SWNFL 2022: Busselton Magpies through to grand final after semi-final thriller against Eaton Boomers

A fast start in overtime has given the Busselton Magpies another chance at completing their grand final redemption story after holding off reigning premiers Eaton Boomers 79-67 in a thrilling SWNFL semi-final.

Eaton Recreation Centre played host to an epic first week of finals for the South West Netball Football League on Sunday, with the Magpies and the Boomers going up against each other for a spot in the grand final just a week after drawing at 60 apiece.

Despite an even start in what was a very physical contest between both sides, the Boomers managed to build up an early lead thanks to shots on goal by Jessica Knight and Courtney Collard.

Although the Magpies put the pressure on at every opportunity, Eaton held on to lead 18-13 at quarter time.

The physical contest continued into the second term with Busselton rallying to make a comeback with strong defence by Janelle Pagan and Ash Farmer, along with the deadly shooting combination of Maia Bratton and Lisa Millman.

Despite Busselton’s best efforts, Eaton held strong to lead 33-29 at half-time.

While the Boomers managed to extend their lead to six goals by the final change, the contest came down to the wire during the last quarter as Busselton fought hard to make a comeback.

There was almost a sense of deja vu as teams matched each other goal for goal, ultimately finishing at 58 apiece, forcing the match into extra time.

Busselton returned to the court guns blazing, quickly building up a lead with strong driving by Isabel Legros and Mia Pethybridge and accurate shots on goal by Bratton and Millman.

Despite Eaton’s best efforts in trying to keep up, Busselton held their own and went on to take the win 79-67, booking their spot in the grand final.

Meanwhile, outstanding shooting and strong defence became a recipe for success for the South Bunbury Tigers, who have pulled off a huge surprise and eliminated the Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault Lions 63-51.

Although the Lions were quick to build up an early lead with goals via Katie Martin and Kellie Offer, South Bunbury fought back from quarter-time in the high pressure contest.

Chloe Willsher was outstanding in centre court, quickly driving the ball down and getting great feeds to Gemma Chapman and Ella Dowsett, while Sue Howard was on fire in goal keeper during the third term.

Despite HBL putting up a strong fight, including great driving by Jasmine Barrett and Khea Borkowski, South Bunbury built themselves a solid lead to win the match by a convincing 12 goals.