Round 4 provided plenty of big results across Saturday as a month of football begins to paint a clearer picture in 2024.

North Ballarat continues to show even further promise in the absence of key personnel with a 96-point win over Lake Wendouree.

Jamie Quick, Jack Riding, Ryan Hobbs, Stewart Crameri and Sam Glover are all missing due to injury or unavailability, asking questions of the depth in the Roosters’ ranks under fourth season coach Brendan McCartney.

It must be pleasing for McCartney to see the goal scorers and best players have a different 'ring' to them as fresh faces make an impact.

Hugh Trigg finished with a game high four goals ahead of a list containing another seven contributors on the goal front including newcomers Dakin Morris (three goals), Lam Deering (three goals) and Mal White (two goals) who combined for eight of their own.

Heart and soul players Brock Leonard, Elliot Lamb, Joshua Sparkman and Fletcher Loader were all prominent.

For the visitors, again reward for effort was scarce as a blend of youth and experience filled the Lakers group of major contributors including Tom Zampatti, Joe O'Connell, Phoenix James and Nathan Pring.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 33 disposals,  10 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 48 hit outs, 21 disposals, 14 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Really strong performance in all phases of the game. The basics of our game were in place. Some of the new players to our club made some great progress today. Nice to play well as a club in front of four decades of Premiership reunions."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"We applied ourselves well to our system and all indicators read reasonably well. We continue to give the opposition a look at goals due to fundamental errors and poor decisions - something we will continue to work on. Once we fix this up we will be in games for longer. Our boys cracked in today."

The reigning premiers, Darley, handed league improvers Ballarat a lesson around the ball with a dominant 64-point win at Alfredton Oval.

Despite kicking the first two goals of the game the Swans proved no match for another Brett Bewley led masterclass as the Devils went to work booting 18 of the remaining 24 goals of the game.

Underrated Devils’ small forward Leigh Spiteri (four goals) backed up his three-goal return against the Cobras a week earlier to share best on ground honours with Bewley (one goal).

Star utility Billy Myers also booted four goals for the winners ahead of a number of contributors hitting the scoreboard.

Experienced midfielders Luther Baker and Matt Denham ensured the Devils held a clear advantage at stoppage, especially at centre bounce.  

For the Swans, Andrew Hopper (two goals) looked dangerous early while Footscray VFL listed pair Rhett Montgomerie and Angus Bade shouldered much of the resistance before the Devils hit top gear.

It won’t get any easier for Chris Maple's young Swans this Saturday when they travel to face unbeaten Melton.

Darley host bogie side Redan who have won four of their last six encounters head to head.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomerie (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 12 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 42 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Luther Baker (Darley) - 32 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"We started the game in a really competitive nature. Unfortunately, we were unable to sustain the pressure. Plenty of learning in this game for us, (especially) in the stoppage and territory game. We will review, learn, modify and move on."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Solid effort from our boys where I thought we showed more discipline to execute our plan for four quarters. Full credit to Ballarat who brought great intensity and made us work all day!"

Sebastopol's narrow loss to Redan at City Oval was soured even further following injuries to key playmakers Lachie Cassidy and Riley O'Keefe.

While you can't sense or feel the frustration coming from Burra coach Ton Lockyer, surely it's ever present despite his positive messaging.

Both sides had their opportunities to win this game, but it was Redan who would take their moments to finish with their noses in front, earning a second win of the season.

In form Lions forward Grant Bell booted three goals, joining teammate Marty Boyer as the leading major scorer on the day.

Sebastopol on the other hand struggled for any multiple contributors before Luke Kiel booted his second to become the Burras’ first and only multiple goal scorer.

Seasoned Lion Jacob Short was named best afield in the see-sawing affair ahead of next generation trio Kye Jess, Rory Gunsser and Marty Boyer.

There were some all too familiar names among the Burras’ best as they continue their quest for a broader number of contributors.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 12 marks, 11 contested possessions

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 26 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 marks

Marty Boyer (Redan) - 19 disposals, 11 marks, 10 score involvements

COACHES' VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"(It was a) really even battle and could have gone either way with Sebastopol missing a few chances. Super proud of the even contribution from the group to win some important moments. Great learning experiences for the group. Massive challenge (next week) against the reigning premiers."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Another step forward for our boys. We had great control of the game in the first half, but we let Redan back into it which we will learn from. (We) nearly snatched it back late but credit to Redan for taking their key moments in the second half and getting the win. Looking forward to continuing the progress against Bacchus Marsh next week."

Former Kangas Premiership player Jacob Brown made his much-welcomed return to the club with a best on ground performance against Melton South at the weekend.

While it was all one-way traffic for Joe Carmody's men there was no stopping some 13 individual Kangas players hitting the scoreboard to set up the percentage boosting win.

Strahan Robinson (eight goals) got a much earned bag of majors, while Bryson McDougall (three goals) had to settle for the support role on this occasion. Matty Johnston and brother Jordy typically starred continuing their excellent run of form in more recent times over the Panthers.

Panthers’ newcomer Darby Schilder was named best for the visitors while a deserving shout out must be reserved for their sole goalkicker for the match Daniel Zajac.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 34 disposals, 16 marks, 15 score involvements

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 25 score involvements, 17 contested possessions

Darby Schilder (Melton South) - 30 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES' VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Good overall performance. The pressure was good and created scoring opportunities off turnover. Pleasing to keep an opposition side to three goals last week and one goal this week. The challenge is for our young team to keep working on our consistency throughout each game."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Competed hard in the first half but was really disappointed with our lack of effort in the third quarter. (We) responded well in the last only losing it (the quarter) by a few goals. East's A Grade midfield took us to the cleaners and once again turnover was a killer turning it over 78 times from only 273 disposals."

Enigmatic Bacchus Marsh were soundly beaten at home to the tune of 53 points by a well organised Sunbury outfit who look to have something to offer when the whips are cracking around September.

The Lions led from go to woe, won every quarter and looked a class above their one-win opponents who struggled for continuity with their ball movement, partly due to the pressure applied by Matt White's new team.

The Lions look fit and healthy to the eye and all on the same page.

The addition of a handful of players in the off-season has certainly boosted the Lions profile, capable of upsetting the likes of Melton, Darley and North Ballarat.

Usual suspects Tyson Lever (one goal), Jake Sutton (four goals), Josh Guthrie (one goal) and Jake Egan (three goals) led from the front to ensure there would not be no repeat of last year’s shenanigans when the Cobras came from behind to pinch the result. 

Newcomers Ben Cameron, Dean Muir and Jordan Tentonello have all impressed in their opening month in Sunbury colors.

For the Cobras, Jake Owen (four goials) was the pick of the hosting party ahead of Jake McCreery and Ethan McKercher (first half) who enjoyed some quality moments in an otherwise tough day at the office.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 13 marks, 90% disposal efficiency

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 52 hit outs, 16 disposals, 9 score involvements

Ben Cameron (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"(It) was a great lesson for us today on what team football looks like. Sunbury were great on turnover to make the ground long and wide. We were unfortunately a little flat footed and reactive today. (There were) some positive patches that we need to replicate for longer."  

Matt White (Sunbury)
"(We) executed the plan really well knowing we would have a battle on our hands, and thought we broke even. Bacchus Marsh came at us in the last quarter like they did against Darley, and we managed to hold them off which was a great sign moving forward."

Round 5 saw a top tier of teams establish themselves towards the pointy end of the ladder, while one side tasted sweet victory for the first time in 18 outings. Scoop reviews all the action from the weekend.

Darley earned the unofficial third seeding in the premiership race behind Melton and Sebastopol with a convincing 56-point win on the road over Sunbury.

Reigning Henderson Medalist and Devils’ captain Brett Bewley capped his best on ground performance with a career high six goals leaving the Sunbury faithful in awe of the former Fremantle Docker.

The 28-year-old was simply sublime, his efficiency unrivalled. Full time addition Billy Myers (five goals) provided Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson with another untimely headache, bereft of options containing the former Williamstown VFL utility.

The task for Hodgson in the lead up was made more difficult by the injury to Tyson Lever (foot) and the unavailability of inform midfielder Harry Minton-Connell following his selection with Essendon VFL.

Lions’ quartet Nathan Wood, Riley Miller, Jake Egan (two goals) and promoted Under 19 product Lachie Urbon tried their hearts out but to no avail.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan had arguably his best result in his two year tenure, implementing a masterstroke plan to strangle the Lions with their want to run and carry.

The Devils had winners all over the ground and looked a class above the longer the game went adding six straight last quarter goals.

Sunbury have a timely bye this week, a chance to reset while the Devils have Melton South (11th) and Lake Wendouree (9th) on the road their next fortnight.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 48 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley): 22 disposals, 7 marks, 4 goals

Jake Egan (Sunbury): 25 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing day, we failed the test. (We) never gave up but were comprehensively outplayed after half time. Our inability to contain genuine superstars in Bewley and Myers added significantly to the pain."

Dan Jordan (Darley): "Good four quarter effort from our boys against a quality side. Starting to see some of the football we can produce but still plenty to work on."

Flag contenders Sebastopol took the best part of a half to shrug off a plucky Ballarat outfit at Alfredton Oval.

The Burra savoured an 11-point lead at the main break before raising the bar adding six goals to one in the second half, shutting out any unlikely thoughts of a major upset.

Tony Lockyer starred again for the Burra alongside returning midfielder Lachie Cassidy, Bailey Medwell, Jack Bambury and dangerous smalls Jai Harvey and Daniel Widgery.

Key forward Toby Hutt (three goals) was matched only by opportunistic teammate Adam Forbes on the goal front to ensure the Burras simply did enough, with a bit in reserve, to get the job done. Twenty-seven shots on goal to nine confirmed the nature of the win.

For Ballarat, Will Liston was again named their best player while the Constable brothers, Riley and Tyler, along with Tristan Maple and Marcus Powling did their utmost to keep the Swans in the game especially to half time.

Ahead, Sebastopol look primed to go 4-1 following a meeting Lake Wendouree on Saturday while the Swans prepare for an outside chance against North Ballarat.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Stats unavailable

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat);"We were very pleased with the determination of our group today. Once again we were very competitive for three quarters, only letting ourselves down for a small period."

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol); "Solid hit out...the Swans came to play early with an eager young group. They had an extra two (players) at the stoppage all day and got numbers back making it hard (for us) to kick a big score."

An Invigorated East Point took care of North Ballarat with an ‘all the way’ 20-point win, confirming their top six credentials under new coach Jackson Merrett.

But for North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney the fallout from a game they expected to win would have the astute mentor at logger heads finding a solution to their woes and inabilities to find the line against similar opposition.

While North remain in touch of the top six at 2-3, the pattern resembles something of greater concern. The Roosters have won just three of their last 11 games and find themselves no "shoe in" to make the six. You can still hold the faith with North but clearly, they're in need of claiming a scalp.

For the Kangas, the Johnston brothers were good again while youngster Liam Howard was named best afield. Brad Whittaker and Jack Jeffrey finished with a game high three goals.

North Ballarat welcomed the return of Werribee VFL listed player Jack Riding who featured prominently with on-ball duo Callum McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 30 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 19 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

Cam McCullum (North Ballarat): 74 hitouts, 14 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Jackson Merrett (East Point);"Really proud of our young group today, we owned the game for three quarters and when challenged in the last. The response the boys gave was really pleasing and something we can build off moving forward."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat);"Poor day for our club. (We were) outplayed and outworked when we had chances to gain control. Disappointing but learnings always come from every game."       

Lake Wendouree ended an 18-game losing streak with a comprehensive win over an embattled Melton South side on Saturday.

It was the fifth straight 100 plus point loss for the Panthers leaving them at the bottom of the table with a paltry percentage of just 18.56%

But the Lakers had some issues of their own to overcome and they were able to do that in emphatic style. Jacob Coxall finished with a game high five goals to feature among the better players along with tireless duo Joel O'Connell and Timmy Collins.

On-field life doesn't get any easier for the struggling Panthers in Round 6, as they are set for a meeting with an unbeaten Darley outfit. The Lakers can take some confidence into their match with Sebastopol but overcoming the flag contenders will be a herculean task.

Coach Jack Fitzpatrick will ask his players for another special effort against the odds to stay in the game for as long as possible for the result for many is deemed inevitable.

Panthers’ newcomer Cassius White was a shining light in an otherwise disappointing result for the home side.

Coaching duo Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy have endured one of the toughest introductions into the BFNL just five rounds in. But they will endeavor to bite the bullet and keep fighting the cause, for in reality, it's all they can ask for at the moment. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 67 hit outs, 13 score involvements, 11 contested possessions

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree): 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 inside 50s

Rhys Lee (Melton South): 25 disposals, 12 tackles, 11 1%ers

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"Disappointing effort today, we played well below our best. Credit to the Lakers, they had a good game and deserved the win."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"Thank goodness!"

Reigning Premiers Melton were simply a class above putting Redan to the sword at City Oval.

The game was over at quarter time as the merciless Bloods piled on eight goals to two to lead by 38 points at the first change.

Experienced quintet Brett McIntyre, Liam Carter, Jack Walker, Jordy Cotter and Ryan Davis shared the spoils to feature among the best players, along with progressive youngster Luke Heaney.

Redan were without star duo Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray VFL) and Lachie George (back). Sam Broadbent and new addition Nicholas Kelson were considered best from the losing side while Isaac Grant and Jacob Short continued with their rich vein of form.

Redan face an uphill battle on Saturday against East Point while Melton will be strong favorites make it six wins on the bounce when they take on Bacchus Marsh to remain on top of the BFNL table.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett McIntyre (Melton): 59 hitouts, 12 score involvements, 10 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 29 disposals, 8 intercept possessions, 7 marks

Izaac Grant (Redan): 27 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 12 clearances

COACHES VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Melton jumped us and we were never in the game. They showed us we are a long way off."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Really happy with the effort today. We addressed our slow starts with probably our best (first) quarter for the year. Some of the things we are working on during the week are starting to click."

Despite some huge results, it was in fact the lowest scoring round on the goal front since the season opener as four of the five losing teams managed just nine goals between them.

Unbeaten Melton (6-0) and Darley (5-0) top the table with Sebastopol (4-1) breathing down their necks in third. Redan (4th) and North Ballarat (7th) consolidated all important wins to remain in touch.

Scoop goes through all the major talking points from last round. 

Flag favorites Melton recorded a major percentage boost with an 82-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Macpherson Park on the weekend.

A clearly undermanned Bacchus Marsh managed to restrict the powerful offence capabilities of the Bloods up until halftime before the floodgates opened in the second. The Bloods kicked away booting 10 goals to one, earning another all too familiar rendition of the victory song, citing an injury free win to be a bonus.

For the record the Bloods points differential for third quarters over their six games is truly frightening. Only once have they conceded more than one goal (five in total) with +159 for the sample size. 76-6 (RD1 v MS), 14-12 (RD2 V SUN), 32-7 (RD3 V SEB), 27-3 (RD4 V NB), 25-5 (RD5 V RED) and 27-9 (RD6 V B/M) - totaling 201-42.

For the winners, Brett McIntyre made it back-to-back best on ground performances and his fourth time to feature in as many games following his return to the side in Round 3. Liam Carter. Jordy Cotter, Luke Heaney, Lachlan Walker and Lachie Watkins did the rest of the damage while for the struggling Cobras, Jake McCreery and Tyson Shea continued their excellent run of form in the opening third of the season. Joshua Onderwater, Callum Smith and Xavier Jenks were amongst the best of the rest.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett McIntyre (Melton): 36 hit outs, 14 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 25 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 9 1%ers

Tyson Shae (Bacchus Marsh): 29 disposals, 12 clearances, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "It was pleasing to bank another win injury-free on the back of a solid defensive effort across four quarters."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Really happy with our first half restricting Melton to 36 points. Outside of Jake McCreery and Tyson Shea it was most pleasing to see our young guys carry the team with really good effort."

North Ballarat capped their encouraging four-quarter performance on the road with a runaway six goals to one final term, downing the young Swans by 71 points. 

The winners welcomed the return of VFL affiliates Sam Glover (five goals) and Josh Chatfield (three goals) to post the highest score of the three games held in Ballarat at the weekend.

Livewire forward Jamie Quick (four goals) added to the separation on the scoreboard virtually shutting the gate on the bottom four teams’ finals chances in the process. The race for the six appears down to seven teams just a third of the way into the season.

While North Ballarat look a completely different proposition with their VFL affiliates on board, credit must go to ever consistent "biggie smalls" midfield duo Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne.

While McCullum has had significant impact in three of his games, Polkinghorne hasn't missed a beat, finishing in the best players in all five games after missing their season opening loss to Sunbury.

For the Swans, finding impact players outside of Marcus Powling, Tristan Maple, Will Liston and Angus Bade poses a season long issue for new coach Chris Maple - not to mention goal scoring options away from Andrew Hooper (two goals).

After six rounds, the Swans rank ninth in attack averaging 58 points per game. It was the third time in six games Maple young group were held to less than 40 points.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat): 33 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Cam McCullum (North Ballarat): 53 hit outs, 14 disposals, 8 score involvements

Tom Mooney (Ballarat): 13 contested possessions, 11 clearances, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "A very disappointing day for our club. They outclassed us all day, both inside and outside the contest. We will need to review, learn and move on."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"The hardest and most disciplined we've been for a while. Everyone contributed and played their roles well.....was good to have some better conversion in front of goal." 

Redan moved into outright fourth on the McDonalds BFNL table after a gutsy 13-point win on the road over pre-game favorites East Point.

The wounded Lions, who were without a bench late in the contest, held off a stirring challenge from the Kangas, holding sway in the clinches as both sides went goal for goal in a very entertaining final quarter that included 11 goals.

Lions’ youngsters Liam Farnsworth and Harry Lawson enjoyed their best days impacting at the level while usual suspects Isaac Grant (four goals) and Daniel Bond helped shoulder the heavy workload next to Cooper Craig-Peters who returned from Footscray VFL.

Dangerous Lions forward Lachie McLean finished with three important goals to aid an underdog road win that saw Redan promoted to fourth place on the BFNL ladder ahead of their bye in round seven.

There could be no excuses for the home side buoyed with the return of playing coach Jackson Merrett (two goals). Young gun Liam Canny landed a career high five goals to finish best for the Kangas ahead of the Johnston brothers and Liam Howard who is building a solid block of form at the level.

Brad Whittaker added another two goals, taking his season tally to 14 from 5 games - a good story for the popular forward having returned this season after a lengthy lay off with injury.

But all honours belong with the visiting Lions - recording an all-important win for debut season coach Gary Learmonth.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 28 disposals, 11 tackles, 4 goals

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan): 16 contested posessions, 12 clearances, 7 tackles

Matt Johnston (East Point): 28 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 6 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point);"Disappointing result for us today. A poor start and our inability to finish off our work with basic fundamental mistakes really hurt us."

Gary Learmonth (Redan);"A really courageous win today from the boys today. We had the game in our control for the most part but were down to no interchange for the majority of the last quarter and held up well. Looking forward to the week off."

Process driven Darley put an undermanned Melton South to the sword for a season high 201-point win, extending their unbeaten run (all on the road) to five in the new season under second year coach Dan Jordan.

Full time addition Billy Myers finished with nine goals for Darley, among 13 individual goalkickers as the visitors monstered the struggling Panthers. While there were brief moments of competitiveness from the home side, the Devils were simply a class above.

