A Classic Western Derby That Will Be Remembered Forever
On July 24, 2011, over 41,000 fans filled the Subiaco Oval for a highly anticipated Western Derby between the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both sides eager to witness another intense clash in one of Australian Rules Football’s most storied rivalries. However, few could have predicted the dramatic finish that would make this game a legendary moment in football history.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams pushing each other to their limits. In the final term, West Coast looked set to secure a comfortable victory after goals from Josh Kennedy and Luke Shuey gave them a commanding lead. But Fremantle refused to go down without a fight, launching a late surge that brought them within striking distance.
Despite the Eagles’ lead, the margin remained razor-thin, with Fremantle’s players like Stephen Hill, Chris Mayne, and Nat Fyfe finding the big sticks in crucial moments. At one point, the Eagles led by just three points, and with time running out, it seemed as though the Dockers might pull off an unlikely comeback.
The tension reached its peak when a controversial free kick was awarded to Fremantle’s Hayden Ballantyne. The decision came after West Coast veteran Matt Rosa deliberately knocked the ball out of bounds during a marking contest. The field umpire, Dean Margetts, placed the mark at the junction where the 50-meter arc met the boundary line—a spot known for its difficulty.
Ballantyne, a player who had become a thorn in the side of West Coast fans, stood on the mark with the weight of the game on his shoulders. His teammate Adam McPhee offered last-minute advice before he took his shot. With the full-time siren about to sound, Ballantyne executed a drop punt that looked destined for the goal.
As the ball soared through the air, it appeared to be heading straight for the big sticks. Fremantle fans erupted in celebration, but the moment was short-lived. The ball struck the goal-post padding, and the final whistle blew. West Coast had won by a single point, sealing one of the most dramatic finishes in derby history.
Josh Kennedy, a legend of the Eagles, reflected on the moment, saying it was one of the most intense Derbies he had ever experienced. He joked that he believed he had touched the ball on the line, but with ten players scrambling in the goal square, it was impossible to tell. “But that was one of the great wins from our side, going right down to the wire,” he said.
The Legacy of the Western Derby
The Western Derby is more than just a football match—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has captivated fans for decades. The rivalry between the Eagles and Dockers is known for its intensity, passion, and unforgettable moments. From last-minute goals to controversial decisions, every game brings something new to the table.
Kennedy believes that bringing a Derby to the MCG would allow fans across Australia to experience the unique energy of the competition. “A Derby at the MCG would be great for the Victorian and eastern state fans that reside there and don’t get to see them live,” he said. “A Derby grand final would be nice one day. I’d love to see the first player to win a Norm Smith and a Glendenning-Allen medal at the same time—hopefully it’s an Eagles player.”
A Moment That Defined a Rivalry
The 2011 Western Derby remains a defining moment in the history of the Eagles and Dockers. It showcased the unpredictable nature of football and the heart-stopping excitement that comes with every clash. For fans, it was a reminder of why they fall in love with the sport—because anything can happen, even in the final moments of a game.
This match will forever be remembered as one of the greatest in the history of the Western Derby, a testament to the passion and dedication of both teams and their supporters. Whether you were there in person or watching from home, it was a game that left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.
