SWFL 2022: Bunbury Bulldogs book fifth SWFL Women’s grand final appearance in six years

Bunbury Bulldogs bounced back from a lacklustre semi-final effort to book themselves a spot in the SWFL women’s grand final, defeating Donnybrook by 14 points. The Bulldogs and Dons went head to head in the do-or-die preliminary final clash at Payne Park on Sunday to determine who would face off against Busselton in the women’s grand final. From the outset, Bunbury were quick to drive the ball forward and it did not take them long to get on the scoreboard. While the Dons tried to put the pressure on, Bunbury dominated possession as Ebony Bilcich broke through to score the first major of the match. Despite Donnybrook’s efforts in trying to keep up, including strong ruck work by Holly Gill and pressure by Lauren Vecchio, Bunbury continued building on their early lead with a goal via Darcy Wallace. As the Dons tried to fight back, the contest reached a stalemate, with the Dons ultimately kept scoreless for the term. The second quarter saw another fast start for Bunbury with Shana-Lee Beardman quickly scoring a goal to extend the Bulldogs’ lead. While the Dons scrambled to find a way to respond, Bunbury stepped it up in defence to prevent the ball from straying beyond the centre of the field. Despite being able to earn more scoring opportunities, the Bulldogs could only register behinds, along with several rushed behinds thanks to the Dons. At half-time, the Dons were still scoreless as the Bulldogs led by 23 points. Following the main break, Donnybrook looked determined to mount a comeback, quickly booting the ball forward and getting a point on the board. However, Bunbury continued putting the pressure on at every opportunity and finding open space. A late goal from Bethany Bond saw the Dons start making headway to catching Bunbury, while the Bulldogs were kept scoreless for the term. At the final change, Bunbury led 3.5 (23) to 1.2 (8). Looking to build momentum, the Dons managed another fast start for the last quarter but were intercepted by Charity Ryder as the contest started getting physical. Despite the Dons putting up a strong fight and a late goal from Lacey Holdsworth, the Bulldogs were simply too good, with a goal from Beardman sealing the win for Bunbury 4.5 (29) to 2.3 (15).