Given the offensive nature of the Devils’ win, it's hard to fathom two of their best players would be  defenders Mace Cousins and Matthew Brett.

Cousins made a welcomed returned from Geelong VFL duties, dominating with his rebound that included a Mark of the Year contender. Brett was impenetrable, marking everything, often contested.

His fundamental distribution and organisation of the troops was near faultless and worthy of major vote consideration amid a long list of Darley contributors.         

Embattled Melton South will keep seeking the little wins across the field despite what the scoreboard reads with the efforts of Cassius White, Mitch Fino and Jarrod Bibby all notable against an irresistible Devils' tsunami.

Darley coach Dan Jordan would be soaking up the added bonus of knowing his group made it through unscathed on the injury front. Star mid Brett Bewley (two goals) spent a large portion of the second half rested on the bench. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 23 disposals, 12 marks, 9 goals

Mace Cousins (Darley): 31 disposals, 14 marks, 11 inside 50s

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 24 disposals, 19 tackles, 15 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"Darley is the best team we've played all year. We're very young and inexperienced and will learn a lot from the game. We will keep pushing forward for the rest of the season."

Dan Jordan (Darley):“Pleased with the aptitude to stick to our task all day. (For us it was) a process driven game more so than the result and (we) tried a few things. (We were) happy to come away with the result we did.”

Sebastopol made it a fourth win in five games to kickstart their 2023 campaign following a nine-goal win over Lake Wendouree in slippery conditions at Marty Busch Reserve.

While the Burra won all four quarters it was the first time the Lakers had conceded less than 100 points in any of their four losses to date. However, Burras coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro had every reason to be proud of their defensive effort reducing the Lakers to one solitary goal for the game.

The Burra had to find an unlikely source to goal as underrated utility Hugo Papst answered the call to finish with a game high four goals. Only he and Jed Hill (two goals) could manage multiples in a game that could aptly be described as an underwhelming scrap.

Lakers’ coach Jack Fitzpatrick was reasonably happy with his boy’s intent but were too often let down with simple execution of the fundamentals.

Experienced duo Tony Lockyer and Lachie Cassidy featured prominently for the winners alongside in-form youngsters Jack Bambury and Bailey Medwell.

Lakers quartet Cody and Braydn Helyar, Joel O'Connell and Michael Foster provided the greatest resistance in a losing side but clearly the gulf in class between the two sides was validated by the one-sided nature on the scoreboard.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol): 43 disposals, 17 marks, 16 rebound 50s

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol): 23 disposals, 14 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 52 hitouts, 21 disposals, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):"We got the win and will move on pretty quickly as we enter a very important two weeks. We will have a full list to pick from next week."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree); "We didn't help ourselves with elements of our game but credit to Sebastopol, the better team won on the day."

A big weekend saw the final's mix shuffled with favourites tested and upsets occuring. After seven rounds there are still plenty of questions left to answer across the senior men's competition!

Scoop has all the updates from Saturday's action.

Pregame favorites Sebastopol made no excuses following a disappointing 30-point loss to a feverish North Ballarat at MARS Stadium.

With the game seemingly in the balance at the main break, the second half stanza was going to be all about work rate and who could execute getting it done on the scoreboard.

The frugal natured North Ballarat defence answered the call, keeping the Burra to just five scores in the second half (4.1) while "biggie smalls” midfield duo Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne combined again, proving the catalyst for an outnumber of forward entries.

Polkinghorne made it six from six appearances in the best players this season while McCullum's form is not be sneezed at either with four appearances from his seven outings.

While Sebastopol had won four out of their five games heading in, all had come against the bottom four teams, raising some concerns of where they're really at, and needing a scalp to consolidate the nature of their economy.

But dual Burra coaching combo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro didn't buy into the theory of a less than ideal preparation, opting to give the deserving North Ballarat all the spoils in victory citing work rate as the major influence.

For all of Sebastopol's talent, they remain a work in progress especially forward of centre with their connection. Call it bang for buck if you will. Hugo Papst was again their leading contributor on the scoreboard with three goals.

North Ballarat enjoyed their best win since Round 13 last year when they toppled eventual premiers Melton.

MARS Stadium clearly plays host to their best footy under Brendan McCartney. The Roosters’ supreme work rate and buy-in ended with 11 individual goalkickers. While it's all smiles and back into the six for North Ballarat, a swift response from the Burra beckons when they host East Point on Saturday.              

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 72 hitouts, 11 clearances, 10 score involvements

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat): 29 disposals, 19 contested possesions, 11 clearances

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol): 27 disposals, 16 marks, 12 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"Good result for the players and club. We did a good job in all phases of the game and got a contribution from everyone. Senior players saw reward for effort and youngsters experienced how consistent and strong behaviours can produce good performances."

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):"We were disappointed with our inability to execute the fundamentals for long enough. (We) played well in patches and need to be better at staying in the game for longer."

Jackson Merrett's Kangas won three quarters but were denied victory against an undefeated Bloods outfit whose sheer 'will to win' earned the plaudits of coach Aaron Tymms in the aftermath.

The Bloods were made to earn it the hard way after trailing at half time for a third occasion already this season. For the record, the Bloods found themselves behind at the main break just four times in 2022 - and won them all!

Questions were asked of the reigning premiers to reaffirm their benchmark status. Yet again, the Bloods’ third term played a pivotal role in the outcome, outscoring the Kangas 5.2 to 2.5, their only 'quarter' win of the afternoon.

Bloods’ captain Braedyn Kight booted a game high four goals for the winners to finish among the better players alongside in-form duo Luke Heaney and Jordyn Cotter.

Influential big man Ben Archard played his first game of the season for the Bloods and will be better for the run while Kyle Borg made it back-to-back games in visitors colors after a return from Port Melbourne VFL duties. 

For Merrett's boys, their effort was brave in defeat, as experienced campaigners Matty and Jordy Johnston, Joel Van Meel, Cam Lovig and Mitch Walsh took it to their more fancied rivals. Liam Howard continues to show progress from week to week with more games in.

The Kangas should hold no fears for any opposition moving forward having near overcome the might of the Bloods.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 23 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

Brett McIntyre (Melton):39 hitouts, 10 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

Matt Johnston (East Point): 25 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 9 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point): "Was super pleasing for our young group to take it up to the (competition) benchmark (Melton) of the past two seasons. We've had 7-8 debutants so far this season and seeing them match it with the best will give them great confidence for the remainder of the year." 

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "Really tough win. Our backline was super against quality forwards and (defending) forward entries. Our forward line worked well together and were able to have lot of shots on goal with good entries. All in all we didn’t play how we wanted to over four quarters but our will to win is very good and got us over the line." 

A sickening neck injury sustained by promoted Lakers’ Under 19 talent Kyle Anderson took the gloss off a competitive game at CE Brown Reserve.

Having flown high for a defensive spoil in the middle of the ground Anderson fell dangerously causing a nervous stay of proceedings in the third term. While clearly disturbed by the nature of the fall, Lakers’ coach Jack Fitzpatrick paid credit to his boys to fight out the game, the result usurped by the primary concerns for the welfare of the youngster.

According to Fitzpatrick, scans on the weekend were positive, clearing Anderson of any permanent damage who was later granted permission to leave the hospital.

A Bewley-less Darley made it a sixth straight win on the road to set up a mouthwatering match-up against fellow undefeated and reigning premiers Melton at MacPhersons Park next round.

Riley Macardi booted four goals for the winners in his best game for his new club behind a best-on-ground performance from midfielder Luther Baker, defender Zane LeHuray and former Williamstown VFL utility Billy Myers.

Joel O'Connell and Angus Bade continued their solid seasons for the one-win Lakers alongside Cody Helyar, Rory O'Keefe and big man Shane Finlayson. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 23 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Matthew Brent (Darley): 29 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 8 marks

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 52 hitouts, 35 disposals, 25 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"Today really puts things into perspective. I've never seen anything that bad on a footy field before - we just hope 'Ando' (Kyle Anderson) is ok. We need to wrap our arms around some pretty shaken up players. A big thanks to Darley and the help provided by their trainers."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Good to have another win on the road. Lakers cracked in and made us earn it. Good to identify a few areas we can work on moving forward. Our thoughts go out to Kyle Anderson and the Lakers following his injury."

The Swans earned a major percentage boost and their second win of the season, downing bottom side Melton South at the weekend.

The embattled Panthers keep riding the punches, fighting against the odds despite a sixth straight loss of 100 points or more. What more can you say - the Panthers are in dire straits and forecasting a win for them at any stage this season is becoming even more remote from week to week.

Dangerous forward Andrew Hooper finished with a game high six goals to head a list of 13 Swans players to hit the scoreboard. Mitch Bishop was named best afield for the winners confirming the wrap on his potential and importance, voiced by Hooper on last week’s episode of 'The Presser'.

Lawson Prendergast, Will Liston, Marcus Powling, Noah Drever and Hopper provided the greatest headaches for the Panthers to feature prominently, aiding the 126-point margin.

Finding winners for the Panthers doesn’t always come easy but the return of big man Brodie Collins was encouraging while John Kovarik, Ayden Reilly and usual suspects Cody Chapman, Cassius White and Rhys Lee continue with ‘pride in the jumper’ efforts despite the difficult seven rounds to start their season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

William Liston (Ballarat): 32 disposals, 17 tackles, 10 score involvements

Keegan Mellington (Ballarat): 28 disposals, 11 clearances, 7 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South):32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"We had a lot of good ball movement today, but Ballarat were too good for us. We battled hard for most of the day - our best quarter was our last, which is a big positive. We also blooded some more youngsters which is good for the club moving forward."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"We played well for the first three quarters, to Melton South's credit they fought it out and were competitive in the last quarter."

The Lions kicked nine unanswered goals from late in the second term to the final change to shrug off a plucky Bacchus Marsh side who held a surprise four-point lead at the half.

The Cobras conceded the opening two goals of the game before kicking seven of the next nine goals to cling to a slender advantage at the main break.

But a seven-goal third term (7.6) from the visitors after a measured revving from coach Travis Hodgson put pay to any thoughts of an upset and with it, ending a nine year winning drought for the Lions at Maddingley Park.

Lions forward Jake Sutton (4.7) was the star forward of the afternoon and should have finished with eight or nine goals given the minimal degree of difficulty from his set shots, but it wasn't to be. 31 scoring shots on the whole for Sunbury over the Cobras 15 validated the final 41-point nature of the win.

The Cobras were good early, just their inability to sustain meaningful effort and skill execution became their biggest challenge. Credit to them however, bouncing back to win the last quarter after an old-fashioned towelling in the third. Cobras own Spencer Jenks (one goal) became yet another to debutant for the rebuilding club.     

Jake Egan, Josiah Garisto, Jake Sutton and Mitch Lewis were best on for the winners while Jake McReery, Tyson Shea, Jake Owen (three goals) and Jack Parente never gave up the fight for the home side.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury): 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 marks

Jake Sutton (Sunbury): 16 disposals, 7 marks, 4 goals

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 24 disposals, 11 marks, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Again another week trending in the right direction. A really good first half but our (lack of) depth really hurt us again."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"We were pretty average defending in the first half and credit to the Marsh, they played some good footy. We won contested ball and got it to the outside in the third to set up the win."

There is a new ladder leader following a hotly contested Saturday and Round 8 marked the week one team would get that elusive win on the board.

Scoop reviews all the action from last round.

The Cobras’ top end brigade has nurtured a largely inexperienced group to its first win of the season under new coach Jason Williams.

Jake Owen (four goals) was the star of the show, claiming best on ground honours ahead of Alex Porter, Jack Parente, Callum Smith, Xavier Jenks and the returning Rhys McNay for his first game at the level this year.

Veteran Tyson Shea had some 20 plus tackles at the coalface while ruckman Luke Goetz recorded in excess of 70 hit-outs to deny Lakers big man Shane Finlayson his way around stoppage.

Scores were level at half time in a low scoring affair before the Cobras added five goals to the Lakers’ three in the second half to finish in front on the final siren much to the delight of the Cobras’ loyal band of travelling supporters.

For the Lakers, it was a game they would consider as one 'let slip' given the nature of the Cobras season on the win, loss front.

Lakers’ Captain Joel O'Connell led the way for the home side alongside youngsters Ethan Preston and Rory O'Keefe. Timmy Collins, Angus Gove and Cody Helyar did all they could but a second win of the season would elude them.

Jubilant scenes of smile and song engulfed the Cobras’ touring party who were just rapt to be walking away with the premiership points.

Just how many Cobras ended up in the nucleus of the victory circle, celebrating a first win is a story for another day.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 75 hit outs, 17 contested possessions, 10 1%ers

Tyson Shae (Bacchus Marsh): 26 tackles, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree): 43 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 inside 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree): "The team that deserved to win, won the game. Well done to Bacchus."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Tough game. We didn't play as well or as clean as weeks gone by. The Lakers threw everything they could at us and in the end it was just a game of effort and some individual moments that went our way. Good to win and proud that we did in the hard way, great reward."

Darley moved to the top of the BFNL table with a drought breaking 11-point win on the road over reigning premiers Melton.

Round 2, 2017 (2226 days) was the last time the Devils celebrated in song with a win over the Bloods.

Despite both sides missing key personnel, the highly anticipated top of the table meet lived up to all expectations with numerous lead changes and a special highlights reel amid ailing conditions.

When the Bloods went 15 points up six minutes into the third term with three unanswered goals, Aaron Tymms boys looked well on their way to a 17th straight win at home.

But a resilient Devils army, led by fearless utility Billy Myers (three goals), progressive mid Adam Azzopardi and rock solid defender Matthew Brett were able to arrest momentum into the breeze before the visitors were duly rewarded with back-to-back goals late cutting deficit to just five points.

In essence, the Devils kicked the last five goals of the game while the Bloods were lamenting their misfortunes in front of goal. After their eighth and final goal early in the third term, the Bloods next nine scoring shots were behinds.

Others to make significant contributions for the Devils on Saturday were Billy Sullivan, Shane Page, Will Johnson and Zane Lehuray.

For the Bloods, Blake Souter was tireless and looked everywhere at stages especially in the third term. Big men Ben Archard, Brett McIntyre and Jono O'Brien were never far from the action and looked threatening for the most part.

Dangerous Blood Liam Carter left the field halfway through the game adding to the home side’s woes in the lead up who fell short in the absence of preferred mid combo Jack Walker and Lachie Watkins. In form youngster Adrian Monitto remains on the sidelines with no fixed return date.

Both sides will welcome the King’s Birthday weekend break. Bring on part two of this match-up, set for Round 17 at Darley Park.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 22 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 3 goals

Matt Denham (Darley): 14 contested possessions, 10 tackles, 7 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 32 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Disappointing to be on the wrong end of the result. Bad kicking is bad footy. Full credit to Darley....was a good, hard game of footy. Looking forward to a couple weeks off to refresh."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"High quality contest against a great side. Good for our boys to execute our plan and stick to it particularly with a few injured. Still plenty to work on."

Sebastopol bounced back to the winners’ list with a hard fought all-the-way win over East Point.

The Burras won all four quarters extending an 18-point half time advantage to 34 at the final siren.

Tony Lockyer kicked three goals for the winners, making another example of his versatility. Both Riley O'Keefe and Luke Kiel highlighted their importance to the make-up of the Burra’s lineup after missing some footy and filling the void left by James Keeble (concussion) who missed at the weekend.

Burra newcomers Arnold Kirby and Liam Latch featured prominently behind Ben Hutt who was named best afield in an encouraging display on the whole by one of the flag fancies.

Despite the loss, Kangas’ experienced quintet Jordy and Matt Johnston, Joe Dodd, Joel Van Meel and playing coach Jackson Merrett (three goals) could hold their heads high after a tough couple of weeks against the competition's benchmarks.

Sebastopol move to third place on the BFNL ladder behind Darley and Melton. East Point sit nervously outside the six, in seventh place. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 56 hit outs, 20 disposals, 13 score involvements

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol): 21 disposals, 12 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 26 disposals, 16 contest possessions, 13 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Tight contest across the board. We were able to play our roles and manage the game throughout. East (Point) never went away, credit to them. We had 22 contributors and players pushing through adversity. Team effort."

Jackson Merrett (East Point): “That was as disappointing as we have been all season. We really got beaten on the outside and conceded goals far too easily.”

Sunbury suffered an opening half scare for a second straight week before steadying to win 'going away' by 27 points.

Jake Sutton and Leigh Brennan proved the difference in the end with a game high four goals each.

After trailing by five points at the half, Sunbury outscored Redan eight goals to three to secure a fifth win of the season to move one game clear of the visitors in sixth spot.

Essendon VFL listed midfielder Harry Minton-Connell was a major inclusion for Travis Hodgson's Lions in the absence of Mitch Lewis (overseas) and inspirational leader Tyson Lever.

Newcomer Rivva Karpany had arguably his best game in Sunbury colors and featured among the better players alongside Corey Mobilio, Patrick Scanlon and Jacob Bygate.

Redan duo Grant Bell and youngster Marty Boyer gave the hosts something to think about forward of centre finishing with a team high three goals.

Big body mid Daniel Bond was named best for the visitors while Declan Phillips, Harry Lawson and Patrick Fitzgibbon thrived on the big ground.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury):31 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 24 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 inside 50s

Daniel Bond (Redan):29 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 7 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury);"(We) wasted some chances early in the game and Redan got on top in the second quarter and looked sharp in transition. (We) pegged a few back just before half time and played some very good footy in the second half."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"We played our best footy for the year during the second quarter but gave up three late goals before half time allowing Sunbury back into the game. We weren't able to control the ball or pressure for long enough in the end. Lots of great signs with the young but lots to learn and improve on."

Dangerous forward duo Jamie Quick and Jack Riding enjoyed a picnic in front of 'the big sticks' against the struggling Panthers combining for 15 goals in a major percentage boosting win for the Roosters.

If not for an inaccurate return of 4.11 in the final term, Brendan McCartney's boys could well have ended with 40 goals given their 61 attempts (29.32) for the afternoon.

Quick stole bragging rights with his eight-goal haul while the Werribee VFL listed Riding finished with seven. Marquee Roosters recruit Stewart Crameri did not play due to soreness.

In form Roosters midfield combo Callum McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne dominated proceedings once again and were often the catalyst behind a very lopsided inside 50 count. Isaac Lovisson and Max Faulkner's contributions were also recognised, featuring in the best players.

The Panthers conceded it was another tough day at the office and were looking forward to a rest and reset of sorts this week as the competition breaks for the King's BIrthday weekend.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 15 score involvements

Jamie Quick (North Ballarat): 30 disposals, 13 score involvements, 10 marks

Jarrod Bibby (Melton South): 24 disposals, 12 pressure acts, 11 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendon McCartney (North Ballarat):"We competed hard again in all phases of the game. Our players have worked hard as a group over the last three weeks and are seeing some good rewards. Football can be a tough business sometimes, Melton South are doing it hard but they keep fronting up. They have some incredible people working their hardest."

Jason Hamilton / Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"North Ballarat played really good footy and were very strong all over the ground. We had our moments, but it was a tough day. We also got a couple of bad injuries which didn't help our cause. We are looking forward to the break and moving into the second half of the season."

There were a number of big results in Round 9 that proved there is still plenty to unfold as we head into the second half of the season.

Scoop reviews all the major talking points from last round.

A dominant seven-goal performance from Roosters’ forward Jamie Quick led Brendan McCartney's men to a comprehensive 57-point win over ladder leaders Darley.

