AN historic sporting wrong has been righted, with former Strathmerton footballer Peter Webb being awarded a best and fairest medal from 1977.

Mr Webb drew with Tocumwal’s Brian Herbert for the honour in the reserves count at the end of the 1977 home and away season, but in those days, league rules stated that only one medal could be awarded and Mr Webb was beaten on a count-back.

Current Murray league president Dale Norman said he was happy to have been able to help finally recognise Mr Webb’s achievement.

“He was a deserving winner, but unfortunately those were the rules at the time,” Mr Norman said.

“It was a pleasure to present the medal to Peter, especially in the presence of his son and grandchildren.”

Peter told the Leader it was a great thrill to receive the medal, even if it had been a long time coming.

“I wasn’t disappointed at the time, back in 1977, because that was just how footy was then, but it is very special to have the medal now,” he said. 

The medal is all the more special for Peter as it now joins the senior best and fairest medal his father was awarded in the Tallangatta league when Peter was just a baby.

“It’s quite special to have them both and I am going to frame them and give one each to my two grandsons who both love their footy.”

Mr Webb was beaten on a count-back again in 1978, or so it seemed at first.

“I drew with Adi Bennett from Cobram and was beaten on count-back but I didn’t mind at all because Adi was the best player I ever played against in my seconds career, so I was happy for him,” Mr Webb said.

“But as it turned out, they realised the next day that two votes that were meant for Peter Todd had been allocated to Pat Tubb who hadn’t played a reserves game that season.

“That put Peter Todd a point ahead of both Adi and me, so they took the medal off Adi and gave it to Peter. 

“I know it was the right decision, but I felt really disappointed for Adi - much more disappointed than I ever felt about missing out myself.”