Busselton Magpies force to be reckoned with after upsetting table-toppers Bunbury in SWFL Women’s victory

Busselton have emerged as an imposing side as the SWFL women’s finals approach after knocking off Bunbury 9.4 (58) to 2.3 (15) on home turf. Facing off in the rescheduled third round of competition at Sir Stewart Bovell Park on Sunday, Busselton welcomed some strong reinforcements in former AFLW-listed players Demi Liddle and Katie-Jayne Grieve. From the outset it was a battle for territory as both teams scrambled for the ball, although Busselton would find themselves obtaining the early lead after a goal from Jay Williamson and a few minor scores. After a few minutes to find their groove, Bunbury started gaining territory but found themselves under siege by the Magpies at every turn. Additional goals from Williamson and Rennie Meadmore saw Busselton keep Bunbury goalless, leading 3.2 (20) to just one behind at quarter time. Looking to redeem themselves from a less than ideal start, Bunbury were quick to put the pressure on Busselton during the second term. A goal from Daisy Rigby gave the Bulldogs the sign they were looking for to shift the momentum but the Magpies fought back, responding with a goal from Meadmore. While Busselton looked like they were starting to take control, Bunbury stayed in the contest putting on the pressure wherever they could. A late goal from Mia Dronow saw the Magpies lead 5.2 (32) to 1.1 (7) at half-time. Following the main break, a rejuvenated Bunbury side looked to make a comeback but the contest resulted in a stalemate in the midfield until Busselton’s Ellie Merrett broke through for a goal. Not ready to start losing hope, Bunbury’s Ruby Mahony breathed new life back into the Bulldogs when she responded with a goal of her own. Despite a couple of missed opportunities, Busselton held strong to lead by 32 points at the final change after a goal by Kelsey Della-Bosca. The final quarter saw the Magpies continue to run hot despite the Bulldogs still trying to fight back and stay in the contest. However, Bunbury’s missed opportunities in front of goal haunted them as goals from Meadmore and Demi Vanderleer sealed the 43-point win for Busselton, knocking off the top side in the process.