Victoria Wins AFL State of Origin Game, But Injuries Worry Fans

Victoria has won the AFL State of Origin match against Western Australia. The game was very exciting, but some players got hurt. Many players still want this game to happen again.
By Newsroom | AFL, Australia |

AFL's State of Origin match returned, with Victoria defeating Western Australia. While the game was marked by a strong showing from both sides and praised by players, the contest was also marred by significant player injuries, raising questions about the future of the event.

Stars call for AFL Origin to continue after Victoria beat WA but injuries still an issue - 1

Event Overview and Outcome

The State of Origin match between Victoria and Western Australia took place at Optus Stadium, drawing a crowd of 58,141 spectators. Victoria ultimately secured a victory, defeating Western Australia by a score of 125 to 101. Key performers for Victoria included Nick Daicos, who had 38 disposals, and Ben King, who scored four goals. Western Australia's Jesse Hogan was a standout, earning the Graham Moss Medal as best on ground for his team, while Lachie Ash received the EJ Whitten Medal for Victoria. The intensity of the match was described as being at a "finals-like pressure" from the outset, rather than a casual exhibition.

Read More: Victoria Beats Western Australia in AFL Origin Game, But Injuries Cause Worry

Stars call for AFL Origin to continue after Victoria beat WA but injuries still an issue - 2

Player Injuries Cast a Shadow

The return of the State of Origin format was significantly impacted by injuries to several prominent players.

Stars call for AFL Origin to continue after Victoria beat WA but injuries still an issue - 3

  • Jacob Weitering (Carlton, Victoria) suffered a significant injury early in the game. While contesting a mark, he fell heavily and was landed on by other players. Reports indicate concerns for his shoulder and ribs, and he was taken to hospital. Some initial reports also suggested potential concussion or neck injury.

  • Mitch Georgiades (Western Australia) sustained a hamstring issue and was withdrawn at halftime.

  • Sam Taylor (Western Australia) also experienced hamstring awareness and was substituted out of the game.

  • Jack Rowell (Victoria) was noted with a finger injury.

The occurrence of these injuries has become a central point of discussion following the match.

Stars call for AFL Origin to continue after Victoria beat WA but injuries still an issue - 4

Players Advocate for Origin's Continuation

Despite the injury concerns, many players expressed a desire for the AFL State of Origin match to continue.

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  • Zak Butters stated his hope for the match to return next year, indicating he would actively seek to participate.

  • Bailey Smith also shared his positive views on the game's quality, describing it as "the real deal."

  • The overall sentiment from players suggested a belief that the Origin matches hold significant value and should be a recurring event.

Analysis of the Match Dynamics

The game itself was competitive, with Western Australia making a strong start.

  • WA scored the opening two goals within the first three minutes.

  • The intensity was noted to be high throughout, with both teams displaying considerable effort.

  • Victoria managed to respond to WA's surges, notably in the final quarter, to secure their win.

  • Key Victorian midfielders, including Nick Daicos, Marcus Bontempelli, and Zak Butters, were instrumental in the team's success.

Future of the State of Origin Format

The injuries sustained, particularly to Jacob Weitering, have ignited a debate about the sustainability and format of the State of Origin series.

Read More: Jacob Weitering Hurt in AFL Origin Game

  • The physical toll on players is a clear concern for clubs and the AFL.

  • Players' enthusiasm for the concept suggests a strong player-driven push for its continuation.

  • Consideration for the timing and scheduling of such high-intensity matches may be necessary.

Conclusion

Victoria's victory in the AFL State of Origin match was a hard-fought contest. While the game was praised for its intensity and the players' commitment, the outbreak of injuries, especially the significant incident involving Jacob Weitering, has brought the risks associated with the format into sharp focus. Despite these challenges, the players' positive reception and desire for the event's return suggest a strong case for its continuation, albeit with potential adjustments to mitigate player welfare risks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the AFL State of Origin game?
Victoria won the game against Western Australia.
Q: Were there any injuries?
Yes, several players were injured during the match. Jacob Weitering had a serious injury.
Q: Do players want the game to continue?
Yes, most players enjoyed the game and want it to happen again next year.
Q: What was the score?
Victoria scored 125 points and Western Australia scored 101 points.