Tigers pounce early on errant Pies

A slow start and squandered opportunities sealed Busselton’s fate at Sir Stewart Bovell Park on Saturday night, with South Bunbury defeating the Magpies by 13 points.

Despite perfect conditions and having home-ground advantage, the Pies could not fend off the Tigers who came out strong, kicking six majors — two by Leigh Kohlmann — in the first term.

Pies duo Reegan Mrsich and Steve Cameron fought back in the second quarter for the home side by kicking truly but against the Tigers’ three, it was not enough and the visitors comfortably led by 37 points at the half.

There was a strong second-half push from the Magpies, whose forward pressure resulted in both sides struggling to generate scoreboard pressure.

The Pies signed off in 2018 with a five-goal final quarter and outscored the Tigers seven goals to three in the second half. But with too many opportunities missed and time against them, the Tigers held their nerve in the closing stages to record a 12.13 (85) to 10.12 (72) victory.

It was a case of deja vu for Busselton, who experienced a similar defeat against Donnybrook last week Pies coach Steve Lester was frustrated with the slow start, which was somewhat reflective of the entire season.

“To give another top side a six-goal lead and then try and peg them back, it’s just too much,” he said. “Today probably summed up the season a bit — missed opportunities.”