This weekend, Canberra United took to the field at McKellar Park, not just to play football but to celebrate their annual ‘Community Round’ against Brisbane Roar. The event, now a cherished tradition, aims to express gratitude to the police and emergency services who have worked hard to keep the community safe, especially over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Fans were treated to the furry presence of Constable Kenny Koala, the mascot of ACT Policing, who engaged with young attendees, allowing them to take photos and promote safety awareness. This initiative is part of the Constable Kenny Koala program, which focuses on educating primary school-aged children about safety and encouraging them to seek help from police. With special deals for families, all children aged 12 and under were able to enter the game for free when accompanied by an adult.
On the pitch, the match brought its own exhilarating twists as Canberra United scored a dramatic victory over Brisbane Roar, securing their first win since Round 2. The match was intensified with high stakes as both teams battled fiercely. Despite Brisbane's Laini Freier scoring her seventh goal of the season, allowing the Roar to take the lead, Canberra United's fighting spirit sparked what could be considered one of their best performances of the season.
Emma Robers equalized with a long-range effort, revitalizing the team. With just moments left, seasoned forward Michelle Heyman clinched the victory as she outmaneuvered her defender to score, showing why she is often regarded as one of the league's most formidable players. "There was no doubt it was tough to get this win, but the girls showed resilience," said Heyman after celebrating the thrilling finish.
Canberra's coach praised the players for their tenacity and commitment, emphasizing the importance of community connection as they celebrated not just their victory but the support from their local policing services. The community round success also helped spotlight not only the players but also local clubs, which participated throughout the day and were recognized for their continued support.
ACT Policing reinforced its commitment through these community events, demonstrating how sport creates bridges within the community. “This is about celebrating our community's safety efforts and bringing everyone together,” noted one representative from ACT Policing, highlighting the essence of community involvement and support.
The day at McKellar Park not only solidified Canberra United's standing in the league but also marked their dedication to fostering strong relationships with local audiences and partners. The win over Brisbane Roar showcased the skill and determination of the team, and accompanied festivities made for memorable experiences shared among families, reinforcing the message of unity and safety.
Fans left the ground uplifted, knowing they supported their team during such significant celebrations alongside community leaders. The resilience shown by the players is sure to inspire not just the club but the wider Canberra community. With this match, Canberra United made it clear: Victory is sweet, but melding sportsmanship with community engagement is the true win.