WA Day Derby (Foundation Day)

One of the biggest rivalries in the West is fast approaching, in WAFL form! The Foundation (WA) Day derby between South Fremantle Bulldogs and East Fremantle Sharks is set to take place at ATOM Stadium on Monday the 1st of June, bounce down at 2.40pm.

This rivalry has divided Fremantle suburbs, turned local footy supporting families against each other and seen mates become oppositions on game day. This will be the 370th derby with the original derby being won by the Sharks by 26 points back in 1900!

Who knew the tradition started that long ago?!

The last nine derbies have been won by the away team which would seem to set the Bulldogs up for the victory, or may just place addition pressure on them! The teams are both coming off losses from last week which will make the players even hungrier for the 4 points, with only one game separating the two teams on the ladder.

East Fremantle’s Jamie McNamara plays his 100th game for the Sharks and he will be key player through the midfield. Andrew Stephen, James Bristow and Brad Dalziel have also been included in the lineup which will help to further strengthen the side.

Toby Bairstow, Craig White and Josh Pullman have been named in South Fremantle’s lineup this week, which also includes a fiery Blayne Wilson who has just come off of an impressive defensive performance with the WAFL state team win. I think Cory Dell’Olio will be leading the forward line for the Bulldogs and continue his form after playing possibly his best game of the year alongside Blayne Wilson in the state squad on Saturday.

My tip: Bulldogs to win by 19 points.

A derby between these two sides is not only a joy to watch, it’s also a great day out for the family. Bring your kids down for free face painting, bouncy castles, balloon twisting and a lot of fun.

Don’t forget to wear your team colours!

Have your say: @tweetperth @emmalianapayne #WAfooty