Perth Football League Claims State Honours in Representative Double-Header

The Perth Football League has claimed bragging rights in the annual representative double-header against WA State Country, recording victories in both the Women’s and Men’s fixtures at HIF Health Insurance Oval on Friday night.

Despite the results not falling their way, WA State Country once again showcased the depth of talent from country football competitions across Western Australia, with players proudly representing their leagues after coming together for only a handful of training sessions.

Women’s Match

WA State Country 5.7 (37) def by Perth Football League 10.6 (66)

The WA State Country Women’s showed plenty of fight throughout the contest, producing some exciting passages of football against a well-drilled Perth Football League outfit.

After falling behind early, Country responded impressively in the second quarter to work their way back into the contest and challenge their metropolitan counterparts. However, the Perth Football League’s depth and ability to capitalise on opportunities proved the difference as they gradually pulled away in the second half.

Great Northern Football League representative Olivia Bidwell (Towns Football Club) was recognised for her outstanding performance, claiming the Best on Ground Medal after an influential display across four quarters.

While disappointed with the result, the Women’s program once again demonstrated the strength and growth of country football, with players from across the state proudly wearing the black and gold.

Men’s Match

WA State Country 8.3 (51) def by Perth Football League 14.12 (96)

The Men’s fixture was a fiercely contested battle for much of the evening, with WA State Country matching the Perth Football League through the opening half.

One of the highlights of the night came courtesy of South West Football League representative Aidan Clarke, who brought the crowd to its feet with an extraordinary goal near the boundary line that will long be remembered as one of the moments of the match.

Country remained within striking distance at half-time, but the Perth Football League lifted after the main break, controlling field position and converting their opportunities to establish a match winning lead heading into the final change.

South West Football League’s Caleb Stephens (Dunsborough Football Club) was awarded the Best on Ground Medal following a standout performance and was among Country’s most influential players throughout the contest.

Attention now turns to the 2026 Country Championships in July, where leagues from across the state will converge on Perth to compete for championship honours. Following the Championships, the WA State Country Men’s program will continue preparations for its interstate clash against South Australia Country in Adelaide later this July.

Country Football WA congratulates all players, coaches, support staff, umpires and volunteers who contributed to another successful representative football showcase and thanks supporters for attending and backing both programs.