Under the banner of APCFC Invitational XI, with the support of current Albion Park City players, the team faced off in a soccer friendly taking on the might of the Wollongong Wolves who are the reigning National Premier League Champions.

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The game was played in an entertaining spirit that saw quality football and humour on display in equal measure.

The final score was a victory for the Wollongong Wolves 6-3.

Southern Branch Inc Football Club junior players represented.

Southern Branch Inc. Football Club (SB Inc FC) players from under nine to under 12 were chosen to represent the regions so heavily affected by the devastating Currowan and Morton Fires.

The young footballers walked onto the pitch alongside heroes of the game and stood proudly as respects were paid to those who had lost so much to the fires.

Thanks were offered to the firefighters and volunteers who sacrificed so much to protect our communities.

Retired legends of note included:

Adrian Arciuli, APCFC President said "The idea was basically to try and give back to those affected on the South Coast regions."

"It's the least we could do after the devastation caused by the bushfires," he said.

"Sport is a key pillar of society and is one of the many fabrics that keeps us together."

"We will raise over $20k and could get close to 30."

Fundraising was a gold coin donation at the gate and a raffle organised by Wollongong Wolves Juniors,

There was $300 per goal scored donated by sponsor DRB Group, sale of merchandise.

Southern Branch Inc FC fosters the talents of the best young players from Gerringong to Eden, and in-land to the Southern Highlands and Goulburn.

Players are entering pre-season training with opportunities available for boys turning 15 and 16 years to play football at the highest level in our region.

Contact Mark Johnston on 0488034500 for more details.