SWFL 2023: Dominant second-half performance not without cost for Bunbury after serious injury calls match off

Although a dominant second-half effort helped Bunbury earn their fifth win of the season, 3.8 (26) to 2.2 (14), against Eaton on Sunday, it was a bittersweet occasion with one of their players set for a lengthy stint on the sidelines.

In the midst of an exciting contest at Glen Huon Reserve, the match was called off with just two and a half minutes until the final siren after Cadence Edwards suffered a serious ankle injury.

Edwards’ injury came in the midst of a physical second-half that resulted in a number of casualties within the Bulldogs’ camp.

The match started out with Bunbury quickly driving the ball to take control early but Eaton managed to intercept with plenty of defensive pressure and tackles.

After Kirralee Hart kicked the first goal of the match, Eaton amped up the pressure even more and had good vision to make intercepts.

However, Bunbury would remain composed and hit their targets with a goal after the siren from Ellie Tiltman giving them a 15-point lead by quarter time,

While Eaton were kept scoreless for the first term, they were not about to give up as both sides scrambled for the ball throughout the second quarter.

Eaton’s tenacity soon paid off with Rebecca Jetta kicking a major.

As Bunbury looked to respond, Eaton made it difficult and continued shaving the margin down with behinds before Zoe Hill kicked a late goal to trail by just one point at half-time.

The second half began with Bunbury quickly moving the ball forward with Georgia Mahony finishing with a goal to extend the Bulldogs’ lead.

Bunbury continued extending their lead inch by inch with a number of minor scores while Eaton fought hard in defence.

In the midst of the physical contest, Bunbury suffered a few casualties with Caitlin Ward taken from the ground with a suspected concussion, followed minutes later by Libby Klopper after she was taken to ground clutching at her knee.

As Bunbury looked to continue building up a lead and Eaton put the pressure on inside Bunbury’s scoring 50 during the final term, everything came to a screeching halt as Edwards was taken to ground and failed to get back up.

As a stretcher was sent on to the field, trainers from both sides and umpires determined Edwards’ injury was far too serious to carry her from the ground and called for an ambulance, resulting in a premature finish to the match.