The four-quarter win sees North Ballarat just percentage shy of third placed Sebastopol and a game clear of Sunbury in fifth.

Despite a drop of some 50 percent from their first loss of the season, the Devils remain on top of the McDonald's BFNL table, albeit with less certainty than a week ago.

For the winners, usual suspects Riley Polkinghorne and ruckman Callum McCullum were significant contributors, creating the drive forward enabling the likes of Quick to 'get off the hook' with repeat forward 50 opportunities.

Polkinghorne has now been named in the bests from all eight of his appearances this year.

Tom Bromley-Lynch and Fletcher Loader had arguably their best games of the season while progressive young defender Joshua Sparkman is living up to the promise McCartney has spoken of him.

Saturday's win extended McCartney's imposing record at home to 15-3, proving the force the Roosters are when at MARS Stadium.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan made no excuses in the aftermath, but it was clear, they were undermanned. Injury, ill-health, and unavailability has crept into the Devils quality stocks, with Saturday's loss confirming their level of importance.

Danger games await the Black and White in coming weeks against Redan and Sebastopol. Brett Bewley and Shane Page were clearly the Devils best two players.   

North Ballarat will travel away to CE Brown Reserve to take on Lake Wendouree.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 57 hitouts, 12 contested possessions, 6 clearances

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat): 43 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Brett Bewley (Darley): 40 disposals, 29 contested possessions, 17 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We did a good job with the difficult parts of the game today. Our contest, pressure and defending was very good. (We) took our chances when the game opened up. Darley undermanned pre and during the game. They're a very good club."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"(We were) outplayed around the contest and how to enter the ball into forward 50 in windy conditions. Great to come away with plenty to work on. Full credit to North Ballarat and the pressure they applied all day in a four-quarter effort."

Ballarat caused arguably the biggest upset of the season date, downing finals aspirant Sunbury by 26 points.

The nature of the Swans’ win was something to behold given they trailed by four goals to one at quarter time. The fact they ended with 28 scoring shots to 17 gives every indication they won 'going away' to give coach Chris Maple his most satisfying win in charge of the young group.

Sure, the Swans best players needed to stand up, and the response was overwhelming.

Will Liston, Paddy Simpson (back from a shoulder injury), the Drever boys, Noah and Jake, along with Marcus Powling and Tyler Constable not only had the Swans within four points at half time but carried the momentum, shutting out their more fancied rivals.

Alfredton Oval doesn't usually lend itself to big scores in June, but the Swans would rapt with their return. Andrew Hooper, Rhys Perry, Jake Drever and Paddy Simpson all hit the scoreboard with two goals apiece. Lions pair Jake Sutton and Leigh Brennan also kicked two.

But what to make of Sunbury? "Disappointing performance..." was how coach Travis Hodgson summed up the loss.

It's back to the drawing board for the fifth placed Lions with a focus on work rate and physicality around the ball on the radar. Mitch Trimboli was a shining light for the Lions despite the loss, while defenders Patrick Scanlon and Josiah Garisto did their best to quell the hungry Swans.

A loss for Sunbury this week against Sebastopol could see them cling to a spot inside the top six, solely on percentage. Ballarat is away to Melton, who had the week off with the bye.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Will Liston (Ballarat): 36 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 24 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 6 tackles

Cody Brand (Sunbury): 30 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "We played all phases of the game far better. Our ability to withstand Sunbury's pressure in the last quarter showed some maturity. A pleasing result for our young group."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing performance. Decision making was poor and execution not much better. Ballarat deserved to win, congratulations to Chris and his young side - they were better for longer."

Sebastopol hung on in a close one to deny popular Lion Jarret Giampaolo the perfect ending in his milestone 250th game.

After losing Tony Lockyer (cork) early the visitors were on the back foot despite kicking the opening four goals of the game.

The plucky Lions refused to give in all day and flew home with three late goals to give the flag contenders an almighty scare. It was interesting to note the Burra thought they controlled the game for the most part despite winning only the first quarter.

Crucial Burras’ duo, Lachie Cassidy and James Keeble, returned with immediate impact while Chase Dummett's interrupted season resembled some more welcomed continuity.

Toby Hutt was named best on ground for the winners in one of those low scoring Wintery battles on City Oval.

For the Lions, ruckman Nathan Dunstan led the challenge and was supported at ground level by Daniel Bond and Izaac Grant who played through an achilles complaint that had him in some doubt for the game.

Youngster Harry Lawson gave his all to be recognised while Tom Lamb and Giampaolo fought it out to the final siren.

While they fell agonisingly short, Redan should hold no fears on the road facing Darley having got it done there last year, just as the Devils were seemingly on the up and finals bound.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 68 hitouts, 16 disposals, 7 score involvements

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol):34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan):25 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 10 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel / Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Was a hard-fought gutsy win after losing a quality player in the first minute. (We) felt we had control of the game for the majority. Redan kicked three late goals to get within a kick. Plenty of young talent at Redan."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Really proud of the effort today. We gave up four goals at the start which ultimately cost us. Was a great day for the club honouring great Jarret Gimpaolo's 250th game."

Bacchus Marsh overcame a slow start to run away with a comfortable 98-point win over Melton South.

Despite a one-win season heading in, the Cobras started warm favorites and asserted their authority on the game in the second half booting 14 goals to one giving new season coach Jason Williams his first taste of back-to-back wins.

The home side was made to work hard for any early ascendancy after the Panthers led at the first change, their only quarter win of the season.

The Cobras, led by Jake Owen (4 goals) and Joel Freeman (5 goals), arrested the game onto something more resembling their own terms. The Cobras kicked eight goals to one in the third term earning some belated separation on the scoreboard.

The Cobras key forward targets were the welcoming beneficiaries of the work rate shown by Tyson Shea, Josh Huxtable and Alex Porter. The further the game went, the further the Cobras went ahead. Evidently, the final margin was the greatest of the game.

Despite a ninth consecutive loss, the Panthers weren't shy on effort, doing their best against the challenges that come with little or no depth. Riley Theo, Cody Chapman, Mitch Fino, Ayden Reilly and Rhys Lee kept the Cobras honest ensuring they were made to work for the premiership points.

The Cobras host East Point this weekend while the Panthers will savour the bye.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 64 hitouts, 18 disposals, 11 score involvements

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 23 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 15 marks

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 30 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Unfortunately we didn't apply ourselves well early but credit to our guys and our leaders, they came out mentally ready after half time. We produced a very good third quarter and responded well to end with 10 different goalkickers. Very exciting to see our young talent on display again."

Jason Hoy (Melton South):"Tale of two halves. (We) won the inside ball in the first, Bacchus Marsh opened us up in the second. A lot of positives to take out of the first half. Credit to Bacchus Marsh for lifting the intensity in the second half. They had a good spread of young guns who beat us with their leg speed."

The Kangas simply did what they had to do, seeing off a 'clean slate' Lakers outfit under new coach Tim Shearer.

So often with the appointment of a new coach mid-season, we see a spike in performance and the Lakers certainly did bring the heat in the opening term to be level with 2018, 2019 premiers.

Kangas coach Jackson Merrett was wary of the likely surge in effort, especially early and was grounded at quarter time in his response.

The home side was able to absorb the Lakers’ heat in the opening stanza before kicking away in the second term to lead by 25 points at half time and 50 points at the final change.

There's your game, job done. Credit to the Lakers for winning the last quarter but the nature of footy tells me the Kangas cue had returned to the rack.

Jordy Johnston was named best on ground yet again for the winners for his exploits through the midfield alone.

The once x-factor star forward has featured in the best in seven games out of eight, and strangely just seven goals next his name.

Credit goes to Merrett and Johnston for further evolve an already great game. Clearly it is working for them, given his midfield returns.

Mitch Walsh, Patrick Hannaford, Joel Van Meel and Bryce McDougall played the support role behind Johnston ensuring the convincing nature of the win, with all important percentage thrown in.

For the Lakers, season newcomers Michael Foster (returned) and Tom Zampatti enjoyed their best games while Rory O'Keefe, Cody Helyar, Brayden Helyar and Nathan Pring fought for their team mates and new voice, Tim Shearer.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 15 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 35 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 marks

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree):35 disposals, 18 rebound 50s, 82% disposal efficency 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackon Merrett (East Point): "We expected the Lakers to come out early and apply great pressure. They certainly did that! It was pleasing that we were able to absorb that pressure, and when the game opened up, we owned it on the outside."

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"We were pleased with our commitment to how we wanted to play. Some execution errors and positional mistakes hurt on the scoreboard, but our pressure was good all day. We ran out of legs late but overall we felt the positives outweighed the negatives."

The first week of finals treated BFNL fans to a number of enthralling contests. With all the ups and downs finals can bring, recap all the excitement from the weekend.

Darley is one win away from booking its place in the 2023 BFNL Grand Final following a well-deserved 14-point win over Melton at Maddingley Park.

The Brett Bewley (two goals) inspired win was the third in as many encounters against the reigning premiers this year, as the Devils went to work, aiding a landslide advantage of inside 50's (70-41) despite the aerial dominance of Bloods’ ruckman Ben Archard around stoppage (+88 hit-outs).

If not for Melton's efficiency on goal after quarter time (9.0) the margin could easily have been greater.

A high stoppage, low scoring opening half nearly mirrored the two sides Round 17 meeting a fortnight ago. Ironically, the Bloods finished with exactly the same number of scoring shots (14) at games end - a stat Dan Jordan's staff would be happy to see again.

Devils’ midfielders Luther Baker, Matt Denham and Adam Azzopardi were significant contributors yet again alongside Bewley, while their underrated defence led by Matthew Brett were able to keep the competitions’ number one ranked forward combination in check.

Devils key Billy Myers (three goals) looked dangerous with his aerial presence while veteran Darren Leonard (two goals) wound the clock back to be instrumental with his versatility.

For the Bloods, speedsters Kyle Borg (four goals) and Adrian Monitto threatened all day to keep the reigning premiers within reach despite the margin blowing out to 30 points at one stage late in the last quarter. Ruckman Ben Archard was super, winning nearly every tap out but unfortunately for the minor premiers, the Essendon VFL affiliates’ powers did not translate to wins at ground level.

The Devils meet North Ballarat on Saturday for a spot in the Grand Final. The loser will face the winner of Melton and East Point in the Preliminary Final on Saturday September 16.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 48 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 14 inside 50s

Billy Myers (Darley): 19 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 marks

Ben Archard (Melton): 95 hit outs, 18 disposals, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Happy with our effort and intensity for four quarters despite losing a few to injury. Good finals win but plenty to work on."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"(Our) decision making and execution was very poor. Darley were too good. (We) thought their mids controlled the game."

Jackson Merrett's Kangas are riding high after surviving a late scare to upset pregame favorites Sebastopol at Eastern Oval on Saturday.

Scores were levelled by the Burra in time-on of the last quarter after they trailed by 18 points at the final change before the Kangas steadied late to progress.

It was as recent as Round 18 that Kangas fans were contemplating a September without finals but here they are, well and truly alive and down to the last four with reigning premiers Melton their next assignment.

Star Kangas mid/forward Jordy Johnston (broken thumb) was a late out after surgery adding further merit to the galvanising win.

Experienced quartet Joe Dodd (named best), Joel Van Meel, Jordy Taylor and Bryson McDougall (three goals) were super for the winners and were well support by next generation players Jack Jeffrey (three goals) and Liam Canny (one goal).

Under 17 Kangas rising star Strahan Robinson (17 goals from 9 games) hit the scoreboard again posting three timely majors. No doubt his profile is seen to be, beyond his years. 

Sure, the Kangas were buoyed by the elephant in the room (Eastern Oval) but in fairness we've known the finals schedule for some time now and the Burra camp refused to make any excuses. Good on them.

The Burra looked flat. Strange when you consider the stakes but full credit to East Point embracing the moment and the 'catch me if you can' nature of the contest, to lead at every change and ask questions of Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro's group.

Not for the first week has the talent laden Burra been wayward in front of goal. Back-to-back returns of 17 behinds (near doubling their goal returns) has proven costly - and maybe their season. You would have to go back to Round 9 (9.8 v Redan) to find the last time the Burra kicked more goals than points in a match involving top six opposition.

Lachlan Cassidy, Tony Lockyer, Hugo Papst, Toby Hutt (two goals), Jay Dahlhaus and Jacob Fletcher were named best for the Burra in a disappointing end to a season that promised so much.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Joel Van Meel (East Point): 42 hit outs, 16 disposals, 9 contested possessions

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 61 hit outs, 16 disposals, 12 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"East Point jumped us early. We didn't apply enough pressure on the ball carrier and couldn't put any scoreboard pressure on. Disappointing to go out like that."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"The group showed a lot of character. Credit to Sebastopol, they pushed us and got back level and for our young guys to keep their heads and run away with it late was really pleasing."

X-factor North Ballarat forward Jamie Quick (five goals) proved the difference between the two sides sending Brendan McCartney's boys into a Semi Final showdown with Darley on Saturday.

The Geelong VFL listed Quick delivered star power to a match that was dour and defensive, amid blustery conditions for the most part.

His influence was not restricted to his 5.3 heroics, as he often brought the ball to the ground against two opponents, inadvertently creating a plus one at ground level that led to more than one of the remaining six goals posted by the Roosters.

Redan led narrowly at half time before the Roosters raised the bar in the second to challenge the plucky Lions.

Bigman Callum McCullum dominated the ruck the further the game went, aiding the influence of Riley Polkinghorne who had plenty of the ball to be instrumental between the arcs driving the Roosters forward.

The heat map would indicate up to 80% of the play was orchestrated on one side of the ground making it difficult for both sides to penetrate through traffic.

Unfortunately for the Lions they could barely register a mark inside 50 in the second half to impact the scoreboard unlike the Roosters at the other end who had Quick thriving in his dancing shoes. Quality act.

North Ballarat's defence were well organised, giving very little away in the second half to hold sway, denying the Lions any effective entries.

Each had their moments - Ryan Hobbs, Isaac Lovisson and Josh Sparkman were at their stingy best while Stewart Crameri was damaging early and Polkinghorne was significant aiding a run of five unanswered goals for the Roosters from midway through the third term.

Dangerous mid/forward Jack Riding endured an 'almost game' in a contest fought primarily on the inside.

He, Jamie Quick, Ryan Hobbs and Harry Loader all missed their 34-point loss to the Devils in Round 15. Game on.

The win was bittersweet for McCartney's army after veteran Clay Jenkins left the field on a stretcher with a season ending knee injury.

For Redan, whilst brave, they just couldn't get the game on their terms for long enough and had little time on the outside to generate any significant run and finish from their prime movers.

Nathan Dunstan fought tirelessly in the ruck despite being shaded by McCullum while Declan Phillips, Flynn Atchison, Jarrett Giampaolo, Grant Bell and Pat Fitzgibbon were given the nod by the Lions hierarchy to be named among their best in a losing side.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 55 hit outs, 21 disposals, 18 contested possessions

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 18 disposals, 10 tackles,8 score involvements

William Madden (Redan): 24 disposals, 10 marks, 6 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"A tough and honest performance against a very talented opponent. We have been building steadily over the year and we believe there is improvement to come."

Gary Learmonth (Redan): "A disappointing result but I thought for a good part of the game we were in control of the match. Losing (Daniel) Bond just before half time hurt us and the 10 minutes in the third quarter, we were disappointing where we lost our outside cover. Proud of the effort and the boys showed again what they're capable of. They will improve again next year as I need to as a coach."

Scoop Reviews Round 11

There were some dominant displays, some close calls, and some anticlimatic performances last weekend. This is Scoop's take on Round 11 of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL Men's competition.

The Cobras simply did enough to hold out Lake Wendouree and move into the top six, a game clear of cross-town rivals Darley (6th), and Sebastopol (7th).

On the whole, the game was underwhelming to the eye but I'm sure the Cobras faithful would be happy just banking the points with their sixth win of the season. The Cobras led at every change and while the Lakers were always in touch on the scoreboard there was a certain inevitability about the result a long way out.

Ryley Stuhldreier extended his run of recent form to be one of the Cobras' best, while Tom German and Michael Culliver looked dangerous on the spread setting up many forward 50 entries. It wasn't the best exhibition of the fundamentals by any stretch making it difficult for the forwards of both teams.

However, Cobras quartet Rex Hickman (3 goals), Aaron Willitts (3 goals), Jason Robinson (2 goals) and Joel Freeman competed well in the air to make the most of their opportunities. 2018 Henderson Medallist Daniel Burton (foot) and Harry King missed paving the way for 19-year-old debutant ruckman Spencer Meagher (Torquay) who competed well.

For the Lakers, Nathan Pring was their most efficient player, a stand-out with his ball use and decision-making. Joel O'Connell had plenty of it while Callum McKay (2 goals) provided an aerial target forward, shouldering some of the heavy load.

What the coaches said:

Tom German (Bacchus Marsh) -"We hit the scoreboard when it counted but credit to Lake Wendouree, they brought the pressure and moved the ball well. We got a lot more inside 50's that created opportunities."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree) -"A much better performance this week. We clearly have plenty of work to do but can at least be pleased with the application shown by the boys."

North Ballarat consolidated the fourth position on the BFNL ladder with a percentage-boosting win over a disappointing Darley at Mars Stadium. The game was touted as the 'Match of the Round' heading in but ended in a fizzer as Brendan McCartney's boys dominated the young Devils booting 13 goals to two after quarter-time - a stout reminder to rivals that North are the real deal despite having 7 of arguably their best 12 on the sidelines.

No Tom Hotchin (ACL), Joey Symonds, Ryan Hobbs (soreness), Riley Polkinghorne (shoulder), Elliott Lamb (foot), Jarrod Curran (collar bone) or Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL). No problem, Macca's boys just bring the heat. The 2021 Minor Premiers have kicked 29 goals to five after quarter-time in the last two weeks, which is ideal preparation for a tough month ahead. After their bye this week, North meet Melton, East Point, Ballarat and Sebastopol.

Footscray VFL affiliate Josh Chatfield (3 goals) was terrific on his return while dangerous duo Jack Riding and Jamie Quick finished with three goals of their own. Cam McCallum (2 goals) monstered the Devils once again while in and under soldiers Brock Leonard and Tim Speirs were also prominent. Swingman Harry Loader was named best afield.

For Dan Jordan's Devils, Mace Cousins continued with his promising year and looks to have a bright future. Luther Baker and Brett Bewley never gave up the chase on a day hampered by the serious injury to Adam Azzopardi (broken leg) in the first quarter. 

What to make of the Devils? Well, they're 0-5 (67%) against top-six opposition and look vulnerable against quality. However, sixth position with five wins - that alone must be pleasing for Devils fans on the back of a winless 2021.

What the coaches said:

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat) -"(Our) teamwork and tackling were really good. We are training hard and building steadily."

Dan Jordan (Darley) -"A great lesson in four-quarter footy for our young group. Full credit to North Ballarat and their intensity at the contest. (We had) some good patches, and we'll  continue to work on some great learnings for us to improve our game."

The Kangas flexed their muscles, opening up in the second half to defeat an improving Redan by 45 points at Eastern Oval. The reigning Premiers had eight contributors post majors on their way to their fifth score over the ton in 10 games to highlight their potency forward. They're a bit stiff it wasn't number six given they finished on 99 against the Devils in Round Nine.

