Despite efforts by the WANFL to have this match moved to Perth, the AFC insisted that the match remain at VFL Park, citing television and sponsorship commitments. The AFC had predicted that a crowd as low as 200 may attend but in the end 2583 spectators witnessed East Perths 20-point win over Perth.

Perth kept in touch with East Perth for three quarters primarily due to its accuracy in front of goal. The Demons forwards struggled against a Royals defence that repelled a number of attacks, but was able to kick 11 goals from its 12 scoring shots.

East Perths standout player was Peter Spencer who shone in his roles as rover and centreman, while fellow on-ballers Wayne Otway and Ian Miller were also effective and George Michalczyk starred in defence. Otway had his best performance for the season, kicking five goals during the last three quarters.

Perths best players were backmen Brian Cook and Clint Roberts, centreman Wayne Currie and rover Barry Kimberley. Peter Bosustow and Wayne Simms both kicked three goals for the Demons.

While administrators were keen on transferring the match to Perth, both rival coaches - Ken Armstrong (Perth) and Barry Cable (East Perth) - were happy to play at VFL Park as it was the venue for all of the finals matches and their teams needed as much experience at the venue as they could get.