In a nail-biting WAFL contest at Fremantle Community Bank Oval, South Fremantle managed to stave off a determined Subiaco side, securing a hard-fought three-point victory. The final score read 12.11 (83) to 11.14 (80), a result that keeps the Bulldogs firmly in the finals race.
A Match of Momentum Swings
The game was a tale of two halves, with South Fremantle dominating the early stages before Subiaco mounted a spirited comeback. The Bulldogs kicked the first four goals of the match, establishing a 25-point lead at quarter time. However, the Lions roared back in the second term, cutting the deficit to just seven points by the main break.
Second Half Drama
After halftime, the intensity ramped up further. Subiaco continued their momentum, taking the lead for the first time midway through the third quarter. But South Fremantle showed resilience, responding with two quick goals to regain the advantage heading into the final change. The last quarter was a tense affair, with both sides trading blows. With minutes remaining, the Bulldogs held a slender lead, and Subiaco had opportunities to snatch victory but could not convert.
Key Performers
For South Fremantle, midfielder Haiden Schloithe was instrumental, gathering 28 disposals and kicking two crucial goals. Ruckman Jarrod Garlett also impressed with his aerial work around the ground. Subiaco was well served by Leigh Kitchin, who amassed 30 touches, and Ben Golding, who kicked three goals in a losing effort.
Finals Implications
The win moves South Fremantle into fifth place on the WAFL ladder, keeping their finals aspirations alive with just three rounds remaining. Subiaco, meanwhile, slips to sixth and will be rueing missed opportunities. The Bulldogs will look to build on this performance next week against East Fremantle, while the Lions face a must-win clash against West Perth.
In other WAFL action, Perth upset Claremont by 15 points, and East Perth defeated West Coast's reserves by 22 points. The competition remains wide open as the race for finals spots heats up.
