANZAC Weekend), helped by Mr Powell (Koch), who is evidently off for a couple months of sailing and sun. Good efforts also by American Michael with his half a possession and his best mate, Kurt.
A few new faces showed glimpses of talent which, I’m sure, will keep the coach and Captain-elect, Billy, happy in the future.
The current crop of Swannies who are set to leave Vietnam.
Finally, it was nice to sing the Swannies’ club song in which everyone knew the first line and the rest was sung by Revo on his own (you really do embarrass me sometimes Swannies… ).
Well done Dave.O for taking out BOG (which included no hard ball gets) who made good use with the ball (once he had received it from the hard ball getters).
To all those leaving, it’s been great playing with you. You are all great blokes and will not be forgotten.
I myself dished out a lot of mockery and teasing on a consistent basis as well as a gentle shirt-front, but I really will miss each and every one of your individual characteristics and traits. A truly great Club run very well by Fabbo who has never a bad word in his bones to say about anybody, hence the reason the Swannies are such an enjoyable team to play for.
Good luck with everything boys. Someone take the reins on Vietnam Cupid (Fabbo) and bless you all.
See you at Moggy’s for a cheeky glass of non-alcoholic wine next Saturday.
Final Score: Vietnam Swans 17. 8. 110 def. AFL Masters 7. 6. 48
Photos – First photos are available here (and for the 2013 Manila Cup, click here).
Do you “Like” the Swannies? (Nah, I love ‘em!) Then join the conversation and “Like” the all new Viet Nam Swans Facebook page – click on the Link n Like.
Footnote: In the growing traditions of TMSFs (Too Many Swannies Functions… are never enough), next Saturday, 8 June, the Swannies in Saigon will be hosting a monster farewell function for our departing players. Catering will be provided by Club Sponsor, Alfresco’s.
