Launceston's streets were a sea of black, red, gold, and brown as passionate AFL fans flocked to the city for the sell-out Hawthorn versus Essendon match at UTAS Stadium. The match was the first time the Bombers have played in Launceston for Premiership points, and their Tasmania-based fans responded in numbers. READ MORE: UTAS launch ambitious $200m forestry centre proposal As crowds poured over the Tamar Bridge and up Invermay Road, The Examiner chatted with fans who had waiting months, years and sometimes decades to see their beloved side play. Some families were divided when it came to who they were supporting, but the playful banter was part of the fun. Katie Percival, of Hobart, said the family was split between the two teams. The men were die-hard Hawks supporters while the women were dedicated to the Bombers. Not-so-secretly, Ms Percival believed Essendon had what it took to beat Hawthorn. "It's really nice to have some big teams come down here, so we are really excited about it," she said. Chris Nobes, of St Leonards, attended the game with his family. He has passed on his love for Essendon to his four-year-old son Henry. "We certainly didn't think we would have the opportunity to get Henry to a game of football at least for another few years in Melbourne. To have this opportunity is great," Mr Nobes said. READ MORE: Youtube stars discover piece of forgotten Tasmanian history "Dad is obviously excited to be here with having his grandson here as well." Mr Nobes said it was great to see the match being played in Tasmania. "It's so good for the state, and Tasmania trying to push for a team in the AFL and get a sold out crowd, it's absolutely fantastic." Diane Stokes, of Launceston, is also a Bombers supporter. She was positive Essendon would beat Hawthorn. "It's really exciting to have them over here in Tasmania," she said. READ MORE: Building industry working towards cultural change "Look at the crowd, if it wasn't Essendon and if it was a lesser-known, would all these people be here? Tickets were sold-out so quickly." But Hawthorn supporters rallied around their team too. Chloe Trudgeon, of George Town, has been a Hawks supporter since she was born. She was confident the team would pull out on top. "We will get up. I reckon we will win by a couple of goals, snag a few," she said. Tammie Trudgeon, of George Town, was pumped for the game. She hoped Hawthorn would take out the win. "It should be a really good game," she said. In the end, Essendon beat Hawthorn 86-73 in what was a nail-biting game for supporters of both teams. One thing was clear from Bombers fans: they hope it's not the last time they see the side play in Launceston.