AFL State of Origin live scores: Western Australia and Victoria reignite historic rivalry
It’s state against state as AFL Origin returns for the first time in more than 20 years as Western Australia and Victoria reignite a historic rivalry at Optus Stadium.
Victoria, led by Marcus Bontempelli are heavy favourites with a midfield stuffed full of premiership winners and All-Australians, including the likes of Nick Daicos, Matt Rowell and Bailey Smith.
But don’t discount Patrick Cripps and his WA counterparts who will be desperate to spring an upset in front of a parochial sell-out crowd.
Follow all the action live!
WA’s secret weapon
The home side are up against it but they will have a trick up there sleaves.
Eagles legend Ben Cousins will join his premiership teammate and WA coach Dean Cox.
The 2005 Brownlow Medallist will reportedly be on hand to assist Cox, Justin Longmuir and the WA coaching crew.
Victoria first to walk out
Loud boos ring around the stadium as Victoria walks out first led by Marcus Bontempelli.
There are no banners with both teams; instead, running past giant state coloured flags.
Patrick Cripps hopes to inspire the next generation
The WA captain spoke to Abbey Holmes a few minutes ago.
Justin Longmuir in the rooms
The Fremantle coach is serving as an assistant today and was cacthing up with former Docker Jesse Hogan.
Fans rolling in
It’s a sellout crowd for today’s clash, and there are plenty of Origin gurnsey’s flying off the shelves already.
Should be a cracking atmosphere.
Some early warm-ups
Bailey Smith was out running through some drills
Matt Rowell was having his standard pre-game snack
ORIGIN DEPTH CHART
Who’s the best of the best heading into Origin as we rank every player ahead of this afternoon’s game?
Our experts tips
Victoria are heavy favourites but do any of our experts give WA a chance?
Where our Origin stars come from
The West Australian has gone through both Victorian and Western Australian squads and created a map for every player’s Origin.
An all-time Origin moment
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