Weitering Foresees Fiery Start in AFL State of Origin Comeback
Carlton defender Jacob Weitering is bracing for a heated beginning when the AFL State of Origin makes its highly anticipated return this Saturday in Perth. The Victorian key backman has gone so far as to predict some "biff" in the clash against Western Australia, emphasising that players will take the game seriously despite being on managed minutes.
Players Warn Against Holding Back in Competitive Environment
Weitering and WA ruckman Darcy Cameron have both cautioned that the risk of injury could be greater for anyone who does not commit fully to the contest. Speaking at a Melbourne airport departure press call on Wednesday, Weitering addressed concerns about the intensity of the match.
"I could probably re-word it a little bit better - I just think it's going to be hot," Weitering said. "The boys are going to compete for the jumper and each other. It's an opportunity you just don't get regularly. The first 10 minutes, there are going to be a few contests."
Banter Fuels Motivation Among Club Teammates
The motivation for the State of Origin game is being driven by playful banter at the club level. Cameron has issued a warning to his Collingwood teammate and Victorian opponent Nick Daicos, advising him against any mind games during centre bounces.
"I've told him he'd better not, otherwise he won't get the ball for the rest of the year," Cameron stated. "He likes to get a few cheap handballs around the back, so he'd better be careful."
Similarly, Weitering has confidently predicted that Carlton captain Patrick Cripps, who may be sent forward for WA, would not kick any goals against him. "I will try to make that (playing against Cripps) work for maybe five minutes, but he won't be kicking one on me, that's for sure," Weitering added.
Players Embrace Opportunity Amid Scepticism
Despite some scepticism surrounding the AFL State of Origin comeback, particularly regarding how seriously players will approach the game and club concerns, both Weitering and Cameron are embracing the occasion. Cameron, whose AFL career has spanned Sydney and Collingwood, noted this match marks the first time in 13 years he will play alongside good friends Cripps and Tom Barrass.
"The best of WA against the best of Victoria - it's something I don't take lightly and I'm very proud to be representing WA," Cameron expressed.
Managed Minutes and Hot Conditions Addressed
Weitering explained that with 25 players per side, teams will be able to manage the forecast hot conditions effectively. He acknowledged that clubs have had discussions about game time, but players are expected to give their all.
"For the most part, players will be on managed minutes anyway. You'll probably get three quarters," Weitering said. He stressed that approaching the game with less than full effort could lead to injuries. "If you go out thinking maybe going 80-90 per cent, that's when you do get injured. It will be all-out."
This match serves as the players' first competitive hit-out in their pre-seasons, adding to the significance of the State of Origin return. Both Weitering and Cameron agree that the only way to approach it is with maximum seriousness and intensity.
