Probably almost as spectacular was the 10,000 strong crowd to watch the local champion team train. “It doesn’t surprise me…..” said a muscle-flexing and very well tanned Mita Hamilton to his adoring fans.

An enthusiastic group of 25 players fronted for what was rumoured to be a very vigorous workout. The night begun with Boy-Lo cowering under an umbrella from the tumbling downpour of a sweeping rainfall while the true Nasties battled it out in a light game of touch. Scorelines aside, the deft touch of the football by the players showed they will be right for Saturday’s game against what is expected to be a spirited Kiwi side. Flynnie and Pete Johnno led the way with Mick Watts the exceptional standout. “Let’s hope QF1 didn’t play his grand final tonight…..” quipped Skip McGrath while practicing his flick pass.

After about 20 minutes the players were called in by Coach Trollope to run through a few drills. The first exercise had the players running in what can only be described as an ‘unnatural position’ and questioned the Coach on its viability although much laughter was had during the session at each others expense. It was then onto some stretches before some tackling practice then clear-out drills. It was during this that Coach Trollope and the players themselves realized this would be enough for the year and finished the evening with another game of touch football.

In a close encounter that had both sides pressuring each other, it was Flynnie’s side with superstar players like Deaks and Tony Smythe that were victors 5-4. “…..we are now ready for Saturday” announced a very focused Hoff. Wendell appeared to run freely and will be right to play a major role on Saturday after a difficult season for the glamour back. “I’m looking forward to the weekend including the game of rugby…..” Wendell told fellow teammates. Pup never stopped all night while the players only had admiration for Dundee who is competing in both Rugby and Athletic’s at the World Masters Games in Sydney this week.

Afterwards, Legless greeted the players with sausage sandwiches and a beer to cap off a great year. Announcements were made and the “ASHES” t-shirts were unveiled to the awestruck players. Then the historic presentation to Cowboy who won another Golden Boy-Lo thanks to him leaving the prized timber case at the Newport Clubhouse following the Chillean match 4 weeks ago. “After drinking whatever I drank that night, how was I to remember anything….” Cowboy pleaded to the raptuous applause following the announcement. It is onto golf in the morning for many of the Nasties with the Kiwi tourists followed by the game on Saturday and dinner with a Pittwater Cruise on Sunday to complete a busy weekend.

Onwards & Upwards.