SWFL 2023: Carey Park remains undefeated after pulling off 27-point victory over Augusta-Margaret River

Carey Park have continued to emerge as a top contender, extending their undefeated streak to a fourth win after holding off Augusta-Margaret River 12.9 (81) to 8.6 (54).

The Panthers hosted the Hawks at Kelly Park during the South West Football League’s Anzac round on Saturday, where Carey Park looked to extend their win streak while Augusta-Margaret River were keen to build form after holding off Harvey Bulls last weekend.

From the outset, both sides mounted the pressure on one another with plenty of tackles laid within the midfield.

However, Carey Park drew the first blood with Connor Gadecki charging through to kick a goal on the run.

While Augusta-Margaret River tried to make a quick response, the Panthers made some good interceptions with Cameron Baker converting to build up a lead.

Momentum shifted in favour of the Hawks during the late stages of the term with Beau Morgan and Jack Hick booting majors to bring the scores level at quarter-time.

The contest seemed to reach a stalemate during the second quarter, with neither team affording each other many scoring opportunities.

As wayward passing under pressure started to rattle the Hawks, Carey Park capitalised to extend their lead with goals via Kelvin Lawrence and Rory O’Brien.

However, Jack McMahon made a quick response to shave the margin down to eight points by the main break.

The third quarter was where Carey Park really started to run amok with Kelvin Lawrence, Harley Sparks — who was putting on an excellent midfield performance — and Brady Lenaghan all kicking majors to extend the Panthers’ lead.

While the Hawks managed a slight reprieve with a goal of their own, Lawrence continued to do wonders for the Panthers, charging through the midfield to drive the ball forward.

Although the Hawks were struggling to get in front of the contest, skipper Lincoln Adams put the pressure on across the backline while Simon Moore and Jimmy Purvis continued to impress within the midfield.

By the final change, Carey Park had blown the margin out to 39 points.

While Augusta-Margaret River rallied at the start of the final term to get back to within three goals of Carey Park, tensions flared as a hard tackle turned into a melee with several players sent off as a result.

By the time Lawrence kicked his fourth goal of the match, Carey Park were well and truly on their way to victory.

Although Adams managed a late goal, it was too little too late as Carey Park held strong to remain undefeated and claim the 27-point win.