SWFL: Reigning women’s premiers Bunbury open season with 16-point victory over Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault

Reigning South West Football League women’s premiers Bunbury opened their season with a 16-point victory over Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault at Payne Park on Sunday. The improved visitors presented a stern challenge to the new-look Bulldogs and may have won the battle for field position on the day but the hosts ultimately had the quality to secure a 4.3 (27) to 1.5 (11) result. The Bulldogs were without a number of stars from last year’s grand final win including Poppy Stockwell, Ebony Bilcich (both WAFLW) and the sidelined Kloe Bassett. But a number of players flourished after assuming greater responsibility — captain Sarina Tassone produced a best afield display from the wing as Caitlin Ward and Cadence Edwards stood out on the middle. The Lions were well served by a pair of their stalwarts, with Latisha Hough battling hard around the ball and Calista Harvey giving great drive off half-back. At the other end, the Lions continued to attack but could not find the major opening, with their day neatly encapsulated by four behinds for the term. In a great finish to Bunbury’s day, recruit Doma Fedele — who played mostly across half-forward — was able to kick the sealer in her first appearance for the club since re-joining after her WAFLW retirement.