Old Lions ready to put on a show
Chris Johnson, Xavier Clarke and Mal Michael will all be part of an EDFL blockbuster on ANZAC Day at Avondale Heights.
Johnson - who has performed the role of playing/coach for EDFL club Avondale Heights over the past couple of seasons - will line-up alongside former Lions wingman Xavier Clarke and Sydney Swans Premiership forward Michael O’Loughlin in what looms as a local football blockbuster.
O’Loughlin could prove the wildcard after being coerced to make a one-time-only appearance by his good mates.
Johnson, Clarke, O’Loughlin and their chargers will face local rivals Aberfeldie - whose team is headlined by three-time Lions Premiership full-back Mal Michael.
Michael will be joined in the strong Aberfeldie side by Damien Peverill and Courtney Johns who both spent their heyday at Essendon.
Despite Avondale Heights’ ordinary start to the 2012 EDFL season, Johnson believes the local blockbuster should draw a big crowd.
“We might all far from our peak these days, but it should still be really good contest,” Johnson said.
“The recruitment of Micky O’Loughlin for this game is huge. We just hope it’s enough to help get us over the line.”
If the high-profile line-up isn’t enough of a drawcard for Melbourne-based Lions fans, the match will also serve as an opportunity to pay respects for ANZAC Day.
Both clubs will pay tribute to the sacrifice of the servicemen and women of Australia, and celebrate the ANZAC spirit with the playing of the Last Post and Australian National Anthem.
The ANZAC Day match is scheduled to begin at 2:15pm - with live entertainment planned for after the game.
The full details are as follows:
EDFL Premiere Division: Round 3
Avondale Heights v Abercrombie
Wednesday 25 April 2012 - ANZAC Day
Canning Street, Avondale Heights @ 2:15pm