SWFL 2023: Brawl and player count talking points from Busselton and Bunbury clash

Busselton remain unbeaten on top of the SWFL ladder following Sunday’s 15.15 (105) to 14.6 (90) win over Bunbury at Sir Stewart Bovell Park. Goals were aplenty during the high-octane contest, along with two significant incidents during the 33-minute second term. A sizeable yet brief brawl occurred in Busselton’s forward line at the Busselton Hockey Stadium end, midway during the quarter. Multiple players were slammed to the ground and punches visibly thrown —along with several guernseys ripped off players’ backs — however, no players were reported. A short time later, Busselton called for a player count, as it was believed Bunbury potentially had more than 18 men on the ground, following Beau Luzi leaving the ground for treatment. Following the count, which proved neither side had too many players, the Bulldogs received a 50m penalty and kicked a goal. Bunbury started the game strongly and bolted out to an 11-point lead inside the opening eight minutes, with Joel Houghton proving to be a handful for the Magpies defence. After absorbing this resistance, the home side responded with three goals in six minutes nearing time-on, which held them in good stead for the remainder of the contest. Bunbury coach Jamie Nani said he was confident his side could build on the performance should both sides meet again in a few months. At VC Mitchell Park, Donnybrook ran out 16.11 (107) to 9.5 (59) victors over Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault, with Dons duo Ben Howlett and Jeff Smith among their side’s best. Carey Park claimed the Retravision Cup, defeating South Bunbury 10.10 (70) to 6.9 (45) at Kelly Park, which essentially has secured them a long-awaited return to finals football. On Saturday, a six-goal opening quarter powered a depleted Augusta-Margaret River against Eaton, with reigning Hayward medallist Simon Moore best afield in the 10.16 (76) to 6.12 (48) victory. Hawks coach Matt Jamieson said he was thrilled with the application of his younger players — many of whom were required to double up from colts or reserves matches earlier in the day. At Collie Recreation Ground, the Collie Eagles recorded their second win of the season against Dunsborough Sharks, 13.6 (84) to 10.5 (65), with Cameron Davidson booting six goals for the home side.