SWFL 2022: Augusta-Margaret River on cloud nine following incredible comeback win

Following Augusta-Margaret River’s unforgettable four-point grand final win over South Bunbury at Hands Oval on Sunday, Hawks coach Matt Jamieson was likely the happiest man in the South West.

With his side being held to 1.6 (12) at three-quarter-time — and hopes of back-to-back premierships fading fast — Jamieson looked hard into the eyes of men who have become like family to him.

Instead of giving them a bake, Jamieson decided to give them a dose of belief.

“I am super-proud of them,” he said.

“At half-time, we addressed the importance of just tapping the ball out a bit more, and surging it. They (South Bunbury) were very good around the contest and structurally all game.

“We had to try and get the game back on the outside, so a couple of moves were made prior to three-quarter-time.

“I just said to the players to make sure they did not waste a good season. I felt if we were able to get the ball on the outside, that we could outrun them.

“To our credit, we moved the ball well in the last quarter and got some good looks.”

Jamieson also paid credit to South Bunbury coach Julian Burgess, who ensured his side fought for everything that came their way.

“We couldn’t get it on our terms for a long period of time — but once we did, the proof showed, you can’t keep a good side down forever.”

Off-field, it has been a challenging year for Jamieson and his family, which added an extra layer of satisfaction to the support he received from scores of well-wishers.

“It is huge,” he said.

“My wife and I have gone through a fair bit this year. My father-in-law has been in hospital for seven months and it has been a grind.

“However, this is what I love doing, coaching footy. The boys have got belief in me and I have got belief in them. And today, what we achieved? It was through true character and grit that we got it done.”

For Hawks skipper Lincoln Adams, playing in two premierships with his best mates is something he will cherish forever.

“In our three-quarter-time huddle, we kind of just went in there and said ‘when we’re old and holding the bar up what do you want to remember’?

“Do we want to remember coming back and winning the flag or remember getting pumped by 50 points? So I reckon we went out and did it pretty well. We knew our motivation was to win the flag.”