Finals Round 1 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

It's finally here, the 2022 Carlton Draught Finals Series begins this weekend.

Ignore the first meeting of these two sides when you're contemplating a tip for this Qualifying Final albeit at the Bloods' home ground, Macpherson Park. The Swans arrive near full strength with solid form having won nine of their last ten. Admittedly, six of the Swans' 12 wins have come by six points or less. You can go even further and realise ten of their season's wins have been by less than 18 points. On the other hand, the Bloods have genuinely been the bullies of the schoolyard, averaging near 108 points per game for the season and conceding a messily 55 points per game getting it done.

Bloods coach Aaron Tymms would have sensed early that a genuine opportunity presents itself. A real chance to claim the prized silverware that has eluded the club since 2005. Melton were unbeaten for 12 rounds before copping a timely reminder of their mortality by North Ballarat in Round 13 and again by a five-win season Sunbury in Round 16. I'm convinced their two-game season losses ahead of the finals will hold them in good stead. They're relatively free of injury and boast unrivalled depth. In a nutshell, cherry ripe, balanced, and without excuse.

Only Joe Carmody's Ballarat truly know how they will fare against the might of the Minor Premiers. Bailey Van de Heuvel is a massive in while the return to peak form of ruckman Marcus Powling after some time out with a hamstring will only enhance belief. Expect Aiden Domic (concussion) who missed last week to return. To put their Round 5 disaster meet into perspective, highlighting its current relevance you need only look at the team sheet. Only 12 Swans took part in last week's nail-biting win over Sebastopol (and loss to Melton). Tymms will be well aware and fully versed in the fact that despite the Bloods' superior season, the Swans' win/loss returns for the last ten weeks are marginally better.

But please Ballarat, on behalf of all Swans fans start well, similar to your last two weeks and spare the faithful heart palpitations for another week. Missing the start here against the Bloods can only mean trouble. The Bloods are 15-1 for leading in first quarters.

The Swans will be nervous, the group is seemingly bereft of finals experience bar Josh Gibson and Andrew Hooper. The two will play a crucial role in calming the mental anxieties that come with a big stage.   

I wish the Swans luck, they'll need every bit.

By the numbers in 2022: Melton 1 - Ballarat 0

Melton                                         

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses) 

Record against top six teams: W6 L1   

Offence team rating (comp): 1st (107.8 avg) 

Defence team rating (comp): 1st (55.1 avg) 

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (56) 

Hendo chance: Lachie Watkins (in best 10/15) 

Will Liston (in best 12/16)

Ballarat

Finished 2nd: (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against top six teams: W5 L3

Offence team rating (comp): 8th (72.4 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 4th (64.1 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (35)

Hendo chance: Will Liston (in best 12/16)

I'm not sure who had either of these teams bowing out in week one of the finals but it will happen.

Finding a winner, like many involving top six games this year has been difficult. But what Sebastopol have over North Ballarat are two wins already this year. I know North Ballarat Coach Brendan McCartney has said what has happened before stands for very little in the new season but the confidence the Burras drive from those two outings should give them confidence. Unfortunately for North Ballarat they have lost four of their last five home and away games and won't have the luxury of getting the job done on Mars Stadium, the venue they play so well. Six of the club's eighth-season wins this year were at home (North Ballarat 2-6 on the road).

Sebastopol coach Michael Searl, while fully respectful, has no reason to fear North Ballarat. The Burras' best is certainly good enough to edge out McCartney's boys but it's going to take that - their best to get it done.

Containing dangerous North Ballarat forward trio Jamie Quick (39 goals), Jack Riding (35) and Josh Chatfield (11 in six games) looms the Burras' greatest challenge. You don't have to be Einstein to work out the likely match-ups, but it's nice knowing you have the cattle to minimise their influence.

Expect Burras mids Lachie Cassidy, Daniel Widgery and Chase Dummett to match the physicality early of North Ballarat who are the immediate beneficiaries of Cam McCallum's dominance in the ruck. Just how many hits to advantage in the direction of Riley Polkinghorne, Tim Spiers and Brock Leonard will tell its own story at the game's end. The defence of North Ballarat has been a pillar of strength for the most part but they did cough up their highest individual (quarter) score against the Devils last week. And when you consider the plentiful options forward of centre for the Burras, you can safely assume they're more than capable of posting a winning score.

Both sides will have benefitted from further learnings during the week on the back of their Round 18 losses.  There won't be much in this, just who settles the quickest and can execute on the fundamentals especially early will be hard to catch.

By the numbers in 2022: Sebastopol 2 - North Ballarat 0

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses) 

Record against top six teams: W4 L4   

Offence team rating (comp): 6th (74.2 avg)         

Defence team rating (comp): 3rd (63.5 avg) 

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (29) 

Hendo chance: Tony Lockyer (in best 11/16)                                   

North Ballarat

Finished: 6th (8 wins, 8 losses)

Record against top six teams: W3 L7

Offence team rating (comp): 4th (82.4 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 2nd (63.4 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Jamie Quick (39)

Hendo chance: Jack Riding (in best 8/15)         

Both teams will be well versed in each other's strengths and weaknesses given this will be their third meeting in 10 weeks. If they weren't rivals already, I'm near certain one is building as these east vs west combatants face off in another highly anticipated showdown. The two sides share four of the last five (completed) BFNL Premierships and the reality tells us, that one of these club's seasons is coming to an end. But on the flip side, what a way to progress. In Darley's case, under new Coach Dan Jordan (a former East Point star) - getting the result would be a monumental achievement for the club after a winless 2021. For East Point, to be riding high near the top with an interrupted three-peat still well and truly alive is a credit to the Kangas. Footy post covid has proven a difficult landscape to negotiate but we've made it, especially these two, albeit separate journeys. So hats off to Kangas coach Jake Bridges and the Devils' Dan Jordan for leading their respective sides back to the business end. And we won't be shy on talent for this version of the Elimination Final I guarantee you. Expect a massive crowd for this stand-alone BFNL final as all and sundry flock to the stands for their piece of the action.

Both sides finished with 10 wins separated by just .87% and share a win apiece from their two hit-outs thus far. It's only fair the winner progresses in a game that looms as the ideal decider.

The fourth-placed Devils boast top-end talent Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt, Nick Rodda, Matthew Brett and the experience of Darren Leonard, Shane Page and Luther Baker. Throw some of their progressive youth into the mix with nothing to fear, and Darley has a genuine chance of winning in Ballarat.

Not to be outdone, the fifth-placed Kangas top end has proven more than capable. Jordy Johnston, Matty Johnston, Mickitja Rotumah Onus, Jackson Merrett, Joe Dodd and Jacob Brown are just a half dozen players that can decide the game given a sniff on their terms. The depth goes beyond that for the Kangas, a line-up laden with been-there-done-that Premiership players. Can they over-awe a less experienced Devils coming to terms with a return to finals?

I think we'll know the answer as early as halftime. The Devils will be up against it mentally and physically but if granted liberty to become the best version of themselves, a spot in the remaining four and week two of the finals awaits.

By the numbers in 2022: Darley 1 - East Point 1 

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against top six teams:  W4 L4

Offence team rating (comp): 3rd (83.8 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 6th (75.3 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (56)

Hendo chance: Brett Bewley (in best 11/16)

East Point

Finished: 4th 5th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against top six teams: W4 L6

Offence team rating (comp): 2nd (90.8 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 9th (82.3 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Jordy Johnston (51)

Hendo chance: Jordy Johnston (in best 9/16)

Finals Week 2 Preview with 'Scoop'

For Melton and Sebastopol, it's one win and they're into the 2022 Carlton Draught Senior Men's Grand Final. One loss to either Ballarat or Darley, and the season is over.

Both teams will know they've played a game of footy come 5pm Saturday - win, lose or draw, that's for sure. Given their healthy rivalry over more recent times, and levels of mutual respect, don't count on either party leaving any stone unturned, as a prized spot in the 2022 BFNL Grand Final is up for grabs.

Michael Searl's Sebastopol has been looking forward to another crack at the flag favourites for some time, a genuine footy audit if you will, and a chance to atone for a disappointing 41-point loss in Round 11. We didn't see the real Sebastopol that day, in fact, the Burras didn't win a single quarter. But when you add James Keeble, Luke Kiel, Bailey Medwell, Chase Dummett, James Richards, Jai Harvey, Jordan Crone and Grady Snowden into the Burras Second Semi-Final line-up (all missed Rd11) you start mounting a case. Furthermore, the Burras have lost just once since that Round 11 defeat. Yep, 6/7 including wins over East Point and North Ballarat (twice) is a solid form line.

But words of advice for the hunters - turn up to play from the get-go or cop the wrath of a feverish Bloods outfit going about their business. Aaron Timms' boys have some serious numbers of their own behind them.  The Bloods are 15-2 for first quarters in 2022 and +175 for third quarter points differential (212-37) over the last five weeks including an intimidating 14-goal haul against East Point. Scary stuff.

I think Tymms is fully aware his Bloods hold the aces and it’s they who need containing with winners on every line. Just who and where to start bringing down the Bloods is a task only two teams in 17 tries have had success. Michael Searl is an intelligent footy person and is likely to spend most of his time matching up Ryan (57 goals) and Liam Carter (36) and X-factor Bloods Captain Braedan Kight (40). They loom the clear and present dangers denying the Burras a passage to that one day in September.

The Burras will sweat on the availability of inspirational leader Tony Lockyer (ankle) who will be given until game-day to get right. Lockyer left the ground early in the second quarter of last week's Elimination Final win over North Ballarat and did not return.

Bloods big man Mark Orr will be put through his paces too this week after missing week one of the finals. There's no doubting a few niggles exist for both sides this far into a first full season since 2019.

While I won't be tipping against the Bloods on their home deck, I am wary the Burras' best is good enough to give it a shake.

A Grand Final berth awaits the winner while a spot in next week's Preliminary Final against the winner of Ballarat and Darley.       

Head-to-head in 2022: Melton 1 - Sebastopol 0

Melton                                                                               

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W4 L0             

Offence team rating (top 4): 1st (106.6 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4): 1st (55.6 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Jack Walker

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W0 L4

Offence team rating (top 4): 3rd (72.4 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4): 2nd (63.1 avg)

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (31)

Best in first final (Week 1): Lachlan Cassidy

Before we explore the 'nitty gritty" of this highly anticipated, season-on-the-line Semi-Final, it's fair we congratulate Joe Carmody and Dan Jordan for guiding their respective sides back to the business end.

I'm not sure how much can be derived from their first and only meeting at Darley Park back in Round 7 but it was the Swans who had the measure of the Devils. The final margin was as close as the Devils got late in the game, enough to warrant the Swans as the clear favourites despite their already superior, win/loss season. The Swans led from go-to-woe that day, by 19,17 and 30 at the breaks before 18 at the final siren. The Devils (9.19) did have seven more scoring shots than the Swans (14.7) but Carmody's men were far more convincing with their ball movement and ability to hit the scoreboard. Anyway, enough of May 28th... that was 99 days ago.

The Swans have won eight of ten games since, the Devils 7/10 including their last four on the trot.

Darley will have their fingers crossed on the availability of star Captain Brett Bewley (calf) who missed last week's Elimination Final win over East Point. For the Swans Josh Gibson (hamstring), Angus Bade and Rhys Perry are their only injury concerns. Both sides will look remarkably different from their earlier meeting with up to seven new faces (each) likely to feature. The Swans add big guns Marcus Powling and Bailey Van de Heuvel while Jake Dunne, Inji Fyffe, Austin McPherson, Grant Baldwin and Jesse Nicholls make up the extra five. Darley's seven include Dylan Landt, Trent Angwin, Matthew Brett, Darren Leonard, Zane Lehuray, Blake Colley and Ayden Tanner.  Handy inclusions for both teams. But the gain for the Devils has been the return of seasoned defenders Brett and Leonard who have helped sure up the once very young back six. The two were instrumental in restricting noted high-scorers East Point (comp rank #2) to 47 and 57 at their last two encounters.

If Bewley doesn't play, the Devils' midfield will be up against it, taking on an in-form Swans combination. Marcus Powling, Will Liston, Sam James and Lachie Dawson have been super of late featuring as the better players every week. Van de Heuvel has become the X-factor for the Swans with his versatility. Can play at either end, has a big frame, is strong overhead and has an excellent left foot kick. Regardless of the result, the Footscray VFL affiliate will have an influence. The same can be said for dangerous forwards Nick Rodda and Andrew Hooper, both integral trump cards that can win a game off their own boot. The Swans Jake Dunne, along with Gibson provide an extra target forward and will likely stretch the Devils' defence.

Let's hope the game is bereft of could've, would've, should've status in the aftermath given what we know to be certain. One of Ballarat or Darley is heading into a Preliminary Final  - a monumental achievement.

Head-to-Head in 2022 - Ballarat 1 - Darley 0

Ballarat                                                                         

Finished 2nd (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W3 L2

Offence team rating (top 4); 4th (71.9 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4); 3rd (68.9 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (38)

Best in first final (Week 1): Will Liston

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W1 L2

Offence team rating (top 4): 2nd (81.6 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4): 4th (73.6 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Bailey Young         

Scoop Reviews Finals Week 2

Melton has punched in their ticket to the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Grand Final after a dominant win over Sebastopol. As for Ballarat, they just managed to escape a rampaging Darley.

Minor Premiers Melton remains the team to beat for this year's title after storming into the Grand Final with a win over Sebastopol.

Aaron Tymms' boys booted 12 of the last 13 goals of the game to win convincingly. His calm address at quarter-time proved significant given the Burras, with the aid of a four-goal breeze, led by 26 points. With alarm bells ringing of an unlikely upset, Tymms simply absorbed the moment.

While it took the Bloods nine and a half minutes into the second quarter to post their first major through key forward Ryan Carter (3 goals), five more unanswered would follow, including one after the half-time siren to give the Bloods a 12-point lead.

When the Burras had been outscored three goals to one with the breeze in the third term, it felt for the on-looker as though the game was just playing for time. There was a sense of inevitability about the likely conclusion.

The crowd, seeking an upset, were silenced as the Bloods faithful buckled up for another 30 minutes of grinding football. While the Bloods managed just 3.4 with the breeze in the final term, the visiting Burras were held scoreless. So, for all the promise and speculation of the Burras closing the gap on a 41-point loss to the Bloods in Round 11, the margin was increased to 43 at the weekend with the visitors returning the same score (6.7) as their first hit-out.     

For the winners, Riley Walker (defence), Brett Mcintyre (ruck) and Kyle Borg (wing & 2 goals) were terrific, the barometer if you like. Liam Carter (3 goals), Lachlan Hickey (1 goal) and Jack Walker (1 goal) threatened forward of centre for the most part in difficult breezy conditions.

Unfortunately for the Burras, there was no Tony Lockyer (ankle) or late-out Hugo Papst (illness) which didn't help their chances heading in, but kudos to Lachlan Cassidy (mid), Riley O'Keefe (defence), Jack Richards (Ruck) and Connor O'Shea who flew the flag and took it up to their more fancied rival for the most part but couldn't get it done. In fairness, only two teams in 18 attempts have this season.

The next attempt to overcome the Bloods will be on the BFNL's biggest stage, the 2022 Carlton Draught Grand Final.

Sebastopol meets Ballarat in Saturday's Preliminary Final at Mars Stadium.  

What the coaches said...

Aaron Tymms (Melton): Sebastopol presented a really tough challenge all day but I thought we withstood the barrage and remained patient once they were in front of the scoreboard. Our boys stood up to the adversity and were able to get reward for effort after quarter time to build the ascendancy and get the win.

Michael Searl (Sebastopol): They were simply a class above. Their ball movement was more efficient. Their work rate to outnumber (us) was superior. (I was) pleased with our start to put the first five goals on but weren't able to be as effective in the next three. (A) good learning opportunity and still grateful for another crack at it next week.

The Swans survived a barnstorming Devils finish to progress to the Preliminary Final for a meeting with Sebastopol.

The game looked shot to pieces when the Swans led the Devils a 'merry dance' by 43 points at half-time after six unanswered goals blew the game open. But the Devils had other ideas, launching an inspirational fightback as they piled on nine goals to two in the third term, stunning the Swans in the process, and reducing the lead to just three points at the final change.

Devils Coach Dan Jordan and his support crew nearly pulled off the masterstroke of the season as the willing Devils responded to a significant shuffling of the magnets.

The final stanza went goal for goal before the Devils hit the front by as much as 10 points, 20 minutes into the last quarter. But as the Swans have done so often this season, they showed the poise, resilience and character to arrest the deficit, before hanging on to win by one point.

