SWFL 2022: Bulls women’s team turn up the heat on fellow finals aspirants

The Harvey Recreation Ground is becoming a fortress this season in the SWFL women’s competition, with the Harvey Bulls adding another big scalp to their collection. After knocking off premiership contenders Bunbury earlier this year, the Bulls added Busselton to the pile, after running out 3.2 (20) to 1.5 (11) victors on Saturday afternoon. The Magpies were buoyed heading into the clash, following the news South Bunbury premiership player Maddy Obal had successfully transferred to the club, along with Demi Vanderleer playing her 50th game. Unfortunately for Rennie Meadmore’s side, that is where the good news ended, as they were unable to tame the Bulls in this scrappy affair. With Harmony Staszewski-Hose dominating at each centre bounce, the Bulls onballers — led by Rachel Shepherd — were routinely able to get first use of the ball. This paid off instantly, with Rebecca Fry putting the hosts in front at the four-minute mark after kicking truly from 35m out directly in front. The Magpies responded a short time later courtesy of former AFLW star Katie-Jayne Grieve, who was never afraid to put her body on the line for the black and whites. Until the seven-minute mark of the final term, this match resembled the movie “Groundhog Day” — ball up, tackle, stoppage. Emphatically snapping this cycle of events was experienced Bulls forward Megan Minton, who broke clear of Magpies defender Shelby Atherton to run into goal at the Udoc Road end and effectively seal the Bulls’ victory. The win was especially significant for the Bulls, given Donnybrook’s away triumph over Carey Park earlier in the day at Kelly Park. If they are able to remain healthy and benefit from the services of East Fremantle vice-captain Larissa Versaci following her WAFLW commitments, the Bulls could be on course for another deep run into the finals.