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Star-studded WA commentary team help deliver strong western derby ratings on Seven and 7Plus

Samantha RogersThe West Australian
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VideoHear what Eagles and Dockers fans had to say outside Optus Stadium after Fremantle's derby win.

A star-studded commentary team of western derby greats has delivered a massive ratings win for Seven, with the biggest game in WA reaching more than 443,000 West Australians.

Led by 7News’ Ryan Daniels, the Perth team included Fremantle greats Michael ‘Sonny’ Walters and Shaun McManus, as well as West Coast champions Ben Cousins and Mark LeCras calling the game from Optus Stadium on Sunday.

Their unrivalled insights helped draw a total TV audience of 201,000 across the state, including 30,000 on 7Plus Sport, a 20 per cent year-on-year audience increase and the biggest derby audience since round 3, 2022.

Seven’s coverage also included the post-match presentations, with Fremantle defender Jordan Clark claiming the Glendinning-Allan Medal for best on ground in the Dockers’ 56-point victory.

“The WA footy DNA in the commentary box was unmistakable, creating an authentic call that clearly resonated with audiences,” Seven West Media WA chief executive Maryna Fewster said.

The Game NRL 2026

“We’re proud to offer that local connection and provide advertising partners with a powerful way to reach passionate local footy fans.”

Seven’s coverage of the 2026 season continues to delivery strong audience growth across all platforms, with total TV audiences up 24 per cent, drive by a 12 per cent increase on broadcast and 170 per cent on 7Plus Sport.

That is expected to continue in round seven, highlighted by the 2026 Anzac Day clash between Collingwood and Essendon, which will be live and free on Seven, 7mate and 7Plus Sport from the MCG.

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