SWNFL 2023: Bunbury edges out Donnybrook Blackwood by three goals in come-from-behind victory

Bunbury have bounced back from a disappointing 11-goal loss to Eaton in a big way, coming from behind to defeat Donnybrook Blackwood by three goals in an exciting contest. The Bulldogs hosted the Ravens at the South West Sports Centre during the Belt Up round of the 2023 South West Netball Football League season on Sunday. The Ravens were quick to build a lead with quick ball movement through the mid-court and goals from Courtney Webb and Emma Smith. However, Bunbury would soon respond with goals of their own via Summer Towers and Chloe Rogers, along with strong defensive pressure from Isabelle Szemray. Despite a couple of wayward passes in the midst of the high pressure and fast-paced contest, the Ravens held a solid lead 12-6 by quarter time. Bunbury continued to build momentum during the second quarter with Courtney Babich and Sarah Leitch driving the ball down the court as well as making impressive takes. However, the Ravens continued to hold a lead with interceptions by Felice Pocock, while Meg Taaffe put up a good fight against her former mentor in wing defence. As Bunbury started to look frantic on the court, the Ravens capitalised on defensive rebounds to hold on to a narrow 18-16 lead at half-time. Following the main break, both sides matched each other goal for goal during the early stages of the third quarter and players put their bodies on the line in the physical contest. Despite suffering a casualty with Cassady Osiejak out with a foot injury, Bunbury rallied to take the lead for the first time. Although the Ravens fought hard to stay in it, Bunbury held strong to lead 31-28 at the final change. As Bunbury looked to extend their lead even further, the Ravens tried desperately to fight back. However, Bunbury held on to claim victory 42-39. Elsewhere, Busselton have continued to build momentum with a third win in a row, this time holding off Carey Park 59-49, while Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault solidified a spot in the top two with a 46-38 victory over Augusta Margaret River.