Melbourne v West Coast: Demons fans arrive in Perth

LONG-SUFFERING Dees fans descended on Perth any way possible — via road, train and plane, from as far-flung connections as Singapore, Bali and Darwin, ahead of tomorrow’s West Coast showdown.

Melbourne Demons fans at Optus Stadium in Perth. Picture: Trevor Collens

A MELBOURNE army has arrived in enemy territory, hoping an AFL upset against West Coast tonight will keep alive dreams of a first premiership in 54 years.

Spoiling for a preliminary final win, Demons faithful descended on Perth any way possible — via road, train and plane, from as far-flung connections as Singapore, Bali and Darwin.

Long-suffering Dees fans yesterday marched through the West Australian capital to make a statement — they expect their fairytale season to continue.

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DEES FANS GETTING TO PERTH ANY WAY THEY CAN

John Della is a Perth-based Demons fan, outside Optus Stadium. Picture: Trevor Collens

And while the odds may say otherwise, supporters of Australia’s oldest and most patient footy club reckon the grand old flag is coming home.

Demons cheer squad leader Ryan Sinclair said now Melbourne was winning finals it was ready to win the lot.

“We’re definitely going to win, there is not question about that, it’s just a matter of how much,” he said. “We don’t mind if it’s one point or 100 points.”

Melbourne legend and footy icon Ron Barassi said Demons fans near and far had reason to be excited.

“I’m hugely hopeful,” Barassi said. “How special would it be — for the whole club and all the supporters — to get into the Grand Final after 54 years?”

Ready to cheer: Demons fans in Perth. Picture: Trevor Collens

Melbourne chairman Glen Bartlett said support of fans home and away had been big.

“It’s been great having thousands cross the Nullarbor,” he said.

“There is a lot of positive energy, momentum is a wonderful thing in finals … we’re just trying to enjoy it.”

A wall of noise from West Coast fans in a Perth Stadium quickly gaining a reputation as a colosseum awaits up to 5000 Melbourne fans at tonight’s match.

Fans in Perth said some Dees supporters staying in Victoria had bought seats at the ground to keep them empty in a bid to curb the Eagles cry. Mr Bartlett, who ironically used to play for West Coast, said victory would be enormous.

“To have the opportunity to go into a Grand Final would be so exciting for our supporters and everyone involved,” he said.

“That’s what you play for to play in a Grand Final.”

Thousands of fans unable to make the journey west can gather at Federation Square to watch the action live this afternoon.