Pies hold nerve to thwart Bulls

Busselton Magpies managed a thrilling win over Harvey Bulls at Sir Stewart Bovell Park on Saturday night, running out victors 12.19 (91) to 12.9 (81).

Busselton started the match in strong fashion, kicking the first two goals before the Bulls’ Ryan Nye kicked the first for his side.

Aidan Fraser was important early for the Magpies with three goals in the first quarter.

However, the Bulls were able to charge their way back into the game in the second quarter after kicking five goals to three.

Harvey co-captain Brendon Jones was impressive in the second term with two important goals as his side hit the lead midway through the quarter.

However, Busselton managed to regain the lead after Jed Kemp finished the term with two more goals for Busselton.

Fraser continued his strong start to the season after he kicked his fourth goal in the third quarter but Harvey continued to put on the pressure. A shot on goal from the Bulls after the siren had the teams level at three-quarter-time.

Two quick goals in the final quarter saw Harvey jump into the lead early.

However, Busselton were able to claw their way back into the match in a frantic final five minutes.

A soccer attempt from Kemp, and his fifth goal of the match, put Busselton in front and they were able to lock the ball in their forward half to claim the victory.

Busselton coach Steve Lester said he was pleased with the result.

“I was really proud of the boys in the way they fought back especially in the second quarter when they were coming hard at us,” he said.

“That shows the real maturity of the group, last year we probably would have lost that game by three goals.

Harvey coach Paul Fimmano said he was disappointed with his team’s effort.

“We just need to keep working until we get it right,” he said