SWNFL 2022: Bunbury find form in seven-goal victory over Carey Park

After slipping to fifth place on the ladder, Bunbury have fought back with a vengeance by holding off Carey Park by seven goals under the Friday night lights. Round 15 of the 2022 South West Netball Football League saw teams compete in a Friday-night double header at Bunbury’s South West Sports Centre, with Bunbury taking on Carey Park to find form. From the outset, Bunbury were firing out the gate with quick driving down the court and early goals from Kaitlyn Tucker in the midst of solid pressure from Carey Park’s defenders. With Tucker building up a solid lead for the Bulldogs and Hailey Burrows putting on a strong showing in goal defence, Carey Park struggled to find a way to hit the scoreboard. There was some hesitation from the Panthers with a number of held balls called, allowing Bunbury to capitalise and control the contest. However, strong driving from Zoe Buck saw Carey Park finally hit the scoreboard about halfway through the opening term with a goal from Emily Brough. Carey Park continued fighting back for the remainder of the term but Bunbury held strong to lead 13-6 at the first change. The second quarter saw Carey Park continue building on their defences, with goal keeper Sophie Blackett putting the pressure on wherever she could. However, strong interceptions and quick driving from Bunbury saw the Bulldogs extend their lead in one-way traffic. By half time, Bunbury led 23-14. Following the main break, the contest picked up intensity with Carey Park fighting hard to redeem themselves while Bunbury looked to continue dominating the court. Despite some good defence from Carey Park, Bunbury remained composed and continued extending their lead with good rebounds by Burrows and good feeds by Sarah Leitch and Molly Creasey. However, a late fightback from the Panthers saw the margin shaved down to six goals by the final change. Although Carey Park managed a fast start during the last quarter, Bunbury continued their high-pressure approach and held strong to take the win 44-37. Meanwhile, Eaton pulled off a convincing 47-27 victory over South Bunbury.