AFL grand final parade takes over Melbourne’s CBD
The interstate contenders looked slightly uncomfortable in their puffer jackets, tested as they were for the first time in real conditions.
The sun shines more in the west and, over there, a puffer is probably more akin to a fashion accessory.
But here, in the belly of the football beast, it's a utilitarian decision.
For many of the Collingwood fans who made their way to the AFL grand final parade, jackets were unzipped or just left at home.
In the day before the most important event of the year, they didn't want anything hiding their faithful colours, those brutal shades of black and white.
Along the parade route, their diehard fans cheered with the confidence of experience.
The Collingwood Football Club was founded nine years before Australia was even federated.
The Magpies have swooped on 15 flags and played in 43 grand finals, more than any other team.
But they're up against a club in its prime and hungry to prove itself.
Far from the prying eyes of Melbourne's football institutions, the Eagles have been flying high.
They've dragged the premiership cup back to the west three times and, tomorrow, they're planning to do it for a fourth.
On Saturday, the Eagles will be playing on enemy turf, but they won't be alone.
Thousands have made the journey to cheer on the nest, draped in royal blue and gold, many coming out for the parade despite the rain.
It'll be a long flight home, or an even longer drive, if they fall short.
But the allegiances of Victorians are much more complex.
Normally, the home side would have the love of a whole state, but not Good Old Collingwood.
Victorian fans, particularly those from Richmond, could be seen scowling on this damp Melbourne day, affronted at the thought of another Pies premiership.
For the Collingwood faithful, that white-hot hatred is nothing but another weapon in their arsenal.
Come Saturday, and depending on their fortunes, it might be the only trophy they can hold up.
But despite their tribal differences, pry a little further and you'll find all football fans, regardless of affiliation, are united by a love of the game.
And on that, these birds of a feather flock together.
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ABC .net
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