SWFL 2022: Bunbury Bulldogs outclass Harvey Bulls in 26-point victory

Despite having an intermittent start to their 2022 campaign, Bunbury Bulldogs have continued to show why they’re among the SWFL’s top dogs after recording a 26-point victory.

The Bulldogs travelled to Harvey Oval to take on the Harvey Bulls on Sunday during the SWFL’s Anzac round.

While the Bulls were quick to drive the ball forward and produce a minor score in the opening minutes, Bunbury were just as quick to take the lead with Jayen Farrant scoring the first goal of the match.

From there, Bunbury took control with several major scores from Farrant, Jaymin King, Scott Doncon, Randall Hodgson and Dylan Heasman.

Although Harvey struggled to convert amid strong defensive pressure by the Bulldogs, the Bulls broke through for goals via Kyle Humphries and Brad Holmes.

At quarter-time, Bunbury led 7.3 (45) to 2.4 (16).

The second quarter saw the Bulls manage another fast start with an early goal from Tyson Powell after a scramble for the ball.

Although Bunbury would soon step up in defence, a couple of errors saw them only produce minor scores.

A late goal from Jordan Richards inched the Bulls closer, trailing by three goals at half-time.

Harvey’s strive for a comeback continued after the main break with an early goal from Richards.

However, Bunbury soon shut down Harvey’s comeback attempt with a six-goal haul that included three majors from Cameron Hay, a second goal from Heasman, as well as majors from Jett Rigby and Mark Longbottom.

Although Harvey booted a second major for the quarter, Bunbury held the lead 13.8 (86) to 6.9 (45) at the final change.

While Harvey did not give up hope with majors from Aaron Jovanovic, Holmes and Dominic Celisano, their efforts were too little, too late.

A late goal sealed the victory for Bunbury, 14.13 (97) to 10.11 (71).

Bunbury’s Dylan Heasman was named best on ground for his strong display, taking home an Anzac medal that was commissioned by Forrest MP Nola Marino.

Heasman, Hay and Jesse Gribble were named among the Bulldogs’ best while Thomas Wood, Rhys Anzellino and Lloyd Beever were among the Bulls’ best.