One of their on-field opponents from a match just hours before had died. 

Gooloogong Cowboys footballer Garry Smith was killed in a car accident 4km outside Cowra on Saturday evening. 

Smith had earlier that day lined-up for the Cowboys in their 22-6 loss to the Brahmans in Binalong. 

Despite sustaining an ankle injury that resulted in precautionary stretching from the field, Smith joined players from both sides for a post-match beer at the Binalong Hotel.

There he engaged in a game of pool and was well-received among his hosts.

Naturally, news of Smith’s death stunned those within the Brahmans Club.

Even now, nearly a week on, they’re not sure how to react. 

Players talked over the incident in the hours after receiving news of Smith’s death. They will wear black armbands and pause for a minute’s silence in honour of Smith prior to tomorrow’s match with Peak Hill.

Some of the Binalong players have signed an online petition requesting Cowra Shire Council rename Gooloogong’s new bridge ‘The Desert Fox’ - a nickname affectionately prescribed to the late 34-year-old.

Brahmans president Michael Brayshaw said the community’s thoughts were with Smith’s family and friends.

“On behalf of the Brahmans and the Binalong community, I send my deepest sympathies. We’re shocked and dumbfounded,” he said.

“My sincere condolences and sympathies to firstly the family and also to the Gooloogong Football Club. It’s a tragedy, a life taken too early.” 

While the death is felt among Binalong players, their hurt is insignificant compared to that sustained by Smith’s family and friends. 

The Gooloogong Cowboys Rugby League Football Club published a statement via its Facebook page on Monday.

“On behalf of the Gooloogong Cowboys Football Club, we'd like to extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family for the sudden and tragic passing of their son and our teammate ‘Gazza/Desert Fox’ Garry Smith,” it read. 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Garry was well liked and respected amongst his teammates, he was a committed and a loyal player who would always give 100 per cent at all times. 

“Although quiet natured, He was known for his hilarious and random one-liners.

“Garry will be greatly missed and never forgotten.”