Bomber steps up for a lifetime goal

LIONHEARTED Pakenham stalwart Brett Templeton kicked a goal in a dream debut on Saturday, then later gave his coach a bake for not handballing more often.

Brett, universally known as Bomber, played with the Pakenham reserves in their match against Dingley, the last home and away game of the season.

The wellknown supporter and helper has been involved with the Lions since his early childhood and is regarded as a mascot of the club.

Wearing the number 34 jumper of club captain Seb Paynter, one of his favourite Pakenham players, Brett led the side onto the field and was given a rousing reception from supporters and senior team members.

There was an even greater roar around the Toomuc Reserve when Brett came on late in the final term and kicked a goal.

Stationed in the forward pocket, with minutes remaining, Brett received a handball from coach Justin Judge Pearson and kicked truly. He left the field to the applause of players and supporters, leading teammates from the ground after their comfortable win.

Brett told the Gazette the game was the highlight of his long association with the Pakenham Football Club.

When coach Pearson presented him with an award after the game, Brett described it as a day of firsts.

Not only is it my first goal in my first game, it was the first time Judgey ever handballed in the goal square, he said.

Pakenham club president Scott Webster said Bomber was an inspiration for Lions players and would again be in the thick of the action but probably not on the field when their CaseyCardinia league finals campaign begins this weekend.