SWNFL 2022: HBL Lions hold off Bunbury Bulldogs by one goal to solidify finals berth

Despite putting up a fierce fight, the Bunbury Bulldogs’ shot at the South West Netball Football League finals has been made more challenging after the Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault Lions edged them out by just one goal.

The Bulldogs and the Lions went head-to-head at the South West Sports Centre on Saturday in a crucial clash for Bunbury’s SWNFL finals hopes.

Bunbury got off to a strong start, building up an early lead thanks to interceptions by Isabelle Szemray and Hannah Jacks, backed up by accurate shots on goal by Hannah Rogers.

While the Lions put up a strong defence early, it took a little while for HBL to start fighting back.

Goals via Katie Martin and good feeds from Khea Borkowski brought the Lions back from their slow start and they eventually took the lead.

However, a last-second goal saw Bunbury hold a narrow advantage 13-12 at quarter-time.

Looking to build momentum, Bunbury continued extending their lead early on in the second quarter, although HBL continued fighting hard to stay in the contest.

Although the Lions stepped up the defensive pressure via Lauren Vincent, Bunbury’s Courtney Babich made some impressive interceptions, feeding to Rogers as the contest picked up in intensity.

Bunbury managed to extend their lead out to five goals by half-time.

HBL returned to the court for the second half determined to make a comeback, with strong driving by Borkowski and offensive rebounds by Martin.

Although Bunbury held a small advantage throughout the third term, the Lions fought back to take the lead 33-31 at three-quarter-time, setting up a showdown for the final quarter.

Bunbury managed a fast start and shaved down the margin to bring the scores level early.

However, HBL continued to bring the heat as the teams began matching each other goal for goal in a fierce fight.

Just when it looked as though the match would end in a draw, a last-gasp goal saw the Lions get up 43-42.

Elsewhere, Eaton held off Carey Park 53-43 at Eaton Recreation Centre to guarantee themselves a top-two finish with just one more round of the regular season to go.