Melbourne vs Western Bulldogs: The Hampson–Hardeman Cup History
The rivalry between Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs is highlighted by the competition for the Hampson–Hardeman Cup. This trophy serves as a symbol of prestige and dominance between two of the most prominent clubs in Australian Rules Football, spanning across various eras and the transition into the professional AFLW (Australian Football League Women's) era.
From early encounters at the iconic MCG to the high-intensity matches of the modern AFLW league, the battle for the cup has seen shifts in momentum, dramatic scorelines, and a growing crowd following.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- The Trophy: The teams compete specifically for the Hampson–Hardeman Cup.
- AFLW Milestone: The first match between these two teams in the newly-formed AFLW took place on February 18, 2017.
- Venue Variety: Matches have been hosted at the MCG, Etihad Stadium, Marvel Stadium, VU Whitten Oval, and Casey Fields.
- Recent Dominance: Melbourne has retained the cup in the most recent encounters of 2022 and 2023.
Chronological Match History
Early Encounters (2013–2016)
The rivalry began with Melbourne securing the Hampson–Hardeman Cup in 2013 with a decisive 53–21 victory at the MCG. Melbourne continued their success through 2014 and 2015, retaining the cup despite the Western Bulldogs' efforts. In 2015, both matches were broadcast live on Channel 7 and 7mate.
The tide turned in 2016. The Western Bulldogs claimed the Hampson–Hardeman Cup after winning two matches: a 41–21 victory at Highgate Recreational Reserve and a dominant 90–51 win at Whitten Oval.
The AFLW Era (2017–2021)
The landscape shifted in 2017 with the launch of the AFLW. Melbourne reclaimed the cup on February 18, 2017, winning 43–29 at VU Whitten Oval. However, the Western Bulldogs took the trophy back in 2018 with a narrow 33–31 win.
The following years saw the cup trade hands frequently. Melbourne won it back in 2019 at Marvel Stadium (39–38) and retained it in 2020 (32–12). The Western Bulldogs briefly regained control in 2021, defeating Melbourne 37–24 at VU Whitten Oval.
Recent Campaigns (2022–2023)
Melbourne has established a strong recent run. In 2022, they won two separate matches—one in January (46–22) and one in October (73–9)—to secure and retain the cup. This momentum carried into 2023, where Melbourne defeated the Western Bulldogs 83–41 at Casey Fields to keep the Hampson–Hardeman Cup.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Match Summary Table
| Year | Winner | Score | Venue | Cup Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Melbourne | 53 - 21 | MCG | Melbourne received |
| 2014 | Melbourne | 72 - 26 | Etihad Stadium | Melbourne retained |
| 2015 | Melbourne | 40 - 36 (Avg) | MCG / Etihad | Melbourne retained |
| 2016 | Western Bulldogs | 90 - 51 (Final) | Whitten Oval | Western Bulldogs received |
| 2017 | Melbourne | 43 - 29 | VU Whitten Oval | Melbourne received |
| 2018 | Western Bulldogs | 33 - 31 | VU Whitten Oval | Western Bulldogs received |
| 2019 | Melbourne | 39 - 38 | Marvel Stadium | Melbourne received |
| 2020 | Melbourne | 32 - 12 | VU Whitten Oval | Melbourne retained |
| 2021 | Western Bulldogs | 37 - 24 | VU Whitten Oval | Western Bulldogs received |
| 2022 | Melbourne | 73 - 9 (Final) | Casey Fields | Melbourne retained |
| 2023 | Melbourne | 83 - 41 | Casey Fields | Melbourne retained |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hampson–Hardeman Cup?
The Hampson–Hardeman Cup is a trophy contested between the Melbourne and Western Bulldogs football clubs.
When did these teams first meet in the AFLW?
The first AFLW match between Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs took place on Saturday, February 18, 2017, at VU Whitten Oval.
Which team currently holds the cup based on the 2023 results?
Melbourne holds the cup, having defeated the Western Bulldogs 83–41 on September 16, 2023.
Where have the matches been played?
Matches have been played across several venues, including the MCG, Etihad Stadium, Marvel Stadium, VU Whitten Oval, Highgate Recreational Reserve, and Casey Fields.
Which year saw the highest score in the rivalry?
In 2016, the Western Bulldogs recorded a high score of 90 points in their victory over Melbourne at Whitten Oval.