SWNFL 2022: South Bunbury edges out Bunbury by three goals to earn spot in finals

South Bunbury have clawed their way into the South West Netball Football League finals, holding off cross-town rivals Bunbury by just three goals.

All eyes were on the South West Sports Centre on Saturday with the South Bunbury-Bunbury derby match-up ultimately determining who would take the last finals spot that was up for grabs.

Although both teams were quick to put the pressure on from the first centre pass, South Bunbury managed to build up an early lead with quick driving and accurate shots on goal while Bunbury seemed to struggle getting early shots.

While Bunbury managed to regain composure and fight back with goals via Hannah Rogers and a strong fight in centre court by Maddi Welsh, South Bunbury’s Ella Dowsett and Bree Roberts put on a strong showing to continue building the Tigers’ lead while Nyrobi Zuiderwyk shined in defence.

At quarter time, South Bunbury held on to lead 18-12.

Keen to continue extending their lead, South Bunbury were firing out the gate during the second quarter while the Bulldogs strived hard to keep up.

As the contest picked up pace, both teams made great interceptions, although South Bunbury managed to capitalise and extend their lead.

Strong driving by Courtney Babich and Meg Taaffe saw Bunbury start to challenge for the lead but South Bunbury held on to lead 32-26 at half time.

The intense contest continued into the second half as Bunbury looked to make a comeback although South Bunbury continued utilising a high-pressure approach in defence.

As Bunbury continued inching their way towards drawing the scores level, South Bunbury would continue fighting back to maintain their lead.

In a frantic finish to the term, South Bunbury led 41-37.

Despite Bunbury’s best efforts in trying to make a late challenge for the lead, South Bunbury proved too strong and held on to win the match 55-52 and secure their spot in the finals, leaving the Bulldogs heartbroken.

Elsewhere, Eaton have held on to become the SWNFL’s minor premiers despite drawing with Busselton 60 apiece in an epic Sunday clash.

Along with the draw, Busselton guaranteed themselves a top-two finish with a convincing 70-58 win over Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault on Friday night.