GWS Giants CEO Dave Matthews says the importance of Opening Round is lost on Victorian footy fans.

For a third straight season, the AFL season will begin with the first four games split between Sydney and South East Queensland, and Matthews says Melbourne traditions don’t carry weight outside of Victoria.

“Sometimes I listen to the narrative in Victoria and other places as though it’s an extra game, it’s just a game that’s been brought forward,” Matthews told Jimmy Bartel on Wide World of Sports.

Press PLAY to hear his full comments on the narrative surrounding Opening Round

“It’s important in Melbourne, but Richmond and Carlton in Sydney is not important at all,” he added.

“If we’re aspiring to be a national game, then you’ve got to create events outside of Melbourne.”

The Giants CEO also addressed the topics of trying to attract talent in New South Wales, intentions for a bigger stadium, advice for Brendon Gale and new Tassie team and more.

Press PLAY to hear the full in-depth chat on 3AW

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