Emotions were high on Saturday in the Ballarat Football League.
Melton footballer Billy Sullivan died in the lead up to the round, leaving the local sporting community in shock.
Sullivan, who had played every senior match this season, had previously played with Melton South and Darley as well and played junior football at Bacchus Marsh.
Melton on its Facebook page said that Sullivan had become part of the furniture of the club in his first season there.
“Billy is a much loved character and has played every senior game this season. It has been great watching him out there with his cousin and best mate Brody [Sullivan],” the club said.
The Bloods were able to get a win for Sullivan, beating the Sunbury Lions in a top of the table clash at Clarke Oval.
The clash lived up to the hype with the Bloods getting home in an arm wrestle, 8.11 (59)-8.7 (55).
Ryan Carter kicked four goals in the win.
Lachlan Watkins was named their best, while Brody Sullivan was also named in the Bloods best.
The Bloods remain on top, percentage ahead of East Point with the Lions now in third spot.
Billy Sullivan’s other two teams, Darley and Melton South, played each other.
“Billy was a much loved Panther who played all of his junior football for Melton South before going on to the Western Jets,” Melton South said on social media.
“Billy was an integral part of our senior side, remembered for his dashing play on the wing. COVID and an ACL were costly for Billy and us as a club as we missed some of Billy’s best years.
“But it wasn’t just on the field that Billy was loved. Off the field, with his infectious smile and cheeky sense of humour, he was always fun to be around. People were better for having Billy in their lives.”
The Devils said Sullivan joined the club last year and was part of the senior team for some time although injuries cut his season short.
“Billy was always kind, caring and wanted to make sure everyone was having a good time,” the club said.
“He was always seen with a smile on his face, with his infectious grin and giggle bringing joy to those who were lucky enough to see it.”
On Saturday, the Devils came away with a big win, winning 26.9 (165)-7.5 (47).
Billy Myers kicked nine goals in the win.
Elsewhere, it was a tough day out for Bacchus Marsh which had a loss to Redan.
The Lions getting the win, 16.10 (106)-8.6 (54).
