Boyup Brook Roos edge out brave Bridgetown Bulldogs

Boyup Brook Roos pulled off a memorable win against minor premiers Bridgetown Bulldogs in round 17 of the Lower South West Football League competition, taking the game 13.10 (88) to 11.11 (77). The first quarter was an incredibly intense affair between the Bulldogs and Roos with both sides displaying why they are first and second on the ladder respectively. Neither side was able to get an edge on their opponent, but it was Boyup Brook who came out slightly ahead when the quarter-time siren blew as they led 2.3 (15) to 2.2 (14). As the second quarter resumed the two teams picked up where they left off and immediately got stuck into a very physical contest. Bulldog’s players Brendon White and Craig Wulff took it upon themselves to bring a high level of physicality to the game as they tried to turn the tide. But Boyup Brook’s Lance North and Alexander Cabassi prevented any real damage being done as they steadied the game for the Roos, continually exploiting Bridgetown’s mistakes and finding players in space to pass to. At the half-time break Boyup Brook held a narrow lead, ahead 6.4 (40) to 5.8 (38) in the thrilling contest . For the third quarter Bridgetown came out swinging to try to reverse the game and take charge which they succeeded in doing. The Bulldogs scored five goals to put themselves in the lead for the first time in the game much to the despair of the travelling Boyup Brook fans. Bridgetown’s Darcy Walsh played an outstanding game and was a key in getting his team back into the match as they went into the fourth quarter leading 10.10 (70) to 9.6 (60). However, if you ever wish to know what a premiership quarter is, look no further as Boyup Brook not only held Bridgetown to a very low-scoring fourth quarter but kicked four goals of their own. Boyup Brook forward Michael McLeod booted five goals during the match and was instrumental to the Roos coming out victorious. This game finished in favour of Boyup Brook who emerged winners by 11 points at the final siren. This was only the second loss of the season for Bridgetown, who still finished one game clear on top of the LSWFL table. The win cemented Boyup Brook’s position in second place to face the same teams in the second semifinal on August 29.