AFL Origin's Triumphant Return Cements Western Australia as Its True Home
If there is one undeniable conclusion from Saturday night's triumphant AFL Origin return, it is that the game is here to stay, and it must remain in Western Australia. That is the clear takeaway from a sell-out crowd and electric atmosphere at Optus Stadium, where football's best delivered a show full of heart, proving that a 27-year drought only fueled the fire of interstate rivalry.
Victoria Wins the Game, But WA Wins the Pride
Victoria may have secured the victory on the scoreboard, but Western Australia won what mattered even more. Pride was on the line, and both players and the public ensured this game was a massive hit, packed with great moments that resonated across the nation.
The numbers that matter all pointed in the right direction. Almost 2 million people tuned in to watch the match on Channel 7 or 7Plus, demonstrating widespread interest. The crowd of 58,141 included an estimated 8,000 fans from interstate, placing Origin's return just outside the top 10 all-time attendance figures at Optus Stadium.
Investment and Impact: Worth Every Cent
While the exact cost remains undisclosed, Tourism Minister Reece Whitby emphasized that the investment was worth every cent. He highlighted that out-of-state visitation doubled, with millions of dollars spent across Western Australia, not just in Perth, marking the event as a great success.
The final score of 18.18 (125) to 15.11 (101) was no walkover. Both sides, and both states, fiercely competed for the silverware. Caleb Serong noted that players aimed to prove the Origin nay-sayers wrong, showcasing a game with no spite but plenty of friendly fire, blood, sweat, and tears left on the field.
AFL Leadership and Future Considerations
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon hailed the event as a resounding success, indicating that more Origin games are likely in some form. However, questions remain about who will play, where, and when. Coaches from both sides have already provided answers, with Dean Cox praising the WA government, WA Tourism, and the public for their unwavering support, suggesting they deserve to host it.
Chris Scott predicted that Adelaide might try to steal the event, a notion echoed by South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas. Yet, Scott rated WA as the frontrunner, emphasizing the intense atmosphere and player commitment, even amid injury concerns like that for Carlton star Jacob Weitering.
Bi-partisan Support and Cultural Significance
The event enjoys bi-partisan support, with Premier Roger Cook recalling watching Origin football as a child and noting that a new generation of fans has embraced it. He stated, "Footy is in our DNA," underscoring the deep cultural connection.
While South Australia is welcome to compete, the sentiment is clear: Origin has found its home in Perth. The combination of passionate crowds, economic benefits, and player enthusiasm solidifies Western Australia as the ideal host for future AFL Origin matches.
