SWFL women’s: Harvey Bulls maintain top spot on ladder with 37-point win over South Bunbury

Harvey Bulls continued their undefeated start to the South West Football League women’s season with a 37-point victory over South Bunbury at Harvey Oval on Saturday. With ladder-leaders Dunsborough having a bye, the Bulls took their chance to extend their lead at the top of the table, claiming their fifth victory from five games in the 6.5 (41) to 0.4 (4) result. The visitors’ tackling pressure was an early feature as they made a strong start but they struggled to capitalise on scoring opportunities, taking a two-point lead over the scoreless Bulls into the first break. It was the Bulls’ turn to go on the attack after the change of ends and they initially were unable to make the most of some deep inside-50 entries, but a goal-line soccer from Caitlin Shales got them on the scoreboard. A slick end-to-end transition allowed Tajah Griffiths to slot a set shot moments before the half-time siren, with the hosts taking an 11-point lead into the main break. Harvey continued to dominate proceedings in the third term, extending their lead at the final interval out to 18 points thanks to Shales again showing off her foot skills to create a goal without taking possession. The Tigers started the last quarter by showing some attacking verve but were again unable to progress the ball into their own half, before the Bulls iced the cake with another goal for Griffiths and two more for Shales. Harvey midfielder Larissa Tartaglia was awarded the match ball for the best player afield as part of Belt Up Round and was well supported by Sierraleone Simpson and Baylee Howard, while captain Kaitlin Eades, Yana Guretti and Alyssa Bain gave their all for the Tigers.