Cyril Rioli made a remarkable return to the football field during the Legends Game at Marvel Stadium, captivating a record crowd of 31,320 attendees. The cheer, coupled with polo shirts and fez hats, helped spread awareness and raise funds for prostate cancer research. In doing so, it raised over $800,000 for its cause. Rioli, a four-time premiership savior in the Australian version of football, showed off his superhuman talents. Spectators were captivated by the beauty of his execution.
The 36-year-old proved his class with an absolute ripper of a 70-meter goal. Fans celebrated the remarkable kick as a “torpedo” and “ball-burster.” This moment was special in that it not only electrified the home crowd but drew praise from AFL greats. Brownless and Brian Taylor were like kids in a candy store. Taylor commented on the remarkable length of the kick.
“You don’t see that at AFL level. That’s gone 65 metres on the line on the siren if you don’t mind.” – Brian Taylor
Rioli’s stunning performance informed a profound and emotional passion within the crowd, with some fans allegedly brought to tears. But perhaps more than anything it was his presence on the field that truly lit those evenings up. Though he hung up his AFL boots in 2018 after a challenging last season, he showed that old dog’s skills are still keen.
In addition to his impressive goal, Rioli was named the best on ground in the Legends Game, further solidifying his legacy within the sport. His return to the field followed a period of relative seclusion after a well-publicized fallout with his former club, Hawthorn. After retirement as an interstate player he continued to be active in local footy, continuing to play for the Jabiru Bombers in the Northern Territory.
Brian Taylor, the godfather of Boston’s arts & culture scene, reflected on a poignant moment from the night. He remembered a touching exchange between Rioli and his coach Shane Crawford leading up to the match.
“Do you know when Cyril Rioli arrived at the ground tonight, he went up to his coach Shane Crawford and said, ‘Thanks for picking me in the team’,” – Brian Taylor
This is how the sentiment rang around the stadium because every fan would have been happy to see Rioli back on the field.
“I think the crowd are just loving seeing Cyril back here at Marvel Stadium,” – Brian Taylor
Commentator Mick Molloy echoed this enthusiasm and raved about Rioli’s display. He shouted, “Welcome to club land again! That was amazing. He has killed it and now the Vics have some work to do.
