SWFL 2022: Bunbury advance to colts grand final after outlasting HBL in extra time

Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault’s brave ride during the SWFL colts finals series came to a proud halt on Sunday at Hands Oval, after Bunbury secured a gripping overtime victory in the preliminary final.

Scores were deadlocked at 4.9 (33) on the final siren, which meant both sides were required to play an additional two five-minute halves.

A classy finish from Baiden Parsons midway during the first period of sudden death was enough to ultimately propel the Bulldogs to run out 5.10 (40) to 4.11 (35) victors, and set up a second semifinal rematch against Carey Park in Sunday’s grand final.

The Lions were far from disgraced, and in truth, had more than their fair share of opportunities to put the result beyond doubt during the second half.

Unfortunately, poor kicking in front of goal — including Pierce Ferguson blazing away from point-blank range moments out from full time in regulation — came back to haunt Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault.

The Bulldogs, who have been a perennial powerhouse of the colts competition over the past decade, managed to break the shackles during the extra time.

Aside from Peter Woods’ slick speed and decision making, Trae Field and Mitchell Attwood managed to get more of the football — and leave the Lions defence pinned deep in their own half.

With a slender lead and time winding down, the Bulldogs played smart situational football, by hugging the boundary line and generating repeat stoppages, which was enough to see them through.