Marquee Kangas recruit Jackson Merrett led the attack finishing with four goals while Bryson McDougall and known defender Mitch Walsh finished with three. For all of East Point's spoilt-for-choice front six, the heavy lifting comes from a midfield that rivals any in the comp. Joe Dodd (in best 7/10 games), Matty Johnston (in best 7/10 games) and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (in best 6/10 games) were at it again, accumulating at will, allowing the outside run and influence of Merrett and Aden Nestor (2 goals) to be significant.

Despite not winning a quarter, the Lions were still in the hunt at halftime trailing by 11 points. Off-season recruits Lincoln Barnes played arguably his best game at his new club while Jacob Werts was keeping Jordy Johnston (one goal) in check during his time forward. Experienced campaigners Lachie George and Liam Hoy kept the Lions in it while youngsters Flynn Atchison and Declan Murphy continue to progress.

In a nutshell, Jake Bridges' Kangas were just too overwhelming to contain. Four, three, four and five-goal quarter returns highlight the nature of the beast that is East Point. On scoring ability alone, you would think the Kangas have the arsenal to give this year's title an almighty shake.  

What the coaches said:

Jake Bridges (East Point) -"We played a consistent four quarters of team footy and were able to execute off the back of some terrific defensive efforts and utilising different dynamics up forward which saw a positive result on the scoreboard. We focused on behaviours congruent with our trademarks and were able to get the result. Great to have a lot of past players there at the game too!"

Jarrett Giampaolo (Redan) - "Just outworked around the contest at times by East today. They were exceptional in the third quarter and put us to the sword. Similar to last week, we just have to try (to) stay in the game longer rather than ride the rollercoaster."

Sebastopol came to play but proved no match for ladder leaders Melton to the tune of 41 points at Macpherson Park.

The injury-plagued 'Burra lost ruck duo Jack Richards and Dean Robertson and X-factor James Keeble ahead of their Round 11 road trip but welcomed the return of reigning Henderson Medal winner Lachie Cassidy from a hamstring strain - his first appearance since Round 3.

The well-respected hard-working midfielder got through the game unscathed, finishing with two goals and among the best players. Despite dangerous Bloods' skipper Braedan Kight's three-goal 'best on' performance 'Burra coach Michael Searl was pleased with the effort of Hugo Papst on the sharpshooter naming the honest defender as their best in a losing side.

Honours again to the winners, Aaron Tymms' Bloods have proven they're just 'better for longer', unrivalled, unbeaten, 10 rounds in.

Lachie Watkins and Blake Souter featured among the best once again in the absence of Jack Walker (jaw) while Luke Heaney (three goals) and Liam Carter (two goals) hit the scoreboard. The Bloods kicked three goals in each quarter to extend a slender nine-point lead at the half to 41 at the game's end. The margin just about sums up the difference between the two sides - seven goals.

While the 'Burra managed to restrict the Bloods to their lowest score since Round 4, the worry lies in their own ability to hit the scoreboard. Saturday marked the third time in the 'Burras last four games they've been held to 45 points or less. 

What the coaches said:

Aaron Tymms (Melton) -"(It was an) arm wrestle early...., we were fortunate enough to break the game open in the second half. (A) good team game."

Michael Searl (Sebastopol) -"(I was) really pleased with our endeavour in the first half. (I) felt we pressured the ball carrier and didn't let them have it on their terms. In the second half Melton got ruck and clearance control, went up a level and showed why they're the best team in the competition. Good learning opportunities for our group around matching it with the best."

Despite winning three-quarters, Sunbury has been denied their second win of the season losing to Ballarat in a thriller at Clarke Oval.

The plucky Lions were good all bar their third-quarter capitulation, conceding four unanswered goals that proved the difference in a low-scoring affair. It would become the fifth game the Lions and the Swans have been involved in decided by 16 points or less for the season.

The Swans truly got it done the hard way, having trailed at halftime in seven of their ten games. Kudos to them, their never say die attitude earned them a seventh win for 2022, and fourth on the road to cement third place on the BFNL ladder. Despite just three losses the Swans' mediocre percentage (102%) may be the best indicator of a season spent on the edge.

The relief for Swans' coach Joe Carmody in the aftermath was palpable. He was just thrilled to be a part of the first Ballarat Swans team to beat Sunbury on their home deck. Swans trio Lachie Dawson, Luke Wynd and Nick Swain led the charge while dangerous forward Andrew Hooper kicked two goals.

For Sunbury, it was essentially an 'almost' game. Youngster Jake Egan (five goals) was the star on the goal front to feature among the best with Riley Miller, Nathan Wood and Corey Mobilio. Harrison Minton-Connell and defender Pat Scanlon also had good games but still, the Lions fell short by the barest of margins.

Gee, footy can be cruel. 

What the coaches said:

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury) -"(We) played some good footy, transitioned the ball well for three quarters. (I) was pleased with our fightback after giving up a half-time lead (again). (We) should have won the game with the late lead."

Joe Carmody (Ballarat) -"Sunbury were excellent with their ball movement and made us defend for long periods. We started winning the contest and gained territory in the third quarter which set the game up for us. It was great to be a part of the first Ballarat Swans team to win 'away' at Sunbury."

Scoop' Reviews Round 15

What a series of upsets... Without a doubt, Round 15 of the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's competition was a weekend for the underdogs.

The Swans have done it again!

A clutch goal from captain Sammy James after the final siren put the Swans in front and miraculously into second spot on the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder, a game clear of East Point. After trailing at halftime for the ninth time in 14 games, Joe Carmody's never-say-die Swans led by captain James and defenders Nick Swain and Nick Weightman, were able to overcome one of the genuine flag fancies buoyed by the returns of Footscray VFL affiliate Josh Chatfield and midfielder Riley Polkinghorne (named best). Swans big man and Footscray affiliate Bailey Van de Heuvel was a late withdrawal swaying the pendulum of favouritism slightly with the visitors.

In a low-scoring affair, North Ballarat kicked with the breeze in the opening term to establish a 13-point lead at the first change. Regardless of the conditions, both sides have proven difficult to score against for most this year, so it wasn't the time for the Swans to be complacent. Ironically, dangerous Swans forward Andrew Hooper (one goal) missed a shot on the halftime siren to put the home side in front. So, at the main break, as if it were Groundhog Day, the Swans would need to manufacture their sixth win of the season after trailing at the half to get the job done.

Sure, in this case the deficit on the scoreboard was minimal (three points), but for one club to do it for the sixth time takes some serious mental strength. The nature of the Swans' run is not too dissimilar to Collingwood in the AFL. Outside of their 91-point win over Melton South in Round 2, the Swans remaining nine wins have come by 18 points or less, including North Ballarat twice (5 & 15 points), the Lakers twice (6 & 13 points), Redan twice (16 & 6 points), Sunbury (1 point), Sebastopol (1 point) and Darley (18 points). Swans’ fans will be happy to rest their heart rates this week with the bye in Round 16 before it all gets very real enroute to the business end.

Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat have done a lot right since their return off the bye in Round 12, having led league heavyweights Melton, East Point and Ballarat at halftime. Strangely, their only success amid a tough three-week block was against the Bloods. As a result, North Ballarat (7 wins) are now sixth but have a game in hand on Darley (5th - 8 wins), East Point (3rd - 9 wins) and Ballarat (2nd - 10 wins).

North Ballarat quintet Jack Riding (two goals), Harry and Fletcher Loader, Isaac Lovison and Tim Speirs were acknowledged for their contribution behind Polkinghorne in a losing side. They came so close to an eighth win and fourth position on the ladder with three rounds to play.

What the coaches said:

Carmody (Ballarat):North were too good around the contest in the first half. We were able to get better ball movement in the second half. Sam James was sensational around the ball and kicked the winner on the siren.

McCartney (North Ballarat):Tough and hard game. (The result) came down to the last two seconds. We are on the right track and a great win is very close.

The Devils secured an all-important home win over flag fancies East Point to move into fifth place on the BFNL table. The nature of the win has officially risen the bar of expectation on Dan Jordan's young group who withstood all of the Kangas' physicality and pressure to win by 30 points.

The Devils' midfield response led by Luther Baker (named best), Brett Bewley (40 disposals) and Dylan Landt (36 disposals) was emphatic. Reversing the tables on their Round 9 clash when the Kangas crew Matty Johnston (32 disposals), Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (18 disposals) and Jordy Taylor (22 disposals) took the honours. In fairness, the Kangas were without Jackson Merrett (hamstring) and Joe Dodd (knee soreness) from their previous meet but that can be squared away with the Devils' absentees - Shane Page (overseas), Leigh Spiteri (hamstring), Brady Wright (GWV Rebels) and Will Johnson (knee) - all of whom are hopeful of a return. For the record, the Devils are 5-1 from Dylan Landt's six games in black and white.

There were warning signs early for the Devils coughing up the opening two goals of the game on the back of defensive turnovers similar to their disappointing 14-point loss to Redan a week earlier. But the Devils' buy-in was palpable. Their maturity, led by their more experienced leaders was a shining light in clearly their best team win of the season. Devils forward Nick Rodda (4 goals) won the battle of the 'keys' on the goal front as Kangas star Jordy Johnston (1.4) was well held by rising star Mace Cousins.

The 21-year-old continued with his consistent season and was part of a winning back six buoyed by the recent returns of Matty Brett, Darren Leonard and Duncan Cadman. Devils wingman Bailey Young (34 disposals) and Joel Cadman were the next best for the Devils who struggled to find a player with little or no influence. For the Kangas, Jacob Brown and Cam Lovig had plenty of the ball but unfortunately for the reigning dual Premiers, it was shared all in their back half. Despite evidence of further progress in Kangas’ youngsters Liam Canny and Jack Jeffrey (two goals each), Jake Bridges’ boys were humbled to their second-lowest score of the season.  

What the coaches said:

Jordan (Darley):Good to win against a quality opposition. (I) thought our boys executed the game plan well and brought intensity and pressure for four quarters.

Bridges (East Point):Today was much more than a game. Our trainer Mark Scully is battling cancer and was there again to support the group. Whether we win, lose or draw - we draw tremendous inspiration from him.

Sunbury put Melton South to the sword early, setting up a match-winning 37-point lead at quarter time before going to record a morale-boosting third win of the season. The Panthers did show some fight in front of their home fans in the third term to reduce the deficit to 25 at the final change, but that was 'all she wrote' as Travis Hodgson's Lions hit the afterburners to run away with a third win of the season. It still surprises many that the Lions are 3-10, and out of finals contention this far out given they rank seventh in offence and sixth in defence. Yet they languish in ninth place on the ladder with a relatively healthy percentage of 96%.

Forwards Jake Sutton (6 goals) and Leigh Brennan (4 goals) were the leading contributors on the scoreboard among ten different Lions players to post majors while the Panthers could manage just ten goals across the board stretching their unenviable home record to 0-8 for the season.

The Lions' top-end talent had their way against a youthful Panthers outfit. Port Melbourne VFL affiliate Mitch Lewis was named Best on Ground for the Lions along with defenders Tyson Lever and Pat Scanlon. Captain Daniel Toman and Harrison Minton-Connell provided plenty of drive, aiding Lewis' influence as the Lions marched on, equaling North Ballarat with their third score of 100+ for the season. Only Melton (8) and East Point (5) have done it more.

For Heath Pritchard's Panthers, Billy Lloyd and big man Brodie Collins and club-leading goalkicker Will Thornton-Gielen (two goals) led a handful of contributors ahead of Cody Chapman and Mitch Fino in a losing side. It will be interesting to see how the Panthers finish off the season post their Round 16 bye with road trips to North Ballarat and Redan. If it's any consolation, the club's horror run on the road in Ballarat over recent times is over, having already beaten the Lakers in Round 9. Let's see what they conjure after they freshen up and add extra fuel to the tank. Sunbury have the chance to test their improvement in front of a home crowd this week against Melton. Good luck! 

What the coaches said:

Pritchard (Melton South):We started poorly and let Sunbury get the jump. Our second quarter was good, but we didn't get any scoreboard pressure. Our third quarter was excellent, but we let Sunbury get the last two goals of the quarter which gave them the momentum going into the last. The final quarter was all Sunbury - deserved winners.

Hodgson (Sunbury):(We) were good early with and without the footy. (Melton) South came hard in the third and we lost too much 50/50 ball, so it was game on at 3/4 time. (We) responded well in the last (quarter) with our contest work and our forwards started winning one on ones. Overall, it was a pleasing result.

The Lions were made to work hard for just their second home win of the season against a spirited Lakers on the weekend. The visitors put a scare through the Lions camp in the opening half to lead by nine points as an upset loomed on the cards. But with seven goals to two the second half would restore the Lions on their way to a comfortable (in the end) 32-point advantage and sixth win of their season. Unfortunately for Jarrett Giampaolo's Lions, their finals chances are over despite the win. The Lions should have momentum post their bye - this week should not be ignored. Wins this year over top six opposition North Ballarat, Sebastopol and Darley suggest the young Lions are tracking in the right direction.

The Atchison brothers continued with their run of good form off half-back for the Lions while Lincoln Barnes in his 10th game at his new club was considered the best on ground by the coaching staff. Again, consistent duo Izaac Grant (two goals) and Lachie George were never far away from the action. Grant's 34-goal haul, has seen him featured in Redan's best in nine of his 14 games this season while George's 23-goal return from predominantly midfield, has been influential - including nine times named in the Lions' best from his 13 games.

For the Lakers, it's pleasing to see they haven't thrown the towel in despite their one-win season leading both Ballarat and Redan at halftime in the last two weeks. Lakers captain Joel O'Connell has led his young crew from the front once again to be named best for the losing side. Youngsters Bailey Ryan and Cooper James continue to make long strides into their new footy life at senior level while Jacob Coxall (two goals) and Nathan Pring (two goals) have been shining lights in a tough debut season for coach Jack Fitzpatrick. Three games remain in 2022 for the Lakers - East Point (home) on the back of a loss to Darley, Sebastopol (away) and Melton (away), all currently 3rd, 4th and 1st respectively on the ladder.

Tough ask.

What the coaches said:

Giampaolo (Redan): After a poor first half, the boys were able to lift around the contest and get the game back on our terms. (We) played a great second half to give ourselves plenty of opportunities in the forward half. A pleasing response and win.

Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):(I) can't fault the boy’s application. It was a game of two halves. We dominated around the contest early and had the game on our terms, but once Redan were able to match us on the inside after half time, they were able to play their game.

Scoop' Reviews Round 16

In Round 16 of the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's competition, David slew Goliath. Sunbury has been pushing to collect a big scalp all year, but nobody could have predicted it would be the Bloods that fell to the Lions.

Devils coach Dan Jordan has his feet firmly on the ground despite securing a memorable finals berth with an entertaining 10-point win over the Cobras. In a local derby touted as 'one for the ages' the match didn't disappoint in front of, arguably, the biggest crowd of the BFNL season.

The Devils banked an all-important ninth win of the season to move two games clear of North Ballarat and Bacchus Marsh. The result for the club is significant, a return to finals on the back of a winless 2021.

Leading Devils' goal scorer Nick Rodda booted five goals for the winners while the run and carry of the Devils' midfield (Luther Baker, Dylan Landt, Brett Bewley) between the arcs was paramount to their success. Devils' key defender Matthew Brett endured a classic tussle with Jake Owen (2 goals) before the Cobras captain was heavily concussed following a head collision with teammate Michael Culliver. Owen will miss Saturday's all-important meet with Redan. In the absence of Owen came the emergence of 17-year-old Joel Freeman (5 goals), who nearly stole the win for Bacchus Marsh late, after the game looked a foregone conclusion.

While you're likely to find Nick Stuhldreier and Michael Culliver top the stats list for the Cobras, it was the run of Harry King and Jack Parente late that had the Devils a little nervous. Mathew Brett saved the day in the final term for the Devils with a number of intercept marks as the 'Owenless' Cobras fought tooth and nail adding six goals to three in the last quarter. In a nutshell, the Devils' 24-point advantage at the final change would prove a bridge too far for the Cobras, hanging on for a much-deserved win.

What the coaches said:

German (Bacchus Marsh): Darley got the jump on us multiple times and it was hard to claw back. They used the ball well going forward where at times we didn't.

Jordan (Darley):(I was)pleased with the win and the maturity and the growth of our boys to stand up under serious pressure in the last quarter. Full credit to Bacchus Marsh on their effort and endeavour to win the game.

Reigning dual Premiers East Point set up a comfortable 27-point win over the Lakers despite being outscored nine goals to seven in the second half. The tenth win of the season for the Kangas came off the back of a dominant first half, amounting to a 40-point lead. Essentially, game-over.

Credit to the plucky Lakers for not throwing the towel in given the absence of coach Jack Fitzpatrick (in Birmingham!). The Lakers recorded their highest score of the season since Round 1 while the Kangas brought up their sixth return score of 100 or more.

Kangas utility Jacob Brown booted five goals and Jordy Johnston two, providing the Lakers with a few headaches in their back half while midfielders Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Joe Dodd were significant.

Experienced Laker Callum McKay (5 goals) gave home fans something to smile about while Bayley Thompson and Jacob Coxall finished with two majors. In a losing side, Joel O'Connell, Scott Carlin and Brayden Helyar flew the flag with McKay but, unfortunately for the Lakers, chances were virtually done and dusted at quarter time after trailing by 31 points.

The Kangas have ladder leaders Melton this week before their bye. Jake Bridges' boys can still finish second, but could also slide to fourth or even fifth (results pending). The Lakers face Sebastopol and Melton. There's no tougher pairing for any other side as the 2022 McDonald's Ballarat Seniors Home & Away season reaches its climax.

What the coaches said:

Fitzpatrick (Lakers):I've actually just touched down in Birmingham as my partner plays in the Australian Netball team, so I'm watching them and unable to make comment. Apologies.

Bridges (East Point):We learned a lot from the game. Our contested ball and handball to kick ratio were inconsistent and we wrestled momentum back when we needed to. (We've) still plenty to refine and work on.

Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat might need to win their last two games (Melton South (h), Darley (a)) of the Home & Away season to earn a finals berth after suffering a third loss on the trot, this time against Sebastopol. Boasting an imposing 5-1 win/loss record at home heading in, the game started well for North leading at quarter time by five points. But the 'Burras, fresh off the bye, raised the bar before going to win the remaining three-quarters of the game to win by 15 points. 

Connor O'Shea, Hugo Papst (3 goals) and James Keeble (2 goals) were named best for the winners in a second success in as many hit-outs over North Ballarat in 2022. Despite the dominance of dangerous North forward Jack Riding (4 goals), the 'Burras were able to contain McCartney's boys to just eight goals for the game.

In the narrow defeat, Riley Polkinghorne, Simon McCartin and Harry Loader played the support role for Riding to keep North in the hunt but were found short against a 'Burras outfit. The Roosters are still a handful shy of their best 22. North is expected to bounce back against Melton South this week before a potential do-or-die game against the Devils. If Bacchus Marsh beat Redan and Sunbury in their final hit-outs, the equation for North is simple. Beat the Panthers and the Devils or miss the finals.

Sebastopol can still finish as high as second with Lake Wendouree and Ballarat both at Marty Bush Reserve to come. A double chance beckons for the 'Burras on the march! 

What the coaches said:

McCartney (North Ballarat): We stuck at it and had a great crack. Sebastopol were more polished when it counted and tackled well. We had our chances in the second half.

