Western Derby 62: Premier Perth Pubs for the Sold-Out West Coast vs Fremantle Clash
The highly anticipated 62nd Western Derby has finally arrived, with fans of both the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers eager to cheer on their teams from the best possible locations. Anticipation for this heated rivalry clash remains at an all-time high, as the sides prepare to face off in front of a packed Optus Stadium in a completely sold-out spectacle.
With tickets entirely exhausted, many Western Australians have been left scrambling to find alternative viewing spots away from their couches. Fortunately, Perth boasts a wealth of excellent options for those enthusiastic fans who missed out on securing a seat but still desire a quality venue to enjoy a drink while watching the game unfold.
Here are the top places in Perth to watch the derby this Sunday, each offering its own special deal or unique twist to attract keen supporters as the action commences.
Empire Bar
Home to the timeless legend Darren Reid and The Soul City Groove, the Lathlain pub is just a stone's throw away from Crown Casino and features quality offers for Sunday's game. Ahead of the 3:10 pm ball-up, Eagles defender Brandon Starcevich will participate in the Empire's pre-game panel, joined by a surprise guest to help build excitement among fans.
Additionally, the pub is offering $10 Carlton Dry pints throughout the game and until 8 pm, a deal designed to lure even neutral spectators to watch the clash.
Patriots Sports Bar
The Northbridge establishment connected to Brass Monkey has a reputation as Perth's American pub, yet it fully embraces the State's true sporting roots with a monster derby deal. Offering a game day VIP package, punters will be treated like royalty while watching the match.
This package includes reserved seating at the bar, bottomless Patriots beer during the game, and half a kilo of chicken wings upon arrival. Priced at $69, this deal sounds almost too good to be true for the biggest sports fans, but it requires pre-booking, so interested parties should act quickly before the opportunity passes.
The Lucky Shag Waterfront Bar
If your team is trailing significantly at halftime, The Lucky Shag provides a pristine view of the Swan River to help distract despondent fans as they hope for a comeback in the second half. Perched at Elizabeth Quay, pubgoers will be hoping for pleasant weather to fully enjoy the outdoor scenery.
From 2 pm, the bar will serve drink specials including $10 frozen cocktails, $16 Tommy's margaritas, and $10 Gage Road 'Huey' pints.
Balmoral Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Victoria Park, the Balmoral's outdoor beer garden features a gigantic screen that a packed house will compete to get the best spot in front of. The pub is offering its own derby package to attract undecided fans.
For $65, the package includes bottomless drinks from siren to siren, covering select tap beers and house wine, along with a halftime burger. Alternatively, footy platters and drink specials are also available, while happy hour from 5 pm to 6 pm can lift the spirits of even the most disappointed supporters.
The Carine Tavern
A popular game day destination north of the river, The Carine gives punters a chance to win big while watching the game with their extensive footy scratch and win promotion, offering a bounty of prizes for the luckiest fans.
Both Eagles and Dockers supporters can participate in a pick-the-margin competition while enjoying daunting 4.5L Carlton Dry towers or a jug of Great Northern. Their $75 footy platters are sure to satisfy even the hungriest fanatics, and one fandom will be able to either drown their sorrows or celebrate success during happy hour from 5 pm to 6 pm.
Long Neck
Another venue boasting a stunning view of the Swan River, Long Neck will have footy fans buzzing ahead of the grudge match. Music duo Electrophobia will be performing live music from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, leading into the exciting game.
The Camfield
The closest you can get to the action without a ticket to Optus Stadium is this renowned establishment right next door. A hotspot for ticket-holders before and after the game, the venue is always full of atmosphere, making it easy to see why it has become a favourite on game days.
The beer garden will be lively and energetic regardless of which side emerges victorious on Sunday.