Former Hawthorn champion Josh Gibson (five goals) was instrumental in the clutch moments for the Swans with three telling one-on-one marks in the goalsquare to assure the narrowest of margins and, with it, progress to the penultimate week of the season. And what a game it was, almost matched by the drama witnessed in the hours and minutes ahead of the opening bounce. 

Illness to valuable Devils trio Matthew Brett, Shane Page and Will Johnson proved a major blow for Jordan's camp before extraordinary scenes in the warm-up saw young defender Duncan Cadman withdrawn after a blindsided head collision with umpire Semmens who would also take no part.

The game itself lived up to the billing despite a dominant opening half from the bigger-bodied Swans.

The six-point advantage to the Swans at quarter-time felt like more and was confirmed in the second term as Joe Carmody's boys went to work. Marcus Powling, Sam James (2 goals), Aiden Domic (2 goals), and Lachie Dawson (2 goals) were influential in setting up the 43-point half-time lead while Gibson and Andrew Hooper (1 goal) looked threatening each time the ball went inside 50.

The weight of forward 50 Swans entries in the second term amounted to six goals, while the Devils could manage just one point.

Game over? Not quite.

Jordan moved Darren Leonard (3 goals) and Mace Cousins (2 goals) forward, Nick Rodda (1 goal) into the ruck and asked more of his top-end players to impact. Dylan Landt (3 goals) and Brett Bewley (1 goal) led the revival and found some aerial presence with Brady Wright (3 goals), Joel Cadman and Leonard.

While the Devils courageously fought back to hit the front, full credit must be given to the Swans who were able to respond. Another belter was witnessed in Week Two of the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Finals Series.

The Devils fell on the wrong side of a close one while the Swans hung on for their third win by one point and seventh win by seven points or less in 2022.

There's every indication we can expect a close one again on Saturday. Both Swans and Burras meetings this year have been decided by one and three points - in favour of Carmody's men.

For Jordan's exiting Devils, they lost no admirers and will bounce back in 2023. Their young group will be a pre-season older and hungry for another crack at the business end after an agonising sample in 2022.

What the coaches said...

Joe Carmody (Ballarat): It was a crazy game. In the first half, our contest and ball movement was very good. Darley dominated those areas in the third. The players responded well and kept at it in the last quarter to will ourselves over the line.

Dan Jordan (Darley): Probably the most bizarre preparation I've been involved in, losing four (players) to illness and then the incident in the warm-up. I couldn't be more proud of our boys and their effort. Full of courage and heart. Full credit to Ballarat. They are a very good side and all the best to Joe and his troops for the rest of their season.

Player nominations to trial for the McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball 22/23 Representative Teams are now open on the link below.

Applications close on the 10th of October 2022.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball Representative program is a great experience for our young netball talent. Nominations are now open to trial for the 2022/2023 representative teams.

All BFNL junior netballers who are keen to try out for our rep teams and who were born between 2006 and 2011 are encouraged to nominate via the online link below.

Dates for trials are yet to be finalised, however, trials will be held in  October/November 2022. 

This year we will have two 15 & Under Teams going to Association Champs. This gives more players an opportunity to be a part of this great program which will assist in developing skills.

BFNL Junior Netball 22/23 Representative Teams and Coaches

13 & Under – Coach: Leah Macdonald

Players born in 2010 and 2011

15 & Under – Coach: Meg Porter & Di McCormack (Championship Team) and Lisa Strudwick (Development Team)

Players born in 2008 and 2009

17 & Under –  Coach: Prue Douglass & Damien Mullane

Players born in 2006 and 2007

You must complete the online nomination form to participate in trials: https://forms.gle/7htXhRcYQhPFwxkh6

Applications for trials will close on the 10^th of October.

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the Junior Coaches and Players for this year’s BFNL Junior Netball Representative Program.

The League is thrilled with the knowledge and experience that these appointed coaches bring, and they are certainly putting this into practice when developing our junior players within the representative program. The players and coaches put their hard work into action at the Association Championships on the 5^th of June 2022.

We are pleased to announce the following coaches and squads for each of our age groups:

13 and Under BFNL Representative Squad

Kate McMahon – Coach

Keira McDonald – Ballarat Swans

Brydee Craig-Peters - Redan

Eliza Ashby – Ballarat Swans

Lyla Sheehan – Lake Wendouree

Emmy Holloway – Lake Wendouree

Gabriella Stanley – Mount Clear

Audrey Murnane – North Ballarat

Allie Kirby – East Point

Hayley Jackson – Ballarat Swans

Ashlee Beseler – North Ballarat

Mia Hayne – Storm

Macy Abrams – North Ballarat

15 and Under BFNL Representative Squad

Di McCormack – Coach

Addison Wright – Darley

Rylee Sheridan – Sebastopol

Penny Follett – North Ballarat

Harriet Hodge – East Point

Madison Dixon – Sebastopol

Scarlett Clayton – Darley

Mackenzie Kopke-Veldhuis - Sebastopol

Amarli Minster - Sebastopol

Maia Murphy – Ballarat Swans

Ebony Porter – North Ballarat

Abby Kinnersly- East Point

Kate Aikman – North Ballarat

Charli Ferguson – North Ballarat

17 and Under Representative Team

Prue Douglass – Coach

Damien Mullane – Coach

Katie Jackson - Redan

Rose Pfitzner – North Ballarat

Annabel Hodge – East Point

Sarah Augustine – East Point

Allanah Trevisan – Mount Clear

Jacinta McKenzie – Ballarat Swans

Georgia Bodey – North Ballarat

Chelsea Oellering – Mount Clear

Rose Murnane – North Ballarat

Isabella McNeill – Lake Wendouree

Emily Davies – Redan

Matilda Myers - Redan

Scoop'  Preliminary Final Review

Ballarat are the masters of comeback victories this season, but Sebastopol finally put a halt to the Swans' season. Now, Melton awaits Sebastopol in the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Senior Football Grand Final.

Sebastopol will meet Melton in Saturday's 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Grand Final at Mars Stadium after holding off a spirited Ballarat at the weekend.

The Burras led from the start to progress to the league's version of the big dance. The decider will end a Premiership drought for one of these clubs dating back to 2005 (Melton) and for as long as the time spent in the BFNL for the other (Sebastopol). Ironically, Saturday's game will be fought by the previous two Runners-Ups (2018, 2019) from the last two fully completed seasons.

The Game:

Sebastopol got themselves off to a hot start as the dual between Toby Hutt and Bailey Van de Heuvel gave every indication of living up to its billing. Burras defender Riley O'Keefe went to Swans dangerous forward Josh Gibson (3 goals) and Grady Snowden to Andrew Hooper (1 goal). But for all the Burras territorial dominance in the first term with the breeze, it was Gibson and Hooper who goaled late to keep the Swans within striking distance - 19 points adrift.

Burras ruckman James Richards influence was formidable, while the decision of Michael Searl to swing Luke Kiel to half back was seemingly paying off in dividends as Sebastopol continued with the majority of control, Burras midfield trio Daniel Widgery (2 goals), Chase Dummett (1 goal) and Lachie Cassidy (1 goal) led the way with their power and work rate, especially inside the contest, often outmuscling the younger, less experienced bodies of the Swans.

Van de Heuvel (1 goal) was swung forward by Swans coach Joe Carmody in the second half to generate impetus on a scoreline that was labouring, with 18 points in arrears and just three goals on the board. As a result, Snowden went to the Footscray VFL affiliate, opening the door for Hooper and his chance at getting off the chain. But it would be the returns of unheralded small forward Adam Forbes (2 goals) at the other end who made the most of his opportunity, showcasing his forward craft and potentially his place in the Grand Final side. When the Burras led by as much as 38 points late in the third term you'd have every reason to label the game done and dusted given the Swans were still stranded on three goals. But late goals to Swans Captain Sam James (1 goal) and Van de Heuvel reduced the margin to 26 points at the last break - and within a sniff mounting a memorable comeback. 

Widgery steadied the ship with a goal at the 15-minute mark of the last term, the game looked beyond the plucky Swans who have somehow found a way to win the close ones on numerous occasions this year. But there was to be no repeat of any Swans Houdini acts despite their efforts posting six of the last seven goals of the game. The Burras hung on to win nine points.

Now, for Melton. Good luck! No doubt there will be an eager eye cast to the progress and recovery of inspirational Burras Captain Tony Lockyer from a nasty ankle injury sustained in week one of the finals against North Ballarat. Lockyer can't get back......or can he?

Let the trials and tribulations of Grand Final week begin...  

What the coaches said:

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):(I am) incredibly proud of the group. We defended really well and made it hard for them to score. As always, Ballarat stayed in the game and we weren't able to close out the game. We are onto next week and looking forward to having a crack at Melton again.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):Sebastopol's pressure and clean ball handling was too good. We couldn't get our game going but as the players have done all year they fought hard until the very end.

The Wash-Up

SEBASTOPOL: 5.1-31, 5.8-38, 8.11-59, 9.14-68 def

BALLARAT: 2.0-12, 3.2-20, 5.3-33, 9.5-59

SEBASTOPOL (BEST):J.Richards, L.Cassidy, L.Kiel, J.Hill, J.Keeble, T.Hutt.

BALLARAT (BEST):N.Weightman, W.Liston, N.Swain, B.Fraser, S.James, M.Powling.

SEBASTOPOL (GOALS):A.Forbes 2, D.Widgery 2, J.Hill, L.Cassidy, C.Dummett, B.Veale, T.Hutt

BALLARAT (GOALS):J.Gibson 3, R.Perry, S.James, B.Van de Heuvel, W.Garner, T.Sutton, A.Hooper.

Round 16 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Finals are just three weeks away and the top six is still open for eight clubs. This is where things get really interesting…

A monster crowd is expected to descend on Maddingley Park for the highly anticipated battle between cross-town rivals Bacchus Marsh and Darley. A finals berth is at stake for these two teams but sadly, there's only room for one of them. Put simply, a loss for the Cobras on their home deck will end any finals aspirations while a win keeps their season alive.

For the Devils, a win guarantees them a spot in this year's finals, which would be a significant achievement under new coach Dan Jordan given the club's winless 2021. A loss on the other hand for the Devils does not mean game over entirely on the finals front. But they would need to beat North Ballarat in Round 18 and rely on other results falling their way to sneak in. So, in a nutshell - it is all about this next instalment between the old foe, as they say, that will seal one's fate.

Let's hope the weather holds up and we can be privy to a local derby for the ages. Only the 2018 Elimination Final - and 2017 Grand Final of more recent times - rival the hype and expectation of these two going head-to-head. Needless to say, finals aside - there is no bigger stage. We want to see Brett Bewley (named in the best in 10 out of 14 games) charging out of the middle and hitting Nick Rodda (50 goals) on the lead to hear the roar of the Devils faithful. We want to see Jake Owen (named in the best in 11 out of 13 games) in full flight and Harry King's run and carry on the spread and hear the Cobra fans at home in full voice. We wish for the derby, the best version of itself - unless, of course, you're in in either the Devils or the Cobras camp.

Darley understands their finals destiny lay in their own hands and Bacchus Marsh stands very much in the way right now. Jordan will have banked arguably his boys’ best win of the season last week over East Point and done all and sundry to keep the group grounded, in check, essentially reset. For the time is now to deliver when it counts most. While the focus will be on the Devils' mids, Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt (if available) and Luther Baker to generate majority supply forward, questions will be asked of their generals in defence, namely Matty Brett and Darren Leonard to manage a young back six negating Aaron Willetts (25 goals), Rex Hickman (16 goals) and Jake Owen (16 goals) who will likely spend some time in the front half, depending on the state of the game.

For the Cobras, captain Jake Owen is the star and leads by inspirational example. Tom German, Nick Stuhldreier, Harry King, Jack Williams, Michael Culliver and Aaron Willetts head a talented support crew more than capable of getting the job done.

We'll just have to wait and see.

East Point will aim to adopt the no mercy rule approach as they strive for a needed percentage booster against the Lakers. The Kangas gave up their second placing on the BFNL ladder with a 30-point loss on the road to Darley and will want to bounce back the best way they know how - doing damage on the scoreboard.

Last week the Kangas were kept to their second-lowest score of their season (57) and will have eyes on racking up the ton (weather permitting) once this game is put to bed. I can't see the Lakers troubling a Kangas outfit on the rebound, despite honourable efforts against the Swans and the Lions over the last two weeks. The senior bodies at East Point will exploit the determined youth of the Lakers to ensure they get the job done before an enthralling Round 17 meet with Melton.

In hindsight, the Kangas will have had the toughest draw, having played all current six teams twice by the season's end. And, so they should in fairness, given their reigning dual Premiership status. The hit-out with the Lakers ahead of the Melton bout will give the Kangas an opportunity to reflect on last week's loss and to reassert their brand as one of the more ominous combinations in the competition.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, their remaining three Home & Away games are as tough as any with East Point, Sebastopol and Melton. All Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick can ask for is a similar effort around the contest that resembles something from their previous two games. Plenty will be asked of the senior players at the Lakers to make sure they stay hungry or risk the likelihood of two or three big defeats at the end of the season. Experienced Lakers Joel and Lachlan O'Connell, Nathan Pring, Jacob Coxall, Timmy Collins and Callum McKay's message will be made clear by their actions. Nobody is expecting them to win, but we're hopeful of another buy-in effort from the undermanned Lakers that can at least make the Kangas earn it. 

Containing dangerous Kangas x-factor forward Jordy Johnston (45 goals - named in the best 9 out of 14 games) would be a good place to start for the Lakers. But that’s easier said than done. 

Not to be denied, this North Ballarat (6th) vs Sebastopol (4th) clash will have ramifications of its own. After a strong win against flag favourites Melton, Brendan McCartney's North find themselves in a position where they need to win to guarantee a place in this year's finals. Who would have thought their two recent slip-ups against East Point and Ballarat would see them vulnerable? If North does happen to lose against the 'Burras I will explore in greater detail the pros and cons for them enroute to finals.

Come season’s end, North Ballarat and East Point will have endured the toughest draws of all having met all remaining top six teams twice throughout the year. In hindsight, it's only fair given the Kangas and North share the 2018, 2019 Premierships (East) and 2021 Minor Premiership (North) between them. But what say of North Ballarat and their chances against a hungry 'Burras keen for some continuity much like their hosts who have been battered by injury?

North is known for bringing the heat early, we've seen that more often than not during McCartney's two-year tenure. Michael Searl's Sebastopol won't want to be playing catch up especially on Saturday because I guarantee McCartney will not have his boys overrun for a third week in a row. The 'Burras, fresh off their bye will hope to hit the ground running and put scoreboard pressure on a North Ballarat outfit who have every right to show some degree of fatigue given their tough run since Round 11. Try this block - Darley, Bye, Melton, East Point, Ballarat and now Sebastopol.

Macca's boys, whilst at home, are cherry ripe for the picking as the 'Burras continue to build as their reinforcements arrive. Reigning Henderson Medalist Lachie Cassidy is one of those who missed the 'Burrass 35-point win over North back in Round 5. However, Searl's gang will have to do it without Luke Kiel (suspended) who was instrumental in their recent wins over Bacchus Marsh and East Point.  

On the home front, North Ballarat looms a different proposition at Mars Stadium where they boast a 5-1 win/loss record. North enter this game with back-to-back losses away from home while the 'Burras are aiming for a fourth straight win.

Expect a stern response from North Ballarat, Macca is of the firm belief another great win for his club is close. Will this be the game? Only the 'Burras’ best can deny them.

While Finals are out of reach for Sunbury, their Round 16 meeting with ladder leaders Melton looms as the ideal opportunity to measure their improvement over recent weeks. In fairness, the Lions' three victories this year have come against the bottom two sides, but most would agree they're one of the better ninth-placed sides around regional Victoria. But they'll need to be better again if they're to take it to the Bloods, who should be fresh from the bye and raring to launch an assault on their last three Home & Away games before a much-anticipated finals campaign.

Expect important Bloods trio Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey and Luke Heeney's return to only bolster the flag favourites line-up as Aaron Tymms and his boys go all-in from here in 2022.

Despite the two teams' separation on the ladder, Tymms will treat this hit-out as one of three remaining [regular-season] Grand Finals. The Lions will aim to restore some pride into a disappointing season with meetings against the Bloods, Ballarat and Bacchus Marsh. How the Lions go about containing the strength and overall evenness of the Bloods across the ground will tell its own story on the scoreboard.

Leading Bloods forwards Ryan Carter (45 goals), Braedan Kight (32) and Liam Carter (28) provide a three-pronged attack unrivalled in the competition. The matchups and support planning will be crucial if Travis Hodgson's Lions are to get within five goals. Comparatively, the Lions have some of their own ability forward of centre that is capable of testing opposition sides. Jake Sutton (23 goals), Leigh Brennan (21) and youngster Jake Egan (16) are proven multiple goal options on their day, but whether they can get the supply inside 50 is another challenge altogether. Both midfields are pretty handy; for the Bloods Mark Orr (ruck), Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey and Lachie Watkins lead a group of ten players that could rotate through the centre if required.

