The Showdown's intense rivalry can be traced back to 1982 when the SANFL, along with Port Adelaide, approached the VFL in regards to entering two sides, itself and longtime major rival, in the Victorian league.
The Showdown's intense rivalry can be traced back to the initial attempts of South Australian clubs trying to enter the newly expanding Victorian Football League (VFL). In 1982 the SANFL, along with Port Adelaide, approached the VFL in regards to entering two sides, itself and longtime major rival, in the Victorian league.