The fierce rivalry between Western Australia and Victoria has been reignited with explosive force, as the first wave of player selections for the highly anticipated AFL Origin clash was announced. The February 14th showdown at Perth's Optus Stadium is already generating intense passion and fiery banter between the camps.
Selectors Trade Barbs in Fiery Start
The war of words began in earnest, with Victorian Chairman of Selectors Garry Lyon setting the tone by declaring his team's desire to 'belt' WA. He didn't hold back on his counterpart, describing WA legend and selection chairman Glen Jakovich as 'unhinged'.
Jakovich, a former West Coast star, fired back with a potent reminder of history. He pointed out that the last time Victoria travelled to Perth for an Origin match, they lost by 76 points. His feelings towards the Big V were crystal clear: 'I still hate Victoria,' he declared. 'I don't think Garry has had too much success in big games here in WA. I doubt he's going to have any success on the 14th of February.'
Star-Studded Teams Begin to Take Shape
Both teams revealed their first key players on Friday, building excitement for the first State-of-Origin game since 1999. The WA squad is already looking formidable, headlined by dual Brownlow medallist and Carlton captain Patrick Cripps. He will be joined by electrifying Fremantle forward Shai Bolton, Hawthorn's key defender Tom Barrass, and Western Bulldogs forward Aaron Naughton.
Not to be outdone, Team Victoria has assembled its own arsenal of superstars. Their initial picks include Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli, Brownlow medallist Matt Rowell, Coleman medallist Jeremy Cameron, and Port Adelaide's dynamic midfielder Zak Butters. More selections are expected in the coming weeks.
Players Rally for State Pride and Rivalry
The passion for representative footy is palpable among the players. Patrick Cripps revealed that the excitement was already building at events like the Brownlow Medal night. 'I was getting around to them and getting in their ear. They're all excited to play,' Cripps said. 'There was already a bit of lip going to a few of the Vics that night. We want to build the rivalry up, have a great game and, obviously in the home state, put on a show.'
Cripps spoke enthusiastically about the prospect of teaming up with fellow West Australians, mentioning mates like Charlie Cameron, Darcy Cameron, Jesse Hogan, Chad Warner, Bobby Hill, and Liam Baker. He confirmed that he's already sketched out a rough team on paper and likes what he sees.
For Glen Jakovich, this match is about more than just one game; it's about restoring a proud tradition. 'One of the most important things is the fabric of our great game. State-of-Origin football and representative football was a big part of that. Unfortunately we've missed two generations of it,' he stated passionately.
He emphasised the unique significance of the state jumper and is determined to use WA's rich history, including former captains like Ross Glendinning, Steve Malaxos, and John Worsfold, to inspire the current group. His message to West Australians is a direct call to arms: 'I ask all West Australians to turn up on February 14. We need to put 55,000 people in and don't leave the welcome mat out.'
With tickets going on sale Tuesday, the stage is set for a monumental event that aims to put AFL Origin football firmly back on the map.
