SWFL 2023: Battles for supremacy in the SWFL begin on Saturday at Kelly Park

Although they may have been content to fly under the radar at times during 2023, Carey Park will be on the big stage this Saturday afternoon at Kelly Park. Pitted against South Bunbury in the qualifying final, the victor will take on minor premiers Busselton next weekend at Sir Stewart Bovell Park, with a direct ticket to the grand final up for grabs. The Panthers appear to have found a solid blend of youth and experience this season, with familiarity the glue holding both ends together. Many talented juniors within this side grew up with Panthers coach Frank Italiano as their coach and mentor. Now at league level, they are aware of what’s expected and winning has become a habit not a dream. Saturday’s opening battle of the final series against South will not be easy, given how many matchwinners the Tigers have at their disposal. Despite an element of untidy disposal throughout their 12.14 (86) to 3.5 (23) win against Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault on Saturday, Tigers coach Julian Burgess is more than capable of getting his men to swiftly turn things around. On Sunday at VC Mitchell Park, Donnybrook do battle with Bunbury in the elimination final. It’s been another successful year for the Bulldogs, who like Busselton, have qualified for finals in all four SWFL senior grades — while the Dons will be hosting their first final at home since 2018. Ironically, this game five years ago was also against Bunbury, with the Donnybrook going on to win the premiership.