SWFL 2023: “No bull” about SWFL premiership fancies Augusta-Margaret River and Harvey

Augusta-Margaret River coach Matt Jamieson is thankful ahead of his side’s huge clash against the Harvey Bulls on Saturday at Gloucester Park.

While some coaches could have concerns about what their players may get up to across the Easter break, the large contingent of AFL/WAFL-hardened Hawks know cutting corners at training will not help their push for a premiership three-peat.

“I believe you take this on trust over time dealing with a playing group,” Jamieson said.

“I put a few things in place — you say ‘look, this is what’s recommended’, however the boys get together in little groups and do things.

“Or they may do it on their own. Either way, they are very professional in the way they do it now.

“I just make sure that when we get to training on the Tuesday, they are sharp when we start getting into it. You know the blokes who haven’t done too much and the ones who have done the work.”

Although heartened with elements of his side’s win over South Bunbury prior to Easter, Jamieson is urging his players to keep improving irrespective of who they play against.

By his own admission, Harvey Bulls coach Mark Pink cannot wait for this game.

A football purist, Pink believes his side has a great opportunity to challenge themselves away from the Harvey Recreation Ground.

“Augusta-Margaret River will still be as strong as ever,” he said.

“Playing them away is probably the toughest game on the calendar. Busselton seem to be able to do it alright, but everyone else seems to struggle.

“So we are looking forward to it.”

The Bulls have added former Carlton defender Paul Bower into their line-up this season, along with former Hawks forward Sam Lewis, Patrick Italiano and Michael Humble.

Another Bulls forward, Jacob Pickett, is quietly enjoying a brilliant start to the year and Pink is thrilled with his progression.

“Jacob is one heck of an Indigenous lad,” Pink said.

“He is a quality young man, quietly spoken, but deep down has a burning desire to get back to what he was during junior rep footy.”