Eagles shake off Magpies

The Collie Eagles took until the fourth quarter to beat a persistent Busselton on Saturday night, defeating the hosts by 47 points at Sir Stewart Bovell Park.

After being tested for the first three quarters by the Magpies, the Eagles found form in the final term, booting six goals to win the match 14.10 (94) to 7.5 (47).

Collie midfielder Joel Mahar was a key contributor for the Eagles, while Jackson Arbon and Sam Shepherd were both influential for Busselton.

In the opening term, the Magpies rebounded effectively off the half-back line, which forced Collie to throw numbers behind the ball, destabilising their fast-paced game plan.

Shepherd was excellent for the Magpies defence, turning the Eagles’ errors into forward attacks for Busselton.

Eagles forward Jayce Fontana got off the chain late in the term, booting three goals, including a brilliant left foot snap to give his side the lead.

After the first change, the Eagles’ hierarchy shifted Mat Michael from defence to the forward line, which was advantageous as he bagged three goals for the match.

Collie’s Raymond Daniels also found his groove, while teammate Jarrad Miller became airborne, taking a spectacular grab that excited the crowd.

Miller shook off the pain from the awkward landing and kicked a much deserved goal.

In the third term, Busselton kept the Eagles goalless, but failed to take advantage, kicking just two of their own.

In the final term, Mahar booted a well-earned goal, before Fraser, with assistance from Danny Glover, slotted Busselton’s only major for the quarter.

Collie’s fast-pace game plan finally came to fruition as the visitors ran away with the last quarter, kicking five consecutive goals through Reid Saunders, Daniels, Miller and Michael (two).