Tigers’ battle stripes show

It’s been a challenging week on and off the field for the South Bunbury Football Club.

Two days after being held to its lowest score in SWFL history, David Obal resigned as league coach, following an enterprising tenure at the helm.

The Tigers were missing many players on Saturday against the Dons, but even still, they would be filthy with how the result finished.

Assistant coach Mal Dreja will be in charge on Sunday at Sir Stewart Bovell Park against Busselton, with the club to assess its replacement options early next week.

Magpies coach Steve Lester was equally unhappy with his side’s performance against the Bulldogs on Sunday and will be hoping for a swift return to form.

The Magpies endured several untimely injuries at Payne Park, so Lester will need to delve into the club’s imposing depth of talented young players.

Given the events over the past week – and that they are such a proud club – the Tigers should come out fighting and get their season back on track

On Saturday, Augusta-Margaret River will be keen to bank another four points when they travel up the hill to the Collie Recreation Ground and face the Eagles.

Despite some issues with inaccuracy, the Hawks got back to winning ways against Carey Park – and in an ominous sign for rival clubs, reigning Hayward Medal ball magnet Mitch Lynn had the ball on a string once again.

For Collie Eagles coach Seth White, he too had an opportunity to smile, with his men opening their 2019 account on the road at Harvey.

Both sides are reaching important junctures in their respective seasons for a variety of reasons.

The Hawks – who sit in the top five with a healthy percentage – face the Eaton Boomers, Bunbury and South Bunbury over the next five weeks.

Crucially both the Boomers and Bulldogs clashes are at Gloucester Park, which will be an added bonus to Matt Jamieson’s men.

But even still, they can ill-afford a slip up against the Eagles on Saturday.

At Kelly Park, the Panthers entertain the Bulldogs, with both sides keen to further their respective finals aspirations.

The Bulldogs are building momentum in 2019 and will be keen to add another away win to their collection.