The Lions' options are not as deep, but we should see Harry Minton-Connell return to the coalface if Josh Guthrie (North Melbourne VFL) is unavailable. Minton-Connell has had a stellar year in a (predominantly) losing side and is handy around stoppage but has spent a majority of recent time across half-back. No doubt the Lions benefitted by the inclusion of Port Melbourne affiliate Mitch Lewis last week, but his availability is yet another unknown among many at Sunbury this year. Captain Daniel Toman and Haydn Ross will ensure the Bloods don't have it all their own way but it's clear they'll be up against it.

Round 17 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Could Sunbury pull off another upset? Will North Ballarat escape their losing streak? And can the Cobras keep their finals hopes alive? 

The equation for the Cobras ahead of their Round 17 meeting with Redan is simple: win and your finals hopes remain alive, all be them slim. Get beat, season over.

Sure, there'll be some dialogue around a premature return of star ruckman Daniel Burton, given the stakes, but if they're fair dinkum, waiting another week to face recent giant killer Sunbury may well be the best option.

The Redan Lions aren't the strongest team this year in the ruck, indicating recent addition Spencer Meagher is more than capable of filling the void for another week. The 19-year-old is combative and will prove a handful for 18-year-old opponent Nick Cushing.

The rucks won't determine the result, which I'm sure of as the focus shifts to more pointed areas. The forwards for starters - can Cobras trio Aaron Willetts (26 goals), Rex Hickman (18 goals)and Joel Freeman (15 goals) have their way against a defence that ranks 8th in the comp? They have to be some chance but rest assured the challenges that will come at the other end loom equally as large.

Lions' sharpshooter Izaac Grant (34 goals) and mid/forward Lachie George (23 goals) are the obvious pair Cobras coach Tom German will need to put time into. There's no Jake Owen (concussion) to save the day. Jack Williams and company down back will be asked questions about their ability to restrict the Lions to an inferior score. Despite the Cobras' 10-point loss to the Devils last week, they did concede 106 points for the game, including 31 scoring shots.

So, a tightened backline for the Cobras and a determined midfield cutting supply will be paramount for their chances. Little motivation should be required for the Cobras, for a season on the line is enough.

For Jarrett Giampaolo and his boys, a fourth win in the east beckons in another throw at the stumps game. While they can't make the six, they can most certainly shape it.  

Expect Melton to bring their A-game when they meet flag contenders East Point at Eastern Oval. Luke Heeney and Blake Souter are likely to return to bolster the Bloods stocks and have them near injury free, and ready to launch in the penultimate round of the Home & Away season. Bloods coach Aaron Tymms conceded last week his boys were below their best off the bye for a second time, leaving the door of hope slightly ajar for the daring and willing. And that's what will be asked of Jake Bridges' Kangas on their home deck for their fate is not yet known given their Round 18 bye.

I've no doubt the Kangas' best is good enough but their inability to contain opposition scores has the wider competition questioning whether it can stand up ahead of another finals campaign. A footy audit awaits Bridges' boys and the response will generate a majority of the focus on rival finals contenders. A loss for East Point could see them finish as low as fifth come 5pm August 20 as teams below fight feverishly for a top three finish.

The onus determining the Kangas' chances lies heavily in the performance of their top-end talent. On the flip side, as has been the case against most - the Bloods are not so dependent. In fact, their best three or four players could have a low day and they're still capable of getting the job done. They rank one for defence (55pts AGST avg per game) and one for offence (103 pts for avg per game) and are certain to test the Kangas. While Bridges' boys rank two in offence (91pts FOR pg) their defence rank 9th (79 pts AGST per game). The numbers, weather permitting suggest the Bloods by six goals.

Speaking of danger games, there's no more obvious one than here. Surely Ballarat's 'come from behind' history can't stand up for another month as a free-running Sunbury lob at Alfredton Oval aiming to throw a cat amongst the pigeons.

Travis Hodgson's Lions should be brimming with confidence after their amazing 15-point win over flag favourites Melton. The Lions' best is clearly good enough and would have the Swans worried especially now they have nothing to play for. I'll repeat the earlier adage - while Sunbury are done in a race for a top six position, they can most certainly play a role in shaping it. The Swans have two tough games to finish off - the Lions and later Sebastopol. It's fair to say they're no good things in either given their pattern of play despite a 10-4 season.

If the Lions have VFL affiliates Mitch Lewis, Josh Guthrie and Jack Sutton available, this game looms as a flip of the coin.

The two sides contrasting fortunes are spelled out in the results. Sunbury has lost seven games by 21 points or less, while the Swans have managed to win as many games trailing at halftime, not to mention six of those by seven points or less. It's ridiculous! But in fairness to Joe Carmody's Swans,  good sides find a way to win and their good players are getting it done. How the Swans in form midfield led by Captain Sammy James and young gun Will Liston cope with the experience and growth of the Lions will tell its own story come the final siren.

Both sides have multiple avenues to goal and while the game is not expected to be high scoring given the nature of results at Alfredton Oval, it may take only one to get off the hook and prove the difference.

A win on the road for Sunbury would deliver them kudos and a fifth win of the season while the Swans aim for an all-important top two/three finish. Despite the two team's separation on the ladder, a win for Sunbury would not surprise unless, in fact, they celebrated last week as if it were their Grand Final.   

North Ballarat have the ideal opportunity to end a three-game losing streak at Mars Stadium when they take on Melton South.

Brendan McCartney's boys need to put this game to bed early and strip the visitors of their will, fresh off the bye. The Panthers have shown they can be competitive in games especially early on, so don't expect North to be rolling out the welcome mat.

Panthers coach Heath Pritchard went on the record voicing his respect for North Ballarat and was actually one of a few to tip them to beat the then-undefeated Bloods back in Round 13. No doubt Pritchard will be hoping North are a little flat on the back of recent losses and leave the door slightly ajar for a sniff of an unlikely upset.

It's difficult to forecast anything that will resemble an upset as McCartney's boys go to work, executing their learnings over the last month. Their season depends on it.

Expect Jack Riding (30 goals), Josh Chatfield (if plays) and Jamie Quick (28 goals) to prove a handful and combine for double-figure goals. Just how the Panthers can impact at the other end minus Dylan Conway (retired) and mount a big enough score is an obvious conundrum facing the visitors. I do believe in miracles, just not for this game. North Ballarat simply have too much more to play for.

A win for Sebastopol could see them shoot as high as second place on the BFNL ladder come 5pm Saturday night. And what an achievement that would be given the wretched run of injury to key players they've had to endure.

Put simply, the Burras' destiny lies in their own hands ahead of the penultimate round of the season. Just bank the points and show enough to acquire some needy percentage before an all-out assault against the Swans at Marty Busch next week to determine (likely) a top three finish. But one step at a time.

Let's not forget the Lakers managed to post their second highest score of the season last week against the might of East Point. With that scoreboard bonus despite the loss, I'm sure Jack Fitzpatrick's boys will have derived a lot of confidence in what's been a long season for the club. Again, there's no pressure on the Lakers to deliver given their season - it is all on Sebastopol.

Given the names among the Burras' list, I am surprised they rank just sixth for offence, boasting a modest 71 points per game. Weather permitting, it would be encouraging for Burras coach Michael Searl to earn the game on their own terms and see them go to work. On occasions this year, their ball movement has looked stifled. I don't know how much that comes down to opposition pressure but I'm tipping their execution of the fundamentals has been in part to blame.

On paper, the Burras are capable of booting a ton on any given day, against any opposition, having been successful against East Point and Melton South (both away). But can they do it home with a double chance on the table in front of their 'dare to dream' faithful? The Burras' defence led by Tony Lockyer is a pillar of strength, only Melton has better numbers. It's the forwards turn without Luke Kiel to get it right - and look out if they do

Lakers forward Callum McKay will be up and about after a five-goal haul last week and will give the Burras something to think about. Joel O'Connell, Scotty Carlin and Jacob Coxall will ensure, whatever happens, the Burras will have been made to earn it whatever the outcome.

Round 18 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

The finalists are set in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp, but there might be a few moves around the ladder to play out this weekend.

Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat will test the self-belief of an improving Dan Jordan-led Darley who have secured a remarkable return to finals off a winless 2021. Given both sides have locked in a prized finals berth already, it will be interesting to see what version of themselves is represented. I've no doubt both sides will be as strong as they can be on the selection front and keen to impact early. Darley should be especially, given North Ballarat have just monstered them at the contest, with and without the ball in recent times.

The addition of Josh Chatfield this week and for the remainder of the North Ballarat finals campaign is a timely boost given they've only had one win from their last four home and away games. Admittedly their opposition was solid, namely East Point, Ballarat and Sebastopol. McCartney will be keen to improve on the learnings of recent weeks and get hold of a Darley group fresh off the bye. I've no doubt the former Western Bulldogs coach will want this game put to bed early, to enable freedoms of his own volition later in the game.

Who knows what the Devils want to take out from this game? Proving they can match the physicality of North and execute under their trademark pressure remain unknowns and potential areas of growth. Needless to add an extra avenue to goal for the Devils aside from Nick Rodda (55 goals) would be a bonus given the returns of dangerous North trio Jack Riding (34 goals), Jamie Quick (34) and Josh Chatfield (10 from 5 games).
Both sides can prepare knowing the result is not the be-all and end-all. For footy fans, it's another opportunity to see Cam McCallum ply his craft in the ruck, as he aims to provide first use for the likes of Chatfield, Riley Polkinghorne and Tim Spiers. That midfield grouping vs the Devils' Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt (available?) and Luther Baker will be worth the entry ticket alone.

While a win no doubt satisfies the confidence levels ahead of finals, I'm not sure the losers will lose too much sleep unless there is domination and or injury to process.

Six of North Ballarat's eight-win seasons have come at Mars Stadium. Winning away from home remains a work in progress for the 2021 Minor Premiers. Darley is 4-3 this year at home.

Scenarios:If Darley wins they finish 4th and will face East Point in an Elimination Final. If the Devils lose they finish 6th and meet the loser of Sebastopol vs Ballarat in an Elimination Final. If North Ballarat wins they finish 5th and meet East Point in an Elimination Final. If North Ballarat lose they finish 6th and meet the loser of Sebastopol v Ballarat in an Elimination Final.

I'm not sure how to assess the drawings of this top vs bottom clash in the final round of the home and away season. One piece of information that is not circumstantial is that both coaches will lead their respective clubs again in 2023 which must be reassuring for both parties.

Melton will win, but what is there to gain other than an opportunity for the ladder-leading Bloods to brush up on their touch, and share the ball around a bit replicating the trademarks of a near-faultless season? Bloods Coach Aaron Tymms will be hoping Ryan Carter and Daniel O'Leary return, avoiding a potential 21-day break ahead of next week's Qualifying Final against either Ballarat or Sebastopol. I've no doubt the Bloods faithful will have their fingers crossed hoping to get through this game unscathed.

And that essentially is likely to carry more weight than the margin.

For the Lakers, what a way to measure the levels of organic growth from such a young group under the tutelage of Jack Fitzpatrick. All the former Hawthorn and Melbourne player can ask of his boys is one concerted effort for the road. While the Lakers are facing a 15th straight loss the message from Fitzpatrick, before anything else, will remain the same - be better for longer. I know it's a popular phrase for clubs seeking evidence of improvement but it doesn't apply to any one team in the BFNL this year more than the one-win Lakers.

Just whether they can execute and deliver on such a request against the yardstick of the competition looms arguably their greatest challenge of the season despite the 'dead rubber' nature of the meet.

The five winning teams from last week posted scores beyond 100 and you would be within reason to predict (weather permitting) the Bloods will surpass that figure again.

*For the record, it would be the 10th occasion this year the Bloods have achieved this feat. In the most recent East Point Premiership years the Kangas broke the 100 mark nine times in 2018 and just five times in 2019.

Locks:Melton - Minor Premiers, Lakers - Wooden Spooners

Expect Redan to finish their season on a high with a fourth win on the trot when they meet the struggling Panthers at City Oval.

Full credit to Lions coach Jarrett Giampaolo and his progressive group, recording a fourth win in as many attempts in the east last week with an old-fashioned 92-point thumping of Bacchus Marsh. The Lions are unbeaten since July 16, and see no reason for any stall in momentum, albeit one round to go. Gee, the Lions would be lamenting their opening round loss to Lake Wendouree given their very watchable style of play on a number of occasions since. Including wins over the top six teams Sebastopol, North Ballarat and Darley.

Clearly, the Lions' best is good enough to match it with any team for large periods. There is enough evidence to suggest Melton South will have their work cut out matching the spread and run of the Lions. If Giampaolo can get his boys up for one final assault, expect this game to really open up late. If Cooper Craig-Peters plays, the Lions look set for a day out.

For the Panthers, one more big effort, pride in the jumper performance will be asked from coach Heath Pritchard. Whether his fatiguing young group has enough fuel left to deliver on such a request remains to be seen. Unfortunately for the visitors, a three-win season finish appears likely, having not won a game since Round Nine.

Scenarios:If Redan wins, they finish 7th. If they lose, the Redan Lions can fall to 8th only if Bacchus Marsh wins.

Lock:Panthers finish 10th.

The second spot and a guaranteed double chance await the winner in this highly anticipated match between the 'Burras and the 'Swans. Both sides boast super form heading in, paving the way for a nail-biting finish similar to their earlier meet in Round 9. Sebastopol has won their last five games on the trot and will be as strong as ever to give this battle for 2nd an almighty shake. Their opponents Ballarat are not to be sneezed at, having the best home and away record in the competition over their last nine games - the Swans are 8-1.

While Joe Carmody's Swans wins have been unorthodox at times with their come-from-behind nature, the theory was put to bed last week when they put giant-killers Sunbury to the sword with ten goals to four in the opening half. But don't expect to be afforded the same liberties around goal by the 'Burras defence (Comp #3 - averaging 63.5pts against per game). The similarities between the two sides at both ends give every indication we'll need every bit of Saturday afternoon to find a winner.

Comparatively, Ballarat's defence (Comp #4 -averaging 67.5pts against per game) and offence (Comp #7 - averaging 72.5pts for per game) rate just shy of Sebastopol (offence Comp #6 - averaging 74.5pts for per game). So the numbers and a home-ground advantage are enough to sway me in favour of the 'Burras as they welcome the return of Luke Kiel from suspension. Coincidentally Kiel missed their Round 9 clash on June 18 along with Lachie Cassidy and Riley O'Keefe.

Swans forward Andrew Hooper remains 'Burras coach Michael Searl greatest concern given his seven-goal haul last week and matchwinning five-goal effort in their earlier meet.

Let's hope the weather permits both sides to present the best versions of themselves in what looms as the ultimate preview of things to come ahead of a mouth-watering BFNL finals series.

Scenarios:Winner finishes 2nd and plays Melton in Qualifying Final. Loser finishes third and meets loser of Darley v North Ballarat in an Elimination Final. 

Expect Sunbury to expose Bacchus Marsh with their run and carry on the bigger Clarke Oval, reversing the Round 9 disaster of their earlier meet.

Despite losing last week and just four wins to their name in 2022, all is not lost at Sunbury. A win over flag favourites Melton on this very ground just a fortnight ago is an indication that Travis Hodgson's men are heading in the right direction. Not only have they improved with their organic growth in the second half of the season, but they're also simply playing better footy, period. I'm sure the hierarchy at the Lions would agree their ball use has been their achilles heel, for the most part, losing seven games by 21 points or less. And today, despite the Cobras' superior record over them in 2022, I have the Lions earmarked clear favourites. You just need to look at the last five weeks in isolation to tip the scales in favour of the home side. Since Round 12, Sunbury are 3 (wins) - 2 (losses) with a healthy percentage of 125%, average 90 points FOR per game and 72 points AGST. The Cobras for the same period however are 1-4, with a poor percentage (69%), averaging 62 points FOR and 90 points AGST.

Similar to 2021, the Lions are just getting warm late in an otherwise disappointing season on the win/loss front given their draw and levels of expectation. A home win will surely spark the mood ahead of Mad Monday - albeit a premature one for the proud club.

The Cobras welcome back inspirational leader Jake Owen (concussion) for this bragging rights clash against former coach Travis Hodgson's Lions. The only way I can see the Cobras getting it done is on the back of a day out from their midfielders and a bag of goals (shared is ok) from Aaron Willetts, Rex Hickman and Joel Freeman (available?). Conditions should suit gun runner Michael Culliver down to the ground but I'm not certain there's enough run and carry weapons amid the group likely to be without Harry King (hamstring).            

