The global coronavirus pandemic has put a stop to just about every professional sport on the planet, though Australia continues to lag behind the rest of the world.
AFL, NRL and A-League are still being played, albeit in front of empty stadiums as the governing bodies attempt to manage the crisis.
With a lack of live sport on the telly, broadcaster Fox opted to show the AFL clash between Essendon and Fremantle on their main sports channel in prime time on the US west coast.
MORE: AFL to continue despite Magpies staff member testing positive
Given the dearth of options, plenty of Americans were tuning in to their first ever game of footy.
While most were struggling with the rules, there was plenty of admiration for Australia's native game.
Former NFL punter and online media personality Pat McAfee was certainly a big Jake Stringer fan and even declared his support for the controversial score review system.
Rather long halftime.. probably smart tbh.. this sport has to be an absolute kick to the sack cardio wise.
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 21, 2020
What is training camp called? Do they do 2 a days and such? I bet it is disgustingly hellacious to get thru
Puke and rallies happening all over the place I assume
Stringer’s a playmaker. Can I buy his jersey? And is it a sleeveless as well?
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 21, 2020
The @AFL’s review system is also great. This is insane.
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 21, 2020
Also, A REF just threw a ball like 65 yards. It’s perfect.
Aussie Rules football is on FS1 and, not going to lie, I’m a fan.
— Chris Collins ⚔️ 2017 National Champs (@CCollins0917) March 21, 2020
Have no idea what’s happening but it’s absolute insanity.
Ok Aussie rules football is absolute madness. But it’s electric.
— LukeWalkItOut (@LukeWalkitout) March 21, 2020
New addition to the pandemic to do list. Figure out Aussie Rules Football now that FS1 is showing live matches.
— Chuck Lundgren (@TRF_CPA_Chuck) March 21, 2020
I have now resorted to watching Australian football on FS1. I have no idea what is going on but it’s quite possibly the most entertained that I’ve been in days.
— Trenton Cody (@TrentonJCody) March 21, 2020
Pleaseeeee do not talk to me while the Australian Football League is on, it is literally all I have in life now
— Robbie Greenspan (@RobbieGreenspan) March 21, 2020
So I'm watching the Australian Football League, this shit kinda lit. Still haven't figured out how they score yet but still 🔥🔥🔥
— Visuals by Pherran B. 🎥🎬 (@Composer_PB) March 21, 2020
FS1 is currently showing live sports!!!
— David Jones (@iPopEditor) March 21, 2020
It’s Australian football and I have no idea what’s going on...but sports!
For the most part, the new fans weren't treated to a great spectacle, as both teams looked pretty sloppy at times.
The Bombers, sparked by recruit Jacob Townsend kicked away to an early lead, going into quarter time up by 19 points.
That stretched to four goals at the main break, a margin that was maintained at the final change before Freo pulled their fingers out to set up a tight finish.
Debutant Sam Sturt impressed, booting three straight for the game, including two in the final quarter.
The Dockers, in coach Justin Longmuir's first game in charge, got to within one straight kick but some poor decision making in the final stages saw Essendon hang on for a 63-57 win.
