THIS weekend the Mighty Dons travelled to Payne Park to tackle the Bunbury Bulldogs.
Bunbury are rebuilding and their young side have struggled this year. With only one win to their credit going into the game, Bunbury were keen to see some evidence that the focus on youth was paying off; however with most of their experienced line-up available the Dons were firm favorites to take the points.
The game was played in brilliant sunshine with a light breeze making the conditions almost perfect for the young dogs to use their speed and fitness. Up against a complacent Donnybrook the trap was sprung. From the first bounce the game was obviously not going to follow the tipsters script. The Dons started with three of the usual run on eighteen sitting on the bench and the mood of over-confidence was palpable.
Bunbury were clearly unimpressed by the visitor’s reputation and had perhaps done their homework on the Dons slow starts. Once again this was to prove costly as Bunbury took the game on early. Moving the ball quickly and taking full advantage of careless turnovers by the somnolent Dons, the Dogs were hungrier for the ball and seemed to have an extra yard all around the ground.
Donnybrook lacked the composure we have come to expect this year and seemed unsure of their best match ups. Key players appeared to be out of position and not able to exert their usual influence on the game. The midfield lacked its usual dominance and poor options were the order of the day. Playing on far too often and repeatedly being called for holding the ball, although much of the crowd were mystified by the inconsistent interpretation.
In most games this year the Dons have woken up after quarter time, but this time a terrible second quarter put the game beyond them. A tenacious, albeit scrappy, effort to get on terms in the third was not enough and the score blew out in a forgettable fourth quarter in which renewed questions were asked about lack of fitness. In all a very poor performance against the bottom side will cause a rethink and a more hard-headed approach will be required for the last third of the season. Final score Donnybrook 7-14-56 to Bunbury’s 14-12-96. Best players Jarrad Guglielmana, Kris Clarkson, Milan Kokir and Curtis Guglielmana.
Earlier the Colts had had a hard game against one of the best sides in the competition. By no means disgraced, the young Dons continue to improve. Final score Donnybrook 4-8-32 to Bunbury’s 26-14-170.
The reserves played one of their best games of the year and were very unlucky to lose. Final score Donnybrook 7-5-47 to Bunbury’s 8-8-56.
Next week the Dons host Harvey-Brunswick and an improved performance will be needed to take the points.
