Homes catch

By Danielle Galvin
THERE’S more than one way to celebrate the AFL Grand Final.
Some footy fans are hosting barbecues and get-togethers while others were lucky enough to score tickets to the biggest game of the year.
But only the most dedicated of fans spend hours adorning their homes, letter boxes, front doors, roof tops and cars in support of their teams.
It’s hard to miss the black and white shrine on Gordon Road in Pakenham Upper.
The reluctant artist and man behind the creative Collingwood construction, Terry Mattingley, might not describe himself as a die-hard fan.
But he’s close to it with an iron magpie, ‘Go Pies’ sign, flags and balloons next to his letterbox.
“It was a nice day on Saturday, so my daughters and I set it all up,” he said.
This year, it’s the battle of the best, Geelong versus Collingwood in what is sure to be a match to remember.
While Terry and his family aren’t going to the match on Saturday, they will be glued to the television until the final siren.
“We go to the games regularly and my nieces are keen to watch the game too,” he said.
The Mattingley family moved to Pakenham Upper from Cardinia seven months ago.
But Terry warned the realtor that he wouldn’t be buying the house until the grand final was over.
After all, his priorities were with his beloved Collingwood.
“When we found that the house was for sale, I told the estate agent that I couldn’t talk to him until after the grand final was over. He said that the house might sell, but I said so be it then.”
And it seems the Mattingley family aren’t alone.
On the Gazette Facebook page, fanatical Collingwood and Geelong supporters were cheering on their teams.
“We decorate the front window every year and put a flag up on a pole on the roof. GO CATS!” Cristi Hole said.
Collingwood supporters were calling for a premiership two years in a row after the spectacular grand final replay last year.
“I still have my flag on my flyscreen door since last grand finals. Good old Collingwood!” Bronnii Parry said.
Other footy fans were still disappointed that their team’s premiership hopes were shattered for another year.
For some, a Magpies premiership two years in a row would be too hard to stomach.
Superstitious supporters are betting on the odds and hoping that history will repeat itself.
For Terry Mattingley, watching the game will be a family affair.
“My uncle got me into the team when I was five. So that’s 36 years of support for Collingwood, much to my parents chagrin. They go for the Bombers. My wife will be walking away in the first quarter if the Magpies don’t do well!”