SWFL 2023: Panthers end Magpies’ winning streak, Dons top Dogs in Peter Betti cup, South take care of Bulls

Busselton’s long-running undefeated streak came to an end against a fierce Carey Park outfit, 11.15 (81) to 8.11 (59) on Saturday night at Kelly Park. Intense pressure was on display in the early exchanges of the opening term, with the opening goal coming at the six-minute mark when Ryan King converted after a strong mark. While Kayne Cox would kick the Magpies’ opening goal with a dribble kick from deep in the pocket, Carey Park would gain the upper hand with three unanswered goals to lead by 16 points at quarter-time. Busselton fought back strongly in the second quarter, with Josh Lee starting the comeback in the opening minute. Although Carey Park managed a quick response via Sydney Stack and extended their lead out even further, two goals by Liam Creighton brought the margin to just a goal at half-time. As Busselton continued looking to stage a comeback during the third term by dominating possession and an impressive goal from Creighton deep in the pocket, Carey Park held strong to extend the margin to 13 points at the final change. The final quarter resembled more of a fight for territory as Busselton tried everything to break down Carey Park’s lead. But the Panthers were up to the challenge, with Simon Homsany kicking the sole goal of the term. At Brunswick Oval, Dunsborough Sharks squandered several opportunities during their 10.10 (70) to 10.9 (69) loss against an inspired Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault. Leading by more than five goals on multiple occasions, the Sharks let their early dominance slip in the second half, with Lions big man Jack Fletcher playing a starring role in the corridor. Trailing by 15 points at the final change, the Lions came out roaring, booting three unanswered goals and never letting the visitors regain a foothold in the contest. On Sunday at VC Mitchell Park, Donnybrook kept their chances of a top-two finish alive after defeating Bunbury 14.15 (99) to 10.4 (64) to win the Peter Betti cup. In an entertaining opening term Donnybrook drew first blood with the opening two goals, only for Bunbury to respond with two of their own. The Dons took control of the match in the second quarter, kicking five goals to Bunbury’s two to open up a solid 22-point lead at half-time. As the Dons began to pull away during the second half, Bunbury tried to mount defensive pressure. But the Dons’ midfield got on top to provide plenty of forward opportunities to blow the lead out to 35 points by the final siren. Young gun Scott Tuia was awarded the Peter Betti medal as best on ground. Elsewhere, South Bunbury overcame a plucky Harvey Bulls 13.8 (86) to 7.7 (49) at the Harvey Recreation Ground, while Collie Eagles won their third game of the season, defeating bottom-placed Eaton 10.10 (70) to 5.5 (35) at the Collie Recreation Ground.