Australian football fans are in for a nostalgic treat this weekend as Channel Seven broadcasts a full replay of Western Australia's legendary 1986 State of Origin victory over Victoria. The classic match, widely regarded as one of the greatest Origin contests ever played, will air on 7Mate and 7plus from 8:15 AM on Saturday morning.
Historic Clash Ahead of Modern Rivalry
The replay serves as the perfect appetizer for Saturday evening's highly anticipated return of the Origin format, when the Sandgropers and Vics clash at Optus Stadium. That modern battle begins at 4:40 PM, with 7mate's broadcast coverage starting from 4:00 PM. The timing allows fans to compare eras and appreciate the evolution of the game while celebrating its rich history.
The 1986 Epic at Subiaco Oval
The 1986 classic at Subiaco Oval holds special significance as it was the final Origin clash before West Coast's entry into the AFL the following year. The match featured an array of legendary names and an unforgettable, dramatic finish that has cemented its place in football folklore. Many consider it the pinnacle of State of Origin football, showcasing the raw passion and skill that defined the era.
Key Moments and Heroic Performances
Brian Peake emerged as an unlikely hero, booting seven goals from an unfamiliar full-forward position in coach Ron Alexander's side. His dominant performance was complemented by Gary Buckenara's superb snapped major late in the final term, which crucially set up the victory for Western Australia.
The fourth quarter alone was a rollercoaster, with the lead changing an astonishing seven times. Amid this chaos, Wayne Blackwell produced a match-saving moment with an unbelievable smother of a Brian Royal shot on goal. This defensive gem potentially swung the result in WA's favor, demonstrating the fine margins that define such historic contests.
Legendary Lineup and Coaching Duel
The WA squad featured a who's who of football greats, including Peter Davidson, Andrew MacNish, Mark Bairstow, Peter Wilson, Dean Laidley, Geoff Miles, Leon Baker, Shane Ellis, Ross Glendinning, Colin Waterson, Peter Sartori, Laurie Keene, Paul Harding, Rod Lester-Smith, Phil Narkle, Maurice Rioli, Dwayne Lamb, Robert Wiley, Brad Hardie, Chris Mainwaring, and Michael Mitchell. Coach Ron Alexander masterminded the victory against rival coach Kevin Sheedy in a memorable coaching duel that added to the match's legacy.
This classic encounter truly needs to be seen to be believed, and Seven's broadcast provides the perfect opportunity for both nostalgic fans and new generations to experience it in its entirety. If Saturday's Origin reboot captures even a fraction of the drama and quality of the 1986 epic, football enthusiasts are undoubtedly in for another spectacular treat.
