The inaugural match of the Cambodian Eagles’s 2012 AFL campaign couldn’t get off to a more fiery start, kicking off with a clash against traditional rivals the Vietnam Swans tomorrow.

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Bones have been broken, ribs rattled and vicious taunts sprayed with a liberal helping of saliva when these too foes have squared off for battle in the past in Australia’s super high-paced and physically relentless form of football.

The Eagles will be blooding some new star recruits with explosive midfielder Simon Whitney one to watch as he bolts out of the centre.

But Vietnam have long had the wood on their Western neighbours and it will take everything Cambodia have to get over the line.

In last year’s Indochina cup, it was once again Vietnam that dealt a crushing blow to the Eagles’ dream of holding the Mekong river mantle.

Earlier in 2011, Vietnam also took the honours against the Eagles as the side took its first crack at the Asian Championships played in Bangkok.

However, after spending a solid pre-season examining themselves in full length mirrors and pursuing a vastly accelerated training program, the Eagles are looking to reverse the trend.

The game kicks off at 2pm sharp at ANZ Park, located at the Chhroy Changvar Naval Base.

For more details go to http://www.facebook.com/cambodianeagles.