SWFL 2022: South Bunbury edge out determined Harvey Bulls by three points in thriller

South Bunbury have continued to cement their status as top contenders after holding off a determined Harvey Bulls outfit by just three points in a thrilling match.

The Bulls hosted the South Bunbury Tigers at Harvey Oval for their round 16 match as the South West Football League moves toward its run home to the finals.

Both teams put the pressure on each other from the outset, with Jace Cormack managing to break through for the opening goal.

It seemed the Tigers would go on to assert their dominance as unanswered goals from Ethan Nordahl and Cormack helped build up a solid lead.

As Harvey looked to respond, South Bunbury seemed to swarm the Bulls at every chance.

The Bulls did not hit the scoreboard until an interception by Callan Eddy led to a goal via Brad Holmes, which was soon followed up with a second goal for Holmes.

A further major via Michael Bennell saw the scores brought level for a short period as the contest reached an early stalemate in the midst of strong pressure by both teams.

A late goal via Michael Bennell saw the Bulls manage to take the lead 4.3 (27) to 3.2 (20) at quarter time.

The second quarter saw the fierce contest continue as the Bulls extended their lead with two further goals from Michael Bennell in quick succession, leaving South Bunbury struggling to respond.

Harley Bennell put in an impressive display across the backline for the Bulls, keeping the South Bunbury forwards quiet in the process.

A fifth goal from Michael Bennell and a couple of minor scores saw the Bulls keep South Bunbury scoreless and extend the lead out to 7.7 (49) to 3.2 (20).

After the main break, South Bunbury returned to the field determined to redeem themselves from a lacklustre second quarter effort.

South Bunbury’s efforts would pay off in a big way with Ethan Nordahl, Kevin Chitty, Rhys Crawford and Hayden Krikke all kicking goals to take the lead.

However, a goal after the siren via Aaron Jovanovic saw the Bulls take back the lead 8.8 (56) to 8.3 (51).

The fourth quarter saw South Bunbury continue their quest to make a comeback while Harvey looked to consolidate another upset win.

As tensions bubbled between both teams in the intense contest, only Ethan Nordahl managed to break through with a goal.

Although Harvey tried their hardest to drive the ball forward to respond, South Bunbury held on to take the win 9.5 (59) to 8.8 (56).

Harvey’s Lloyd Beever was named best on ground, receiving the Think Mental Health game ball.