Searl (Sebastopol): (I was) really pleased with our ability at the contest. We applied great pressure and I thought after quarter time, we were really disciplined across the board. We couldn't shake them but pleasing to grind out a hard-fought victory. Huge in the context of our season.

The Lions confirmed this year's flag race is not a done deal after an upset 15-point win over the Bloods at the Clarke Oval. It was five goals to one in the final quarter that was the catalyst in the Lions' win, only their fourth of the season. If I told you Sunbury would win just one quarter for the game to get the job done you'd have every right assuming I had rocks in my head. But that's how it unfolded! The Lions also won the shots on goal battle scoring 23-13.

While the Lions' midfield buoyed with VFL talent (Mitch Lewis, Josh Guthrie) was always going to be a test for the seasoned Bloods, it was again their organic growth at the forefront of the win. Harry Power, Jack Newitt and Thomas Werner finished among the better players while Tyson Lever and Harry Minton-Connell delivered once again with their rebound off half-back. Jake Sutton finished with three goals.

For Melton, some comfort in loss can be gained by the easing of pressure on their heavily weighted flag favourites tag. Bloods coach Aaron Tymms has had to negotiate a year of expectation on a team who hasn't won a flag since 2005. It must be tiresome. While they remain firm favourites, the Bloods are proven 'gettable' and must win at Mars Stadium - if they get there! Wake-up call after the bye delivered, a timely reminder may work in the Bloods' favour having welcomed back Jack Walker (best) and Jacob Hickey (3rd best). Only Luke Heeney missed for the Bloods on a day dangerous trio Ryan Carter (0), Liam Carter (1) and Braedyn Kight (0) managed just one goal between them.

All honours to Travis Hodgson's Sunbury. Despite just a fourth win of the season, you don't want to see them in the last two rounds of the season (Ballarat away, Bacchus Marsh at home).

What the coaches said:

Hodgson (Sunbury):(We) played the way we have been for a while now but played it for longer. Winning a close one after losing plenty of them strengthens belief. The arrow is pointing in the right direction.

Tymms (Melton):We were really poor with our basic fundamentals. (For a) second time this year we haven't come to play after the bye. Big pat on the back Trav (Hodgson), Sunbury (is) much improved since our last meeting and wanted it more. (I'm) confident we will bounce back.

Scoop Reviews Round 17

The titans responded this round in a brutal manner. And with only one round left in the McDonald's Ballarat FNL Senior Football Home & Away season, their timing is perfect.

A relentless Redan booted 17 goals to four after quarter time dashing any slim hope the Cobras had of featuring in this year's finals.

There were two contrasting realities to draw from the game - the Cobras without Jake Owen and Nick Stuhldrier were kept to their lowest score at home for the season, while the visitors posted their highest score of the season to date, home or away.

The nature of the win for Jarrett Giampaolo's boys was emphatic, to say the least, and moves them into seventh place following a major percentage boost. While the Lions won't play finals, the future looks bright. Forty scoring shots on the road against a team renowned for better performance at home is not to be sneezed at. So where to start assessing the domination?

Lions forward Lachie McLean (6 goals) booted five in the opening half to set up a match-winning 42-point lead and was ably supported by sharpshooter Izaac Grant (4 goals) and experienced campaigner Liam Hoy (3 goals). Even the Lions next crop of rising talent chimed in, as Lachie Farnsworth and Jack Richards added two final quarter goals of their own. In fact, Farnsworth could easily have finished with four or five last-quarter goals in a most encouraging display. The Lions, clearly buoyed with the inclusion of Cooper Craig-Peters often waltzed out of the stoppages, exposing the lack-lustre Cobras on the spread. In summary for the winners, you would be flat out finding a Lions player that didn't impact the game. 17 of the Lions' 40 shots on goal came in the last quarter adding 9.8 to the Cobras' 1.0.

For the Cobras, Sam Crea never gave up trying while Jack Williams denied further damage on the scoreboard, especially in the first three quarters with his intercept marking. Tom German racked up his fair share of disposals while an underdone Daniel Burton made a welcomed, safe return.

The Lions are likely to finish off their season well with a win at home over a fatiguing Melton South while the Cobras are on the road for bragging rights against their old coach Travis Hodgson. Pride in the jumper game awaits.     

What the coaches said:

GERMAN (BACCHUS MARSH):They got on top in the second quarter and then ran away with it. Pretty disappointing day.

GIAMPAOLO (REDAN):The boys executed how we wanted to play really well in what was an impressive performance. We've always had faith we are good enough to pull out performances like that. (It was) a good day for the club with a lot of wins across all grades.

The Swans shrugged any resemblance of a come-from-behind win, leading from go-to-woe taking care of Sunbury albeit the closest game of the round by 36 points.

The game was put to bed by halftime as Joe Carmody's boys, led by Andrew Hooper (7 goals) opened up with ten goals to four advantage at the main break. Any thoughts of Travis Hodgson's Lions achieving the heights of their Round 16 win over Melton virtually shut down. 

The Swans' pressure was the constant denominator shared by both camps in the aftermath. Sure, Sunbury got their season average of 21 shots on goal but it wasn't near enough to deny the Swans with 27 shots of their own in one of their most accomplished and complete performances of their year despite the two sides' separation on the ladder.

Swans midfielders Will Liston and Sammy James did the damage yet again, remaining one of the more in-form pairings through this all-important area. Nick Weightman has been as solid a defender as any throughout season 2022 and would warrant worthy consideration on Team of the Year selection as he featured among the better players along with Luke Wynd and pacy young wingman Paddy Simpson.

Never ageing Lions forward Leigh Brennan (4 goals) was named best for the losing team while the progress of Jake Egan, Riley Miller and Harry Power continues in the right direction. Harry Minton-Connell and Haydn Ross were honourable contributors for the Lions who could hang their hat on winning the second half to draw on the positive.

Ballarat moves into second place following the win, ahead of a crucial meeting with Sebastopol in Saturday's final round. The winner will finish second and secure a much-needed double chance in a very even BFNL finals race.

What the coaches said:

CARMODY (BALLARAT):(Our) pressure was excellent which created turnovers and opportunities to score. (Andrew) Hooper was excellent up forward for us.

HODGSON (SUNBURY):Boys stuck to the task well and worked hard to execute. Full credit to Ballarat, their pressure was outstanding all day and forced us to make many errors. (Andrew) Hooper's 7 (goals) really hurt.

While the result may not surprise you, maybe the Bloods' breathtaking 14-goal third quarter will!

Yes, the dominance of the league's most evenly balanced team went to work arresting a 25 half-time deficit, virtually flipping the game on its head as the flag favourites marched toward a 39-point lead at the final - game over. It was the domino effect by definition, and simply jaw-dropping by nature. Any footy purest should watch the vision, Melton at their very best. So where did the avalanche of goals come from? Ryan Carter? No, he didn't even play. Such was the collective buy-in from Aaron Tymms' group, as many as 12 Bloods players hit the scoreboard - Kyle Borg (named best) and Lachlan Hickey (best) were the unlikely major goal scorers with three apiece. Despite the 43 point loss, Jake Bridges Kangas can take some positives out of the game. They won two quarters for starters and seemingly had the mighty Bloods in real trouble at the half, 25 points in front.

Mitch Walsh, Jake Toulmin and Harry Ganley were named among the Kangas' best players, while it was pleasing to see Clay Bilney on track for an impact come finals.

Jordy Johnston (3 goals) put a scare through the Kangas camp early with an ankle issue but later returned. Offsider Bryson McDougall and progressive youngster Liam Canny each finished with two goals.

So there's no doubting the Kangas' effort for the most part will be 'lost in the wash' as the focus and appreciation lean to the Bloods' third quarter, a stern reminder for the competition, the Bloods are back in town.

What the coaches said:

BRIDGES (EAST POINT):We didn't get the result today but we take a lot out of the game. The second and third quarters saw swings in momentum which can happen. Footy is a great leveler and challenges us in so many ways. How we played today wasn't good enough but it's possible we can play better which is all I’m after at this stage of the year.

TYMMS (MELTON):Great response. The boys showed resilience when challenged and brought the physical effort required to compete at a high level. (We had) 22 contributors.

Despite three losses on the trot newly re-signed North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney has remained upbeat throughout the journey as his boys returned to the winner's list with aplomb, downing Melton South by 145 points at Mars Stadium.

It would be fair to say the Panthers have been North's whipping boys in recent times and Saturday proved another example. Clearly, Heath Pritchard's young group are fatiguing late and will find some relief when their cue returns to the rack come 5pm this weekend.

Gun North trio Jamie Quick (6 goals), Josh Chatfield (5 goals) and Jack Riding (4 goals) combined for near 60% of their team's 26-goal return in a game that was over before you could say, "Anyone fancy a pint?' 

The demolition job was palpable as North's trademark pressure overwhelmed the young Panthers. North led by 33 points at quarter time and 77 at the half. Displays like this make you wonder how they could still finish as low as sixth. If this scenario comes to fruition, either Ballarat or Sebastopol would be nervous hosting McCartney's boys on the march.

North quartet Clay Jenkins, Riley Polkinghorne, Tim Speirs and Ryan Hobbs offered the supply and rebound for the forwards on a day played primarily in their own half.

Panthers' consistent utility Billy Lloyd was named the visitors best along with Hudson Wilde, Will and Jake Thornton-Gielen, Riley Theo and Rhys Lee who never gave up on a day that belonged to North Ballarat.

McCartney and his crew travel to Darley (5th)this weekend. While finals are secured, a win would see them rise to fifth and into an Elimination Final with East Point. The Panthers have Redan at City Oval.

What the coaches said:

MCCARTNEY (NORTH BALLARAT):We've been chipping away at a few things and saw some improvements today. (I'm) confident we are building form at the right time. Melton South were heavily undermanned today as a club and conducted themselves very well.

PRITCHARD (MELTON SOUTH):We thought North were really good again, I rate them very highly. Contested ball and around the contest they were just too good. Overlap run was impressive, I thought we battled hard, but our younger guys are really starting to look tired. I have been so impressed with them throughout the year and we ask a lot of our young bodies but the season seems to be catching up with us.

The 'Burras simply did what they had to do, claiming the Premiership points with a 46-point win over the Lakers setting up a clash for second place against the Swans at Marty Busch Reserve on Saturday.

While the margin was comfortable in the end it wasn't without some second-quarter resistance from the plucky Lakers who outscored their more fancied rivals six goals to two, narrowing a first-quarter 21-point deficit to just five at the main break.

But it was the bigger-bodied 'Burras who responded after halftime to put the result beyond doubt. Daniel Widgery (named best and 3 goals), James Keeble (3 goals), Riley O'Keefe and Ben Hutt led the charge while lean duo Liam Stow and Grady Snowden toiled manfully in their respected roles. Stow is proving a real find in the ruck for Michael Searl in the absence of James Richards and Dean Robertson (both out with injury).

Some nine Sebastopol players hit the scoreboard highlighting their potential avenues to goal. Let's not forget Luke Kiel (suspended) is still to return to bolster the stocks. For me, the 'Burras best is good enough to feature on the final day in September. When they move the ball with intent and purpose, they are a different proposition altogether - enough to take it up to the best. They're proven already this year with wins over East Point (twice) and North Ballarat (twice). Fair form you'd say for a side yet to field their best 22 for the season.

Despite a one-win season to date, there is solidarity among the Lakers group with Jack Fitzpatrick signing on for another season. Expect the Lakers to 'chip up' in the off-season and add to the organic growth of the young group as they continue to play their trade-up against more seasoned opponents.

The O'Connell boys Joel and Lachlan wear the Lakers jumper with pride and were prominent while the skills of Geelong VFL affiliate Scotty Carlin were a feature. Timmy Collins and youngster Rory O'Keefe were also acknowledged in the aftermath despite a 14th consecutive loss.

Not all bad for the Lakers, these seasons happen to most over the journey while the 'Burras eye another opportunity to end a drought of their own - an elusive BFNL Premiership. 

What the coaches said:

SEARL (SEBASTOPOL):Lakers really applied the pressure and forced us to make plenty of errors in the first half. We took ascendency in the third quarter and hit the scoreboard with quality movement. Pleased to get the win.

FITZPATRICK (LAKERS):A game of football goes for four quarters and playing three won't get the job done.

Scoop' Reviews Round 18

What a way to end the home and away season. A 10-goal haul to Ryan Carter makes Nick Rodda and himself dual winners for the Tony Lockett Medal.

Dan Jordan's Devils made it three wins on the trot to secure fourth placing on the BFNL ladder as the home and away season concluded at the weekend.

'Mature' was the buzzword used by Jordan in the aftermath that best described the nature of performance from his seemingly young group. While midfield leaders Dylan Landt (three goals) and Luther Baker (two goals) stood up in the second half in the absence of Brett Bewley (managed), it was the depth of lesser-like contributors that proved significant. It was the Devils' fifth win in eight home games and the second win against top six opposition in the last month. While external expectations on the Devils' chances in their return to finals are tempered, their willingness to compete cannot be denied. Only Melton and Ballarat have won more games. Surely spirited momentum and a recent win over East Point, albeit in the east, give them some hope of overcoming the reigning dual Premiers in Sunday's Elimination Final.  

Darley's younger brigade continue to grow and was able to hit the scoreboard on Saturday as leading forward Nick Rodda (one goal) had his hands full, often outnumbered 3-1 in the air.

Despite the loss, North Ballarat's Jamie Quick (five goals) was the star forward on the ground taking his season tally to 39. While Jack Riding (one goal) and Josh Chatfield (one goal) looked threatening forward of centre, the Devils' defence, led by 2021 Club Best and Fairest Matthew Brett denied the in-form duo a game on their own terms. While North big man Cam McCallum was imposing in the ruck with another haul of hit-outs, credit must be given to the Devils' Ayden Tanner for his combative intent and work rate.

North Ballarat did hit the lead in the third term arresting a 19-point deficit at the main break before the Devils steadied at the 25-minute mark to regain the advantage at the final change. In a nutshell, the Devils kicked six of the last nine goals of the game to get the job done.

Brendan McCartney's boys remained sixth, with eight wins from their sixteen games. Only Melton (first) finished with a higher percentage. Clearly, a 2-6 'Away' win/loss record has denied North Ballarat a higher finish. An Elimination Final against Sebastopol at Eastern Oval on Saturday awaits.

What the coaches said:

Dan Jordan (Darley): (I) thought it was a finals-like, hard-fought contest that was a good game to watch. Full credit to North Ballarat. Good to see the growth and maturity in our boys to prepare, commit and execute against a team that beat us by 69 points, seven weeks ago (Round 11).

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat): New season starts now and we are looking forward to doing our best to represent North Ballarat footy club in the finals. 

Bloods' forward Ryan Carter (10 goals) has come from the clouds to equal Nick Rodda (Darley) for a  share of Tony Lockett Medal honours as the flag favourites went about their business recording a 122-point win over the Lakers. While Carter's chances of reeling in Rodda's nine-goal advantage were slim, acquiring the Minor Premiership was an inevitable conclusion some way out. Full credit to Aaron Tymms and the Melton Football Netball Club, thoroughly deserved.

So what to draw from the weekend?

Bloods midfielders Jack Walker and Lachie Watkins look cherry ripe for a finals assault after featuring prominently, providing endless opportunity for dangerous forwards Ryan Carter, Liam Carter (three goals and best) and Braedan Kight (four goals). While the Bloods sailed away to a comfortable win, this group would be well versed in the 'bigger fish to fry' stakes. A qualifying (home) final on Saturday against the in-form Ballarat Swans makes for a compelling watch. The Swans are a real chance having won nine of their last 10 games and will come to play, asking questions of a Bloods group desperate for silverware not seen since 2005.

The Lakers were clearly outclassed finishing with five individual goalscorers amid a fifteenth straight loss. Coach Jack Fitzpatrick will have a clear understanding of what is required to bridge the gap in the 'off' and will be hopeful of adding valuable experience to an otherwise young group.    

What the coaches said:

Aaron Tymms (Melton):Both sides went at it. Really tight contest for the first 8-10 minutes of every quarter. We were just able to break the game open after that. Fitzy's boys' never gave up and were rewarded in the fourth quarter with their best scoring quarter. We lost a couple during the game which hopefully pull up ok.

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):As Dan Andrews said... time to get on the beers!!

The late season closes as Redan won their fourth game in a row, accounting for Melton South by 46 points at City Oval.

The Lions, without Cooper Craig-Peters (VFL) and Izaac Grant (concussion), took the best part of three quarters to shrug off a plucky Panthers outfit booting eight goals to three in the second half ensuring a comfortable eighth win of the season. Unfortunately for Jarrett Giampaolo's men, their season run was all too late ending percentage shy of a finals berth.

Experienced duo Lachie George (four goals) and Pat Fitzgibbon (three goals) did the bulk of the scoreboard damage for the winners while the Atchison brothers Cooper and Flynn, along with Lachie Barnes and Daniel Bond shouldered a bulk of the workload.

For the Panthers, a seventh successive loss ends a disappointing campaign once promising. But a horror run with injury and availability would plague any intentions of an unlikely finals dream.

Melton South will be wanting in-from group over their next pre-season or contemplate a similar ladder finish. Midfielder Billy Lloyd (best) is a warm favourite to make it back-to-back club best and fairest honours while there is no ceiling on the promise of youngster Jarrod Bibby who plays well above his age suggests.

Redan can move on from this miss in '22 quickly, the future looks bright. The club can only wonder what could have been if not for their disappointing 38-point loss to the Lakers in round one. 

What the coaches said:

Jarrett Giampaolo (Redan):A good way to finish the year off.... a tough game for two sides not in finals contention. After a flat first half, we responded and finished the game off well.

Heath Pritchard (Melton South):Our effort was great today. We were 'smashed' by injury throughout the day. (I was) really proud of Broden Collins and Cody Chapman who played the game out despite their injuries given we lost our full bench by the 10-minute mark of the third quarter. These boys have character and played the game out until the end. This is a proud football/netball club who fights. I am proud to be their coach despite the win/loss record.

The Swans secured second spot and a prized double chance with a narrow three-point win over the Burras at Marty Busch Reserve. It was the Swans' sixth win of the season by a goal or less and the tenth win by 18 points or less. How are the heart rates at Ballarat, we're yet to play a final!

What the Swans do have is character - truckloads of it. Despite their narrow successes, only Melton won more games than Joe Carmody's men in 2022. There's no doubting the Swans line-up is buoyed by the return of big man duo Marcus Powling and Bailey Van de Heuvel. Ruckman Powling missed a large chunk of the season with a torn hamstring but returned to his very best with arguably best-on-ground honours. Josh Gibson and Lachie Dawson booted three goals each for the winners while a wasteful Sebastopol were kept in it by Toby Hutt (three goals), James Keeble and Hugo Papst (two goals each).

The Burras trailed the Swans by 37 points at halftime and were just 1% ahead of Darley on the LIVE ladder, looking down the barrel at a fourth-place finish. But credit Michael Searl and his Burras contingent arresting the game back on their terms with five unanswered third-quarter goals.

Grady Snowden, Luke Kiel and Tony Lockyer featured prominently in the Burras revival and will be hopeful restricting dangerous North trio Jamie Quick, Jack Riding and Josh Chatfield.

Four points separated these two heavyweights at the final change as an arm wrestle of sorts (two goals each) prevailed for the duration as the Swans hung on to record another prizefighting win. 

Ballarat head to Melton on Saturday for a Qualifying Final at Maccy Park while the Burras face 2021 Minor Premiers North Ballarat at Eastern Oval.

