SWFL 2023: Gritty victory by Hawks over Bulls in treacherous conditions

Augusta-Margaret River forward Beau Morgan was made for afternoons like this.

Returning from a niggling leg-based injury on Saturday against the Harvey Bulls at a soaked Gloucester Park, opportunistic brilliance from Morgan (two goals) throughout ultimately sunk the visitors when the game needed to be won.

The reigning premiers secured a 7.11 (53) to 6.9 (45) triumph, with Morgan and defensive general Stevie Payne easily the best two players on the ground.

Players were subjected to periodical downpours throughout the game, which resulted in several stoppages and a heavy ball.

The Hawks dominated the early stages, kicking towards the Walcliffe Road end. Unfortunately for Hawks coach Matt Jamieson, his side were not able to generate as much scoreboard pressure as decided.

When the Bulls did go forward, they were routinely stifled by Payne and Hawks captain Lincoln Adams, who did not give their opponents an inch.

However, with Tom Wood dominating in the ruck for the visitors, it appeared only a matter of time before the Bulls would have a chance to serve it back up to the Hawks.

Sure enough, Wood, Lloyd Beever and former Hawks forward Sam Lewis — playing against his former club for the first time — gradually got more of the ball and were able to swing momentum into their side’s favour.

With the Hawks leading by two points at the final change, Jamieson urged his men to finish the job, declaring “we love the contest” in a passionate address.

Two goals in the space of a minute midway during the final term appeared to have ensured a Hawks victory. However, the Bulls refused to give in, rattling on two goals during an impressive five-minute burst nearing time-on.

However, the opportunistic wave ridden by Augusta-Margaret River peaked one more time, as a late effort from Kalani Brooks in the goal square finally put the result beyond doubt.