Bulldogs outlast Hawks in opener

Bunbury opened its 2020 SWFL campaign with a workmanlike 11.10 (76) to 8.6 (54) victory over Augusta-Margaret River at Payne Park on Saturday afternoon.

After appearing to have the match in their keeping at three-quarter time, the dogged Hawks pulled to within a point of the home side at the seven-minute mark of the final term, following a brilliant snap from Ben Noakes deep in the left forward pocket at the Herbert Road end.

However the Bulldogs, who were superbly led by Jesse Gribble all afternoon, found an extra gear and promptly respond to seal the win.

In other matches yesterday, Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault rolled to a big win over Carey Park, while Donnybrook and the Eaton Boomers hung on for tense victories against Busselton and South Bunbury respectively.

This afternoon’s clash between the Harvey Bulls and Collie Eagles at the Harvey Recreation Ground will complete the round.