SWFL 2022: Augusta-Margaret River and South Bunbury gear up for massive second semifinal

Augusta and Margaret River shopfronts will be awash with green and gold leading up to Saturday’s highly-anticipated second semifinal between the Hawks and South Bunbury at Gloucester Park. While Hawks coach Matt Jamieson and his players are excited about the prospect of a direct path into the grand final, the opportunity to spread joy throughout the capes community is equally important to the club. “I think it shows just how tight the Augusta-Margaret River community has become over the last few years,” Jamieson said. “Not only has this come from the footy club’s leaders, but also from the good foundation of people who have come and been able to enjoy themselves. “These people have been able to have a good time, but it has also been a plus for those community partners who we give back to. “It is an exciting feeling for the town and we hope they all get behind us.” Augusta-Margaret River enjoyed a bye in the first week of the finals, however this scenario is nothing new for the reigning premiers — given the fact they faced the same situation last year. A coach who never rests on his laurels, Jamieson believes in his players and what they can achieve at all times, irrespective of the opposition. “That experience (last year’s second semifinal win over Bunbury at home) is going to hold us in good stead,” he said. As an added incentive for the Hawks players, Mitch Gerrans will play his 250th game for the club. Equally confident of success on Saturday is Tigers counterpart Julian Burgess, who was thrilled with how his midfield responded after quarter time during last Sunday’s gutsy qualifying final win over Bunbury at Hands Oval. Last time both sides met at Gloucester Park in August, the Hawks got home by two goals in tough conditions, however Burgess believes his men took heart from this experience. “We do welcome the challenge,” he said. “That is what we are here for — to win the big games. (Going to) Margaret River does not hold any fears for us at all. “The players are pretty confident. We do still have three or four players out, which will be a good test for us to see where we are at. “We hope we will be able to get those players back for the grand final week, if we are good enough to make it.”