Victoria Secures Victory in AFL State of Origin Revival
The AFL's much-anticipated rebirth of State of Origin delivered on its promise as Victoria clinched a hard-fought 24-point win over Western Australia. A roaring crowd of 58,141 fans at Perth's Optus Stadium witnessed the thrilling encounter, which saw Victoria emerge victorious with a final score of 18.17 (125) to 15.11 (101).
Late Surge and Momentum Shifts
Victoria appeared to be cruising with a 29-point lead at three-quarter time, but Western Australia mounted a fierce comeback. Jesse Hogan ignited the charge with three quick goals, part of a four-goal burst that slashed the deficit to just six points with over 17 minutes remaining. The momentum had swung decisively in WA's favour, setting the stage for a potential upset.
However, Patrick Dangerfield intervened with a crucial 50-metre goal that shifted the tide back to Victoria. His effort steadied the visitors, allowing them to hold on and secure the win. Hogan's dazzling performance saw him finish with 5.0, earning him the Graham Moss Medal as WA's best player.
Star Performances and Medal Winners
Victoria's midfield dominance proved pivotal, with Nick Daicos leading the charge with 38 disposals, seven clearances, and a goal. He was ably supported by Marcus Bontempelli (30 disposals, one goal), Zak Butters (27 disposals, one goal), and Zach Merrett (20 disposals, two goals). Their collective effort effectively dismantled WA's resistance.
In a surprising turn, Lachie Ash was awarded the EJ Whitten Medal as best afield for Victoria, tallying 25 disposals and gaining 498 metres. Victoria coach Chris Scott revealed that the selection panel, including Garry Lyon, Sam Mitchell, and Shaun Grigg, unanimously chose Ash over other contenders like Daicos and Bontempelli.
Scott explained, "We had Lachie in a group with Daicos, Butters and Bontempelli. But in the end we thought when the game was really hot and we were under pressure, that Lachie was the most influential."Physicality and Injury Concerns
The match was marked by intense physicality, dispelling any doubts about player commitment. Both sides unleashed brutal tackles and big bumps, with players fearlessly running back with the flight of the ball when necessary. This high-intensity play came at a cost, however.
Victoria suffered an early blow when defender Jacob Weitering was stretchered off in a neck brace after a first-quarter marking contest, requiring precautionary hospital scans. WA also faced setbacks, with Mitch Georgiades and Sam Taylor sidelined due to hamstring awareness either side of half-time. Additional injuries included Matt Rowell with a finger concern and Callum Ah Chee with a right hamstring strain.
Historical Context and Post-Match Reactions
This showdown marked the first AFL Origin match since 1999 and the first Victoria-WA clash since 1992, when Victoria posted a 67-point win at the MCG. With this victory, Victoria now leads the head-to-head battle 13-7.
After the match, Marcus Bontempelli celebrated on stage, declaring, "We stuck it right up them!" His words encapsulated the fierce competitive spirit that defined the night, reaffirming State of Origin's place in AFL lore.
