In the late 1800s, football in Victoria faced tough times due to a depression. Games were messy and rowdy, leading to a decline in popularity. Many top players left for Western Australia. The Victorian Football Association (VFA) needed reform, but clubs couldn't agree. Despite rules against paying players, many clubs were doing it anyway. This led to a split, with powerful clubs forming the Victorian Football League in 1897. Essendon dominated the 1890s, winning four premierships. Fitzroy and Collingwood also had success, setting the stage for the new VFL competition.