The National Rugby League (NRL) is bracing for potential frustrations from fans in Perth as a double-header scheduled for this Saturday may see a lower turnout at Optus Stadium. The matches, featuring Cronulla against Manly and South Sydney against North Queensland, coincide with troubled negotiations regarding the proposed Perth Bears franchise, which has reached a critical low point.
Perth’s chances of securing a franchise came under scrutiny last week when WA Premier Roger Cook accused the NRL of treating the state as a “cash cow” and not meeting funding requests. As negotiations loom, there remains a glimmer of hope for the future of rugby league in the region, with discussions planned to revive the franchise prospects aimed at a 2027 league expansion.
Currently, venue staff expect approximately 30,000 attendees for the matches this Saturday, a significant decrease from the previous double-headers that attracted nearly 39,000 fans in 2018 and around 46,000 in 2023. Additionally, a sold-out event in August 2023 proved the market’s enthusiasm for rugby league, as it drew over 20,000 supporters to HBF Park for the game between the Dolphins and Sydney Roosters.
Local fan group “The Cave,” led by Jason Burton, has expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the franchise talks and even discussed potential boycotts. Burton acknowledged the discontent and anticipated some backlash at the forthcoming matches, though he emphasized the enduring popularity of rugby league in Perth.
The hope lies in the community’s commitment to cultivating a strong fanbase, as Burton pointed out the potential for merging WA fans with those of the North Sydney Bears to establish a vibrant support structure from the outset. This sentiment has gained traction with renowned figures in the sport, including master coach Wayne Bennett, who voiced the importance of expanding into Perth.
As anticipation builds for Saturday’s matches and ongoing discussions about the Perth franchise, there remains a sense of determination within the local rugby league community for a successful resolution and continued growth of the sport in the region.
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