SWNFL 2023: Bunbury record their biggest win of the season, defeating Augusta-Margaret River by 38 goals

Bunbury’s quest for a top-two finish is one step closer to fruition after putting up a dominant effort against Augusta-Margaret River to win by 38 goals, their biggest win of the season. The Bulldogs travelled down the highway to Margaret River Recreation Centre to take on the Hawks during round 20 of the 2023 South West Netball Football League season on Saturday. From the first centre pass, Bunbury were quick to drive the ball down the court and build up an early lead with goals via Cassady Osiejak and Summer Towers. As the Hawks looked to get themselves on the board, they found themselves struggling to get in front with Isabelle Szemray and Hailey Burrows pulling in defensive rebounds and Kacey Walsh and Courtney Babich quickly moving the ball down the court. As Annabel Angland put the pressure on in defence for the Hawks, Tracey Guthrie helped the home side bring themselves back, making great leads into the goal circle. However, Bunbury held strong to lead 17-7 at quarter-time. While Bunbury made a fast start to the second quarter, the Hawks looked to stage an early comeback with a quick response. The defensive combination of Szemray and Catelynn Bedford proved too strong for the Hawks, with the pair making interception after interception to help Bunbury balloon the margin out to 18 goals at half-time. Although Janet Smith attempted to salvage the Hawks’ efforts with a solid interception, Bunbury remained in charge of the contest with their continued strong defensive efforts and flawless feeds into the goal circle from Osiejak. By the final change, Bunbury held the lead 43-17. Despite solid efforts in defence and across the midcourt by the Hawks, including great driving by Nikki Scott and defensive pressure by Misty Shipway and Angland, the final quarter resembled more of a victory lap for the Bulldogs, who continued to extend their lead with shots on goal by Chloe Rogers and Osiejak. When all was said and done, Bunbury pulled off the convincing 61-23 win over the Hawks, as they turn their attention towards South Bunbury for the final round of the season. Elsewhere, Eaton finished their regular season on a high, holding off a determined Carey Park outfit 57-35 to finish on top of the ladder with an impressive 13-1 record. On Sunday, Donnybrook Blackwood ended their season with another nailbiter, this time edging out a fierce South Bunbury outfit 60-55.