Lions roar against Tigers
Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault claimed an exciting 13-point win over South Bunbury at Hands Oval on Saturday.
The match was billed as the best of the round and lived up to expectations, with the Lions prevailing 11.11 (77) to 9.10 (64) in an early contender for game of the season.
The Tigers started well, exerting strong pressure across the ground and capitalising on turnovers.
The Lions gave away two 50m penalities which saw the Tigers goal from the square, while Tigers forward Brynn Francis capitalised on his midfield’s hard work, kicking two goals for the term.
The game swung sharply in the second term, as the Lions were much cleaner with the ball and rebounded strongly from half back.
They had a number of forward targets, with Kristin Thornton kicking two goals and Kale Triplett looking dangerous.
The match tightened up in the third quarter, with the settling dew making ball handling more difficult.
Dylan Heasman kicked a brilliant goal from deep in the pocket, but Francis landed another two, and the match was set up for a thrilling finish, as the Tigers led by a single point at the final break.
Heasman cleverly roved a pack and snapped another fine goal, then David Newman landed his second. The Lions had a slight break, however Francis goaled after a free kick, and the margin was back to six points.
It took the experience of James Hawksley to goal late in the term and seal the win.
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