This thread is bringing back a lot of memories - thanks guys.
Haven't thought about walking through Callan Park for donkies.
The hot dog man at the end of Glover Street.
Laurie Nichols - Champion of the club and all that was holy.
Golden Boots kicking from 60 metres out and as Frank Hyde would say
" If its high enough, and long enough - its straight between the posts."
Keith used to board with the Munro family at the bottom of my street in Balmain (Mr Munro used to put the scores up at Leichhardt for years. Geoff Hawkey ( a pretty good centre) used to live there as well. I used to wash Keith's car from time to time - he gave me one of his Balmain jumpers one year and I thought I had won the lottery. Still have it!
The commerardary of the fans on the hill - sticking up for each other against the interlopers.
First went to Leichhardt in 1951 with my Uncle Vic who used to take me to the footy every week (thank God), it was an east/west ground in those days. He always wanted to sit behind the left corner post behind the goal line - we always had the sun in our eyes. No wonder I wear glasses now.
Remember, we played Souffs one time in the fifties and the scores were tied, Churchill (the Little Master) made a break down the side line past the old stands, with the cover defence coming across, he kicked a right footed field goal from the side line about 30 metres out and won the game. Will never forget. ( not sure but I think he was left footer).
You can build all the big stadiums you like - have all the facilities and car parking you like, be as comfortable as you like but you can't cover up or make up for, not having Leichhardt Oval.
The champions who have played there, the so called ordinary footballers who gave their all for the club and the blood that was spilled in the name of "The Tigers."
Balmain's blood and now the Wests Tigers blood, who are making their own history week by week.
I also think, all the above applies to Wests and their players and favourite grounds. To take these memories away from the fans on both sides of Wests Tigers is a shame and unnecessary - just for a few bucks.
Isn't the idea to win games - to give away a "home ground" advantage is very silly indeed.
You may have extra coin in your pocket but it will not do you much good if you are at the bottom of the table. The players love playing there, the opposition do as well, even though they know they will have more than a game on their hands.
Where is the fight in the Tiger? The fight to stand up for what is ours and for what we want.
Unfortunately, I think it maybe fading under the weight of the Chardonnay set.