Brendan Fevola leads struggling footy side to victory, but it was bad news for singer Guy Sebastian
Brendan Fevola made a surprise return to the footy field on Saturday morning, helping struggling local club Masala Dandenong break a long losing streak in front of a buzzing crowd at Lois Twohig Reserve.
The former AFL superstar lined up for the club's reserves side in the Division 5 Thirds of the Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA), alongside pop icon and Australian Idol winner Guy Sebastian.
What began as a quirky radio promotion turned into a gritty on-field performance, as Fevola and Sebastian led Masala to a tense 55–53 win over South Melbourne Districts.
The appearance came just one week after the team's demoralising 229-point thrashing at the hands of St Bede's Mentone.
Fevola's involvement came via a Fox FM competition, where he offered to play for a grassroots club in need.
Masala Dandenong, last on the ladder and desperate for a spark, jumped at the opportunity.
Despite being 44 and long retired from the AFL, it was vintage Fevola on the day, booting six goals to steer his adopted side to victory.
'Fev doing what he does best, winning the games,' one fan posted.
'That's amazing! Well done guys and especially Brendan Fevola and Guy Sebastian,' added another.
The club had earlier teased the surprise additions on social media, promising fans a unique matchday experience, including Sebastian performing at halftime.
But the crowd got more than they bargained for when Sebastian strapped on the boots and joined the starting line-up.
While Fevola helped control the game with his trademark goal sense, it was a mixed day for Sebastian, who was later seen on crutches following the match. It's unclear how serious the injury is.
Their participation wasn't without controversy. Before the match, VAFA launched an investigation into concerns raised by rival clubs over whether the high-profile pair were being paid - which is prohibited in the amateur league.
The league confirmed both Fevola and Sebastian were cleared to play after assurances they would receive no payment or benefits.
Sebastian's day was over early, though, limping from the field with an apparent leg injury
Sebastian celebrates the team song in the sheds on crutches with strapping around his left calf
A Fox FM producer said both men were happy to sign a legal document confirming their amateur status.
'This is a promotional exercise for Fev (for the radio show) and Guy (for his music), not a money-making exercise,' the statement read.
Despite the off-field scrutiny, Fevola's on-field focus was unwavering.
'I'm pumped to be playing for Masala Dandenong on the weekend!' he said earlier in the week.
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