SWFL 2023: Bunbury keen to continue good form against undefeated league leaders Busselton

Bunbury’s bid to play finals football could receive a massive boost if they knock off undefeated Busselton on Sunday at Sir Stewart Bovell Park. The Bulldogs, who have won five of their past six games, are likely to welcome back a handful of household names against the Magpies — although the youngsters who played on Sunday against the Collie Eagles gave a good account of themselves, according to Bunbury coach Jamie Nani. “On the back of a good win against Collie, hopefully we have got some momentum,” he said. “Yeah, we had a group of players out but we should get a few back this week. It will be a tough gig going down to Busso, as they’re undefeated. “In the first round of fixtures against them, we played a poor first half, played a good second half and nearly pinched the game. “So it’s going to take a big four-quarter effort down in Busso to get over them because they’re a quality outfit.” One young player who has caught the eye in black and gold this season is Mason Hawkes — a colts star who has shown he is good enough to play league football. “I don’t think Mason probably expected to play league footy this year,” Nani said. “He’s dominated in the colts and is leading all of the colts awards. He’s a big, strong kid and doesn’t look out of place in league footy. “At this stage, I cannot see him going back to colts footy anytime soon.” Busselton coach Daniel Delaney also flagged a few potential changes for his side on Sunday, although one man locked and loaded to play the Bulldogs is Blake Riley. Riley, who has spent several seasons playing in Perth, has returned home and slotted in seamlessly into the Magpies’ line-up. Delaney believes Riley could be a real asset heading into the finals for his team. Donnybrook will be keen to return to the winners’ circle on Sunday with a win at home against Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault, while second-placed South Bunbury entertain in-form Carey Park at Hands Oval. Tigers and Panthers supporters heading to the game will need to enter through the Halsey Street gate as the northern end of the ground is now a construction site, due to the Hands Oval re-development project. On Saturday, Eaton will entertain Augusta-Margaret River at Glen Huon Reserve, while Dunsborough Sharks travel up the hill to play the Collie Eagles at the Collie Recreation Ground.