One point defeat for Busselton Magpies

However, it was not meant to be as Donnybrook edged ahead by just one point and finish as victors.

Busselton Magpies coach Steve Lester said it was frustrating to watch as his team were in front with just a few minutes left on the clock.

He said it was a really even performance which gave Busselton every opportunity to win for its captain Aiden Fraser’s 100^th match.

Busselton took control of the game early with two goals to just one for Donnybrook in the first quarter.

Coach Lester said conditions were good at VC Mitchell Park helping to make the match an even contest.

Donnybrook were able to pile on five goals to Busselton’s three in the second term.

Lester said Donnybrook had more scoring shots throughout the match but Busselton’s forward line were more open, allowing for more accuracy.

The half time score was 6.5 (41) to 5.1 (31).

Busselton’s three goals to Donnybrook’s one was not enough to get ahead in the third quarter as the home side kicked five behinds.

Donnybrook went into the final break just two points in front.

It was a real nail biting finish as the Busselton fans were watching in hope for another win.

Busselton did the best they could in the final term with two goals and reaching the lead in the dying minutes of the match.

However, Donnybrook’s ability to get the ball into the forward line and get any score was what made the difference.

The home side only kicked one goal in the fourth quarter but their five behinds put them in front for the victory.

The final score was 8.15 (63) to 10.2 (62).

Mitchell Lague starred in Busselton’s forward line with four goals.

Lester said Fraser had a solid game for his milestone match but played more up the field than usual.

“It was great to see him reach 100 games and as a captain he has been strong in that role and he will be a driving force for the club going into the future,” he said.

Lester said Jason Fish had another outstanding game for the Magpies.

“He was very good in the middle and put a lot of pressure on the opposition,” he said.

Donnybrook’s Sam Lowrie was their stand out in the forward line also kicking four goals.

The home side’s Brendan Page was also among the team’s best players for round 14.

Donnybrook are now sixth on the ladder and are one game behind Augusta Margaret River.

Three out of the last four rounds will be tough for Donnybrook as they take on flag favourites Harvey Brunswick Leschenault as well as Collie and the Harvey Bulls.

Busselton are still ninth on the ladder and half a game above bottom dwellers in Carey Park.

The Magpies also have a tough run home with Carey Park the only likely win for the club.

The last four rounds will see Busselton face off with South Bunbury, Collie, Carey Park and Bunbury.

Lester said if his team go into each game with the right attitude they have every chance of coming away with a win.