Scenarios:Cobras (likely) finish 8th. Can move up to 7th only if they win and Redan lose.

Lock:Sunbury finish 9th.

Scenarios:Kangas finish 4th if North Ballarat defeat Darley setting up an Elimination Final with North Ballarat next week. 

There was plenty of intrigue heading into Round 1 of the season and Scoop was there to have a look at how the weekend played out.

Darley will be 'better for the run', having taken the best part of three quarters to shrug a determined Ballarat in trying conditions at Alfredton Oval to win by 40 points.

While the Devils won 'going away' in the end, there was very little separating the two sides for the most part. The visitor’s greater efficiency inside forward 50 combined with some cream rising to the top when it counted most, proved the catalyst.

Former Devils’ captain and dual club best and fairest winner, Shane Page, made it an eighth appearance in the best players from his last nine season openers.

Reigning Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley kicked two much needed second-half goals to maintain separation for the Devils on the scoreboard.

New recruit Matt Denham also showed a touch of class in the third quarter to outsmart his opponent for arguably goal of the day.

For the Swans, midfielders Will Liston and Paddy Simpson had plenty of the ball and were the beneficiaries of Marcus Powling's solid ruckwork. Debutant Wyatt Squires impressed and looked right at home at the level.

Honours however belong with the Devils as the Swans were made to pay the price for wasting their opportunities.

The result ends a 1330 day winning drought for the Devils over the Swans with Darley last tasting victory in the matchup back in Round 18 2019.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Shane Page (Darley)- 28 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 18 contested possessions

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 9 inside 50s

William Liston (Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 9 tackles, 13 clearances

COACHES' VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat);"We competed well in the opening three quarters and if we had converted our opportunities we would have applied more scoreboard pressure. As the rain increased Darley's bigger, stronger bodies had more influence. Our young team will gain a lot from the experience."

Dan Jordan (Darley);"Pleasing to kick the season off with a win, I thought it was a bit of an arm wrestle in the first half but we took the ascendency the longer the game went and adjusted to trying conditions well."

Remember Melton? Well, they're back with a bang in 2023, totally dismantling inexperienced cross-town rivals Melton South by a whopping 161 points.

The writing was on the wall early as the reigning Premiers recorded a blistering 55 to zero opening term to virtually put the game to bed.

New Panthers coaching duo Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy would have been wondering what to make of their not so warm welcome to the BFNL. And just when you thought half-time would be an ideal time for a Panthers reset, any intentions were hijacked by the ruthless Bloods with a dominant 11.10 third term.

Bloods’ coach Aaron Tymms would be rapt with the shared nature of the win with 11 individual goalkickers. Deciding on the best players after such an emphatic display would not have been easy before settling on anyone’s name beginning with the letter 'L' or 'J'. Lachlan Walker, Lachlan Watkins, Liam Carter, Jonathan O'Brien, Jack Walker and Jordan Kight all featured.

For the Panthers, new Captain Cody Chapman, recruit Phil Hoyland and progressive youngsters Jarrod Bibby and Rhys Lee never gave up the fight. Sixteen-year-old small Lachie Pritchard debuted for the

Panthers reaching double figure disposals on a day that will be remembered more for yet another mismatch in the Melton derby. The Panthers have not beaten the Bloods since 2017.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

 Jack Walker (Melton) - 42 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 33 disposals, 13 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 10 tackles

COACHES' VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton);"It was a solid day out. We were able to implement some tweaks to our game style which started to work well. It was pleasing to see some of the newer and less experienced players come in and play their roles well, complementing our core from last year."

Jason Hamilton / Ryan Hoy (Melton South);"Melton are a supreme team in the competition. Our young boys tried hard but their more seasoned and bigger bodies were too much for us to contain. But with the experience we gain learnings, dust ourselves off and prepare to again next week." 

Flag spruik Sebastopol showed little mercy for a re-building Bacchus Marsh at Marty Busch Reserve with an ominous 121-point win.

Forty-three scoring shots to seven in slippery Ballarat Winter-like conditions tells the story of where the two teams are at. And if not for the 'Burras inaccuracies around goal, the gulf on the scoreboard could easily have been greater.

Similar to Melton, the 'Burra had 12 goalkickers on a day more conducive to lower scores but such was their dominance the second half was a near mirror image of the opener as the home side extended from a 67-9 advantage to 138-17 at the final siren.

It's tough for Cobra fans to absorb the reality that their opening half return of 1.3 exceeded that of their second (1.2). Shattering yes, but not by all means a complete surprise. Sebastopol will certainly get hold of a few teams this year, you can lock that in.

What is encouraging for the Cobras will be getting games into their youth while the recruits continue to deliver on a weekly basis. Newcomers Josh Onderwater, Luke Goetz, Eamonn Oggden and Jake McReery all featured in the best players along with usual suspects, Jake Owen and Tyson Shea.

For the winners you could take your pick from a widespread list of contributors. The 'Burras hierarchy settled on Lachlan Cassidy, Chase Dummett, Bailey Medwell, Jed Hill and you guessed it… Tony Lockyer.

The Cobras have a tough year ahead, that is real but will expect a few back for the local derby on Saturday against Darley. Sebastopol have the bye. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 33 disposals, 14 tackles, 7 clearances

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 33 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 8 rebound 50s

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 67 hitouts, 18 disposals, 7 tackles

COACHES VERDICT

Luke Kiel / Michael Columbro (Sebastopol);"Good solid hit-out, our effort over four quarters was consistent with not many lapses. (We've) still got plenty to work on! Bacchus Marsh played a few kids and are on the right path. Coach (Jason Williams) has them playing team football with a good structure. With a couple more quality players they would be a solid outfit."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh);"Sebastopol's depth was too much for our guys to handle. As the game went on the gap between our best and worst footy widened as much as it did on the scoreboard."

Sunbury came from 20 points down at half-time to overrun a gallant North Ballarat at Clarke Oval.

Thoughts of deja vu must have crept into Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson's head at the main break as he and his entourage aimed to arrest momentum on the scoreboard.

While the deficit was manageable for the Lions, the frustrations of having had the same number of scoring shots were palpable. North Ballarat have been notable 'good starters' under Brendan McCartney - 10-0 for first quarters in 2021 and eight goals or more (to halftime) in their opening three games last year.

This game happened to be the corresponding fixture from Round 1 2022 where North held a 33-point lead at the half. So, the narrative would not have been new for Hodgson as he backed his boys in to respond. And that they did.

Lions’ duo Mitch Lewis and Josh Guthrie led the charge through the midfield while the ever consistent Tyson Lever was typically influential. With goals coming at a premium, it was ageless Lions forward Leigh Brennan who again delivered with two much needed goals. Former Essendon AFL listed 195cm recruit Cody Brand kicked one goal, along with four behinds.

North Ballarat can hold their heads high and won't be the last team to have their colours lowered by the Lions at Clarke Oval this season.

Harry Loader continues to provide for McCartney across half back and is now crucial to the set-up of the Lions defence following the departure of Ryan Hobbs in the off-season.

Jamie Quick (two goals) always looks dangerous around goal while Brock Leonard, Nelson Troon and Clay Jenkins were solid.

North Ballarat played the weekend absent of Sam Glover, Tom Hotchin, Jack Riding, Riley Polkinghorme and Joey Symonds from their best 22. Jake Sutton remained on Essendon VFL duties for the Lions while Nick Hannet and James Cree both missed through injury.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

 Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 44 disposals, 9 tackles, 13 clearances

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 27 disposals, 7 intercept possessions, 6 rebound 50s

Harry Loader (North Ballarat) - 21 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 5 intercept possessions

COACHES VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury);"It was a good game of footy, both teams had chances to win. I thought we had control of the game between the arcs for most of the game but North Ballarat were very good at both ends inside Forward 50 and Defensive 50. Great for the club to kick off the season with three footy wins."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat); It was a great game of footy. Sunbury took control around the ball in the second half. Good learnings, either team could have won. Looking forward to next week (Redan)."

With flags unveiled and wins under lights, there was plenty of action to come out of the Round 1 football results.

Scoop reviews the weekend that was.

New Cobras coach Dennis Armfield remained upbeat despite his sides 16-point loss to Chris Maple's much improved Swans.

The Red Yellow and Black army were in this game up to their eyeballs on their home deck before a late rally from the Swans saw them steady late and go onto to register an all-important win on the road.

There was less than a goal separating the two sides at every change to have the Cobras and Swans faithful on the edge of their seats.

Both sides had many contributors, but it was the genuine pace of the Swans that hurt the Cobras’ wishes of having the game played on their own terms.

If not for the Swans butchering the ball on repeat occasions with their entry kick inside 50, the margin could well have been greater given the visiting Swans had 30 shots on goal.

Scores were level for a moment in the final term locked at 69 apiece as supporters from both camps were forced to contemplate the thought of a draw. But it wasn’t to be as Maples’ young Swans came up with the goods.   

Progressive youngster Paddy Simpson was named best for the Swans while Will Lalor got the nod for the Cobras.

The Swans return home this week against Redan for a chance to make it a 2-0 start to their season. The Cobras on the other hand will be looking to bounce back with a must win on the road over fellow round one losers Lake Wendouree.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh):"Close game all day, (we) were hurt on turnover (and) slow to react. They were predictable to one another and were able to find the quick free option. We had a patch where I thought we may kick away but to Ballarat's credit, they turned it and ran away in the end. Plenty to like but some key areas to improve."

Chris Maple (Ballarat);"It was a very close contest all day, (and) pleasing for guys to finish off the game well - just reward for a big pre-season. The Marsh were strong in the contest, our field and goal kicking let us down. Still plenty to work on in all phases of the game."

Sebastopol essentially did what they had to do on their way to an 80-point win over Lake Wendouree at Marty Busch Reserve.

Popular Burras utility Luke Kiel headed a list of nine contributors on the major front finishing with four goals after making a safe return from a leg issue.

While there were no real great surprises to come out of the game, new Burra coach Tony Lockyer ensured his boys were ready for their next footy audit with a Round 2 clash against their nemesis Melton, a side they haven't beaten since the 2019 Preliminary Final.

As for the morale boosting win over the Lakers, KIel was named among the best alongside familiar names Riley O'Keefe, Jack Bambury and Jed Hill. Newcomer Ruckman Rhys McNay was named best.

For the Lakers under new coach Rohan Brown promising youngsters Bailey Ryan, Bailey Thompson (3 goals) and Timmy Collins featured prominently as they did a number of times last year.

In fact, Thompson was the Lakers leading goalkicker in 2023 averaging more than a goal per game.

The Lakers are at home this Saturday and will look to catch Bacchus Marsh on the hop after they fell short of Ballarat in an entertaining season opener.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol):"Pleased to see the boys get some reward for their dedication over pre-season with a solid performance. Credit to Lakers who had some great patches through the second and third quarters. (We) review our learnings and move onto Melton next week."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree): "(I) thought we played some very good football for patches of the game especially (in) the third quarter. (We were) beaten by a very fast and well drilled side. We review, recover and look forward to another challenge this week v Bacchus Marsh."

Any thoughts of East Point taking it up to the reigning premier and ending a horror run of outs at Darley Park were put to bed early when Dan Jordan's men ran riot in the opening half booting 11 goals to none. Game over.

The Kangas were simply a mile off despite arriving with an encouraging list buoyed with the inclusions of a few Rebels boys and the return of Mickitja Rottumah-Onus to bolster top end stocks alongside proven x-factor talent led by the Johnston boys.

But not even Matty and Jordy could get a sniff of the action as the competition’s best player, and reigning dual Henderson Medalist, Brett Bewley put on a clinic with three first half goals to aid the separation on the scoreboard.

Livewire Darley forwards Will Johnson (four goals) and Brady Wright (three goals) were the inherent beneficiaries of a dominant midfield group that includes Bewley, Luther Baker and Adam Azzopardi who was named best afield.

Utility Billy Myers made it 17 wins from as many starts for the Devils since his return at the beginning of the 2023 season.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley): "Solid performance from our group. (We) executed our plan from the outset. Good to see some of the things we've been working on over the pre-season to show some benefit. Still plenty to work on as we build into the new season.

Joe Carmody/Jackson Merrett (East Point): "Taking nothing away from Darley, our boys didn't turn up today to play. (We) were comprehensively beaten across the ground in the first half in all facets of the game. Pleasing to see somewhat of a response after half time and our system started to come through in what we displayed."

It was all one-way traffic at Melton Rec Reserve as the Bloods, under new Coach Troy Scoble, made it 11 local derby wins in a row over the struggling Panthers.

The 188-point drubbing was not too dissimilar to the 214-point margin that separated the two in their Round 13 meeting at the same venue last year.

Anyway, enough of the record-breaking numbers, and time to acknowledge some individual effort.

Bloods’ playmaker Braedyn Kight finished with a game high seven goals to feature prominently among the better players alongside Kyle Borg and Ryan Davis who each booted four.

Mobile key forward Liam Carter kicked five goals before he was injured and taken from the ground and is in doubt for next week’s big game against Sebastopol.

Riley and Lachlan Walker were also prominent for the Bloods while Jaycob Hickey wasted little time getting his hands on the footy following his off season return from Diggers Rest.

For the ailing Panthers, big man Brodie Collins was solid and the efforts of newcomer Patrick Veszpremi validated but there is still plenty of work to be done at Melton South.

Another chance presents for Hodgson this week when they prepare to meet his old team Sunbury.

Good luck!

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Melton South):"(Our) first quarter was the positive of the day. We looked how we want to look and were in touch against a side that's going to be in the finish this year. (For the remainder) we went away from what we need to be doing and Melton took control - the final margin was reflective of that. Although clearly worlds apart, (I) would've liked to have gotten within 20 goals - so disappointing overall."

Troy Scoble (Melton):"The game was very competitive for the first 10-15 minutes as expected for any Round 1 clash. Once we were able to settle, we were able to be really consistent in all three phases of the game. Today was certainly a step in the right direction with players beginning to have more belief in our system."

Sunbury were deserving winners over a very young Redan side to the tune of 25 points at City Oval kickstarting new coach Matty White's tenure in fine style.

The Sunbury Lions led at every change and increased their advantage accordingly to lead by 4, 13 and 25 points before a stalemate of sorts prevailed on tiring legs in the last quarter that saw the margin settle on 25 at the final siren - an accurate reflection of where the two teams are at.

Jake Sutton booted five goals for the winners and Pat Scanlon three while evergreen Redan forward Grant Bell finished with a team high four goals, ahead of talented left footer Marty Boyer (two goals).

Sunbury midfielders Mitch Lewis and Josh Guthrie had the ball on a string and accumulated at will to be arguably the highest possession winners on the ground.

Sunbury will look to make it 2-0 when they host Melton South this week. Redan meet Round 1 winners Ballarat. 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"I thought we had some periods of play where we controlled the game. However, crucial turnovers and discipline cost us in the end!

Matt White (Sunbury):"Really good performance by the boys. Take nothing away from Redan, they challenged us all day. We were able to win the Bottle Shottle in the end.

The top of the table is tighter than ever after a number of enthralling results over the weekend.

Scoop reviews all the big games from Round 10.

North Ballarat head into their Round 11 bye as the form team of the competition following a fifth straight win, after defeating Lake Wendouree at the weekend.

Brendan McCartney’s men have stormed into third placing on the BFNL ladder, just one game shy of ladder leaders Melton.

The impressive Roosters have won 18 of their last 20 quarters, averaging 122 points per game during this period, including wins over Sebastopol (2nd) and Darley (4th) whilst conceding less than 39 points per game.

It's an ominous warning for the broader competition as North Ballarat boast one of the more heathier lists at the halfway mark.

The thought of Jamie Quick (Geelong VFL), Josh Chatfield (Footscray VFL), Jack Riding (Werribee VFL), Stewart Crameri and Tom Hotchin potentially forward on any given day rings alarm bells that McCartney's boys are on the cusp.

Throw Riley Polkinghorne, Cam McCullum, Simon McCartin, the Loader boys, Isaac Lovison, progressive youngsters Nelson Troon, Joshua Sparkman and returning Ryan Hobbs in for measure and you've a bona fide flag contender.

Apologies to the handful not mentioned, for they would walk into most other teams.

This Round 10 meet was over at half time as the inform Roosters led by 55 points. Credit to the Lakers for minimising the damage after half-time restricting the visitors to six second half goals while posting four of their own.

Nelson Troon was named best for the winners ahead of Jack Riding and Riley Polkinghorne. The Lakers gave Captain Joel O'Connell the nod ahead of Bayley Thompson (two goals) and bonus new recruit Felix Fogarty.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat): 28 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 tackles

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 37 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 score involements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree): 27 disposals, 17 rebound 50s, 10 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"We were keen to match 'North' in the contest and felt we did a pretty good job for most of the game. They got us on the outside for a while in the second quarter, but we felt we fought it out pretty well after the break."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"Lakers were very honest and kept at us all day. Good result for us after five good weeks of footy. Players and staff have done a great job maintaining high standards of performance. Ready for a week off (now)."

