SWFL 2022: The Harvey Bulls snap Bunbury’s winning streak in the first women’s match in 29 days

Multiple bye weeks might have kept them off the field for a month but the Harvey Bulls have returned in a big way, defeating Bunbury by three goals. The Harvey Bulls ran out for the first time in four weeks on Sunday when they hosted the Bunbury Bulldogs at Harvey Oval. While the contest had a scrappy start, Bunbury were quick to get themselves on the scoreboard with a number of early minor scores. The contest seemed to be a battle for territory with the ball spending more time within the Bulldogs’ forward 50 on the scoreboard side of the field. Although the Bulls managed a late minor score to break onto the scoreboard, Bunbury led 0.4 (4) to Harvey’s 0.1 (1) at quarter time. The second quarter saw the battle for territory continue as both teams put the pressure on each other. While Bunbury were once again quick to drive the ball forward, interceptions and big tackles from the Bulls saw the Bulldogs unable to score. Harvey began inching their way towards taking the lead with a few more minor scores while Rebecca Fry moved through the field like a wrecking ball. Bunbury soon found themselves suffering an injury scare with Shana-Lee Beardman taking a bump to the shoulder. The Bulls managed to take the lead just before the half time siren with a late goal from Laura Cheney giving them a six-point advantage. The third quarter saw the tough contest continue with both teams putting up a good fight. Although Bunbury finally managed a goal via Milly Burns, Harvey was quick to respond to hold on to their lead with a goal from Megan Minton. At the final change, Harvey led 2.4 (16) to 1.4 (10). The final term saw Minton extend the Bulls’ lead with an early goal while Bunbury looked to find a way to respond. Despite the spirited effort from the Bulldogs, the Bulls held on to keep Bunbury scoreless for another quarter. A late goal from Emma Angi sealed the deal for the Bulls, giving them the 4.4 (28) to 1.4 (10) victory with the likes of Rachel Tilbrook, Jenna Bloom and Rachel Shepherd recognised as some of the Bulls’ best. Sarina Tassone had another strong outing for the Bulldogs while Indiana West and Lotte Stepnell were also named among the Bulldog’s best.