A big crowd gathered before Saturday’s RDFL clash between Diggers Rest and Rupertswood to see two eager sides do battle in the AFL International Cup.
But for those present, many of whom cheered both France and Indonesia, the match at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve wasn’t about who won – it was about watching two teams really enjoy their football.
PICTURE GALLERY: AFL International Cup: France v Indonesia
Some supporters waved streamers or had their faces painted in the French or Indonesian colours as the two teams looked for their first win in the 18-team competition.
In the end the tall, strong marking French team was too good for the running Indonesians. Neither team was afraid of the ball, attacking contests without a thought for themselves.
The Indonesian players ferociously tackled their opponents, many of them twice their size. By the end of the match, everyone was cheering for the Indonesians to kick a goal.
They got extremely close on two occasions, only to hit the post.
The French won 16.14 (110) to 0.4 (4) to finish fifth in their pool. The Indonesians finished last in their group at the end of the round-robin games.
The next round of competition will be played on Tuesday, with France taking on Canada and Indonesia facing Sweden.
The South African team, which has a relationship with Rupertswood, won all three of its games to finish on the top of its pool. South Africa is one of four teams that can win the title, sitting third after the preliminary matches. It will take on Ireland for a place in the final.