What the coaches said:

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):Another tough loss for us against the Swans. (We) didn't capitilise on our early dominance in the first quarter. They completely outworked us in the second quarter and really showed us the importance of work rate. (I'm) proud of the group to really dig deep and come at them in the second half. Lots of learnings to take from the match.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):We set the game up in the second quarter with some good ball movement and excellent pressure. Sebastopol were very good in the contest in the third quarter. We showed a lot of character to hang on.

Sunbury finished their season on a high, surpassing 100% for and against on their way to a resounding 65-point win over Bacchus Marsh in front of a home crowd.

The Lions finished off their season with four wins from their last six games, an encouraging base for next year under Travis Hodgson who will lead the club into a fourth year in 2023. The Cobras, on the other hand, capitulated to a fifth loss in six games ending their season in eighth place with seven wins.

Veteran forward Leigh Brennan (five goals) shows no signs of ageing, leading a charge of eight Lions players to hit the scoreboard. The Lions led from start to finish and virtually put this game to bed by quarter time despite having had the advantage with the breeze.

Lions stand-outs Tyson Lever and Harry Minton-Connell continued their run of good form while the progression of youth trends in the right direction. Jack Hannett and Jack Newitt topped the list for as many as 12 candidates among best-on-ground conversations.

The Cobras, seemingly bereft of the fight we saw earlier in the year could manage just six goals on a quiet day for the visiting forwards. Six individual Cobras' goalkickers represented their major returns on the scoreboard while young combative ruckman Spencer Meagher was named best for the losing side. Defenders Daniel Veldon, Dominic Miesen and Xavier Jenks toiled manfully behind the ball while Tom German and Riley Stuhldreier were again serviceable contributors in the red, yellow and black.

Both are proud clubs and will prepare for their journey back to finals, for an eighth and ninth place finish, simply won't do.

What the coaches said:

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):(It was) a good way to finish off the season - it's been a positive two-month block. The Marsh tried hard but our ability to stretch them with legs on the outside was obvious and played a significant role in the result. 

Tom German (Bacchus Marsh):They used the ball well around the ground and we didn't execute well as a team.

Round 10 Football Preview

with 'Scoop'

While the excitement of Round 9 will be tough to emulate, the thought of an upset in Round 10 is enough to whet the appetite as we return to a full book of five games at the weekend. Ballarat has the bye while the remaining five teams that make up the current top six meet the five teams outside.

Improvers Darley can't afford a slip up against bottom side Lake Wendouree as the fight for an elusive top six position gathers momentum. The Devils cling to sixth place on the BFNL table with four wins, with only percentage separating them from eighth. Saturday's game looms another perfect opportunity for the Devils to develop, just eight games in, under coach Dan Jordan.

Three of the Devils' four wins have come against teams outside the six and when you consider the visiting Lakers' 1-7 start to the season, Jordan's boys will start firm favourites.

Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick is in the infancy of a rebuild of his own. Despite just the one win over Redan in Round One, his young group has had moments in games to indicate the Devils will need to deliver on work rate for starters, and this 6th v 11th clash is by no means a foregone conclusion. The young Lakers are competitive and will keep the Devils honest. Fitzpatrick wouldn't have it any other way.

Just how the visitors can minimise the influence of Devils leading forward Nick Rodda and star midfielder Brett Bewley, will tell its own story come 5pm. But I'm sure Jordan will be looking for a greater spread of contributors getting the job done. While the Devils average just 8.75 goals per game against top-six opposition in '22 some comfort can be drawn from the 14-goal avg. returns against the bottom five sides. The Lakers have had their own struggles on the goal front and lack a genuine '35 goal' season forward.

Since Round One the Lakers have averaged just 49 pts per game. Darley will want to start well and go on with it. They have been known to loiter in front on the scoreboard during games (vs. Sebastopol, Bacchus Marsh, Sunbury and East Point) and seemingly lack the feverish knockout punch to put teams away. No doubt, Jordan will be looking for improvement in this area among others, while Fitzpatrick will be counting on a collective spread of intensity and effort to warrant an upset.  

The Panthers return home after a third away win of the season for a meeting with fifth-placed North Ballarat. And coach Heath Pritchard will be giving his boys every chance to seal the club's first home win of '22 against their more fancied rivals led by experienced mentor Brendan McCartney. North Ballarat are looking a little 'same same' at the moment with their usual suspects a one constant featuring in the best players.

From the outside, I'm not sure they're travelling as well or boast the luxury of quality depth once thought. Simon McCartin, Riley Polkinghorne, Cam McCallum, Ryan Hobbs and Jack Riding continue to be North's most important players and will be asked to shoulder a bulk of the workload again on the road if Jarrod Curran (collarbone) and Jonathan O'Brien (heavy knock) are unavailable. It's clear the absence of Josh Chatfield (Footscray VFL), Tom Hotchin (knee), Joey Symonds and Elliott Lamb (foot) has taken a toll and brought them back to the pack. McCartney remains optimistic about his boys' season citing 'a long way to go' and 'we're resembling a little more the way we want to'.

For Pritchard and his Panthers, they'll be fingers crossed at the selection table this week hoping for a return of Dylan Conway and Jake Thornton-Gielen. While the Panthers have shown they can win without Conway especially, they're a five-goal better team with him in it. That's not taking anything away from Jake Thornton-Gielen either, his currency and value to the Panthers continue on an upward trend.

The dual in the ruck is the pick of the battles for mine as in-form big men Dylan Jones and Callum McCallum face off at stoppage. The Captains Shaun Wyatt and Simon McCartin will go head-to-head in the middle while Ryan Hobbs (or Jarrod Curran) may get the first crack at Conway if he plays. While North Ballarat will have a game in hand over Melton South, a win for the Panthers will see them draw level with Macca's Roosters on four wins. Who would have thought?

Redan aim to make it four wins in a row this weekend when they take on season powerhouse and undefeated Melton at City Oval. Only Bacchus Marsh has managed to finish within 28 points of the Bloods in the opening half of the season and despite the Lions' impressive record over recent weeks, I see no reason for the pattern to change. The Bloods simply bat deeper than any other list in the comp and have been fortunate on the injury front with big man Mark Orr (calf) the only real key to miss multiple games.

Melton coach Aaron Tymms has welcomed Brock Kennedy and Brenton Payne into the line-up adding further depth while the senior debut of early-season recruit Daniel O'Leary (Altona) is imminent. The Lions will need to hit the ground running to be any chance of an upset, exposing the Bloods fresh off a 21-day break. Lions Coach Jarrett Giampaolo would welcome the inclusion of Cooper Craig-Peters for another week if relieved of Footscray VFL duties, joining Lachie George in the midfield to take on the two-way running power of Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey and Lachie Watkins.

Both sides have form on the wings, just who gets the better of those match-ups will inevitably have an impact on the scoreboard via the weight of forward entries. The concern for Redan will be containing the Bloods' firepower in their front half with Ryan (31 goals) and Liam Carter (14), Braedan Kight (21), Luke Heaney (12) and Lachlan Hickey (14) - all proven and dangerous around goal. 

I know 2018 and 2019 feel like a long time ago for many, but I guarantee you this, Aaron Tymms will take no prisoners in the back half of the season as he aims for a return to the 'big dance' in September. Runners Up in '18 and a third-place finish in '19 are not enough for the Bloods to hang their hats on. Rest assured they will be ruthless for the remainder, with a keen focus on another crack at footy's ultimate prize - one that has eluded them since 2005.

If a refreshed Bacchus Marsh turns up with the necessary intensity, this game looms as the pick of the round. The Cobras front a determined 'Burra outfit keen to bounce back after last week's three-point loss to Ballarat having led for 95 per cent of the day. The 'Burras four-game winning streak came to an end leaving coach Michael Searl with little more option than to move on and immediately shift his focus to dismantling the Cobras.

Whether key Cobra defenders Jack Williams and Jason Robinson make it back we'll wait and see but inspirational leader Jake Owen is filling the void with aplomb after two good games behind the ball in recent weeks v North Ballarat and Sunbury.

For me, the looming problem for the Cobras is 'Burra small forward Jed Hill who has 11 goals this year including two bags of four. Just his player type will be a tough match-up for the Cobras to get right given the back six sample seen so far this year. James Keeble (15 goals) and Tony Lockyer (9 goals) have also been significant, in what has been a tough year on the injury front for Michael Searl's men. Reigning Henderson Medalist Lachie Cassidy, is nearing a return off a hamstring, but expect a precautionary approach. Maybe Round 11?

In fairness, the Cobras have had issues of their own for the most part as mids Nick Stuhldreier, Tom German and Max Eastmure have missed along with defenders Williams and Robinson and forward Aaron Willetts.

Despite both teams missing top-end talent over the last month or so, pressure has been their one constant. Opposition coaches have praised the intensity of these teams shy of their best 22 finding a way to get it done.

Newcomers Bailey Veale (Sebastopol) and Max Eastmure (Bacchus Marsh) continue with their tireless effort around stoppage while we can expect conditions to suit opposing soldiers Tony Lockyer and Tom German down to the ground. The Burra should win but the Cobras at their best would be hard to hold out.    

Lions coach Travis Hodgson will have had 14 days to contemplate the unenviable match-up with in-form Kangas star forward Jordy Johnston. I know how important Lions defender Tyson Lever is with his rebound off half-back but with the likely absence of athletic type Thomas Cree, Lever looks the obvious next in line.

The former Coburg VFL defender may be the only Lion with the footy smarts to match with Johnston who has kicked 35 goals in his last seven games. In two of the Kangas' three losses, Johnston was goalless. His influence is clearly paramount to the reigning dual Premier's fortunes and is arguably the most important player to any one team in the competition. Some acknowledgement must go to the Kangas' remaining five forwards who enable Johnston the separation to strut his stuff.   

The Kangas offensive advantage (97 pts. per game, comp rank #2) will be too much for the struggling Lions (60 pts. per game, comp rank #10) to overcome as Hoggy's men stare down the barrel of a 1-8 horror start to the season. The Lions were touted as genuine finals contenders on the back of a favourable draw but nothing seems to be working out onfield at the moment.

What can the Sunbury faithful expect to draw from the game even in the event of a loss? I'm sure Hoggy will have them up for a red hot crack at the weekend and with a bit of luck at the selection table, can deliver on a 'pride in the jumper' performance to give their more fancied opponents a genuine scare. History says winning down the highway is never easy so don't expect Bridges' boys to take the foot off the gas - they're as keen as any to consolidate a spot in the top six.

For Sunbury, their onfield struggles at the moment are palpable. Just have a crack.

Scoop' Reviews Round 13

Round 13 saw the emergence of a genuine threat to flag favourites Melton, as North Ballarat sent the Bloods home with considerably more to think about moving forward. The windy, wintery conditions across the region saw the lowest goal count of any round this year. In the wash-up, the top six remained the same with Bacchus Marsh knocking on the door in seventh place with their percentage keeping them outside. 

Melton's unbeaten run in 2022 came to an end at the weekend, going down to North Ballarat by 34 points. Ironically, the last team to beat the Bloods was North Ballarat back in Round 8 of 2021 at Mars Stadium. While many didn't see the upset coming, North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney gave us fair warning. In fact, McCartney identified the resemblance of some positive habits as far back as Round 6 when his boys failed dismally against the Bloods at their first meet by 68 points. The former Western Bulldogs coach has never looked too far ahead, rather a firm believer in the season having 'a long way to go'.

The hard-working, sleeves-up performance of his boys at the weekend offers hope and optimism to not only North Ballarat but rival clubs as well. The blueprint to defeating Melton lies in the replay for all to see – but is easier said than done. For Aaron Tymms and his boys was it that loss you had to have? Or does the nature of the loss give reason to be concerned now that clubs know Melton are beatable? Great result for the competition, we have a cracking climax to the season to look forward to.

Since Tymms' appointment as Head Coach of the Bloods in the 2018 season, Melton are 0-3 at Mars Stadium - the home of this year's McDonald’s Ballarat FNL Grand Final.

A blend of North Ballarat youth and experience led the charge with Jamie Quick (3 goals - BOG), Sam Artz and Tim Speirs named in the best. For the Bloods, Blake Souter continued his stellar season to feature along with Jordan Kight and Liam Carter. It was the Bloods' lowest score since Round 10, 2019 (3.6-24 v Ballarat)

What the coaches said:

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):Tough conditions with many long contests. Our boys were fantastic in the contest and played for each other. We are working hard and making good progress.

Aaron Tymms (Melton):North’s pressure was elite; they hunted the footy and the man with intent. The third quarter was the big one for them when they just 'blew us out of the water'. We will learn plenty and will be better for it. Well deserved win.

Darley recorded its seventh win of the season under new coach Dan Jordan to cling to the sixth position on the ladder with a 12-point win over Sunbury. The Lions' 2-9 record did not affect the Devils' mindset heading in and were under no illusions - this was a 'danger game' by definition. And they weren't wrong. To label the conditions 'testing' would be an understatement - just simple execution of the basic fundamentals was held at a premium. And it was the Lions who adjusted best in the opening half, their run and carry especially by hand denied the Devils a game on their terms.

Lions' quintet Harry Minton-Connell (two goals), Haydn Ross, Josh Guthrie, Harry Power and Daniel Toman combined on numerous occasions through the middle of the ground, exposing the Devils' two-way run on the back of turnovers. Tyson Lever, Patrick Scanlon and Jack Hannett provided plenty of drive off half back for the Lions on a tough day for Sunbury's forwards. After halftime and a pointed message from Jordan, the Devils settled with the breeze to arrest a nine-point deficit with three goals in the opening 10 minutes. Despite most of the quarter played in the Devils' half of the ground, they could manage just 3.9 for the term despite the clear weight of possession.

A test of character and belief awaited the Devils heading into the breeze for the final stanza. While the Lions pressed and had their moments, the Devils collective simply found a way to hold on. Defender Mitch Ward kicked the sealer against the run of play 27 minutes in to break the Lions' hearts. While both sides struggled to hit the scoreboard on the goal front, it would be Sunbury left lamenting a wasteful 1.6 final term.

Darley's VFL affiliates Billy Myers and Dylan Landt were a class above on a tough day at any level and were part of a support crew a dozen strong that ensured Jordan's Devils got over the line.

What the coaches said:

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):Super first quarter into the breeze. We challenged the opposition with our run and carry. (We) failed to use the scoring end in the second quarter and that was the beginning of the end. Credit to Darley, they know how to win, an element of footy we're clearly still trying to learn.

Dan Jordan (Darley):A hard fought win in trying conditions with great spirit and discipline shown.

The Cobras led from go-to-woe to secure the Premiership points with a win over the Panthers at Melton Rec Reserve.

Again, in tough conditions, the state of play wasn't pretty to the eye. Both sides struggled to gain any impetus on the scoreboard, locked on four goals apiece at three-quarter time. But it was the Cobras who broke the shackles to open up in the final term adding four goals to one. Cobras forward Aaron Willetts (5 goals) was the star on the day and arguably the difference. According to Panthers coach Heath Pritchard, his boys were disappointed with their performance. The game held greater expectations for their club and a fourth win of the season. The Panthers' home record extends to 0-7 for the year.

The Cobras would be delighted with a seventh win, remaining just outside the top six on percentage. Jack Williams, Tom German and Nick Stuhldreier overwhelmed the Panthers winning plenty of their own ball while youngster Joshua Huxtable continues to progress.

Experienced Panthers trio Billy Lloyd, Dylan Jones and Matthew Notman featured prominently for the home side while Cody Chapman continues to thrive in his most consistent year yet. Dylan Conway returned for the Navy Blue and White while concerns on Cobras ruckman Daniel Burton's (foot) prognosis gains momentum (missed last 3 weeks).

What the coaches said:

Heath Pritchard (Melton South):We were disappointing today. (We) really just didn't get our game going at all and we know we can perform much better than what we did today. The good thing about footy is you get the opportunity to show improvement the next week.

Tom German (Bacchus Marsh):We played a good four quarters without the scoreboard results for the first three (quarters). We were able to break the game open in the fourth (quarter). We had a really good spread of contributors across the ground from our younger guys to our elder statesman.

Sebastopol answered the challenge put to them mid-week with a match-winning opening term. It was enough to stave off a late charge from league heavyweights East Point. Once again the wind played a significant role as the 'Burras took full advantage of it in the first term, outscoring the Kangas 38-2. The reigning dual Premiers' response with the breeze was that of inaccuracy at goal (2.8), as they trailed by 28 points to finish the half. While the Kangas went on to outscore the 'Burras five goals to two in the second half, the damage was already done. The Kangas finished eight points shy at the final siren despite superior shots on goal numbers. 25 to 18 tells the story.

It took the 'Burras big guns to make it 2-0 over the Kangas in 2022. Tony Lockyer, James Keeble (two goals), Matt Austin and Lachie Cassidy featured as the better players as did Luke Kiel (three goals) who returned for his first game since Round 1. The 'Burras also had a stroke of luck with a goal from Hugo Papst who had gone to match up the Kangas' spare in defence, Jordy Johnston. Despite conceding the goal, Jordy along with his brother Matty led the Kangas' comeback and were ably supported by Joel Van Meel, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and young duo Charlie Molan and Liam Howard.

Both sides face tough assignments again this week, with the 'Burras heading down the highway for a meeting with Bacchus Marsh. East Point host new giant killers North Ballarat at Eastern Oval.

What the coaches said:

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):(I was) really pleased with our first half. Our ability to take our chances in front of goal set up the win. We restricted their efficiency and forced many of their shots wide or under pressure. They outworked us in the second half, but we dug in and had enough contributors across the ground to hold on. 

Jake Bridges (East Point):Lapses (in judgement) continue to challenge us. Our grind and effort continue as a strength. The toughness of Mark Sculley holding himself upright to be there for the team is reminder of how united our club is. With a disappointing result comes a greater hunger to be better.

The Swans kicked the highest score of the round in difficult conditions, holding off Redan by 15 points at Alfredton Oval. Their efforts were made easier by an upbeat start that saw the Swans minus Josh Gibson (hamstring) and Nick Weightman (concussion) in front by 15 points at quarter time and later, by 16 at the half.

Swans midfielders Will Liston and Sam James enjoy their best run of form for the season to feature again, while youngster Angus Bade made it back-to-back weeks amid voting contention. Four Swans players recorded multiple goals, namely Andrew Hooper, Jack Dunne, Paddy Simpson and Rhys Perry, all finished with two majors. More was asked of Swans ruckman Marcus Powling in his second game back from a hamstring. The Swans raised Powling's game time from 70% to near 90%. Coach Joe Carmody was very pleased with his game.

For Redan their 4-8 win/loss record is beginning to 'red-line' as potential Finals hopes, slip away. While they were beaten once again in a game, they would have fancied their chances, some merit can be given to their final quarter response. Reducing a 29-point deficit to 15 at the game's end. The Lions' best is very good, two of their four wins have come over North Ballarat and Sebastopol. Any resemblance of that form on the road this week against Darley would see them with a good chance of claiming their third scalp above them for the year.

While the Lions were buoyed with the inclusion of Cooper Craig-Peters, too much was asked of a young group to take down the Swans. The Atchison brothers Cooper and Flynn were named best along with Craig-Peters, Daniel Bond, and experienced forward Grant Bell (two goals). Lions’ barometer duo Izaac Grant and Lachie George also finished with two.

