Arthur Jones of the Bulldogs celebrates after kicking a goal during the 2026 Smithy's VFL Round 1 match between Footscray and the Casey Demons at Mission Whitten Oval. Picture: Craig Dooley/AFL Photos

Join Gemma Bastiani and Joe Pignataro for State of Play, the official VFL and VFLW Podcast.

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- Footscray celebrate premiership flag unfurling in style
- Tasmania enjoys perfect start with a first-up win in front of a sold-out home crowd
- Port Melbourne gets its season off on the right foot
- Special guest Werribee coach Dan Lowther following the Tigers upset win on the Gold Coast in his first match at the help
- The games that are in store for Round 2

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