Their most famous meeting was the 1951 A Section Grand Final in which the Rovers won. Most recently, the 2008 C Section Grand Final where Ormond won the flag. This Saturday, the two sides meet again in Rivalry Round of the VAFA at E.E. Gunn Reserve.
Hampton Rovers and Ormond are undoubtedly two of the proudest and most successful district clubs in the Victorian Amateur Football Association, and in 2009 are the two highest district clubs in a competition dominated in the last decade and a bit by schoolboy sides.
The two sides met on four occasions in 2008. First it was the inaugural VAFA Rivalry Round in Round 5 when the Rovers hosted and defeated Ormond by 15 points, played in front of a huge crowd at Boss James Reserve. Unfortunately for Hampton, thats as good as it would get with Ormond winning the next three encounters: Round 11 at the Gunn, the Semi Final at Junction Oval and the season decided at Trevor Barker Oval.
As we reach the half way point of the current season, Ormond sit one win and one place above the Rovers on B Section the ladder in fifth. Both sides are coming off wins in Round 8: Rovers over Old Haileybury and Ormond over Old Camberwell.
All is set for a top display of local footy when the two sides meet this Saturday at E.E. Gunn Reserve in Ormond, playing for the Buxton Cup. A big crowd is expected including a large band of visiting supporters so make sure you get along to support the Rovers in this crucial game.
Before the game, Ormond will be hosting a Luncheon and the Rovers are again supporting it in big numbers. Spots are still available – please contact Jenny Voss 0411 773 511. $25 per head, Bar open from 12 midday, luncheon commencing at 12:45pm.
The Reserves commence at 11:40am followed by the Seniors at 2:00pm. For those unable to get to the game, hamptonrovers.com.au will provide live scores on Rovers Live (available here, or on your mobile phone by going to www.hamptonrovers.com.au/mobile).
The Under 19s take on local rivals Beaumaris at Boss James Reserve at 2pm while the Thirds have a bye following the withdrawal of South Melbournes Club XVIII side. Following all the action on Saturday, head back to Boss James Reserve where the Bar will be open until late.
