Hawks and Bulldogs prevail in gripping finals clashes

It was a thrilling opening to the SWFL finals series on Sunday, with both matches decided by under 10 points.

Hearts were in mouths at Hands Oval during the closing seconds of the final term, as Augusta-Margaret River pipped a devastated South Bunbury 14.6 (90) to 14.5 (89) in the elimination final.

The home side, who led by a game-high 36 points midway through the second term, were unable to subdue the plucky Hawks, who surged back into the game during a gripping final quarter.

The lead changed three times during the dying minutes of the clash, with the Hawks locking up the ball as the full-time siren bellowed across the ground.

Across town at Payne Park, Bunbury defeated Eaton Boomers 11.9 (75) to 9.12 (66) despite Bulldogs duo Dylan Heasman and Jesse Gribble unavailable on the day of the game due to minor injuries.

The home side started well against the ferocious Boomers — and despite being routinely challenged, always delivered a prompt response.

Donnybrook host the Bulldogs in Sunday’s second semi final at VC Mitchell Park, with the winner earning a direct trip to the grand final.

Eaton Boomers host Augusta-Margaret River at Glen Huon Reserve in the first semi final.