Football: Tigers in 'enemy' camp

South Bunbury has been forced to move its first home game of the season onto enemy territory after the new playing surface at Hands Oval was this week ruled unfit for football.

The Tigers will “host” Augusta-Margaret River at Kelly Park, the home of arch rivals Carey Park, on Sunday.

South Bunbury general manager Graeme McGee said the club was disappointed about the move.

He said the Tigers had taken a significant financial hit since works started at Hands Oval last year.

“Ultimately though, we have always been aware that it was a possibility and have adopted an approach where we expected some short term pain for long-term gain,” he said.

The playing surface, reticulation and boundary fence have been replaced in the upgrade, which also includes improved disabled access, new seating and light towers.

Hands Oval redevelopment project manager Ian Browning said the surface could be ready for the Tigers’ round three contest against Harvey Bulls.

“The northern half of the oval is a bit patchy. I don’t feel we can put a full on game on it,” he said.

“I’m very pleased with how everything is looking. I’m reasonably confident all works will be finished, other than the lights, by May 5.”

Plunkett Homes SWFL general manager John Vidos said the entire football community supported the redevelopment of the league’s showpiece arena.

“It’s been a big investment so I think the whole competition recognises things have to be done properly,” he said.

Despite the setback, McGee said the club was proud to be a part of the redevelopment.

Carey Park president Darren Kenny said the Panthers were happy to help their arch rivals.

“It’s for the benefit of football. You take your club hat off to make football the winner,” he said.

“Everybody gets to play and everybody is happy.”