FIRST-gamer Ben Free was the hero for Hoppers Crossing on Saturday as the Warriors beat Port Melbourne by two points in a Western Region Football division 1 classic.
Free, who has played five reserves games this season, snapped the winner in the final minute, but the drama didn’t end there.
Brad Sutcliffe had a chance to win the game for Port Colts but hit the post. Then, with about 10 seconds left, Steven McAnulty received a free kick 45 metres out after being bumped by Hoppers captain Brad Murphy.
“I bumped into him and he sort of fell over … I was devastated, thinking I’d cost the team,” Murphy said.
But instead of having a shot, McAnulty tried to pass the ball and the siren sounded before it could be marked.
Murphy said it was one of the best wins he had been involved in, particularly as it was Matt Smith’s 250th. “He’s the heart and soul of the footy club,” Murphy said. “I haven’t seen that sort of emotion from a Hoppers game in years.”
There was nothing in the contest all day at Murphy Reserve. Eight points separated the teams at quarter-time, three points at half-time and seven at three-quarter-time, with the Warriors leading at every change.
The win was crucial for Hoppers, moving it a game clear in the top five ahead of St Albans.
“We’re starting to hit our straps and get a bit of belief,” Murphy said. “The next few weeks are vital for us.”
Luke Wilson booted four goals, Smith was best on ground, Rob Wittmer impressed in the ruck, and Brodie Moles had another good game. But the Warriors have lost reigning best-and-fairest Daniel Riosa, who’s now playing at Lara.
