An experience difficult to equal
This year's Western Desert Shield match proved to be the closest and most exciting in recent years, with the game ending in a draw.
24 July 2009
It was a long few days for the boys, leaving their communities and enduring a 20-hour bus ride to Perth, some for the first time.
Both teams settled in very well at Point Walter Recreation Camp, where the facilities provided a great environment for bonding and team building.
For the first time the two teams stayed together, which gave both teams a respect for and acknowledgement of one another and the shield Match was played in good spirits.
The game itself was played at a fast pace, in an almost goal-for-goal fashion.
There were plenty of silky skills on display with some of the Western Desert Warriors opting to play barefoot after the first quarter.
No one side got more than two goals in front of the other, which was always going to mean the match was destined to have a nail bitting finish.
The end result Ngarda Goannas 9.5 (59), Western Desert Warriors 9.5 (59).
The draw was a perfect result for what was a very competitive and strongly-fought match, with both teams and coaching staff relieved and excited about the end score.
There is now a very healthy rivalry between the two camps, and I look forward to being a part of the next match.
Victor Bellotti
Indigenous Sports Development Officer
DSR Pilbara
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