SWFL: HBL secure first-ever finals victory while last years grand finalists Donnybrook and Bunbury face off

Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault broke new ground in the South West Football League women’s competition with a 25-point win over Bunbury on Saturday.

The Lions women claimed their first-ever finals victory with a dominant 5.4 (34) to 0.3 (3) win over the Bulldogs in Saturday’s qualifying final at Sir Stewart Bovell Park.

The Lions had previously fallen short in four finals appearances, but produced a composed performance to book a place in the second semifinal.

HBL controlled the opening stages, spending much of the first term inside their attacking half before Olivia Templeton eventually broke through for the opening goal.

The Lions took a seven-point lead into quarter-time and continued to apply pressure after the first change.

Bunbury struggled to gain territory as HBL maintained control of possession, with Maya Goudard extending the advantage from a free kick early in the second term.

After half-time Goudard kicked a pair of goals to stretch the lead to 22 points before Logan Cristaldi converted after a 50 metre penalty to put the Lions firmly in command.

Bunbury were unable to find a way back into the contest, with HBL’s defence standing firm throughout the final term.

The Lions continued to control the ball and territory, ensuring the Bulldogs were unable to mount a late challenge.

Donnybrook progressed to the first semifinal after overcoming Carey Park in a tight elimination final at Hands Oval on Sunday.

The Dons made the most of limited opportunities early, with Tally Neill opening the scoring before adding another major from close range to help establish an 11-point half-time advantage.

Carey Park controlled much of the first term and had several chances to narrow the deficit, but two shots struck the post.

The Panthers again threatened after half-time, although Donnybrook were able to maintain control of territory without converting their opportunities.

Alexandra Macarthur gave Carey Park hope early in the final term with a goal on the run, reducing the margin and lifting the Panthers crowd.

The Dons held their nerve late, with Maddi Miller kicking a crucial final goal to seal the victory and send Donnybrook through to the first semi final.

Donnybrook will take on Bunbury in Saturday’s semi-final at VC Mitchell Park with the loser eliminated.

The winner will take on Sunday’s loser between Busselton and HBL at Payne Park with one of those teams advancing straight through to the grand final.