The Hawks defeated the Tigers in a competitive encounter at Moyston Recreation Reserve, 3.3 (21) to 1.2 (8).

Tatyoon coach, Paul Canty was thrilled with the win and paid tribute to his charges, who put in a strong team effort to come away with the victory.

"It was great to see all the boys turn up again. The weather was brilliant and the crowds were very supportive," he said.

"It's a highly anticipated event and it provides a great opportunity for past players to catch up."

Canty said the annual clash was generating more interest each year and that he could see it becoming more professional in the future.

"We could possibly have a situation where we've got too many players. As it was we had 28 to 30 to choose from and when you're only playing two 15-minute halves, it's hard to rotate the bench fairly," he said.

"We might have to look at having two 25-minute halves or four 15-minute quarters in the future."

Although the Tatyoon coach was pleased to come away with the win, he said the game was about more than the final score.

"It's good for both clubs. Yes there's a rivalry, but there is also respect and friendship," he said.

"I'd like to thank Moyston Willaura for their hospitality on the day. It was good to see everyone get together."

Moyston coach Colin Thompson agreed the initiative was great for both clubs.

"I think each year it will continue to grow. It generates a fair bit of interest, not just among the footballers, but also the general public," he said.

Thompson said there was good participation on the day, with the Tigers having about 27 players to choose from.

"The match was played in good spirit. It was a close contest and there were some good players on both sides," he said.

"Our better players were Tony Perkins from Ballarat, local Moyston identity Graeme Dempsey and Gary Pianta, who all got plenty of touches. Dino Fratin also played well in the backline. Mucka (Marcus) Smith was the oldest player by a number of years, but he came on for a bit and got plenty of the footy."

The Tigers came away from the encounter relatively unscathed, although a number of Tatyoon players succumbed to injury, with at least two players pulling hamstrings and one dislocating his shoulder.

Thompson said the Tigers would be looking to return to the winners' list in 2013.

"We started our training on Sunday morning with a bit of a hill climb," he said.

"We're already looking forward to next year."

For more photos from the 'legends' clash, as well as football and netball action from Tatyoon and Moyston Willaura's senior football and netball teams, see the photo gallery online at www.araratadvertiser.com.au