THE normally close Mullane family of Navigators will face off tomorrow when their two teams clash in the most anticipated game of the season - St Kilda versus Geelong.
Mother Sandra and youngest son Kayle, 18, are in the minority as dedicated Saints supporters while father Paul, along with Bryce, 19, and Troy, 21, are diehard Geelong fans.
The past week has seen plenty of light-hearted rivalry and ribbing going on in the lead-up to the game but all five will share a ride to the match on Sunday.
"I have been saying to Paul that if the Saints win he may have to find his own way home," Sandra Mullane said.
With the boys' own local football commitments, it is rare for the whole family to go to the football together, but this is one game they try to attend each year.
"It's great that we are both going in unbeaten and should make it really exciting," Mrs Mullane said.
"I just hope it's not too much hype and then the game turns out to be a fizzer with Geelong thrashing us."
The possibility of a one-sided game is the only concern for the family.
"This year the match will be packed and should have a better atmosphere and hopefully it will live up to the build-up," Kayle Mullane said.
Troy Mullane, like his two younger brothers, plays with and supports Dunnstown football club locally. But when it comes to the AFL, Geelong is his team.
"I like to stir (Mum and Kayle) up a bit and I won't be happy if Geelong lose," Troy said.
"I just can't wait. We go down each year and this year is going to be even better, as they're both undefeated," he said.
Still, there will only be one winner on Sunday and to the victor will go the spoils.
"As a family, we have little bets on the game," Paul Mullane said.
"Kayle will be doing the dishes for the next week if St Kilda lose and Troy will if Geelong lose.
"I just hope it's a good game, with Geelong winning on the last kick of the day," he said.