WA Jet Warner Issues Stern Warning to Victorian Rivals Ahead of Origin Battle
Sydney Swans superstar Chad Warner has delivered a bold declaration that Victorian football is in for a rude shock as Western Australia prepares for its first AFL State of Origin clash against the Big V since 1992. The highly anticipated sold-out encounter at Perth's Optus Stadium this Saturday night has ignited fierce interstate rivalry, with players from both camps arriving in Western Australia this week.
Warner's Confident Declaration Sets Tone for Historic Clash
Speaking upon arrival at Perth Airport, East Fremantle-product Warner made it clear that WA intends to make a statement against their traditional rivals. "It's all starting to feel a bit real now. The rivalry is heating up and I can't wait to get out there to show them what WA has got to be honest," Warner declared.
"Not many people are giving us a chance except maybe for WA people. They are going to get a rude shock. I would love to bring it home."
The Swans midfielder revealed that his competitive fire against Victoria was forged during his junior representative days, stating that hating the Vics was ingrained during his time with WA Under 16s and 18s teams. Warner believes the feeling is mutual, adding to the intensity of what promises to be a fiercely contested match.
Gawn Fires Opening Salvo in Verbal Warfare
Melbourne captain Max Gawn, whose greatest career moments were carved out at Optus Stadium during the Demons' 2021 premiership campaign, threw the first verbal punch in the Origin build-up. The Victorian ruckman referenced Fremantle and WA ruck-forward Luke Jackson's rumoured desire to return to Melbourne last season in a cheeky dig at his former teammate.
"I heard he was interested in coming back to Melbourne last year. I'll see if that flame's still there. Might ask him during the second quarter," Gawn quipped.
Despite his confidence, Gawn acknowledged WA's formidable strength and the unpredictable nature of State of Origin football. "I think we'll win. But if you look at State of Origin in years gone by, anything can happen - South Australia, WA, they constantly would upset Victoria at different times," he admitted.
Players Embrace Historic Opportunity
Hawthorn defender Tom Barrass, a premiership Eagle turned Hawk, emphasised the significance of the occasion for the future of representative football. The West Australian expressed hope that Saturday's clash would establish State of Origin as a permanent fixture for decades to come.
"We feel a responsibility to make it a real event on the calendar for the next 20-30 years," Barrass stated. "So that the AFL and their players can all celebrate the game, and not just their teams, but also their states."
Barrass described the honour of representing WA as comparable to his first state selection at age 18, highlighting the privilege of competing against Victoria's best players of this generation.
Optus Stadium Set for Electric Atmosphere
Gawn, familiar with the electric atmosphere at Optus Stadium, predicted another capacity crowd for the historic encounter. "Every time we come here, it's sold out. I think that's a testament to the WA supporting group," he observed. "I think every West Coast and Freo game we've played has been sold out. So I expect no different for this State of Origin game."
The Victorian captain also referenced recent history between the states, noting "You guys didn't let us in for four or five years" in relation to COVID border restrictions, adding another layer to the interstate rivalry.
Players Embrace Family and Football Balance
In a heartwarming detail, many players arrived with their partners and children - travel expenses covered by the AFL as compensation for sacrificing another pre-season weekend. Gawn shared that his four-year-old son George entertained himself with footy cards during the flight, blending family life with professional commitments.
The WA squad, including GWS spearhead Jesse Hogan, participated in a promotional photoshoot featuring a quokka wearing the famous WA jumper against a backdrop welcoming Victorian opponents to Perth. This playful imagery contrasted with the serious competitive intent expressed by players from both camps.
Warner's Call to Honour WA Football Legacy
Chad Warner emphasised the responsibility current players feel toward honouring WA's football heritage. "There are a lot of fans out there who also remember the old days," he reflected. "I think we have a responsibility to try our guts out and put in a good showing for everyone who remembers the old days."
The Sydney star described the Black Swan emblem as "literally the be all and end all" during his junior representative days, highlighting the deep emotional connection West Australian footballers feel toward their state jumper.
As anticipation builds toward Saturday night's sold-out clash, both states have made their intentions clear. Victoria arrives with confidence born of historical dominance, while WA carries the determination to prove they can match it with football's traditional powerhouse. With players embracing the occasion's significance and rivalries reignited after three decades, Optus Stadium promises to host a truly memorable chapter in Australian football history.
