SWNFL 2022: South Bunbury come from behind to upset Busselton by four goals

South Bunbury have pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the 2022 SWNFL season, holding off Busselton by four goals in a stunning come-from-behind victory.

The Tigers and the Magpies went head-to-head at the South West Sports Centre on Saturday in round 19 of the South West Netball Football League season.

From the outset, both sides were quick to put the pressure on, although the combination of Maia Bratton and Lisa Millman in the goal circle gave the Magpies the early advantage.

However, South Bunbury overcame their less-than-ideal start once they hit the scoreboard with goals via Ella Dowsett putting them within reach of Busselton.

Janelle Pagan showed strength in goal keeper for Busselton, keeping Dowsett quiet and managing several impressive interceptions to help Busselton maintain their lead.

Although South Bunbury continued to fight hard, Busselton led 19-13 at quarter-time.

Looking to build momentum, South Bunbury were quick to get some early goals on the board via Dowsett and Bree Roberts during the second quarter.

Chloe Willsher was also impressive in the mid-court for the Tigers with a number of interceptions and strong driving down the court.

However, Busselton continued extending their lead thanks to goals via Bratton and Millman, along with strong driving by Tanieka Handley, Isabelle Legros and Georgia O’Neill.

As the contest became more and more physical, Busselton held strong to lead 39-25 at half-time.

Despite more early goals for South Bunbury during the third quarter, Busselton began to take control of the match.

The Magpies looked composed as they quickly drove the ball down the court and extended their lead.

Just when it looked as though Busselton would be blowing out the margin, South Bunbury fought back late to trail by just six goals at the final change.

The match kicked into high gear in the final quarter with both teams bringing plenty of physicality on the court in the high-paced contest.

Goals from Dowsett and Gemma Chapman helped South Bunbury gradually creep up on Busselton, eventually levelling the score.

As both teams began to match each other goal for goal, interceptions soon began to work in South Bunbury’s favour as they took the lead for the first time.

Despite strong efforts by Busselton, South Bunbury held on to win 75-71, to scenes of excitement among the South Bunbury contingent.

In other games, Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault defeated Carey Park 50-38 at Leschenault Leisure Centre, while Eaton defeated Bunbury at South West Sports Centre on Sunday.