The NRL is bracing for a reduced crowd at Saturday's double-header in Perth, with fans expressing frustration over the stalled expansion talks for a potential Perth Bears franchise. The matches, featuring Cronulla vs Manly and South Sydney vs North Queensland, are expected to draw around 30,000 spectators, a significant drop from the 39,000 in 2018 and nearly 46,000 in 2023.
Jason Burton, leader of the Perth supporter group The Cave, said there is growing discontent among local fans. 'Obviously there is a frustration with the ongoing saga and the way it is playing out in the media,' Burton said. 'There will be a backlash in some ways, no doubt.' He noted that some fans are considering boycotting the match or displaying banners to voice their displeasure.
The timing of the double-header coincides with a low point in negotiations for a new NRL franchise in Western Australia. WA Premier Roger Cook accused the NRL of treating the state like a 'cash cow' after the league fell short of requested funding. Both parties are expected to return to the negotiating table for a last-ditch effort to resolve the issue.
Despite the current tensions, the popularity of rugby league in Perth remains strong, as evidenced by past attendances and the expected sell-out for State of Origin II on June 18 at the 60,000-seat Perth Stadium. The Dolphins will also face Newcastle at Perth Oval three days later, with a sold-out crowd of 20,027 attending a similar match last year.
Master coach Wayne Bennett has backed the Perth bid, warning that the NRL would regret not expanding to the city. South Sydney, Bennett's team, are committed to playing in Perth again next year, while Cronulla's deal is only for this season. The Dolphins have a year-by-year arrangement for their Perth visits.
