Horsham District hosted the AFL Victoria Community Cup Challenge game at Horsham City Oval on Saturday and won 19.19 (133) to 5.13 (43). 

It was the league’s first interleague success in four years. 

Coach Geoff Burdett was proud of his men and the efforts they put in. 

“It was a great game and from our point of view, as a team, we were happy to play good football and keep the pressure on them,” he said. 

As the first quarter came to an end, it was clear the home side was in control with the scoreboard reading 4.7 (31) to 1.2 (8). 

For the opening five minutes, scores for Colac and District were kept to a minimum as Horsham District’s pressure had the right impact. 

The second quarter is when Horsham District turned it on, scoring eight majors and three minors. 

The side couldn’t have been in a better position at half-time, leading Colac and District 12.10 (82) to 2.6 (18). 

Horsham District had a lull in the third quarter, scoring two majors and five minors. 

Burdett said it was a good chance for the defence to show its class. 

Sam Weddell was sent off early in the third quarter after striking an opposition player in the face. 

“He pushed the player and I think he pushed him in the face,” Burdett said. 

“Look, these things happen but the team stayed together.” 

The game was already won, but Horsham District kept scoring and managed five more majors in the final term to round out the game. 

George Walker of Edenhope-Apsley kicked seven majors for the day while teammate Jason Rae was best on ground. 

“It was a great day for the district,” Burdett said. 

Burdett said he was proud of all the players that donned the green and gold. 

“I couldn’t understand why players wouldn’t want to play,” he said. 

“When you win, it’s like winning a premiership.” 

Ahead of the game, Burdett had aimed to emulate the style of the Southern Mallee Giants’ premiership team. 

“There were some great periods of play and every single one of (the players) performed,” he said.

“Some players were good in the first half and some were good in the second half and that is how you want it. 

“Everybody contributed and that’s what you need.” 

Sam White played a good game in the first half, getting to the ball first, every time. 

“It has been a great day for the Horsham District Football League and hopefully we can go another step next year,” Burdett said.