The Cobras’ two game winning streak came to an abrupt end going down to finals contender East Point by 43 points at the weekend.

Despite a goalless second term the spritely Kangas assumed control with 11 goals to five after half time to consolidate their position inside the top six, percentage shy of fifth placed Sunbury on five wins.

It felt inevitable, dangerous duo Kangas Bryce McDougall (three goals) and Brad Whittacker (four goals) were always going to have a lasting impact at some stage and they didn't let playing coach Jackson Merrett down.

Star playmaker Jordy Johnston and busy small Joe Dodd were the driving force behind the Kangas 'shifting of the gears' after half time, equating to some much-deserved separation on the scoreboard at games end.

While the four premiership points on the road were invaluable for the Kangas, life at Cobra land continues in the learning phase for an otherwise inexperienced group.

The home side were well served by the top end talent of Luke Goetz, Jake McCreery and Tyson Shea. Youngster Bryce Kerney did his job forward of centre to finish with three goals. Cobras co-captain Jack Parente and speedster Ashton Craig continued their recent block of good form despite the loss.

Next up post the interleague weekend, both sides are on the road. The Cobras are off to Ballarat while East Point make the trek to for an all-important meeting with Sunbury.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joe Dodd (East Point): 39 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 34 disposals, 11 inside 50s, 10 marks

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh): 35 disposals, 12 tackles, 12 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Our boys started slowly and were unable to retain the footy but were better in the second quarter holding East Point goalless. Unfortunately, we were expecting too much from too few after half time. Credit to East Point they were pretty good inside the contest and equally as good on the outside."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"After a disappointing first half, our resolve to come out with a couple soldiers down was really pleasing. We had the game on our terms after half time and go into the bye happy with how our young fellas are going."

Reigning premiers Melton were merciless off their 21-day break dishing out a 121-point thrashing of Ballarat on MacPherson Park.

The Bloods piled on 12 goals in the first half and 10 in the second to finish with seven multiple goal scorers on a day that welcomed back Jack Walker, Lachie Watkins and, for their first games, key big man Brenton Payne (four goals) and North Melbourne VFL listed star Jack Watkins.

Leading forward Ryan Carter matched Payne to share a game high four goal return while Ryan Davis, Luke Heeney and Braedyn Kight finished with three.

While it's unlikely Aaron Tymms' group will see much of Payne or Watkins moving forward it gave us enough sample size of what to expect in the event of a reoccurrence.

The Bloods were able to get it done without Liam Carter (calf), Brett McIntyre (foot), Brady Rowles (bursitis) and Adrian Monitto.

On the flipside, Swans’ coach Chris Maple made no excuse for the failings of his young group's footy audit. While they were never expected to win, a showing of much greater resistance would've been the minimum.

The day was dominated by the maroon and white with a genuine team effort. For the visitors however, impactful contributions were slim.

Marcus Powling, Ben Wardley. Zach Maple and Andrew Hooper (two goals) had ‘pride in the jumper performances’ on an otherwise "disappointing day" for the Swans.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 36 disposals, 13 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Jack Watkins (Melton): 40 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 9 clearances

William Liston (Ballarat): 35 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "Happy with the result but more pleased with how sharp we were executing our game plan in trying conditions. A real solid effort across the board for us."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"A very disappointing day for our club. Melton played an exceptional brand of football and outplayed us in all facets of the game. Young teams have highs (last week) and lows (this week). The gap needs to reduce considerably."

Darley have slipped to fourth place on the BFNL table after Redan pulled off a remarkable 18-point victory over the Devils.

The highly anticipated return to Darley Park ended in a 'fizzer' for Dan Jordan's men, culminating in a second straight loss.

The Devils had few winners on the ground, winning just one quarter for the match resembling a shell of the team that went 7-0 to start the season.

For the record, since the Melton game in Round 8, Darley has won just one of eight quarters. You can theorise reason all you like, but the reality is the Devils are simply not coping without key personnel.

Nonetheless, Redan weren't shy on a number of absentees of their own with Saturday's outcome to tell a story of depth comparison between the two clubs.

All honours with Redan seizing the moment. Their ability to outwork and outnumber the Devils both inside the contest and out was a recurring theme for the afternoon.

As a result, the Lions were cleaner extracting from stoppage, allowing more effective ball movement on the outside, placing the once ladder leaders on the back foot.

The Lions had many winners on the day, arguably seven of the best 10 players on the ground.

The hierarchy at Redan settled on Izaac Grant, Jacob Short, Jacob Werts and Declan Phillps as the pick of a genuine team effort boasting nine individual goal kickers.

For the Devils, Brett Bewley, Riley Matricardi (two goals) and Will Johnston (four goals) were the standouts on their return home. More broadly however, for the second game in a row, the Devils’ skill level hovers in the 'poor' region.

While Redan couldn't break back into the six with the win, they remain in touch and should not fear anyone moving forward with Lachie George, Liam Hoy and Lachie McLean yet to return. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Short (Redan): 24 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions

Izaac Grant (Redan): 23 disposals, 9 contested possessions, 6 score involements

Brett Bewley (Darley): 42 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 15 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Craig Baker (Darley Football Manager):"Our skills have been poor over the last fortnight. Our inability to find a target though the middle of the ground cost us. We got within a goal in the third (quarter), but they were always able to reply. Redan have some really good young talent and thoroughly deserved the win."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"We competed really well for four quarters and really pleased with our spread of goalkickers and our our ability to respond when the Devils were able to kick a goal. (We) understand the Devils had a few out but Lachie George, Liam Hoy, Lachie McLean etc will make us better."

Sebastopol shrugged off an undermanned Sunbury in the second half to win well by 27 points at Marty Busch Reserve.

In fairness to the Burra an untimely wedding saw them a handful shy of their best 22, while the visitors misfortunes were put down to injury with up to six or seven missing.

Burras quartet Tony Lockyer, James Keeble, Ryan Noether and Grady Snowden all missed, but the outs for Sunbury proved too much to overcome.

Absentees for the Lions included Mitch Lewis, Tyson Lever, Nick Hannett, James Cree, Nathan Wood, Joel Muir, Leigh Brennan, Rivva Karpany and Lachie Urban. Anyway, enough of the 'have nots'.

Sunbury started well into the breeze to be within three points at quarter time but failed to flatter with it, trailing even further, albeit just 11 points at half-time.

You can't take anything for granted against the frugal natured Burra defence, even without some key personal, and didn't they respond for coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro.

The Burra extended the advantage to 35 points at the final change and would ask too much of the Lions list to overcome. Travis Hodgson's men were 'ok' adding three final quarter goals but conceded two in the process. Game over. Harry Minton-Connell was named best for the losing team ahead of Jake Egan and Cody Brand.

For the winners, Toby Hutt (three goals), Riley O'Keefe and Jack Bambury took individual honours while on the goal front Hugo Papst, Liam Latch and Adam Forbes aided scoreboard separation with two goals each.

Both sides face top six opposition in Round 11 - Sebastopol are on the road to Darley (4th) and Sunbury hosts East Point (6th).   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 53 hitouts, 18 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Liam Latch (Sebastopol): 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 pressure acts

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 34 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Took us 15 minutes to find our feet. We thought both teams played their best footy into the breeze in the first half. We were able to get on top after quarter time but failed to capitilise on our scoring shots."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Thought we started well against the wind, leading at quarter time and played our way for big patches of the game. Our opportunity to stamp some authority would have been the second quarter to the scoring end but we were substantially outplayed. The better side won and won well."

BFNL football action returned following a successful Interleague weekend to start July.

The confidence drawn from the BFNL's Under 23 Interleague win over the Hampden League saw no less than 10 players of a possible 20 (North Ballarat bye) feature in their club's best players at the weekend.

Well done young guns!

Ballarat assumed bragging rights over Bacchus Marsh as the unofficial eighth ranked team in the competition with a four quarter, 41-point win at Alfredton Oval.

Following a tight opening term, the Swans booted nine goals to three asserting the authority, on their way to a fourth win of the season.

Given the age profile of Chris Maple's young group they're arguably one game ahead of forecasting, given their upset win over Sunbury in Round 9.

The Swans have now won three of their last four games as another example of the 'footy audit' presents this week against third placed North Ballarat.

Trying conditions prevailed for the games entirety but couldn't deny Swans midfielder Will Liston a lasting impact with best on ground honours ahead of more experienced trio Will Garner, Keegan Mellington and the returning Daniel Kennedy.

Zak Maple and Wyatt Squires delivered on their roles while sharpshooter Andrew Hooper finished with three goals.

For the Cobras, the disappointment was palpable. Coach Jason Williams, and not for the first time, touched on a recurring theme of relying on too few for too much.

No surprise to see usual suspects Jake Owen (three goals), Jake McCreery and Tyson Shea land in the bests on a tough day at the office for the red, yellow and black.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

William Liston (Ballarat): 42 disposals, 14 tackles, 7 score involvements

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 32 disposals, 14 tackles, 8 score involvements

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 69 hitouts, 22 disposals, 9 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"A solid performance from our boys. The Marsh applied a lot of pressure throughout the game. A good result in all three grades on a day that means so much for our football club. 4EK🤍

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Tough day in some really tough conditions. Ballarat were more efficient going forward and put a gap on us because of that. Again, a day where we expected too much from too few."

For the second game in a row, the frugal Bloods kept their opposition to just three goals as they marched towards another four-quarter demolition - this time against the Lakers by 75 points.

While the result was considered foregone by many heading in, it does require a power of work getting the job done in true Bloods fashion.

Aaron Tymms' army remain a game clear on top of the table after a full round of matches.

They have the highest percentage (217%) of any and rank #1 in offence and the only team averaging over 100 pts per game (104.4).

The Bloods defence have regained their #1 ranking in the comp conceding just 47.9pts against on average, more than a goal clear of Sebastopol (54) and North Ballarat (54.6).

The title defence is on right on track, near a mirror image on the same time last year.

After 11 rounds in their 2022 Premiership year the Bloods averaged 108.3 pts per game, conceding 56.9 ppg.

While they're down a miserly four points in offence this year they have improved in defence conceding nine less points per game. Only North Ballarat (29.5/40) have won more quarters than the Bloods (29) this year.

The more experienced hosts led by example at the weekend with familiar names Blake Souter, Jordy Kight, Jordy Cotter, Ben Archard, Jack Walker (three goals) and Lachie Watkins featuring in the best.

Whilst the visitors were denied any scoreboard impact the Lakers defence did well denying the Bloods a fifth score of 100 or more for the season.

The form of Tom Zampatti, Felix Fogarty and Flynn Loader is really encouraging for the rebuilding club alongside Bailey Thompson (best), Timmy Collins and Ben Hayes. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Walker (Melton): 34 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 36 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 score involvements

Bailey Ryan (Lake Wendouree): 18 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 7 intercept possessions 

COACHES VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Another solid four quarter effort in trying conditions. Our defence was very solid and pleasing to limit them to five scoring shots for the day."

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"Pretty competitive (game) today. Melton are the benchmark of the competition so a big challenge for us today. Thought we brought a good level of energy and pressure. They were a bit too clean for us overall, but we think we showed some positive signs."

Sunbury showed its true potential with an 80-point thrashing of a disappointing East Point side on Saturday.

With a spot in the top six up for grabs there was little between the two sides at the first break despite the visitors kicking with the aid of a tricky breeze.

But that was all she wrote of the competitive nature that would transpire as the Lions piled on 14 goals to two for the remainder of the match to run out big winners.

The Lions were buoyed with the return of captain Tyson Lever, who was named in the bests, and Mitch Lewis to bolster top end stocks and marks on expectation from a clearly talented group.

Jake Sutton (five goals), Harry Minton-Connell and Cody Brand also featured in the best players, the immediate beneficiaries of confidence building Interleague performances against the Hampden league a week ago.

It was a timely scalp for Travis Hodgson's Lions who cling to fifth place on the BFNL table, by percentage, ahead of a surging Redan.

The loss sees the Kangas now a game outside the six with little time to regroup ahead of a potential season defining game against Redan.

The 80-point loss for the Kangas gives them no guarantees of a return inside the six even in the event of a win over the sixth placed Redan. Needless to add the Kangas percentage copped a real hit, a key variable expected to play a role at the business end.

For the visitors, it was their more experienced soldiers who provided much of the resistance that unfortunately could not equate to impact on the scoreboard.

Cam Lovig, Joe Dodd, Matthew Johnston, Joel Van Meel, Jordan Taylor and up and comer Geordie Slater could hold their heads high on an otherwise forgettable trip to the Clarke Oval for the proud Kangas.       

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 34 disposals, 88% disposal effeciency, 13 score involvements

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 35 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Joe Dodd (East Point):  34 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Very good four quarter performance. I felt we matched East Point at their undoubted strength around stoppage and contested ball and applied good pressure all day."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"Comprehensively beaten in all aspects of the game. Credit to Sunbury, they looked sharp and played the ground very well. We will review some areas of the game and move forward to next week."

NEVER will I expect to write about two players from the one team sharing 34 shots on goal again.

Lions’ young forwards Izaac Grant (10.12) and Marty Boyer (5.7) surely did enough to enter the record books in one way shape or form given the astronomical number of shots on goal alone. It was truly remarkable.

The duo's rare feat usurped the match result at the top, as news of the 151-point margin came as little surprise to many BFNL followers.

Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth conceded the boys "left a few" out there, giving every indication that Grant especially, missed the opportunity outdoing former East Point forward Joel Ottavi's 17-goal haul against the Panthers in Round 10, 2021.

Records aside, Grant's 10.12 return catapults the former Hepburn junior to outright leader in the race for the Tony Locket Medal, one clear of North Ballarat's Jamie Quick on 32 goals.

While Grant and Boyer did the damage on the scoreboard, Rory Gunser, Nathan Dunstan, Cooper Craig-Peters and Jacob Short continued their rich vein of recent form. The Lions have won 10 of their last 12 quarters including games against Darley (2nd) and Sebastopol (4th).

For the Panthers, Mitch Fino flew the flag alongside fellow Under 23 talent, Rhys Lee, Riley Theo, Jarrod Bibby and Ayden Reilly. Captain Cody Chapman went down early with injury.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 33 disposals, 25 score involvements, 14 marks inside 50

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan): 35 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 16 score involvements

Rhys Lee (Melton South): 36 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"(We) played great football in 10 minute patches. Our Under 17 boys stood tall for us today. (It was) hard to contain Izaac Grant."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"(It) was a solid effort with an even contribution from 22 players. Great to see Ziggy Lee debut from our U/19s. (Melton) South played some good footy and it was disappointing to see Chappy go down early."

A revitalised Darley outfit ended a two-game losing streak with an all-important 17-point win over flag fancy Sebastopol.

The Devils welcomed back a handful of 'ins', both old and new, providing Dan Jordan with his first win on Darley Park this season and a return to second place on the BFNL table.

The Burra, who were loaded with 17 of their 2022 Grand Final side (no Tony Lockyer) and a sizeable advantage in the ruck, were unable to reel in the Devils who were never headed after hitting the front midway through the opening term.

Improving Devils forward Will Johnson (five goals) was arguably the difference in the first half, and star mid Brett Bewley in the second.

Billy Myers returned after a month off and was both important and better for the run.

While Riley Matricardi's (two goals) energy and physical presence has proven a bonus for the Devils this year, the continued progress of Matt Denham at his new club following a near three-year break is beginning to raise eyebrows, all for the better.

The Burra did a lot right. Jed Hill (four goals) and James Keeble (three goals) had heart rates racing for both sides. Excitement for the visitors, nervousness for the hosts.

Hill and Keeble's forward craft, cleanliness and ability to keep their feet was a standout in tough windy conditions. That's the second time in as many visits to Darley Park Hill has booted four goals against the Devils.

Burra forward Toby Hutt covered a heap of ground and kept presenting while Bailey Medwell in the middle and defensive duo Luke Kiel and Jack Bambury provided plenty of drive. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 44 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Will Johnson (Darley): 16 disposals, 8 score involvements, 5 goals

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 58 hitouts, 21 disposals, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Good response from our group after a couple of flat weeks. Pleased with our ability to play four quarters and have 22 contributors against a high-quality side."

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Darley started the better side, (we) tried hard all day and just couldn't get close enough. Will learn and continue to improve."

Despite a certain air of predictability looming ahead of forecasted results in round 12, all the underdogs (bar Melton South) improved on their earlier 2023 meetings with their respective opponents.

