Neil Balme joins Geelong

[LeeToRainesToRoach]

My Father loved Richmond but he also liked Southby. Said he was close to the best fullback he had seen!

1973 GF replay on the Sunday after and, watching it with Dad, Balme hit Southby - you all know "that hit". Father's teeth went clink on the beer glass and he sighed, turned to me and said "good boy that Balme". The stretcher came out and I poured the Old Boy another beer.

Balme is OK!!

When we had our backs to the wall c.1990, Southby wrote a letter telling of his respect for RFC and saying how important it was that we survive, which was published in full in the HS. Have to admire that gesture.

 

[craig]

Southby was always rated not only as a top player but a top bloke and fair.

There is always respect and admiration for people like that.

 

[Bill James]

Ther first Richmond game I went to was against the Roys, Balme got their CHB Harvey Merrigan in a headlock and rammed his head into the point post just in front of us. It left and impression, well on me anyway. :hihi

 

[feisty tige]

They deserve each other. God he gave me the sh!ts in his role at Collingwood (and I'm pretty sure it wasn't just because it was Collingwood - although it's hard to tell!).

IMO it was just Collingwood, I think I will like him better at the Cats. Although the stripes might not suit him if he has to wear any... :hihi