What the coaches said:

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):Very difficult conditions but we were able to score against the breeze in the second quarter with limited inside 50s which gave us a break, we held (them) for the rest of the game.

Jarrett Giampaolo (Redan);Very challenging day for both sides with the conditions. (There was) probably a 4-5 goal breeze to one end. We weren't able to capitalise on that in the second quarter, while the Swans made good use of their opportunity in the third. The boys battled all the way to the end to get close enough, but the Swans were just too good in a close one.

Round 14 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Things are still a tug of war in the current ladder of McDonald's Ballarat FNL Senior Men's comp. The top six are still uncertain with five weeks left. Round 14 could be the turning point, so let's take a look at what could be a taste of things to come.

Devils coach Dan Jordan will need to extract every ounce of effort and buy-in from his young group if they're to avoid a loss at home to Redan. Despite the emphatic nature of the Devils' win at their earlier meeting, injury and unavailability of key Darley players suggest the Lions are in this game up to their eyeballs - if they weren't already. Billy Myers (VFL return), Dylan Landt (wedding), Shane Page (overseas), Leigh Spiteri (hamstring) and Bailey Wright (Rebels) will all be missing from the Devils' hard-fought 12-point win over Sunbury last week.

The Devils' 7-5 season win/loss record (6th) over the Lions' 4-8 (8th) doesn't truly reflect the nature of favouritism. The Lions’ best is very good with wins over top six teams North Ballarat and Sebastopol, as well as narrow defeats to Melton (10 pts) and Ballarat (6 pts & 15 pts) along the way. The Devils’ only win against top six opposition came against Sebastopol (6pts) in Round 1.

In fairness, Redan may have to get this road trip assignment done without Cooper Craig-Peters (likely VFL return) and Liam Hoy (doubtful - hamstring) who is nearing three weeks on the sidelines. But the Lions should not fear the highway with wins over Sunbury and Melton South already this year.

The returns on the goal front of both sides are expected to yield the greatest interest externally as leading Devils forward Nick Rodda (44 goals) attempts to counteract the damage of Lions' sharpshooters Izaac Grant (27), Lachie George (20) and Grant Bell (15) at the other end who make up 52% of all Redan's goals. Internally, however, I expect the focus to be on clearance and contested ball. Redan has a history of being good around stoppage - expect Lachie George and Daniel Bond to shoulder the load against in-form Devils combo Brett Bewley and Luther Baker. In summary, very much a dangerous game for Darley, and the last roll of the dice for Redan.   

The battle between the Cobras and the ‘Burras verges on Match of the Round billing given the winner will find themselves a game clear inside the top six. It's hard to fathom that these two sides met just four weeks ago when the Cobras kicked away early to a 26-point quarter-time lead before steadying late for a thoroughly deserved 22-point win on the road.

I know the venue favours Bacchus Marsh ahead of the return bout, but there are a few notable list changes - two ‘big ins’ and one 'big out' - that could swing the pendulum the visitors’ way. ‘Burras' utility Luke Kiel (3 goals) made a safe return last week and is likely to back up his performance while reigning Henderson Medallist and 'Burras gun midfielder Lachie Cassidy looks back on track after his promising return in Round 11. The Cobras are expected to be without dominant ruckman Daniel Burton (foot) - his season rests on tenterhooks.

What has impressed across the wider McDonald’s Ballarat FNL is the ability of these two sides to bring the heat and the urgency to the contest. Expect this game to be on from the opening bounce, both teams love the ball in tight. I can guarantee you the Cobras will be up for the scrap… 'Burras heed the warning.

Even Melton coach Aaran Tymms commented on the heat brought by these two sides, albeit for a half. Maybe the team that can sustain the pressure the longest will own the Premiership points come 5pm. The rebound off half back from Cobras duo Jake Owen and Jack Williams versus Tony Lockyer and Riley O'Keefe for Sebas, and how that can amount to scores for each side, will go a long way towards defining the outcome. That quartet lead an impressive list of talent primed for a classic blue-collar in and under square-off.

There's plenty at stake for the winner here, let's hope it can deliver on the promise.

Panthers coach Heath Pritchard would be the first to concede that copping Melton at Maccy Park on the back of their only defeat so far in 2022 will be a tough ask.

If there's any consolation for Pritchard’s boys, they are one of only two teams to score 18 points or more against the Bloods in first quarters this year. In fact, so dominant have the Bloods been, they're currently 11-1 for first and third quarters. Their only losses for the two terms came last week in the Bloods' 34-point loss to North Ballarat.

Given the Bloods’ numbers for second and fourth quarter wins (7-5) are modest (comparatively) the message is clear: Melton strips teams of their will in opening quarters, outscoring opposition sides 307/113 (+194) before reasserting their authority in the third 392/135 (+257). Seven teams have been kept to one goal or less in first quarters by Melton in their 12 games. It's a bit to digest I know, so what to make of it all?

Melton South must start well to be any chance - go all in early and reassess at quarter time. A no-show opener would spell trouble for the Panthers as the Bloods aim to apply last week's learnings. Tymms told "The Presser” that he has 13 players in the Reserves who have played under him at senior level. Naturally, in the aftermath of a loss, competition for selection heightens. Some listed Seniors will feel like they're playing for their spots and Pritchard’s Panthers will ensure they earn it.

It's a throw at the stumps game for Melton South that presents another growth opportunity. For Melton, no extra motivation is required here - the nature of a local derby will be enough to reaffirm the number one standing on the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder with an all-around performance.

Something tells me Brendan McCartney and his team took a liking to 'the hunters' tag last week with their surprise win over Melton. Hope you enjoyed it, that will be the last we hear of that term for a while…

North Ballarat has deservedly regained 'hunted' status, as the challenge looms for Jake Bridges' East Point. Macca has an eye for football, he sees far more than just the score. Despite North Ballarat's Round 6, 68-point shellacking at the hands of Melton, McCartney was encouraged by what he saw. Surely not?... Surely!  

Since their bye in Round 7, North Ballarat has been building. Despite a three-point hiccup against Redan in Round 9, Maccas' boys have disposed of Bacchus Marsh (27pts, felt like 47), Melton South (83pts), Darley (69pts) and flag favourites Melton (34pts).

The Kangas are a proud group, dual reigning Premiers and a bona fide chance to feature again at the business end. Previously, it's been North Ballarat who has held the edge over the Kangas despite an inferior position on the ladder. Sometimes teams just match up better than others and I think this is a classic example. What is difficult for most teams to contain in East Point's case is not such an issue for North Ballarat. They seem to have the formula, the mix capable of dissolving the Kangas potency.

Bridges' boys get another crack at North Ballarat on Saturday, which makes for compelling viewing. If the Kangas are keen on locking away a top two finish, they'll need to get it done against a North combination that is hitting their straps, with an eye on a similar prize (double chance).    

I’m tipping a low-scoring game. How the Kangas respond to the pressure of North is enough to keep the eyes peeled on this must-watch showstopper. All will be revealed.

Given the Lakers' 1-10 win/loss record in 2022, coach Jack Fitzpatrick would take any result that resembled their 13-point loss to the Swans in Round 8. Ballarat kicked the last two goals of the game to survive a scare in conditions Fitzpatrick aptly described as abhorrent. Clearly a defining welcome for Jack to the Ballarat winter!

Expect Swans ruckman Marcus Powling to feature prominently, third up from a lengthy lay-off with a hamstring strain. His 'tap to advantage' ability will provide in-form mids Sam James and Will Liston with first use at centre bounce. Converting forward 50 entries remains a work in progress for the Swans but the recent inclusion of Jack Dunne, joining Andrew Hooper provides an extra avenue to goal.

The Swans' defence led by Nick Swain, returning Nick Weightman (concussion) and utility Angus Bade provide plenty of rebound, igniting the impressive Swans when on the spread. Lachie Dawson, Aiden Domic and Daniel Kennedy deliver the grunt between the arcs while their youth are not shy on leg speed.

The Lakers will be refreshed off a hard-earned bye last week and might offer something early to deny the Swans a must-win game on their own terms. Fitzpatrick will be aware the Swans aren't the fastest starters from the grid and will be keen to get them on the hop and stir thoughts of an upset in what would be a most memorable win in front of the hearty faithful. Easier said than done. Scotty Carlin, Jacob Coxall, Timmy Collins and the O'Connell boys will need to dig their heels in while Callum McKay and Nathan Pring lead a busy front six capable of a winning score.

On the flipside, Swans coach Joe Carmody will want this game put to bed early, silencing the crowd in the process. The prized double chance remains in play for the soaring Swannies!

Scoop' Reviews Round 14

When it comes to a top-of-the-table clash, we’re still not too sure who the hunters are, and who are the prey. There really are no easy wins in this competition, regardless of whether clubs are in the top six, pushing to make finals or just playing for the jumper.

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Sebastopol coughed up a 26-point lead on the road against Bacchus Marsh before steadying late to record an all-important two-point win at Maddingley Park.

There was plenty at stake heading in as the prospect of being a game clear inside the top six brought out the best of both sides in this see-sawing affair.

The 'Burras (minus James Keeble) came to play early and were much cleaner with their ball handling and movement, on their way to a five-goal opening term led by Luke Kiel (2 goals), Matt Austin and Lachie Cassidy who were the primary instigators and beneficiaries of their spread. The Cobras were kept in the game at quarter time with two goals of their own, solely on the back of unforced Sebastopol errors. When the 'Burras kicked the opening two goals of the second term to extend the lead to 26, the forecast for the Cobras looked bleak in otherwise perfect conditions for football.

It was as if the 'Burras had been charged by a cheap battery, their flair and dare virtually disappeared allowing the Cobras back into the game with six consecutive goals. Tom German's men raised the bar around stoppage and began to reap some reward for their ball movement. Cobras forward Aaron Willetts (4 goals), three of those from 'holding' free kicks had the 'Burras defence nervous on the back of repeat entries caused by their own doings - specifically, turnovers.

While 21 scoring shots to 13 in favour of the Cobras tells a story of missed opportunity, the 'rushed' nature of the behinds makes the outcome easier to digest in the wash-up. Sure, the 'Burras took their opportunities, but the Cobras were solid converting in front of goal despite their 3.6 return in the second half. The 'Burras would be thrilled with the win as Liam Stow, Daniel Widgery and Jed Hill (2 goals) took best player honours. The Cobras were reminded of the degrees of difficulty against the better teams not 'turning up' from the get-go. Catching up proved all too much despite the efforts of Simon LaFranchi, Jake Owen, Ryley Stuhldreier and Jack Parente (2 goals). 

What the coaches said:

Tom German (Bacchus Marsh):Sebastopol got the jump on us, but we clawed our way back and were really strong through the middle part of the game. We just failed to take our opportunities while Sebastopol did.

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):It was nice to finally win a close one. Our boys showed plenty of desire and character to arrest the game back after Bacchus Marsh hit the front. Credit to the Cobras denying us the game on our own terms after we led (26 points) early on in the second quarter. We were made to work extremely hard for the win.

Enigmatic Darley were left lamenting a golden opportunity to consolidate their place in the top six, with a disappointing 14-point loss at home to Redan. You could reel off more than a handful of missing Devils on Saturday to validate the loss but the harsh reality is, that they had enough top end talent to get it done but too many skill errors would prove their undoing. A win for the Devils would have seen them a game clear inside the six. As a result, the Devils' Finals' chances look like a 50% chance at best as their local derby against Bacchus Marsh (7th) on August 6 looms as the premature decider.

The Devils have East Point (home), Bacchus Marsh (away), Bye, and North Ballarat (home) to round out their home and away season. Hats off to Redan and a fifth win. Izaac Grant (4 goals) was named best afield along with Cooper Atchison and progressive youngsters Harry Lawson (2 goals) and Liam Farnsworth (U/17 debut). The Lions remain a very slim mathematical chance of making the Finals. They would need Darley to lose their remaining three games, all while disposing of Lake Wendouree (home), Bacchus Marsh (away) and Melton South (home) comfortably themselves. Also, the Cobras would need to (only just) beat Darley and lose to Sunbury by as much as possible. 'Slim' is the operative word on the Lions' Finals chances.

What the coaches said:

Dan Jordan (Darley):(It was a) disappointing loss where we made too many simple skill errors and gave the ball back to Redan. Full credit to them and their ability to pressure for four quarters and capitilise on their turnovers. (There are) some great learnings and areas to focus on for our young group.

Jarrett Giampaolo (Redan):(There's) been plenty of close games that we've lost this year so it was really pleasing to fight one out and get a win. Two very young sides going at it and a good game of footy to watch. Consistency has been an issue for us, but I thought we played well for four quarters. Reward for effort.

Reigning dual Premiers East Point successfully reeled in an eight-goal deficit from early on in the second quarter to stun North Ballarat by 11 points, leaving the most loyal of fans in a frenzy of pride and disbelief.

When Brendan McCartney's North led by 37 at quarter time, questions surrounding the Kangas' ability to handle the 2021 Minor Premiers heat had been all but answered given it was considered a three-goal breeze at best. However, Jake Bridges' boys had other ideas on how this game was to play out. McCartney conceded in the aftermath that the Kangas simply 'wanted it more when it mattered’.

The hierarchy at the Kangas must have held some serious faith, steering the ship back from the brink. While the result wasn't the be-all and end-all for the Kangas staring down the barrel at quarter time, credit must be given to all and sundry on and off the field, 'getting the job done.' 

Kangas Premiership players Joel Van Meel, Jacob Brown, Cam Lovig, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Joel Mahar, Matty and Jordy Johnston (5 goals) led the charge in a methodical comeback win that could be looked back upon as a season-defining win. The self-belief and confidence boost potentially derived for this group is real. The club has alleviated any doubts about their place in the BFNL pecking order with a seventh win from their last nine games.

But what of North Ballarat? Clearly, their best is good enough and proven against the competition's heavyweights. But good enough for long enough, like many, remains their greatest challenge moving forward. While the game will be remembered more so for the resolve of the Kangas, one can't deny the ominous nature of North Ballarat in the first quarter - scary good.

Collingwood VFL affiliate Sam Glover (5 goals) starred in a losing side while Tom Bromley-Lynch, the Loader brothers and Isaac Lovison were recognised for their four-quarter efforts.

What the coaches said:

Jake Bridges (East Point):We were relentless and never gave up.

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):They wanted it more when it mattered and deserved a great win for their footy club. We will learn from the experience and move forward.

The Swans held off a plucky Lakers outfit to bank an important win on the road by six points.

Despite their impressive 9-4 record, the Swans were made to work hard for the win after trailing at halftime for a ninth occasion this year. The narrow win became the Swans' fifth coming from behind at the half. For the record, 54 out of the 70 BFNL games played so far this year (77%), show the team leading at half-time winning the games. On only 16 occasions (23%), including Ballarat (5 times) has the team trailing been able to come back and win. Next best are Darley (3), East Point (3), Melton (2), Redan, Sebastopol and North Ballarat (1).

I'm not sure how Swans coach Joe Carmody processes the information or whether there's any time spent referencing the habitual nature of their slow starts. As we near the business end, the Swans have three more tests to address the issue, if indeed it is one. I mean, how do you coach rectify the concern? North Ballarat (home), Sunbury (home) and Sebastopol (away) round out the perfect segue into finals for a Swans group on the rise.

Unlikely Swans hero Rhys Perry's six-goal best-on-ground performance, may well have been the difference between writing up the Swans win as opposed to a Lakers upset. The youngster had just two goals from his previous 11 games heading in. Lakers mid/forward Jacob Coxall's four goals gave the home side a chance to post a winning score, but a third-quarter lapse would deny them a second win of the season. Coxall, along with youngsters Cooper James and Bailey Ryan took it up to their more seasoned opponents but the run of Will Liston, Aiden Domic and Paddy Simpson proved enough for the Swans to prevail. Lakers Coach Jack Fitzpatrick was clearly pleased with the efforts of his young group despite the loss and will be hoping for a similar effort against Redan this Saturday. An upset win at City Oval over the Lions would end any slim chance of Redan featuring in the finals.      

What the coaches said:

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):(We) learnt the hard lesson today that you can play three and a bit excellent quarters of footy and it's not enough to get the job done. They were able to kick 5.2 in a 20-minute period and it was the difference in the game.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat): We had a really poor first half. All credit to Lakers who defended us really well. Improved ball movement in the third quarter set us up with a winning lead at the final change.

Melton responded to their only loss in Round 13 with a comprehensive 148-point win over depleted cross-town rivals Melton South.

The Bloods forwards 'came out to play,' putting the Panthers to the sword booting 18 goals to one after half-time. Liam Carter (7 goals), Ryan Carter (5 goals) and Braedan Kight (5 goals) were the beneficiaries of the sheer weight of entries forward in an emphatic, ruthless display from the flag favourites.

Credit to the Panthers for starting as well as they did, within five points at the first change but that's where it ended and the flood gates opened. The Bloods kicked 25 goals to two after quarter time in devastating fashion to record the biggest winning margin and the highest score of the year to date. While the Bloods forwards rejoice in their scoreboard returns, coach Aaron Tymms did not miss the driving forces behind the opportunity. Mark Orr, Lachie Watkins (3 goals) and Jordy Cotter were all lauded as the primary contributors.

For Heath's Pritchard's Panthers, youngster Jarrod Bibby continues to show promise named best for a second time this year against the Bloods, while Billy Lloyd and Cody Chapman were acknowledged for their efforts. While Pritchard had every reason to be disappointed with the one-sided nature of the affair (understatement), their chances had been reduced to near zero in the absence of Shaun Wyatt, Dylan Jones, Jake Thornton-Gielen, Ben Casley, Dylan Conway (retired), Brendan Hooper and Daniel Vasjuta. The situation was further compounded for the Panthers after halftime when they lost Hudson Wilde (concussion), Shaun White (knee) and Broden Collins (hip). 

Game over - 'clocked'!

What the coaches said:

Aaron Tymms (Melton):(A) Really good response from our boys to bounce back. (We) just did all the basics well.

Heath Pritchard (Melton South):I thought our first quarter was excellent and we played well. Melton are a good side and showed their strength - our boys tried hard but we were outmatched. Hopefully we get a few (players) back in the coming weeks and get back to being our competitive best.

Round 15 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

The race is on for finals in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. Only four matches will commence this week with Bacchus Marsh, Sebastopol and Melton all having the bye.

Let's hope the elements we often associate with a Ballarat winter don't impact this Match of the Round billing between North Ballarat (5th) and the Swans (3rd) at Alfredton Oval.

How Ballarat under Joe Carmody have manufactured nine wins given they've trailed eight times at halftime already this year is a monumental effort. North Ballarat felt the full brunt of a team (East Point) last week hunting in the second half to reel in a 26-point deficit (37 at quarter time) to steal the Premiership points. In fairness, it took every bit of the Kangas needing to win the last three quarters to get it done.

Surely history won't repeat their Round 3 meet at Mars Stadium when the Swans came from 16 points down at the half to win by 15. That's simply pushing the boundaries. It would not only require Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat to lose a third game after leading at halftime but also a ninth occasion the Swans found themselves in arrears before going on to win their sixth game. While unlikely, it is possible.

Whether North Ballarat have the services of Collingwood VFL affiliate Sam Glover will have an impact on the result, I'm sure of it. If Glover was to play, North start marginal favourites despite the trip to Alfredton Oval. Glover (5 goals) was made available due to the Pies VFL bye and was North's best in their 11-point loss last week. Given the nature of his performance, a recall to Victoria Park is likely.

