I went yesterday for the first time also.
As was mentioned, its going to take a bit of getting used to. Definitely the best crowd i’ve seen against the Eagles from a East Freo perspective. I would say that the new ground, free entry, fine weather as well as just curiosity helped a bit crowd wise. No doubt this will come down as the seasons change.
Which brings me to my concern/complaint about the ground. When the weather gets colder and wetter, in the past you could go into the bar and watch the game from in there. (just like other grounds) But… where is the ability to do this at East Freo?? Top of the grandstand, where they have an outdoor bar area, but there is no bar area inside, where you can watch the game. I think a few folk, particularly the older set, will find it tough sitting out in the open seating area at times in winter. First world problems i know, but I would of thought that this would be a certain part of the plans for the development?
Yes, scoreboard crap, but this is in process of being changed. When, I am not sure. Surface seemed okay, but looked like it needed a good mow.
Freeze, I was with acquaintance at the game who is very good mates with Lukes dad. We also had a chat with Luke himself at the 3 quarter time huddle. (boy, he’s a unit of a lad) and you are correct that it is lack of match fitness on why he didnt play. No reserves certainly hasnt helped his cause for next week either. The Eagles had some big boys, so he would of been handy in that sense, for sure.
I had also heard that Blackiston may be back within 4 weeks, but cannot verify the truth in this. This is interesting as i had read he was gone for the season!