There’s a saying about winning the battle but losing the war, and Andrew Brayshaw may have related following Fremantle’s 54-point loss to Melbourne on Saturday night at TIO Stadium in Darwin.
While nothing could take the sting away from a disappointing night for his team, Brayshaw at least came away with a minor victory when going up against elder brother Angus.
Andrew, the younger Brayshaw sibling at 18 years of age, took down 22-year-old Angus in a memorable holding the ball decision in the third quarter, and was sure to rub it in after winning the free.
It was one of Andrew’s eight tackles on the night, going with his 16 disposals and three marks.
Angus won the evening, however, with his 31 disposals helping Melbourne dominate the contest.
“I think he definitely got the chocolates tonight,” said Andrew about his brother post-game on the Fox Footy broadcast.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing with him or against him. Even though we lost I’m just happy to be here and happy to be playing against him.”
While the pair tussled at times on the field, they were nothing but loving brothers just minutes after the final siren and Angus paid credit where it was due.
“I thought I could give a little candy and show the young fella something but he wrapped me up real good and let me know about it as well,” Angus said while also speaking to Fox Footy.
“It’s great fun and it’s real special to be out there with him.
“It’s a dream come true for him and we’re both living the dream so its’ all good.”
The game started with temperatures at 26 degrees C but it was the humidity – which crept up to 82 per cent – that made it tough for all players.
“It was probably one of the hardest games of footy I’ve ever played,” Andrew said.
“Slippery ball, hot inside (the contest) as well as the temperature.
“It’s as if it’s been pelting down with rain, it was that wet.”
