SWFL 2022: Bulls grind out tough derby victory over gallant Lions in pouring rain

The Harvey Bulls women’s team recorded a determined 6.5 (41) to 1.0 (6) win over neighbouring Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault at a damp Brunswick Oval on Saturday morning. Heading into the clash, the Bulls were expected to win convincingly, given the ample amount of their premium players in good form over the past fortnight. However with a boggy turf, periodical heavy showers throughout the game and plenty of spirit, the Lions made their neighbours earn every disposal from the opening bounce. In front of a non-existent crowd, and with miserable conditions making things difficult for the speedy Bulls to get their run and spread up and running, the Lions were able to turn the game into an arm wrestle, with repeat stoppages quickly becoming the norm. Gradually, the Bulls began to win a number of key areas, including in the ruck, with Jenna Bloom taking a shine to her new role in the centre square. After defending grimly during the opening 11 minutes of the game, the Lions’ defence eventually yielded, with Caitlin Shales sending a towering kick through post-high from 40m out in the driving rain. With Bulls stalwart Rebecca Fry isolated at the top of the goal square, dangerous forwards Emma Faulkner and Samantha Logan were able to bring the football to ground further up the ground and ensure their pace resulted in deep, meaningful entries for the remainder of the game. Together with reliable goalkicker Megan Minton, Faulkner finished with two goals — however her hard work at the coalface was ultimately the difference between the sides, given the torrid conditions. In one of their better performances since their last finals appearance in 2019, the Lions were well served by loyal contributors Riley Brine and Lauren Patane, while Megan Buswell slotted a deserved goal for her side’s endeavour in the third term.