While the Swans are not known for their high scoring (70 pts for - per game avg. - #7), they may have unearthed an extra avenue to goal in youngster Rhys Perry who kicked six last week, hijacking the attention often reserved for Andrew Hooper (20 goals in 8 games). In a boost for the Swans, Hooper and Lachie Dawson who missed their Round 3 win will play. On the flipside, North Ballarat will be made to rectify a home loss at their earlier meet without Riley Polkinghorne, Thomas Hotchin and Elliott Lamb.

You have to give the Swans a real chance despite their history going about it the hard way - their proven defence (68 pts against – per game avg. - #4) will need to be at the forefront of a home success yet again, challenging a North front six (79 pts for – per game avg. - #4) without Glover (unlikely).

For the record, Ballarat is 4-2 at home this year while North Ballarat's success on the road is split 3-3.      

While the resurgence of Darley in 2022 (seven wins) looks encouraging for the future, the here and now suggest their momentous run to Finals has plateaued. Dan Jordan's Devils have been brave on occasions, with three come-from-behind wins, but they can't afford to give an in-form East Point a good start when the two sides face off at Darley Park. The Kangas are warming toward another tilt at a third flag since 2018. With seven wins from their last nine games including a stunning comeback win last week over North Ballarat.

In fairness, the Devils did lead on the road against the more fancied Kangas at halftime in Round 9 but at the end of the day, won just one quarter of the match, conceding 10 of the last 12 goals in the process. I'm not saying Darley can't win but their chances are slim despite the home-ground advantage. Just containing the Kangas (92 pts for – per game avg. - #2) to a reasonable score will be the Devils (75 pts against – per game avg. - #7) greatest challenge.

While leading x-factor Kangas forward Jordy Johnston (44 goals) who kicked nine at their last meet will be high on the Devils' watch list, denying Bryce McDougall (20 goals), Jack Jeffrey (17) and mids Jackson Merrett (11) and Matty Johnston (10) an impact on the scoreboard, only heightens the degree of difficulty awaiting Jordan and his men. So, how can the Devils manufacture a win given their 1-4 record against top-six opposition and the convincing nature (in the end) of their Round 9 defeat?

Well, they'll need more than Nick Rodda (45 goals) to hit the scoreboard for starters and a midfield effort that can turn the tables on a talented Kangas combo who won the Round 9 battle comfortably. Experienced Devils defenders Darren Leonard and Matty Brett add a significant point of difference to their last meet, while the availability of Dylan Landt (Essendon VFL) looms vital to their chances.

For the record, East Point are 4-4 against top-six opposition.

Both sides will see this match-up as an ideal opportunity to add credibility to their win/loss records in what could aptly be described as a 'pride in the jumper' game.

The Panthers' response at home on the back of a 148-point thrashing at the hands of cross-town rival and flag favourites Melton makes for compelling viewing despite the void of any Finals probability. Coach Heath Pritchard is a proud man and will be keen to atone and make it 2-2 against the Lions in '22 recording a first home win (0-7) in their final hit-out at Melton Rec Reserve for the season.

Just how many of the six key Panthers return (that missed last week) will go a long way in assessing their chances come game day. Needless to add the recent retirement of Dylan Conway has done Pritchard's group no favours. The Panthers have proven their best is pretty good, matching it in periods with some of the better teams. Given the recent form of Sunbury (without winning), they too will ask questions of the Panthers who look to have one eye on the finish line.

Speaking of proud men at the helm, Sunbury coach Travis Hodgson would have to go back 15 years to resemble anything like his two-game winning season. But even then, the win/loss was evenly split. In fairness to the Lions, while they have had a disappointing BFNL Season '22, they're arguably the best two-win team going around anywhere in regional football. It's by no means the title you want to be branded with, so expect a fresh off the bye Lions outfit ready to hit the ground running with every intention of a third win and squaring of the head-to-head ledger with the Panthers (1-1).

Melton South have had no luck all year on the availability front. I know many of you would say everyone is in the same boat, but the Panthers' case borders on extreme, with just six players having played every game (Chapman, B.Sullivan, Theo, Fino, W.Thornton-Gielen, Kovarik). Sunbury has had their own battles on the selection front but have looked more settled (for the better) in recent times. The Lions won't want to add to their unenviable tally of seven losses by 21 points or less. They will want to focus on resembling more of the promise expected at the start of the season. On paper, the Lions look pretty good, the group should be keen to sing the song ahead of their penultimate round of the season.

While it's been a long year for all and sundry at the Lakers, they would have fond memories of their last meeting with the Lions, their only win of the season back in Round 1.

Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers can take plenty of encouragement out of their narrow defeat to Ballarat last week and give themselves a real chance of recording a second win. If successful, they end Redan's slim mathematical Finals chances in the process. Yes, there is no room for the unpredictable Lions to slip up at all having to win all of their remaining three games (and well) to earn an unlikely Finals berth. That should be the only motivation Jarrett Giampaolo and his pride need to go about their business in front of a home crowd who cling to faint hope. Redan will have derived a lot of confidence from their third win in the 'East' last week over Darley, paving the way for an all-out assault on the lowly Lakers. I mean, a loss to the Lakers would render their hard-fought win over the Devils irrelevant.

Lions forward Izaac Grant (31 goals) looms the greatest problem for the Lakers forward of centre. Even in their 38-point loss to the Lakers in Round 1, Grant booted four goals with minimal opportunity. He's proven on numerous occasions this year that he needs just a sniff to impact. Lachie George and Daniel Bond will shoulder the workload around stoppage asking questions of a young Lakers midfield combo. The Lions would remember the impact of Lakers quintet Jacob Coxall (3 goals), Tommy Collins (2 goals), Scotty Carlin and the O'Connell boys, all of whom combined to stretch them to breaking point. However, the inclusion of Lions duo George and Lincoln Barnes who missed Round 1 will be significant.

Strangely, the Lakers (11th) with their 1-11 record have matched it with Ballarat (3rd) in their two narrow losses head-to-head. That form alone implies there is no reason why Jack Fitzpatrick's boys can't get a repeat win over the eighth-place Lions who have just one win from their six games at home. While the Lakers have won two of their last four games against Redan, their two defeats were at City Oval by 40pts and 25pts.

In a nutshell, the ball is in Redan's court with clearly more to play for but beware the free-spirited Lakers.

After a hotly contested home and away season, we have finally reached the pointy end of the year. There will be plenty of intrigue ahead of the weekend with do-or-die clashes and potential premiership favouritism on the line!

Maddingley Park, Bacchus Marsh plays host to league heavyweights Melton and Darley for a highly anticipated Qualifying Final.

Trying to find differences between the two sides is like trying to split peas despite the Devils’ 2-0 season record over the reigning premiers.

Over recent weeks the Bloods have looked to be coasting with an eye toward the business end they know so well.

Despite a topsy-turvy run with injury in the back half of the season, both sides look primed and ready to go. From the outside, only Brett McIntyre (Melton) and Mace Cousins (Darley) are likely to miss.

The Bloods won't be dwelling on their earlier defeats to Darley too much, rather as a learning tool, limiting the prospect of a third straight loss to the Devils and possible elimination final next week.

The minor premiers had excuses at Darley Park in their 21-point loss losing Lachie Watkins (heavy knock), Ryan Carter (ill), Brody Sullivan (ankle) and Lachlan Walker (knee) in the latter stages but all will be ok to play this weekend.

Brenton Payne (15 goals from 5 games) and Jono O'Brien missed the Round 17 loss and will add to the aerial presence (Payne) and physicality around stoppage (O'Brien).

The Devils have won seven games in a row and arrive with no excuses. In both wins over the Bloods this year the Devils had more ball (+82 and +68) representing 11-point (Round 8) and 21-point (Round 17) advantages.

Finding a winner between these two is a difficult task. Both sides rank one and two in offence and defence and have eight players inside the top 50 goalkickers for 2023 but only one has access to the reigning Henderson Medalist in Brett Bewley.      

Scoop’s tip: Darley

East Point won't know themselves when they return home (by chance) for an elimination final with cross town rival Sebastopol.

It will be just their third game on Eastern Oval since Round 9, one of those more recently against the Burra in Round 16.

While the Kangas’ 4-4 win/loss record at home in 2023 should be of little concern for the Burra, any advantage given the evenness of the competition can't be ignored.

Sebastopol have proven tough to beat in Ballarat all year - in fact last week’s loss to Redan was their first at home, and for the record, the first time they had trailed at halftime during any of their 13 games in the west.

Kangas’ star mid Matty Johnston (concussion) returns to bolster the midfield stocks, joining his brother and Henderson Medal chance Jordy for first crack at the depth laden Burra who have seemingly hit a late hurdle.

A season ending broken leg to playing coach Luke Kiel will surely have rattled the group, not mentioning the fitness clouds over crucial playmakers Toby Hutt and James Keeble.

Kiel's DNA is made for finals while Hutt (in best 3 out of 4 times) and Keeble (2 out 4) featured prominently for the Burra in last year’s arduous four week finals campaign.

While the Burra's confidence levels should be high heading in with two previous wins over the Kangas already this season (34 points in Round 8 and 9 points in Round 16), don’t be so sure this result is all said and done.   

Expect the Kangas to embrace the underdog tag and really serve it up to the Burra and steal one of the upsets of the season to date.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Just what version of Redan we're likely to see will determine the potential outcome of this sudden death elimination final at Eastern Oval on Sunday.

Sure, Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat have a 2-0 season advantage heading in but there's a certain feel about what the Lions can produce if they can deliver their best.

Redan did have some joy at Eastern Oval earlier in the year (Round 6) downing East Point by 13 points while North Ballarat fell 20 points shy of the Kangas in Round 5.

Clutching at straws I know, but just identifying some form at the ground that also brought the end to the Roosters’ finals campaign in the corresponding fixture against Sebastopol last year.

While we're unsure of what version we'll get from Redan, you can be confident of what to expect from McCartney's North Ballarat.

Their top end is as good as any on their day namely - Jack Riding, Jamie Quick, Stewart Crameri, Cam McCullum and the Collingwood VFL listed Sam Glover is also a chance to feature.

But for all intent and purposes, the Lions’ unpredictable best is good enough to progress. Isaac Grant (54 goals) and a pain-free Lachie George head an enigmatic group untapped on it's potential.

Just where to start denying the Lions on their day is a wave that's proven in more recent times over Sebastopol and Darley.

Again, the Lions’ back six will be stretched by the highly talented Roosters front half, and will require a chop-out from their mids to keep the game in check.

North Ballarat will start warm favorites and deservedly so on consistency of work ethic and foundation alone but there's a lingering feeling that all lower placed teams in week one of BFNL finals will look the winners at some stage.

Who really knows?    

Scoop’s tip: Redan

Darley and North Ballarat head to City Oval this Saturday on a quest for premiership glory. With a number of seesawing results throughout the year its set to be a classic game to roundout the 2023 season.

The Bragging Rights

Darley or North Ballarat will become the BFNL’s most successful team of the last 15 years with a third premiership win when they meet in Saturday’s grand final at City Oval.

East Point and Redan have also won two premierships dating back to 2009.

The Build-Up

The Devils enjoyed last weekend off after their 61-point semi final win over the Roosters and look raring to go under coach Dan Jordan in just his second year at the helm.

Jordan’s army held a light training session last Saturday on Darley Park before a BBQ and viewing of the preliminary final in their new facility.

It wasn’t long before the Devils would learn their grand final opponents as North Ballarat kicked five unanswered goals in the opening term and the first nine goals of the game to end surprise packet East Point’s dream run on the penultimate weekend of the McDonald’s BFNL season.

The Midfield Battle

Reigning dual Henderson Medallist Brett Bewley (comp rank #1 average disposals per game - 38.3) will lead the Devils onto City Oval for the clubs first Grand Final since 2017 alongside Vice Captain, dual Premiership player and 2023 Henderson Medallist runner-up Luther Baker (comp rank #3 average for centre clearances per game)

The Bewley and Baker midfield combo have been fondly (to a degree!) referred to as B1 and B2, a formidable pairing alongside integral season additions Matt Denham (21 disposals per game average) and promising young ruckman Lucas Impey (39 hit-outs avg and comp rank #1 for 1%s avg per game).

The Roosters, buoyed with the aerial dominance of premier ruckman Cam McCullum (59 hit outs avg per game including 13 to advantage) will aim at denying the Devils B1, B2 punch with a win at the coalface providing enough supply via ball magnets Riley Polkinghorne (30 disposals avg per game, 14 contested) and Jack Riding (25/14).

Despite the separation on the scoreboard at their previous meet, the difference in clearance numbers was marginal (+4 Darley).

The Book Ends

Plenty will be asked of Darley’s young team defence, led by Matthew Brett (comp rank #2 average intercept marks per game, 85% disposal efficiency) to hold up for another week against dangerous duo Jamie Quick (49 goals / 15 games) and Sam Glover (17 goals / 8 games).

The Devils will have put time into Quick especially, given the x-factor forward has been responsible for 34% of the Roosters goals in his last six matches. Note, Glover won’t have flown under the radar of Jordan either given his proven match winning potential.

At the opposite end and Devils’ key forwards Billy Myers (48 goals) and Darren Leonard (18 goals) must provide aerially against a sound North Ballarat defence led by Ryan Hobbs (4.5 avg intercepts per game), Isaac Lovisson (3.5 avg intercepts per game) and Josh Sparkman (25 disposal avg per game, and 7 intercepts).

While Hobbs and Lovisson are defensively disciplined by nature, it’s Sparkman’s (5.4 rebounds & 2.5 I50s avg per game) role in transition that can impact the Roosters’ scoring potential.

The Score Form

In the second half of the season Brendan McCartney’s group have a modest five wins from their last nine games, while Darley have gone nine from nine in the same period.

The Roosters have averaged 61.7 points per game (61.4 AGST) during this streak and will need to score, given the Devils have been held to under 70 points just once for the season.

The Devils have as many as eight of the BFNLs top 50 goal scorers, highlighting an enviable spread of options.

For their last nine games, not including their Round 16 fixture against Melton South, the Devils average 92 points for per game and a miserly 48 points against

Given the even nature of the Devils’ returns (Myers the exception) expect McCartney to leave it up to his trusted cavalry to determine like-for-like match ups ahead of the opening bounce.

The Wash-Up

Both sides boast quality top end talent and have the numbers to back it up. Could one of the lesser knowns get under the radar and make a name for themselves on the competition’s biggest stage?

Plenty of untold stories will soon become reality and forever etched into BFNL folklore.

I’m with match favourites Darley - their best footy is the new benchmark.

The Tips

Scoop - Darley 18 points

Jackson Merrett (East Point): Darley 47 points

Aaron Tymms (Melton): Darley 22 pts

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol): Darley 21 pts

Gary Learmonth (Redan): Darley 27 pts

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury): Darley 29 pts

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): Darley 10 pts

Chris Maple (Ballarat): North Ballarat 6pts

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree): Darley 23 pts

Ryan Hoy (Melton South): North Ballarat 5 pts

The penultimate weekend in the BFNL football competition will see North Ballarat and East Point go head-to-head for a chance to join Darley in the Grand Final.

Giant killers East Point continue their dream run into a preliminary final for a third scalp having ousted league heavyweights Sebastopol (3rd) and Melton (1st).

Next up is Brendan McCartney's well organised North Ballarat outfit, the very team the Roos overcame in Round 18 at Mars Stadium to sneak into the final six.

In fact, the Kangas should hold no fears for the Roosters on the BFNL’s penultimate day having won all of their last three meets.

Possibly, the Kangas greatest concern lies at selection with a handful of top end Coates League Talent players now available.

But what a risk to upset the apple cart that has performed so well.

Given the GWV Rebels are done, the window is open for the likes of the Charleston brothers, Fred Valpied, Archie Caldow, Ollie Hannaford and Ned Renfree to be included.

Not to mention Jordy Johnston and his potential return from a thumb injury.

While he resembled more of Woody Harrelson's character in 'King Pin' on Sunday, you wouldn't put it past the miracle matchwinner making a premature cameo return.

Sure, depth quality is a nice problem to have but I don't envy Jackson Merrett's quandary over the magnets.

It will be business as usual for McCartney's boys in the lead up despite coming off a disappointing 61-point loss to Darley.

When you consider the Roosters were near full-strength last week, expect a forgive run to be granted, a mulligan if you will.

The Roosters’ top end talent is too good to ignore, so don't expect a repeat performance of their semi final failings.

They're a proud group and will prove very hard to beat. 

Only three times this year have VFL listed trio Sam Glover, Jamie Quick and Jack Riding featured in the same team for a win (Sunbury) and two losses (Sebastopol, Darley).

Finding the right spot for these three to have the greatest impact is a challenge any BFNL coach would like to have with the trio, Glover (forward or back), Quick (forward deep/high) and Riding (mid/forward) all versatile in their own way.

The Roosters will look for a spike in their efficiency by foot and their cleanliness at ground level for these Kangas are coming. 

Aerially the Roosters are sound, well-disciplined and more than capable.

Just who will be asking the questions of who in the Roosters’ defence v Kangas’ forward battle makes for compelling viewing.

While McCartney has said “match ups are becoming a thing of the past” there is no denying Kangas’ trio Bryce McDougall, Jack Jeffrey and 16 year old sensation Strahan Robinson with the young gun kicking five goal the last time these two teams met in Round 18

All three will require some attention given they've combined for 20 of East Point’s 26 goals in week one and two of the finals.

Furthermore, the proximity of those deep shots on goal is a concern and will test the Roosters disciplined defence.

In the midfield, Kangas duo Matty Johnston and Joe Dodd are in form and have been instrumental at the business end with their clearance numbers.

Johnston's clean ground ball ability will need to be matched or denied by the Roosters who have the advantage of premier tap ruck Cam McCullum.

The Roosters need a speed injection and clean hands thrown into the midfield to improve on their hit-outs to effective clearance ratio.

The Roosters must find a way to kick a score against the freewheeling Kangas and more often they will give you a chance.

But it will take more than Jamie Quick to get it done. Who will stand up and deliver on the Roosters’ biggest day of their season?

Glover, Riding and Quick are the obvious weapons but is that enough? The Kangas have eight goal scorers in the BFNLs top 50, the Roosters just five.

The Kangas will hit the scoreboard on a predicted warm September day. Can the Roosters go with them on a fast track and make the most of their chances? 

I'm not so sure - tipping the young guns of the Kangas to prevail in an upset under the leadership and courage of their captain Matty Johnston.

TIPS

Scoop – East Point        

Aaron Tymms (Melton) – North Ballarat   

Gary Learmonth (Redan) – East Point

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh) – North Ballarat

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree) – East Point

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury) – North Ballarat

Chris Maple (Ballarat) – North Ballarat

Jason Hoy (Melton South) – North Ballarat

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol) – East Point

Leading goalkickers (inside BFNL top 50)

North Ballarat: 45 - J.Quick, 17 - E.Lamb, J.Riding, 14 - S.Glover, 13 - S.Crameri

East Point: 34 - B.McDougall, 29 - B.Whittaker, 23 - J.Jeffrey, 22 - L.Canny, 21 - J.Johnston, 20 - S.Robinson, 17 - J.Merrett, 13 - M.Johnston.

The 'FORM LADDER' top 3 v top 3

Darley P4 W3 L1 (lost to North Ballarat)

East Point P3 W2 L1 (lost to Darley)

North Ballarat P5 W1 L4 (lost to East Point x2, Darley x2)