SWFL 2022: Busselton Magpies hold off Eaton Boomers by four goals in dynamic match-up

A second-quarter goal blitz has seen Busselton enhance their bid for finals contention after holding off a determined Eaton Boomers outfit by four goals at Sir Stewart Bovell Park on Saturday. From the outset, both teams were quick to put the pressure on each other in a bid for the all-important fast start until Dylan Patterson broke through to kick the first goal for the Magpies. After what looked to be an early stalemate, the Boomers found themselves hitting the scoreboard via Tanner Allen. Both teams seemed to match each other goal for goal after Patterson managed a second goal, only for Michael Bennell to respond for Eaton. Despite a couple of minor scores giving Busselton the edge, a second goal from Allen saw the Boomers take the lead late 3.0 (18) to Busselton’s 2.2 (14) at quarter time. Looking to make an early comeback, Busselton were firing out the gate during the second quarter quickly driving the ball forward for an early major. Despite Bennell quickly responding with a major for the Boomers, Busselton quickly took control with a flurry of goals via Jed Kemp, Brodie Howell, Patterson and Mitch Howlett. As the Boomers looked to fight back, Karl Collard managed a late goal to shave the margin down to nine points at half time. Following the main break, Busselton continued to control the contest, shutting down the Boomers wherever possible and extending their lead with further goals from Patterson and Howell. Despite managing to bring the ball into their forward 50, Eaton struggled capitalising in front of goal with a number of behinds scored until Brandon Jetta managed a late goal. At the final change, Busselton led 10.5 (65) to 6.10 (46). Although the Boomers made a solid attempt to make a comeback with goals from Allen during the final quarter, Busselton were just too strong with Bailey Sanford putting the exclamation mark on the win with three goals. At the final siren, Busselton held strong to win 13.6 (84) to 8.12 (60).