State Game Specialist Recalls Famous Victory

WA football great Robert Wiley was one of his side’s best players in a famous victory over South Australia forty years ago.

On their way to being crowned champions at the National Championships, the Sandgropers scored a comprehensive 39-point win over the Croweaters at Football Park.

Wiley was a star performer on the night, and the 71-year-old has fond memories of the match on May 27,1986.

“Looking back, WA always seem to play well at Football Park due to the fact that it had large expanses like what we are used to in playing back home,” Wiley said.

“With the selection of players with good running ability and pace we were able to use our strengths.

“Also, it happened to be the year before West Coast joined the VFL, so it turned out I was playing with some of my future teammates.

“It was always amazing to play with the up-and-coming players of the future that may go to other VFL clubs.

“I was 31, so along with Brian Peake we were the oldies amongst the youth.

“I know travelling you must get away to a good start and certainly our first quarter set the scene for us the keep in front of SA all night.”

Wiley booted three goals and played a significant role in the win.

“Personally, I had a good game and because it was played on a Tuesday night it meant we had three games in a week.

“It was always my desire to be the best I could at the highest level and to be part of the best players in the WAFL selected at that time was always a great honour.”

Wiley enjoyed stunning success as a player, winning two premierships with Perth in 1976 and 1977, before claiming a flag with Richmond in 1980.

An eight-time fairest and best winner at Perth, Wiley played 287 club games, including 18 with the West Coast Eagles in their inaugural year.

He played 14 state games and had a soft spot for playing against South Australia in Adelaide.

“Going back to Football Park held great memories for me and in 1977, coached by the great Ken Armstrong, we held onto a thrilling win in which I kicked a goal to put the game beyond the reach of the home team,” Wiley recalled.

“Then in 1984, if my memory serves me correct, with the scores level there was a boundary throw which was won by the late Peter Bosustow.

“I received the handball and quickly kicked as the siren went or a split second before and luckily it sailed through for a behind.

“Very thrilling and very lucky to be in the right spot at the right time.”

Wiley remains a firm supporter of state football.

“From the moment I started playing for Perth in 1974 I wanted to represent the state, being the highest accolade I could receive,” he said.

“Experiencing this quality of football over the next 14 years was not only amazing but helped develop my football.

“To see State of Origin back this year as well this match against South Australia is vitally important for all young players to strive to be the best against the best.

“May it continue as part of our great game and go Sandgropers!”