The equation on Sunday is simple for Augusta Margaret River, win or require divine intervention to make finals in 2026, when they play Carey Park at Kelly Park on Sunday, in the final game of round sixteen of the Dale Alcock Homes South West premiership season.
Going into the match Carey Park at sixth with seven wins, equal on points with fifth placed Donnybrook, while Augusta Margaret River are seventh, with sixth wins and a terrible percentage. A loss to Carey Park will put the Hawks, who have played one additional match, two games behind the Panthers with four games to play.
The Panthers defeated Collie Eagles in round fifteen, prior to the Country Championships, set up by a strong opening quarter, however after that time, the Eagles matched Carey Park for the remainder of the game. Augusta Margaret River started well against ladder leaders Busselton, but were restricted to three behinds after half time.
Both teams have struggled to put a series of wins together throughout the season, and as each match passes, the more critical the outcome becomes, but for the Hawks the time has come that anything short of a win will make finals almost impossible despite the fact they have matches against Dunsborough, Collie and Harvey Bulls to come. Carey Park still have South Bunbury, Eaton, Busselton and HBL to play, making it an intriquing run to the finish line, with fifth place Donnybrook having matches against South Bunbury, Eaton, Busselton and HBL to play.
Based on ladder positions it could be suggested the Hawks would be favourites in three of those matches, while both the Dons and Panthers would be favourites in just one. If that is to be true, the Hawks miserable percentage may be the thing that keeps them from making finals unless they beat the Panthers.
An interesting finish coming up!
MATCH DETAILS
Colts 9.10am, Reserves 11.05am, Women’s 1.00pm, League 2.30pm
COVERAGE
Live Scoring all matches PlayHQ, Live Scores SWFL Facebook
The Hawks won by 15 points on ANZAC day. Photo courtesy of Theron Kirkman