In an exhilarating battle on the gridiron, 21-year-old Patrick Voss left a lasting impression. He was instrumental in Fremantle’s sensational one-point victory against the undefeated Essendon. Saturday’s game was a doozy. Voss scored the winning goal late on in the last quarter, capping off a strong performance and highlighting his resilience and fighting spirit to show out against the team that had torn up his contract a year prior.
Once upon a time Voss won a VFL best and fairest playing for Essendon’s VFL team. Now, as he stepped onto the tropical field, he was met with a hostile environment. His goal not only capped an impressive performance by Fremantle that quickly turned into a blowout, but reset a significant personal milestone. Perhaps his best defensive play was the way he rebuffed Essendon’s Andy McGrath. As he wheeled around to shoot on goal, jubilation swept through the audience.
It was the amazing commentary during this amazing time that made it more amazing. One of Australia’s finest sports commentators, Brian Taylor—our version of Al Michaels—nailed the moment. Just as Voss was celebrating the goal, Taylor was shouting, “Throwing fisties, chesties, armies, look at him! Flexing! His lively commentary led to laughter among viewers, including fellow commentator Hamish McLachlan, who found himself in fits of giggles.
Nick Riewoldt, who happened to be at the game, propelled Taylor’s energetic call into meme status as the game continued to play out. The infectious energy coming from the commentary booth radiated throughout the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere and making everyone’s experience at the game more enjoyable.
“That commentary had every laughing 😝 😂 😆 Loved the expression on Nick Riewoldt’s face.” – another fan
Voss’s instantly charismatic style and growing popularity amongst fans has in short order made him into a cult figure for the Dockers. He was previously delisted by Essendon and refused to go out without a fight. Today, he’s getting attention with Fremantle, proving every bit of that resolve and ability on the pitch. Supporters are understandably excited by this shoot up to the top. If today’s match was any indication, they can’t wait to see more from him.
The game wooed a wave of star-studded guests, including legends Kane Cornes and Bec Maddern. To have them with us just added to the excitement of the moment. The feedback loop between Voss’s incandescently deft footwork and Taylor’s effervescently charismatic call has written a new script for this match.
