(Premiership photo at the Lugger Bar - Mercure)

Broome Bulls and Beagle Bay fought out the premiership in West Kimberley Football Association's grand final on August 17. Held at Haynes Oval, the much-anticipated event grew a capacity crowd, with marquees and tents dotting the ground. Before the main game, over 35's action entertained the crowd, as bellies bigger than beer kegs collided in a fun-filled game. But it was the main game that the crowd had come to see. Obvious favourites, Beagle Bay burst onto the ground amid flags and streamers and mascots barely knee high to their idols followed the team on the ground, yelling encouragement. In comparison, the Bull made a business-like entry with little fanfare.

The first quarter saw Beagle Bay bang on two majors while Bulls players had not even got out of neutral. Typically, grand finals are not the best games to witness as nerves make players commit unforced errors, and this was certainly the case early on in the contest. The Bulls had opportunities to peg back the score but missed set shots for goal. The second term was more even, as both teams hit their straps and traded goals between them. Radio commentators who were broadcasting the game live provided exciting descriptions of the state of play.

At half time, both sides had an even chance of victory but the third quarter proved decisive. In what many people described as the premiership quarter, Bulls players began to edge ahead of a desperate Beagle Bay and a handy four goals lead quickly developed, subduing the formerly vocal Beagle Bay supporters. But to both teams credit, the spirit and sportsmanship of this game was of a high standard.

In the last quarter, Beagle Bay made great in roads into pegging back the deficit. An exciting two goals separated the teams at the final siren but Broome Bulls won the epic battle. The final score was Bulls 11.12 (78) defeating Beagle Bay 9.12 (66).

(Courtesy of the Broome Advertiser)