SWFLW 2023: Busselton women’s team set new defensive record during one-sided grand final rematch

The Busselton women’s team recorded their own slice of SWFL history with Sunday’s uncompromising 13.3 (81) to 0.0 (0) win over Bunbury.

Rennie Meadmore’s Magpies became the first South West women’s team to hold opposing sides scoreless throughout the opening four games of a season — which equates to 240 minutes of football.

This achievement is particularly significant, as not even Maxwell Jetta’s all-conquering South Bunbury team — who won three consecutive premierships between 2019 and 2021 — were able to achieve it.

As Busselton have yet to concede a solitary behind, they are on top of the ladder but still don’t have a percentage.

The sheer ease and class in which the Magpies went about their business on Sunday will likely send shivers down the spines of rival coaches.

Aside from forwards Emma Borinelli, Meadmore and Katisha Barrett all marking confidently and converting in front of goal, the defensive slingshot across the Pies’ half-back line was brutally effective.

Had a bystander arrived at Payne Park and not seen the scoreline, they could’ve been forgiven for thinking the Magpies were being thrashed, such was the tenacious and desperate defensive play exuded at all times.

It was a tough afternoon for Bunbury coach Stephen Bilcich, however he remained positive on the boundary line, despite his side becoming the first Bulldogs team to be held scoreless in women’s competition history.

While this match was a grand final rematch, the Bulldogs have endured plenty of player turnover since last year’s decider, and also have WAFLW playmakers Ruby Mahony (Swan Districts) and Ebony Bilcich (Peel Thunder) unavailable at the moment.

Aware the Bulldogs have several young players new to senior football, Bilcich calmly instructed and offered encouragement from the bench, which appeared to be welcomed by many in the developing squad.