John Eddy, Chairman of the Indonesia Garudas’ International Cup 2014 Committee, writes to 500 Club Members…

We have now completed Game 1 v Nauru and Game 2 v Fiji and the Indonesian Garudas have been on the receiving end of a scoreboard thumping on both occasions. I’M pleased to report however that the Team is winning many fans as they fight to the end against much bigger and more experienced opposition.

Amazingly after two full length games and two heavy defeats in the space of four days, the boys are ready and fired up for the clash with France this Saturday 16 August. The Saturday game is part of an AFL organized Community Round where all International Cup games are played at suburban grounds and hosted by local football clubs as part of their regular match day. The Indonesia v France clash is the curtain raiser to Diggers Rest v Rupertswood at Diggers Rest Oval and we will get to immerse ourselves in the culture of grass roots football – should be a great experience for all and the local community is expected to attend in large numbers.

Off field the lads are having a wonderful experience and have adjusted to Melbourne life and the cold weather quite easily. They have already enjoyed a day as spectators at the MCG and have also had a joint training session with West Brunswick Football Club. A small group were guests of St Kilda at the Lenny Hayes tribute game. Today, another small group will head to Western Oval to see the Western Bulldogs’ facilities.

Much more to come and I will continue to update.