In fact, East Point overcame Redan to be just .57% outside the six and while the race for finals is down to seven, there's plenty more to play out to determine its ultimate order.

A five-goal-to-one final term gave North Ballarat the separation on the scoreboard they were longing for on their way to an eighth win of the season and second place on the BFNL ladder.

It’s a winning trend they must continue with their remaining five home and away games against top seven opposition, the toughest run home of any.

While the Swans weren't expected to win given North Ballarat's imposing record at Mars Stadium under Brendan McCartney, they did surprise to be within nine points at the final change.

But, the unpredictability of youth, discipline and the onset of fatigue led to the Swans conceding four goals from free kicks in the final term - essentially game over in a low scoring affair.

Werribee VFL listed, North Ballarat dangerman Jack Riding was given the nod as best on ground ahead of mid-season returnee Ryan Hobbs and ever consistent midfielder Riley Polkinghorne.

Swans’ forward Andrew Hooper's four goals kept the visitors in the game along with the efforts of Sam Fisher and Mitch Bishop who is enjoying a welcome return season in defence.       

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 38 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat): 40 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 16 clearances

William Liston (Ballarat): 27 disposals, 13 tackles, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):“Genuinely tough game to play in. Lots of long contests and tackling pressure. Ballarat were very good with their chase and tackling. Our boys did what they have done all year and wore them down to have a great last quarter."

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "We were very good for two and a half quarters and probably should have been further in front. Unfortunately, our last 40 minutes of football wasn't strong enough. Credit to the North boys, they sustained the pressure throughout.

Sunbury trounced Melton South by a whopping 204 points at the Clarke Oval on the weekend.

The win rockets the Lions into the number one scoring team after 12 rounds.

The 36.20 scoreline was the highest posted of any team this year and the third time a score of 200 points or more had been inflicted against the struggling Panthers.

As the unwanted records continue to fall for the embattled club, they registered their 2000th point against after just 11 games, at an average concede of 176pts per game.

But more on the winners....

Lions coach Travis Hodgson debuted four players ahead of six changes for the game due to player management, VFL selection and injury. No less than 15 Sunbury individuals cashed in on the goal front as Mitch McLean and Cody Brand shared the honours with bags of five goals each.

Harry Minton-Connell, Harry Power and Riley Miller enjoyed a day out on the possession front to join McLean and Brand in the best players on an afternoon that culminated in an 'easy watch' for Lions fans.

Usual suspects Rhys Lee (in best 6/10 games), Aydin Reilly (5/11), Jarrod Bibby (7/11) and Mitch Fino (5/10) were again named in the best for the visitors. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 41 disposals, 18 score involvements, 11 inside 50s 

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 34 disposals, 17 score involements, 85% disposal efficiency

Broden Collins (Melton South): 22 disposals, 21 hit outs, 13 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Repeat of last week really. We had a full complement of contributors including four debutants who blended in seamlessly. Looking forward to next week’s challenge (v Ballarat)."

Ryan Hoy (Melton South): "Competitive for two quarters. The four Under 17 players stood tall for us today. Sunbury were way too quick and super-efficient in front of goal."

Hats off to Jackson Merrett and East Point by responding for arguably their most important win of the season.

The seventh placed Kangas simply had to win (tick) and win well (tick) to narrow the gap on sixth placed Redan who were a game and considerable percentage ahead after 11 rounds. Such was the nature of the Kangas win and away from home mind you, the 2018 and 2019 premiers are within .57% of Gary Learmonth's Redan, and level on six wins.

More credit to the Kangas for overcoming Redan, who had arguably their best side in for the year.

In the race for a top six finals berth, Redan has the easier run home with 2/5 remaining games against top seven opposition while East Point have 3/5.

The Kangas will need another scalp that's for sure, but they've proven more than capable already this season and rank #4 in offence against top seven opposition, averaging 74.1 points per game.

Redan on the other hand rank #7 (v top 7 opposition) averaging 72.6 points per game.

The Kangas 'leak spot' against the top seven lays in their defence, the only side in the sample who concedes more than 90 points per game on average.

So, who got it done at the weekend? Bryce McDougall booted a game high five goals for the winners ahead of Jack Jeffrey and Brad Whittaker who booted three apiece.

Star midfield combo Matt and Jordy Johnston delivered when it mattered most to feature one and two listed names in the best.

For Redan, debutant Jonty Faull (four goals) was outstanding ahead of a handful of young Lions who continue to progress at the level, near flying under the radar. Gun mid/forward Isaac Grant was kept goalless for just the third time this season.

The battle for a prized finals spot continues this week - Redan (6th) host North Ballarat (2nd) while East Point (7th) are away to Melton (1st). Every goal counts. Can't wait!

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordy Johnston (East Point): 36 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 17 clearances

Matt Johnston (East Point): 26 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan): 29 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"We were beaten in all aspects of the game by a hungrier East (Point) side. Our skill level and ability to stick to structure was a concern. We need to improve to compete with the better sides in the competition. Jonty Faull was outstanding on debut."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"Really pleased with the way the group responded after our performance last week. We had a plan going into the game and we executed that for the most part across four quarters."

Sebastopol were one of many top six aspirants who were able to collect a win with a bit in reserve following a 46-point victory over an improving Lake Wendouree.

Sure, the result consolidated Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro’s men to third place on the BFNL table but the underdog Lakers did put up a fight before succumbing to their fourth narrowest loss (out of 10) for the season and scoring 2.5 points above their season average along the way.

It was a valiant effort against a top three opposition.

The Burra’s coaching division cited plenty more work to be done in their camp despite an enviable third place standing in the BFNL.

The club welcomed Werribee VFL listed whizz Jay Dahlhaus (three goals), who will now be better for the run with his new teammates.

It's unsure how long Dahlhaus will be made available for the Burra, but given Werribee's 10-game winning streak, the returning dangerous small forward may be around for longer than first thought as reenters his footy fray following recurring concussion issues.

Burra fans will be rapt at the thought of having the 22-year-old, 171cm, 70kg threat as part of their finals campaign.

Connor O'Shea and James Keeble were named best for the winners, while Hugo Papst (four goals) and Dahlhaus did the damage forward.

For the Lakers, youngsters Felix Fogarty, Flynn Loader and Tom Zampatti continue to impress behind experienced midfielder Michael Foster.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jay Dahlhaus (Sebastopol): 32 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol): 30 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

Tim Collins (Lake Wendouree): 28 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 11 pressure acts 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"Pleased with our lad’s ability to respond after Sebastopol got on top just after half time. We've got some areas still requiring improvement but feel we're becoming more competitive generally."

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Played three good solid quarters of football, Lakers came at us in the third. (We) focused on a couple of things at the start of the week and made good progress today."

Melton simply did enough to earn the points with an eye toward 'bigger fish to fry' as the ladder leaders made it ten wins from eleven games in 2023.

The frugal Bloods kept the Cobras to just 1.1 in each of the opening three quarters to have the game well and truly tucked away, 51 points in front at the final change.

While it wasn't the best version of the Bloods, some credit must go to the Cobras for their willingness to go down fighting with a spirited five-goal-to-three win in the final term.

The effort was in stark contrast to their previous meet against the reigning premiers that amounted to just one goal for the day!

Their 8.6 return was just two points shy of their season average while managing to keep the Bloods below a 100-point tally, the seventh time it’s been done this season.

After 12 rounds last year the Bloods had been reduced to less than 100 points only four times.

Jack Walker (three goals) was named best for the winners, again his endurance ability gives him every chance to accumulate over four quarters - he never seems to tire.

Adrian Monitto had plenty of it and was clean for the most part, unlike many who struggled to execute on a scrappy day with the footy. Key forward Ryan Carter was made to work hard for his three goals.

Cobra youngsters Isaac Nixon and Josh Huxtable had arguably their best games at senior level given the quality of opposition. Jack Parente and Ethan McKercher booted two goals each.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Walker (Melton):35 disposals, 12 score involvements, 91% disposal efficiency

Braedan Kight (Melton): 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 9 marks

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh):78 hit outs, 18 disposals, 10 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Big improvement today having the (Coates) Talent League guys available and in the side makes a big difference. Our future is really exciting. We battled hard against a really good footy side."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Not the prettiest performance but we will take the four points. Pleased with the grind for three quarters and credit to the Marsh for making it difficult all day."

With just a handful of games left in the 2023 season, every result counts. Here is how the Round 13 action played out.

Top three contenders Darley recorded an all-important ninth win of the season with a 12-point win over cross town rivals Bacchus Marsh.

The Devils looked to be cruising at half time with a 23-point lead all while registering 12 scoring shots to four.

But, to the Cobras’ credit, they dug their heels in after the break to outscore their more fancied opponents 6.3 to 4.5 in the run home to finish within 12 points at the final siren.

The Cobras’ defensive plan to have a clear out number behind the ball contributed to a higher than average stoppage count in the second half as the Devils failed to capitilise on their landslide weight of forward 50 entries.

Shane Page, Adam Azzopardi, Joel Cadman and Brett Bewley were named best for the Devils as five players shared multiple goals to impact the scoreboard - Billy Myers. Mitch Gardiner, Brett Bewley, Riley Matricardi and Will Johnson each finished with two goals,

For the Cobras, Western Jets listed Joel Freeman kicked a game high five goals, maxing out his limited opportunities while Jake Owen (back), Luke Goetz (ruck), Josh Huxtable (mid) and Alex Porter (wing) made solid four quarter contributions in a losing side.         

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joel Cadman (Darley): 32 disposals, 10 clearances, 93% disposal efficiency

Brett Bewley (Darley):32 disposals, 10 inside 50s, 9 pressure acts

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 68 hit outs, 17 disposals, 12 pressure acts

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"(We) controlled the game early and failed to execute when Bacchus Marsh went defensive. Always great to have a win and still identify areas of improvement. Full credit to the Marsh for a four quarter effort and intensity."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Really pleased with our group today, we are getting more and more competitive. Our top end footy is just as good as most teams in the comp. Glad to compete but we need to take the next step and start winning."

Sebastopol had 49 shots on goal on their way to a major percentage boosting win over Melton South at the weekend.

Burras’ big and small duo Toby Hutt (seven goals) and Jay Dahlhaus (six goals) led 13 contributors on the goal front in the one sided affair.

The nature of the win elevates Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro's men into the box seat for a top three finish and only heightens the importance of this Saturday's Round 14 clash against North Ballarat.

Both sides sit on nine wins, separated only on percentage. Darley, fourth with nine wins, are still with a game in hand and face the Lakers this weekend.

For the winners, Bailey Veale, Luke Kiel and Adam Forbes did the damage at ground level joining Hutt and Dahlhaus as the Burra found some quality touch and ball movement on their own terms.

Melton South enjoyed some moments with a three goal third term to give home fans something to savour but again the gulf in class was ever apparent.

Quartet Rhys Lee, Nathan Gemmell, Tevita Hallet-Tualalli and big man Broden Collins did enough to ensure a fourth score against of 200 plus was avoided.

Bring on Saturday's ‘Match of the Round’ billing between Sebastopol (2nd) and North Ballarat (3rd) - should be a ripper. The Panthers (11th) however, have the reigning Premiers and competition benchmark Melton.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jay Dahlhaus (Sebastopol): 38 disposals, 24 score involvements, 19 contested possessions

Bailey Veale (Sebastopol): 31 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Broden Collins (Melton South): 41 hit outs, 21 disposals, 15 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"Proud of the boys for grinding it out for the full 120 minutes. (We were) down to 15 men in the last quarter and still fought out the game. Sebastopol were very strong through the corridor. Watch out for Jay Dahlhaus in the finals, he's a real live wire!"

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Melton South put in around the contest. We were able to move the ball effectively and gave our forwards decent enough service."

League benchmark Melton were simply too good, denying visitors East Point a sniff with a four quarter, 46-point win at MacPherson Park.

Forwards Ryan Carter (seven goals) and Braedyn Kight (four goals) combined for 11 of the winners’ 13 goals to keep the Bloods two games clear on top of the BFNL ladder.

Unfortunately for the Kangas, it wasn't their day, as their proven front half struggled to overcome the Bloods’ defence, finishing with just five goals for the game, their second lowest score of the season. 

Kangas’ coach Jackson Merrett praised his young defence in the aftermath for their uphill battle against the 11-win Bloods, but were unable to generate any scoreboard impact of their own at the other end.

Any resemblance of a first half win for the visitors, noted in five of their previous six outings were put to bed with a seven-goal-to-three scoreline in favour of the hosts.

The margin was for the most part gradual but always on the rise for Aaron Tymms’ men who have full respect for the Kangas capabilities.

Carter's returns on the goal front were enough to earn best on ground honours ahead of the ever consistent Jack Walker and crucial big man Ben Archard.

Defenders Lachlan Phillips, Blake Souter and Conrad Farrugia were largely responsible denying the visitors any momentum.

The Kangas’ Harry Ganley, Jack Jeffrey, Joe Fraser, Joe Dodd did everything they could to support the Johnston brothers but the Bloods were too strong.

Seventh placed East must win this Saturday to keep their top six chances alive when they host Ballarat (8th). Melton is away to Melton South (11th).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Ryan Carter (Melton):23 disposals, 15 score involvements, 13 marks

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 32 disposals, 9 marks, 8 rebound 50s

Harry Ganley (East Point): 23 disposals, 10 marks, 8 intercept possessions  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"A really complete performance across four quarters. I thought we were able to win the contested ball which set up our spread. Our defence stood up again and kept a quality attacking side at bay for almost the entire game."

Jackosn Merrett (East Point):"Our young defence stood up really well for the most part against the benchmark. However, our inability to apply scoreboard pressure let us down."

North Ballarat shellshocked finals aspirant Redan with a six-goal-to-one opening term before closing out a 19-point win to hold third place on the BFNL ladder, percentage shy of Sebastopol in second place.

Sure, Redan outscored Brendan McCartney's men 6.11 to 4.5 after quarter time but the damage was already done.

The Roosters are warming to their charge toward finals with a seventh straight win and passed their first test of five straight games against top seven opposition en route to the September action.

Marquee North Ballarat recruit Stewart Crameri had arguably his best game for the club to feature in the best alongside Isaac Carey, Isaac Lovisson, Riley Polkinghorne and bigman Callum McCullum.

Just the thought of the Roosters potential front six featuring Crameri, Riding, Hotchin, Quick and  Glover come finals is a nervous proposition for all opposition clubs.

For Redan, Lachie George, Daniel Bond and Nathan Dunstan were important arresting momentum away from the Roosters after quarter time while Jacob Short, Harry Lawson (two goals) and Izaac Grant rated mentions.

Looking ahead Redan has the week off ahead of their last four games with only one of those coming against top seven opposition. East Point (7th), who remain percentage shy of Redan, must overcome a competitive Ballarat to keep the pressure on the Lions to win.

North Ballarat (3rd) meet (Sebastopol (2nd) in a ‘Match of the Round’ billing on Saturday at Marty Busch Reserve.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Stewart Crameri (North Ballarat): 25 disposals, 13 score involvements, 9 inside 50s

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 24 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Lachlan George (Redan):27 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Deja vu first quarter cost us. North (Ballarat) were terrific in the first quarter which was the difference. From then on it was a tough, even contest. Lots to like but lots to learn from."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We played some really good footy at times. The game showed we have some areas to work on and develop as well. Redan kept coming at us strongly, but our system and competitiveness shown over the last few months again stood up. Our club is looking forward to the challenges ahead."

Sunbury turned the tables on Ballarat with a resounding 60-point win at Clark Oval.

The win keeps Travis Hodgson's crew comfortable in fifth place, just one game shy of Sebastopol, North Ballarat and Darley.

While there's building conversation around the final make-up of an all-important top three finish, don't rule out Sunbury who are beginning to deliver on their potential, largely on the back of returning Captain Tyson Lever.

In just his third game since overcoming a foot injury, the rebounding defender has been named best aground twice.

While other results will likely favour the Lions in the run home, destiny lays in their own hands with three of their remaining four games against top four opposition - namely Melton (away), North Ballarat (away) and Darley (away).

A scalp on the road would validate their currency and confidence levels ahead of a return to finals.

The weekend's win for the Lions was dominant from the outset winning the opening three quarters comfortably to set up a match winning 10.14 to 3.2 lead.

The Swans hopes of a second season win over Sunbury were thwarted after the withdrawal of dangerous forward Andrew Hooper.

The dangerous forward missed his first game of the season, a campaign that sees him sit third on the goal kicking ladder with 33 goals.

Ageless Lions forward Leigh Brennan (four goals) did the damage on the goal front while the ground level contributions of Blake Watson, Josh Guthrie, Tom Werner and Harry Minton-Connell were significant.

