Battling local footy team loses by over 500 points

A 369-point three quarter-time lead then blew out to 516 by the final siren after 24 goals in a painfully brutal final quarter.

In terms of game time, Fitzroy scored more than a goal every minute.

As far as records go back, it's the biggest senior score and margin in the history of the competition.

The Eagles are last on the division six ladder with zero wins and a percentage of just 2.13 per cent, with defeats of 347-7 against Eastern Park, 265-11 against St Paul's and 296-13 against Houghton Districts.

Their four losses combine for a total losing margin of 1393 at an average of 348 points per game.

And there will be more pain to come, with Elizabeth set to play Ingle Farm, who beat Fitzroy by 28 points, in a couple of weeks.

Fitzroy coach Darryl Cotter, who played in an A-grade premiership with Elizabeth, said the win was "bittersweet".

"I've got a lot of love for my old club and they are in a tough position at the moment," he said after the game.

"We all want them to survive and want to help out as best we can and the boys were really humble about the win."

Fitzroy president Talal Kayal said the club hopes their opposition can find their feet again soon.

"To say today was a game of records being set is an understatement," she said.

"We believe that this could be the amateur league highest winning margin and highest score at the same time. This is is also Fitzroy's highest ever score.

"We also had a Fitzroy legend's goal-kicking record of 18 broken by Josh Rosenthal, who kicked 29.

"Congratulations to all involved from supporters, trainers, coaches and players.

"However, we must understand that wins and records like this always come at the cost of the opposition who are currently struggling.

"Elizabeth Football Club have always been a proud and strong club who we have had many battles against over the past 30-plus years.

"Right now there is a long road in front of them however we hope to see the Eagles flying again very soon. Well done to those who continue to front week in week out you have our support."

On Friday, Elizabeth poured cold water over reports that the club was in danger of folding at season's end.

It's been reported they suffered a mass exodus of senior players late in the pre-season and had asked the league to be demoted to the grade below, but were denied because fixtures had already been set in stone.

"It is true the (senior team) is struggling but be assured the committee, volunteers and coaches at all levels are working hard to ensure the EFC has a successful year," it said.

"We may not be able to measure that success in wins, but we can measure it in continuous improvement and growth.

"We also want to acknowledge and thank those players who made the decision to stand by the EFC and are pushing through, whether that be a win or loss. We are extremely grateful to you.

"We are also working with local businesses in the northern suburbs in an effort to see continuous improvement in the running of the club. But we cannot do this without the continuing support of all our members, which we are eternally grateful for.

"So be assured the EFC is looking to grow in 2025 and beyond."

Despite the 516-point loss, an Elizabeth past players' group was celebrating the result as a positive.

"This is not failure. This. Is. A. Heartbeat," a post by the group's admin said.

"This is a bunch of guys giving their all to keep a football club alive and kicking.

"These men are the future, right now, of the Elizabeth Football Club. With them playing, putting themselves out there, they are giving this club a future.

"It is time for those past players who can to get to the club and show their support to these guys, let them know that we appreciate them keeping the flame alive.

"Head to a training session, a meal, or a game. Show your support, however you can.

"We are Elizabeth, we are the team and we will not be beaten."