SWNFL 2022: South Bunbury pull off upset 21-goal victory over cross-town rivals Bunbury

After three weeks away from the court, South Bunbury returned in a big way with an upset 60-39 victory over Bunbury at the South West Sports Centre on Saturday. In a physical start to the match, both teams were quick to put the pressure on wherever they could as they matched each other goal for goal. Although Bunbury started making some headway, South Bunbury began fighting back with strong defence by Majella Bouwman and Grace Craigie. Strong driving down the court and consistent goals by Ella Dowsett saw the Tigers take the lead while Bunbury fought hard to try to take back their early lead. While South Bunbury managed to hold strong to lead 16-10 at quarter time, the term was marred with controversy after alleged umpire dissent following a caution issued to a South Bunbury player. Tigers skipper Gemma Chapman apologised on behalf of the team during the break. The second quarter saw the physical contest continue as Bunbury strived to make an early comeback with quick driving by Hailey Burrows and strong defence by Hannah Rogers. However, South Bunbury remained in control and extended their lead with solid shooting by Dowsett and Chloe Wallace, backing up Craigie’s continued defensive effort. As the contest picked up pace and intensity, South Bunbury held on to lead 26-17 at half time. Following the main break, the exciting contest continued as Bunbury continued striving for a comeback with good interceptions to inch their way closer. But South Bunbury started pulling away once again to lead 45-27 at the final change. Bunbury got a fast start in the final quarter following a turnover but a number of miss opportunities saw South Bunbury capitalise and extend their lead to take the win by 21 goals. Elsewhere, Busselton continued to reign supreme after holding off Carey Park 69-57, while Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault defeated Eaton 54-39.