Lions, Dogs play thrilling draw

Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault co-captain David Newman was the hero at Brunswick Oval on Sunday, kicking a 60m goal with just precious seconds left on the clock to level the scores and share the points with Bunbury.

It was a hard fought and physical match on a wet afternoon and fitting to the battle, neither team could be separated as the Lions 5.13 (43) finished level with the Bulldogs 6.7 (43).

Bunbury kicked with the breeze in the first term and the play was in their forward half for much of the quarter.

Their forward pressure was strong, which allowed Tobi Horton and Brett Peake to kick goals early.

However, late in the term the Lions put together a precise piece of play, leading to a Tyson Wood goal.

The Lions took their turn with the breeze, but they did not take full advantage, with young star Dylan Heasman kicking the only goal for the term, despite the Lions having seven scoring shots.

To the Bulldogs’ credit, they defended strongly, making the Lions rush some of their shots.

The rain started falling at the start of the third term, which made the play even more contested.

The Lions had the breeze in the final term and they had most of the play, but Bunbury made the most of their limited opportunities.

Patrick Farrant showed maturity beyond his years to kick two quick goals and the Bulldogs had a 13-point lead with five minutes to go.

The ever-threatening Kristin Thornton kicked his second before a rushed behind had the Lions just one kick behind the visitors with minuted remaining.

Enter Newman, who kicked a magnificent goal from 60m out on the run to level the scores at the final siren.

Bunbury coach Jamie Nani said he was proud of the boys.

“They dug in really well especially in the second half,” he said.

“We will keep building and getting some players back from injury will certainly help.”

Lions coach Derek Hall said his side was down on the day.

“Full credit to Bunbury, they spread well and pressured us hard,” he said.

“We made some poor decisions, played some dumb footy.”