BALRANALD honoured the 100th game of a favourite son with a good win over Tyntynder on Saturday.
The 15.16 (106) to 7.7 (49) win over Tyntynder at Greenham Park was celebrated in style by local fans delighted to see the club secure a win for Dane Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald played for Bendigo Pioneers in the TAC Cup, before heading over to play SANFL for Port Adelaide.
He returned to the Roos in 2007, winning the club’s best and fairest in 2008-09-10 before signing with South Mildura in the Sunraysia league.
His return this year has heralded the rise of the Roos, with a number of players expressly stating a desire to play with Fitzgerald.
After the game he thanked the club for its support throughout his career.
“It was good to play on our home ground today and to have a win like that,” he said.
“Thanks to the club… for helping me throughout my career, I wouldn’t have got where I was without this club.”
Fitzgerald said it was “an honour to wear the blue and white”.
“Every game I have played for this club, I have enjoyed. I’ve enjoyed every moment of it,” he said.
“I love the people around it so thanks to everyone who makes it so enjoyable to be here.”
Fitzgerald offered words of encouragement to the Roos’ loyal band of young stars.
“It’s great playing with the kids and watching you come up and get amongst it… So enjoy it, and enjoy the year,” he said.
Jarryd Stead joined in the party against the Dogs with five goals to mark Fitzgerald’s milestone, while Ben Fuller and Cam Barrett each slotted three.
Bryce Delmenico and Kane Griffiths were among the Roos’ better players.
