South Bunbury superstar Bethany Bond kicks five as Tigers bounce back after first loss in more than two years

South Bunbury’s women’s side bounced back from their first defeat in two and a half seasons with a 46-point win over Donnybrook on Saturday. Bethany Bond kicked five goals for the Tigers, icing the 8.4 (52) to 1.0 (6) victory with two majors in the final term. After Bond kicked the game’s opener, the Dons replied swiftly through Fleur Parker, but it would prove to be their only goal for the game. With the addition of Peel Thunder youngster Megan Bain and strong showings from fellow midfielders Abbey Westra and Maddy Obal, the Tigers dominated that facet of the game. Donnybrook enjoyed a period of territory and momentum during the final stages of the first half as Jessica Verbrugge gave them plenty of drive off half-back and Matilda Worsfold worked hard through the middle. But the visitors were unable to make the most of that period, failing to capitalise and going into the main break 14 points down, but well in the hunt. The game was then broken open midway through the third quarter by Souths ruck Kate Fielding, who kicked two goals in as many minutes to stretch the margin out beyond five goals. Bond’s two final-quarter goals, including a running effort from 50 metres out, were enough to put the game to bed. The victory leaves the Tigers level on points with Bunbury, having played one more game than their premiership rivals and with almost 300 less percentage points. Donnybrook, who are locked in a battle for the bottom two spots in the top four, fell outside the finals spots after Harvey’s victory over Carey Park on Sunday. Donnybrook have another tough assignment next week against the ladder leading Bunbury Bulldogs, while South Bunbury travel down the highway to face fellow finals contenders Busselton.