This column has started out being conversational, supportive, recognition of the efforts of players even when the results don't go our way. It understands the difficulties involved in suburban football and has attempted to provide some blow-by-blow accounts of what transpired in a game, often with a satirical, humorous edge. Funny for some I'm told. I'm sorry, that won't happen this week.
 
The 2s were inspirational in their endeavour, and again, the result came their way. It would have been easy after some of the defeats early in the season, to concede, accept, roll over. Not this mob, well done boys, more to come.
 
I have only fleetingly referred to my five pages of notes in writing this.
 
What was dished up by the senior side in the last 20 minutes of Saturday's contest with Old Geelong was simply not acceptable. To a large degree, it reflected where the season sits, but to concede in the manner we did was extremely hurtful to those that care. And we must realise now the challenge that confronts the club over the coming weeks. Anything less than maximum effort on and off the track won’t cut it.
 
We can look for reasons, for statistical analysis, for opinion, but be humbled by the fact that the opposition showed more oomph, more system, more desire, more will to win than we did in the last stanza. The game was there to be won. After a tight first half in which we led, we dominated the third, and were on top by 13 points early in the last. Signs were good immediately after the final huddle.
 
Why the collapse? Football is not an easy game, but it frequently requires effort beyond the norm. We can look at our age profile, our youth, our paucity of seasoned performers, but to use an expression I hate using- ‘it is what it is’. You must find a way, using the example of those who put body and mind on the line.
 
Injuries and unavailability are a curse. I understand, football in the 'amo's is not a profession, it's an interest, but is has to be an interest that has passion, desire, team spirit and self-sacrifice in the mix. Without it, you may as well be playing trugo in the backyard, or bowls at the club next door. Or watching on the hill with those who can't or won't play. Always give yourself the best chance of playing and contributing.
 
There has to be a harder edge, with every individual taking responsibility for providing it. You have a fantastic supporter base; it encourages and provides at every opportunity. The hard part of me wonders why you are clapped off when you lose, or at half time when you're in front. It's because they love you, love the club, they want to see you with a winner's smile. After Saturday at Como, you blokes owe a lot back.
 
Apologies to those who gave their all for the entire game. No names, no pack drill, that's what should be reasonably expected of you. A special mention however to Sunny Brazier for his nomination as the round’s Rising Star. It comes as no surprise to those of us who know him and have seen him play before. He is continuing to progress his game to higher levels.  
 
Some say nice guys don't win football games. We have the chance this Saturday against Parkdale to make some very obvious public statements. Commitment to the cause, raw courage, intelligent game sense, support of the coach’s message. Nice guys can win football games!
 
Guy Gorilla.

Photos of the team in the Fitzroy heritage colours, by ACU student, Ellie Mitsch.