For the Swans, five individual goalkickers is all they could muster despite the efforts of Keegan Mellington, Marcus Powling, Sam Fisher and Lawson Prendergast, who never gave up the fight.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 39 disposals, 12 marks, 10 tackles

Tyson Lever (Sunbury): 24 disposals, 11 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 41 disposals, 9 marks, 9 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Another pleasing performance. Ballarat competed hard at the contest and worked hard to slow us down. Credit to the boys, they're showing some real faith in our system now and being rewarded. We get the footy the footy audit after the bye."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"A lot of learnings from our hit out against Sunbury. Our boys continued to be competitive but couldn't match a strong Sunbury outfit."

Round 14 saw top teams make some statements on where they stand in the pecking order, while the race for the top six is still wide open.

Top six aspirants East Point overcame a seven-point quarter time deficit to kick 13 goals to four for the remainder of the game to move back into the business end conversation.

Star Kangas mid/forward Jordy Johnston finished with a game high five goals proving the driving force behind a team performance described by coach Jackson Merrett in the aftermath as "...one of our most complete..." for the season.

Thirty-five shots on goal to 18 confirmed the Kangas dominance that evidently keeps their season alive for another week.

Given they're (solely) fighting Redan for sixth, the percentage gain too played a significant role restoring the 2018/19 premiers into the finals mix.

Looking ahead, the Kangas have the bye, Sebastopol (A), Lake Wendouree (H) and North Ballarat (A) while the Lions have the Lakers (A), Ballarat (A), Melton South (H) and Sebastopol (A). 

The weekend gave Kangas home fans plenty to smile about with experienced quintet Cam Lovig, Harry Ganley, Matthew Johnston (one goal), Joe Dodd (one goal)and Jordan Taylor (one goal) playing some of their best footy aiding JJ getting the job done.

For the record it was Jordy Johnston's 11th appearance in the best players in 13 games including four at number one to have him in Henderson Medal contention.

For Ballarat, unfortunately the frailties of a young side remain ever apparent for Chris Maples group.

Sam Fisher continued his run of form to be named best for the visitors alongside Rhys Perry, Will Liston, Paddy Simpson (one goal) and Wil Garner.

Dangerous forward Andrew Hooper was lively finishing with three goals taking his season tally to 36 goals, 11 shy of current leader Ryan Carter (Melton).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 40 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Matt Johnston (East Point): 24 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 tackles

William Liston (Ballarat): 25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"One of our more complete performances of the season. The most pleasing aspect was our ability to restrict the Swans scoring after quarter time, conceding only four goals."

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "We continually turned the ball over throughout the day which enabled East Point to score. Once again we were competitive in the contest at times but lacked consistency in all phases of the game."

Top three contenders Darley 'flicked the switch' midway through the third term with 15 unanswered goals, including 11 in the final term.

Reigning Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley starred for the Devils with a game high four goals, ahead of 11 other contributors on the goal front. Will Johnson (three goals), Shane Page (two goals) and Matt Denham (two goals) finished among the best alongside defender Zane LeHuray.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing for the Devils who failed to flatter in the opening two and a half quarters against the one-win, determined Lakers. Coach Dan Jordan had every reason to be feeling a little perplexed as to what was unfolding before the Devils found a way to correct on their undoings.

The Lakers were solid for the best part of two and a half quarters before the flood gates opened.

Twin towers Tom Zampatti and Felix Fogarty provided aerial presence around stoppage and offence while Bailey Thompson, Bailey Ryan and Cody Helyar were busy winning their fair share of the ball.

Ryan and Helyar were important in defence, Thompson between the arcs, capping off his afternoon (despite the loss) with goal of the day in the second quarter.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 36 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 18 score involements

Brett Bewley (Darley): 50 disposals, 20 score involements, 19 contested possessions

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree): 33 disposals, 14 rebound 50s, 12 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Happy with our effort to build into the game and finish off strongly. Credit to the Lakers who challenged us for three quarters. We stuck to our process and eventually clicked. Pleasing win."

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"Pleased with our first three quarters today. Very disappointed with the final quarter and margin."

Unfortunately, the buildup to this edition of the local derby was all about 'how far the Bloods?' Tipsters got it right, around the 200 points mark - 214 to be exact.

Bloods’ key forward and BFNL leading goalkicker Ryan Carter booted nine goals in the best part of two and a half quarters before leaving the field after suffering a heavy knock in a marking contest.

Brenton Payne corrected on his recent 1.4 return against the Cobras finishing with six goals, another beneficiary from a game played near all on the Bloods terms.

While the reigning Premiers led 120-2 at halftime, this one-sided affair had been put to bed much earlier as the Bloods led 65-2 at quarter time.

The visitors had 14 contributors on the goal front in what could aptly be described as a 'share fest' with all bar the candles and cake to validate the party.

You often hear sides who are off the mark referred to as 'a step' or 'one step' behind all day. Panthers coach Ryan Hoy conceded they were 'two steps off the pace'. Carefully chosen words!

The Bloods were a model of consistency hitting the scoreboard with hauls of 10,8,9 and 9 goals for each quarter. On the flipside all of the Panthers three goals came in the second half.

For the winners, Adrian Monitto (two goals), Jonothan O'Brien, Lachlan Watkins (one goal) and Kyle Borg (two goals) were named best alongside Carter and Payne.

While the painful struggle on-field continues for the embattled Panthers, Nathan Johns, Rhys Lee, Brendan Smoors, Broden Collins and Aydn Reilly were brave in their efforts.

Ryan Carter (concussion) will miss Saturday's clash against fifth placed Sunbury.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Braedan Kight (Melton): 26 disposals, 16 score involvements, 12 marks

Adrian Monitto (Melton): 27 disposals, 15 contested marks, 11 intercept possessions

Broden Collins (Melton South): 34 hit outs, 23 disposals, 20 contested possessions,  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"Not much to take out of the game. (We were) two steps off the pace all day - our worst performance all year. Melton dominated the midfield battle and owned the corridor all day."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"(We) came here with a job to do and got it done with a solid four quarter team effort."

After conceding the first four goals of the game, Sebastopol managed to arrest momentum to win an all-important top three battle by 22 points against North Ballarat.

'Battle' was probably an understatement for this genuine finals preview, as two of the league heavyweights went toe-to-toe where unfortunately there could only be one winner.

North Ballarat coughed up a 22-point quarter team with scores restored at 38 piece at the main break - game on with questions still to be asked and answered in Round 14's Match of the Round.

Neither side could gain any real advantage in the third term that saw the Roosters lead by the narrowest ahead of the final stanza. With the game in the balance, the Roosters chances were dealt a significant blow with dangerous forward Jamie Quick (one goal) removed from the game with concussion.

To the Burras credit, their ability to hit the scoreboard in the last quarter was telling given the home side added 4.3 to Brendan McCartney's boys 0.4 to earn the four premiership points and cling to second place on the BFNL ladder ahead of Darley on percentage.

Burras quartet Ben Hutt, Arnold Kirby (two goals), Luke Kiel and Jay Dahlhaus (two goals) were named best for the winners while Jack Riding (three goals), Isaac Lovisson, Brock Leonard and Isaac Carey never gave up the fight for the visitors.   

The Roosters will sweat on the outcome of Callum McCullum's report (offered one week) ahead of another showstopper on the road against third placed Darley. Jamie Quick (concussion) will miss.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jay Dahlhaus (Sebastopol): 28 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):37 hit outs, 19 disposals, 8 score involvements

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 22 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Tight contest. North Ballarat made a good start. We were able to wrestle momentum our way. Our effort was sensational - we are building towards a four-quarter performance. Good response and proud of our group."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"Really good game of football. Sebastopol handled the conditions better and showed why they are a top three team. Their contest pressure and aerial work was very good. We had some things go against us at critical times but as we have all year we kept fighting and gave ourselves a chance to win. I'm very proud of the boys."

The BFNL welcomed another series of twists and turns over the weekend with upsets, finals previews and big wins all making appearances in Round 16.

North Ballarat held off an honest Sunbury with a tense 12-point win at Mars Stadium.

The important win was set up in the first half as Brendan McCartney's men led by 22 points at the main change.

While the half time difference doesn't seem much on face value the Roosters were near double the Lions score leading 47-25.

The four premiership points consolidates North Ballarat's fourth position on the BFNL ladder with the bye and East Point (H) to come.

Brock Leonard, Tom Bromley-Lynch (two goals), Sam Glover, Sam Scally, Sam Artz (one goal) and Elliot Lamb (two goals) were named best for the winners in a game where goals came at a premium.

Returning star duo Jamie Quick (two goals) and Jack Riding (one goal) looked threatening at times before the Werribee VFL listed Riding left the field temporarily with the blood rule after a heavy knock.

The Roosters impressive record under McCartney at Mars Stadium extends to 16-3 since he took the reins in 2021.

For Sunbury, it was another 'almost' performance, honest by definition. Their 1-5 record against top four teams ahead of finals is a concern given the Lions’ best is very good in capable of matching it with the best.

Unlikely source Harry Power (four goals) had all of Sunbury's three goals at half time to keep the Lions in with a slim chance. But it was always going to be a tough recovery mission reeling in a 22-point deficit.

Credit to Travis Hodgson's visiting party winning the second half 5.6 to 3.8 but their struggles in Ballarat continue with an eighth loss from their last 11 visits.

While Power's contribution warranted best player honours for the Lions, Riley Miller, Fraser Ampulski, Mitch Lewis, Tyson lever and Cody Bramble were recognised for their support roles.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 52 hit outs, 19 disposals, 13 contested possessions

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat): 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Mitchell Lewis (Sunbury): 34 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"Good day for the club. Great game of footy. Very proud of our players’ resilience and competitiveness."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Another solid performance in which we challenged the opposition for most of the day but were unable to get the four points."

The Swans claimed a second top six scalp with a morale-boosting 19-point win at home over Redan.

Chris Maple's young group were victims of the post bye slumber early, smashed by the Lions 47-8 prompting a genuine wakeup call at the first change.

To the Swans credit, five unanswered second quarter goals had the game back on near level terms with the hosts just four points in arrears. Welcome back!

Overall the effort after quarter time was arguably the Swans best output for the season as they bounced back with 11 goals to two to run out deserved winners in the end.

Unfortunately for Lions coach Gary Learmonth the challenge of reducing the gap from their best and worse remains a problem as they endeavour to hang on for a place in the finals.

As it stands, they sit nervously inside the top six just 3.3% ahead of East Point. It's hard to comprehend the Lions failings after quarter time given their seven-goal blitz in the opener.

A 35-point lead squandered against the eighth placed team of the competition tells you just as much about both sides.

For the winners, ruckman Marcus Powling took the honours to be named best afield ahead of any number of Swans (nine goalkickers) with Daniel Kennedy, Mitch McGrath, Will Liston and Rhys Perry got the nod.

Redan named Jacob Werts, Jacob Short, Nathan Dunstan, Dean Matthews and Flynn Atchison among their best while seven goal scorers made up their nine-goal return.

Sharpshooters Andrew Hooper (Ballarat) and Izaac Grant (Redan) were both kept goalless.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 31 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 13 score involvements

Daniel Kennedy (Ballarat):33 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

Izaac Grant (Redan): 21 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"After a poor first quarter we regrouped well, and showed plenty of spirit. Good for our group to have some reward for their efforts."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"First quarter was super, after that we were terrible. Credit to Ballarat for sticking together and clawing their way back."

Match favorites Darley made light work of their hit-out against Melton South with a massive win to celebrate club favorite Darren Leonard's 250th game.

The contest was over at quarter time as the merciless Devils posted 10 unanswered goals, holding the winless Panthers scoreless.

If not for rain in the last quarter the rampant Devils could have conceivably finished with 40 goals such was the gulf in class between the second and eleventh placed sides on the BFNL table.

Billy Myers and Will Johnson booted seven goals each to feature prominently while as many as seven other Devils hit the scoreboard to consolidate the one-sided nature of the affair.

Star midfielder Brett Bewley (three goals), Andy Azzopardi (four goals), Darren Leonard (four goals) and Leigh Spiteri (two goals) proved a handful all day for the clearly undermanned Panthers.

Melton South ruckman Brodie Collins kicked their only major in the last quarter. Captain Cody Chapman, Rhys Lee and Collins were acknowledged for their "never give up" attitudes on what was simply a devil of a day for the embattled Panthers.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 41 disposals, 10 clearances, 10 inside 50s

Lucas Impey (Darley): 33 hit outs, 23 disposals, 13 clearances

Broden Collins (Melton South): 68 hit outs, 24 disposals, 12 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Executed the way we wanted and played good team footy all day. Great to see Leonard get some individual reward in the last quarter in his 250th game. A great clubman."

Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"Outclassed. The boys tried hard and never gave up."

The Cobras impressed with a dominant 92-point win over Lake Wendouree at Maddingley Park on Saturday.

Progressive youngster Isaac Nixon (six goals) and prime mover Jake Owen (four goals) did the bulk of the damage forward with their aerial presence and accuracy at goal a major feature.

The duo were the ultimate beneficiaries of a landslide in clearance numbers. Midfield trio Luke Goetz, Tyson Shea and Jake McCreery combined for a stack of possessions and were the primary instigators behind a majority of the Cobras’ season high 38 shots on goal.

While the Porter brothers Alex and Rylan chimed in with two goals apiece it was Rylan's volley out of midair over the shoulder that stole the show - a genuine goal of the year contender.

The nature of the finish resembled more of a round ball game 'strike', at the HIGHEST of level mind you - check it out on the highlights this week!

There was very little joy for the visitors in a performance described by coach Tim Shearer in the aftermath as "poor' despite the efforts of Brayden Helyar, Michael Foster, Ethan Prestan, Jamie Norton and Jack Butler who fought the game out to the very end.

All honours with the Cobras, they're clearly a different proposition with the added depth provided by their returning Coates talent league players.

One more win in the final two rounds would see the Cobras hit par in their first season rebuild under new coach Jason Williams.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 69 hit outs, 25 disposals, 11 score involvements

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh): 30 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree): 31 disposals, 11 Rebound 50s, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Today we rolled out close to our best squad for the season and got a result that reflects the personnel. Really sets us up for the last two games of the year."

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"We were very poor today. Credit to Jason and his Bacchus Marsh lads, they were dominant in the midfield and set up their win from there."

East Point fell agonisingly short of moving back into the top six at the expense of Redan when they went down by nine points to flag fancy Sebastopol at Eastern Oval.

There was external interest in the lead up as to which side was able to impact off their round 15 bye and what influence that would have finding some early separation on the scoreboard.

While the Kangas led by 12 points at quarter time it was the Burras’ nine goal second term that would see the visitors head into the main break with a 19-point advantage.

For the record it was the only quarter of the match the Burra won but enough to grant Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro’s men an 11th win of the season.

Despite the high scoring affair that included 30 goals, not one forward in particular was able to get off the hook, as 10 individual goalkickers made up each teams’ 15 goal return.

For the winners Arnold Kirby and Adam Forbes finished with three goals, while Kangas’ duo Matty Johnston and Bryce McDougall also booted three.

Forbes and Kirby were named in the best for the visitors behind Kiel, Daniel Widgery, Ben and Toby Hutt.

It was a familiar sight for the Kangas heading their list of major contributors as Henderson Medal prospect Jordy Johnston was named best for a fifth time adding to his overall 12/14 game appearances in the bests.

Experienced Kangas quintet Matthew Johnston, Joel Van Meel, Cam Lovig, Bryce McDougall and Harry Ganley weren't far behind JJ and were acknowledged for their efforts.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):26 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 10 score involvements

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol):21 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 13 score involvements

Matt Johnston (East Point): 25 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 tackles  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"It was a really pleasing performance across the board today. Barring a few moments in the second quarter, we controlled large portions of the match."

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Solid win. Didn’t take our opportunities in front of goal. East Point hung around to their credit. Good solid hit-out post bye."

There have been plenty of twists and turns so far in season 2023 and Round 17 proved no different with a weekend full of upsets, premiership statements and brilliant individual efforts.

Bacchus Marsh validated it's rebuild with a thrilling, come from behind win over finals aspirant Sunbury at the Clarke Oval.

It was the third successive win for Jason Williams' team and their fifth for the season elevating the Cobras to eighth place on the BFNL ladder ahead of the final round of home and away matches.

While many observers had been encouraged by the Cobras recent spike in competitiveness against top six opposition, very few gave them much chance taking care of Travis Hodgson's Lions on their own deck.

The upset loss made it three on the bounce for the enigmatic Lions, who leave the finals door slightly ajar for Redan and East Point to usurp their standing in the top six.

But more on the joyous Cobras, claiming a scalp above them on the ladder after trailing by as much as 23 points midway through the game.

Sixteen-year-old Cody Salmon stole the show with three final quarter goals, looking more and more at home at the level after his seventh senior game. His enviable leg speed and composure around goal was significant.

Premier ruckman Luke Goetz was again pivotal for the winners while Alex Porter continues to build on his reputation on the back of his footy smarts and trusty left foot.

Jake Sutton was the only real standout for the hosts, proving a headache for the Cobras before finishing with a game high five goals. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 46 hit outs, 17 disposals, 10 contested possessions

Jack Parente (Bacchus Marsh): 29 disposals, 9 contested possessions, 8 rebound 50s

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 37 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 12 score involvements,  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing day, us and the Marsh play pretty different brands and full credit to them. I felt they got the game on their terms for the majority. We did not work hard enough to get it on ours."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Today's result is a true reflection of the team we are. The most pleasing thing about today was we didn't play well for the first half, but we owned our moments when it counted. While for most today will seem like an upset, internally we know we've been building into this all year."

It was all one-way traffic at City Oval as the Lions dominated the Panthers to register a massive 187-point win.

Rare is the sequel better than the original, but Lions’ mid/forward Isaac Grant rocketed to the top of Tony Locket Medal calculations with an 11-goal haul making it 21 against the Panthers from their two season meetings.

Grant (49 goals) leads Melton key forward Ryan Carter by one major, with the last round of the home and away season still to come.

The Lions led at every change, setting up the win with 10 unanswered goals in the opening term. It was a fair welcoming for the winless Panthers who can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their struggles are now complete with their second bye set for round 18.

The Panthers forgettable season registered a massive 3000 points against for their 16 games, conceding an average of 187.5 points per game.

Redan on the other hand have bigger fish to fry, needing to win and win well to keep their finals hopes alive. They and cross-town rivals East Point have been fighting out the race for the prized sixth spot on the ladder.

This week the Lions are away to Sebastopol while East Point are off to Mars Stadium for a must win meet against North Ballarat who boast a 16-3 win-loss record under Brendan McCartney at the venue.

The Lions had 10 individual goal scorers led by Grant (11) and Marty Boyer who finished with five.

Nathan Dunstan, Riley Collins, Rory Gunsser (three goals), Lachie George (three goals) and Jacob Short were named in the best players behind Grant who made it an 11th appearance in the best from his 15 games.

John Kovarik, Riley Theo, Jarrod Bibby, Cody Chapman and Broden Collins were named best for the visitors.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan):25 disposals, 20 score involvements, 14 contested possessions

Lachlan George (Redan):31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 16 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South):38 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"A much more consistent effort across four quarters this week. Was a good spread of contributors."

Ryan Hoy (Melton South): "Competitive in patches. (Our) season is now done, thank god! Redan were too strong and classy - Isaac Grant dominated once again."

Visitors East Point kept their slim finals chances alive with a demolition job over the one win Lakers at CE Brown Reserve.

Chasing some much-needed percentage the ferocious Kangas put the game to bed early opening up a halftime lead of 52 points (55-3).

Henderson Medal chance Jordy Johnston was given the nod once again as the best player on the ground finishing with seven goals ahead of Bryson McDougall who booted six.

The gulf in class was ever apparent as eight of the Kangaroos waltzed in for majors against a Lakers outfit ready to put the cue in the rack.

Lakers’ coach Tim Shearer hinted in the aftermath the motivation for East Point earning a spot in the finals was always going to ask a lot of his young group to contain.

Kangas quartet Joe Dodd, Harry Ganley, Jordan Taylor and Liam Canny were recognised for their support roles behind sharpshooters JJ and McDougall.

While goals for the hosts were a rarity, Bayley Thompson, Michael Foster and Jamie Norton were recognised for their efforts to deny the avalanche.

The Lakers will find little joy ahead of their seasons end, a date with Melton, who are coming off the back of a loss against Darley.

East Point on the other hand face a must win game against North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joe Dodd (East Point): 35 disposals, 12 score involvements, 12 marks

Liam Canny (East Point): 41 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 marks

Bayley Thompson (Lake Wendouree): 17 disposals, 9 pressure acts, 8 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"(We) battled away today against a team still motivated by the chance of finals footy. Some small signs of progress there and looking forward to tackling Melton to finish our year."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):“Really strong performance across the board. We had a strong focus on denying Lakers scoring opportunities and to only concede three points in the first half was really pleasing. Some of our younger boys have also started to find their own at senior level.”

Darley confirmed its premiership credentials with a hard fought 21-point win over ladder leaders Melton.

Dan Jordan's men are looking good at the right time of year with a sixth straight win, and their second in as many hitouts against the Bloods this year, extending their season record against fellow Eastern clubs to 7-0.

Those numbers mean very little in the grand scheme of things, more-so a feather in the cap to the Devils.

But there was plenty to like about Darley’s gritty win. Reigning Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley had the ball on a string while Billy Myers looked dangerous forward, finishing with a game high five goals.

There were plenty of contributors for the winners that could lay claim to playing their role and that's exactly the way the Devils would prefer it.

After trailing by one-point at quarter time, the Devils were able to get their noses in front at the half. It was the first time the Bloods had trailed at any break since their previous meeting in Round 8.

Strangely it was only the Bloods sixth game in 77 days and just the second hit-out against a top six opposition for the period.

Given a less than ideal preparation ,there was little surprise finding a few of the Bloods joining the casualty list in this battle of attrition.

Lachie Walker (knee), Lachie Watkins (ill), Ryan Carter (ill) and Brody Sullivan (ankle) will be monitored closely, eyeing a return for week one of the finals.  

The Bloods have one last opportunity for a fine tune ahead of finals when they face the Lakers on Saturday.

Darley meet Sunbury who have lost their last three games on the trot and five of their last eight. Look out for a response from the Lions.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley):33 disposals, 17 tackles, 12 contested possessions

Matt Denham (Darley):22 disposals, 82% disposal efficiency, 8 score involvements

Jordyn Cotter (Melton):33 disposals, 11 marks, 11 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Thought our boys stuck to the task and executed our plan for 120 minutes. Good win against a quality side but lots to improve on."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Difficult day at the office. Effort was ok given we were down on numbers on the bench. but our method lacked polish. Darley better on the day."

The Burra impressed with an all the way, old fashioned thumping of Ballarat at Marty Busch Reserve last Saturday.

Coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro acknowledged the four-quarter effort from their chargers, giving them an outside chance finishing as high as second on the BFNL table but no lower than third.

Fourteen Burras players hit the scoreboard in a game that resembled more of a free for all by nature the further the game went.

A staggering 50 shots on goal were recorded by the hosts who led by 44, 70 and 127 at the breaks before 151 points separated the two sides at the final siren.

The game’s end could not have come quicker for the Swans despite the efforts of usual suspects Daniel Kennedy, Will Garner, Will Liston and Paddy Simpson.

For the winners, their even spread of goalkickers were led by Jacob Wilkinson's four goal haul ahead of James Keeble and big man Arnold Kirby who booted three apiece.

While many of the Burras’ 22 could have ended up in the best given the one-sided nature of the affair, Ben Hutt, Bailey Medwell, Keeble, Toby Hutt, Tony Lockyer and Jacob Fletcher were recognised for their accumulation, compliance and work rate.

The Burras record in Ballarat is a stern warning for the broader competition having won all 12 games  and not trailed once at half time.

Finals aspirant Redan will have an opportunity to buck the trend with an all-important meeting with the Burra on Saturday at Marty Busch Reserve. 

Kiel and Columbro still have Riley O'Keefe, Jay Dalhaus and Jed Hill to return while Lachlan Cassidy got though unscathed with managed minutes returning from a hamstring strain.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jesse Clark (Sebastopol):25 disposals, 14 marks, 88% disposal efficiency

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):26 hit outs, 24 disposals, 12 score involvements

William Liston (Ballarat):25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Good four quarter effort. We controlled the game from the outset. We were able to execute the aspects of the game that we have been focusing on."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"Credit to Sebastopol, they controlled all phases of the game from the outset. We were disappointed with our execution of the basic fundamentals of the game."

It all came down to a thrilling final round! With finals right on our doorstep, crowds were treated to finals-like intensity over the weekend with a number of massive do-or-die clashes.

Jackson Merrett's East Point did what only reigning premiers Melton have been able to do in 2023 - beat North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

It was just the fourth loss at the venue under Brendan McCartney since 2021 and with the Kangas’ season on the line - what a response!

Sure, the Kangas had their way with the Roosters at their first meet on Eastern Oval but this was a different assignment altogether. Seeing how the Kangas would dig in without Matty Johnston (concussion) was always going to ask questions of Merrett's young group.

The visitors trailed at every change but kept themselves within reach ahead of a season defining last ditch effort.

The Kangas trailed by 6, 12 and 5 points before kicking two unanswered goals in the last quarter to earn their place in the top six.

In form Kangas trio Joe Dodd (in best 9/11), Jordy Johnston (14/16) and Cam Lovig (7/16 including 3 of last 4) were crucial for the winners behind youngster Tom Conlan who had arguably his best game for the season.

With goals coming at a premium, promoted Under 17 talent Strahan Robinson finished with a game high five goals.

North Ballarat leading forward Jamie Quick booted four of the clubs seven goals for the afternoon.

Reliable defender Isaac Lovisson (in best 6/16) continued his run of form in a losing side ahead of usual suspects Cam McCullum, Stewart Crameri, Jack Riding and Riley Polkinghorne.

While it was a dead rubber essentially for North Ballarat, there's no denying it was the second loss to East Point in as many games this year. Their record against the other top six sides is more favourable with wins over Darley, Sebastopol and the double over Redan.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joe Dodd (East Point):25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Jordan Johnston (East Point):25 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat):31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

COACHES' VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We didn't quite get it right when the game was there to be decided. Some real positives and things to work on as well. We have earned our finals spot and everyone is looking forward to next week."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"Another solid performance by our lads today, particularly from a few of our younger lads. We stuck to our guns and backed in our system to hold up over four quarters."

Darley gave the broader competition a timely reminder their best is very good with a nine-goal-to-one first quarter blitz of a Sunbury outfit fighting to keep their season alive.

The burst came on the back of just 15 inside 50s as forward targets Will Johnson, Billy Myers, Brett Bewley and Darren Leonard went to work.

While Sunbury showed plenty of spirit through the middle stages to reduce the margin to near single figures in the last quarter, another seven-goal pile-on from the Devils would see this game put to bed.

To validate Devils’ coach Dan Jordan's "real game of momentum swings" quote in the post-match, the nature of scoring tells the story.

In the first and last quarters the Devils added 16.2 - 4.5 while the Lions had their way through the 2nd and 3^rd quarters scoring 7.8 -4.2.

Rejuvenated small forward Leigh Spiteri (four goals) and versatile improver Will Johnson (four goals) were named best for the winners ahead of Billy Myers (three goals), Joel Cadman (two goals) and Luther Baker.

While Bewley was not named among the best he seemingly had his own footy in the first half with an eye toward Melton this week.

For Sunbury, the loss was compounded by underdog wins on the road to Redan and East Point that would essentially spell a premature end the Lions’ season.

Big man Cody Brand was an aerial threat all day for the Lions and offered genuine presence forward of the ball while Cody Bramble enjoyed a day out on his wing to feature prominently. The Lions’ leading forward, Jake Sutton, missed with a cork.

Darley meets Melton at Maddingley Park in Saturday's Qualifying Final.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley):34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 pressure acts

Luther Baker (Darley):28 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury):34 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"A real game of momentum swings. Great effort from our boys to dig their heels in and get the game back on our terms when Sunbury threw everything at us. Some great learnings to prepare for finals."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Poor start as we were totally outworked early. Darley's conversion at quarter time meant we paid the maximum price. (We) lifted our work rate and played some really good footy reducing the margin back to single digits during the last quarter. Other results going against us meant that it was a disappointing way to end the season."

Lions’ matchwinner Izaac Grant consolidated his Henderson Medal credentials with a five-goal haul, leading his pride into an Elimination Final against North Ballarat on Sunday.

Stakes were high, especially for the visitors with their season on the line. Credit to Gary Learmonth and his young group bucking the trend that was the Sebastopol force playing in Ballarat.

In their previous 12 games in Brick City, the Burra had led (11) or were level (once) at halftime and were unbeaten at home.

The pattern was flipped on its head as Redan led at every change to run out deserved winners despite five less scoring shots.

Lions’ ruckman Nathan Dunstan was named best alongside Grant and was well supported by experienced trio Liam Hoy, Lachie George and Jacob Werts.

The focus on the Burra's best and handful contributors on the goal front took a back seat quickly as the attention shifted on the season ending injury to Luke Kiel (broken leg) in the third quarter.

The Burra are obviously devastated with the loss of their inspirational leader and will sweat on the availability of top end duo Toby Hutt (knee) and James Keeble who are rated a 50/50 chance.

Sebastopol meets East Point on Saturday, while Redan have North Ballarat, who have won both of their previous meets in 2023.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan George (Redan):26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 inside 50s

Flynn Atchinson (Redan):22 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 7 intercept possessions

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):54 hit outs, 22 disposals, 10 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Redan applied good pressure and controlled the game for longer patches. Our attention turns to the Elimination Final this week."

Gary Learmonth (Redan): "The boys were super across four quarters. Took the game into their own hands and were able to work together and play a consistent brand of footy. Really happy they got reward for effort."

Bacchus Marsh made it four wins on the trot to end their 2023 season under outgoing coach Jason Williams in eighth place with a nail biting two-point win over Ballarat.

The Cobras continued on from their momentous win over Sunbury in Round 17 with a four-goal-to-one opening term to have the visitors on the back foot trailing by 19 points.

But the response from Chris Maple's young group warranted enough to reduce the deficit marginally to 18 at the half and within one point at the final change.

With the unofficial title of the BFNL’s eighth ranked team at stake both sides fought out a tense final term that could have gone either way but it was the much improved Cobras who held their nerve to hang on and win a thriller.

Cobras’ wingman Alex Porter made a fourth appearance in the best players from his last six games ahead of tireless midfielder Tyson Shea, match winner Josh Huxtable (two goals) and Jake Owen who finished with a game high four goals taking his season tally to 34 (comp rank #8).

Despite the fact the Swans managed just one goal in the opening term for an eighth occasion this year their response was emphatic outscoring the Cobras nine goals to six through the middle stages but couldn't land a killer blow in the last to steal the points.

Homegrown quartet Paddy Simpson, Will Liston, Rhys Perry and Tristan Maple led the charge for the visitors with significant impact but unfortunately on this occasion, they fell agonisingly short.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh):31 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh):77 hit outs, 21 disposals, 10 clearances

William Liston (Ballarat):34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Really proud of the boys and the way the club has finished off the season (four wins in o row). Credit to Ballarat who never gave up, coming back to give us a scare late. Rapt the boys were able to hang on."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"After quarter time we played a good brand of football. Centre bounce became the deciding factor. A shame not to get the points after another strong comeback, our lads will be better from the experience.

The Bloods achieved what they wanted from their visit to CE Brown Reserve at the weekend downing a persistent Lakers outfit by 55 points - injury free.

This game was over early as the newly crowned back-to-back minor premiers combined for seven unanswered goals.

Credit to the young Lakers for showing some pride in their performance against the competition's benchmark winning two quarters leaving interim coach Tim Shearer evidently pleased with the effort after quarter time.

Given the young profile of the Lakers’ list it was always going to be a tough ask despite the Bloods missing four or five from their best side.

Expect Blake Souter, Lachie Walker, Brodie Sullivan and Lachie Watkins to return for this week’s qualifying final against Darley.

Both Brentan Payne and Jono O'Brien, who missed Round 17's 21-point loss to Darley, are expected to play.

Bloods’ captain Braedan Kight (four goals) and Payne (three goals) were the major contributors on the scoreboard while best afield honours went to in-form trio Kyle Borg, Jordy Cotter and Adrian Monitto.

For the hosts, bigman Tom Zampatti impressed ahead of the Lakers’ sole interleague representative Flynn Loader with Joel O'Connell, Michael Foster and Nathan Pring also being named. Their five-goal match returns were all singles.

The Bloods will prepare for a back-to-back flag mission this week kicking off against the Devils. Both sides are expected to be just one or two shy off their best 22.

Should be a belter given the Devils are the only side to beat the Bloods this year, achieving the feat on two occasions.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Braedan Kight (Melton):27 disposals, 9 marks, 8 score involvements

Riley Walker (Melton):27 disposals, 12 rebound 50s, 9 marks

Michael Foster (Lake Wendouree):22 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"Pleased with our guys today. Won two quarters, outscored by three points after quarter time. Plenty of boys under 21, had a crack. Expect to see Melton show their class in the next month. For mine, they remain flag favourites.”

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Got the job done, starting the way we wanted. To the Lakers credit they adjusted and made it a real slog for the rest of the day. Happy to get through unscathed."