Darley FNC

East Point surged late in a thrilling preliminary final encounter against Darley as the Kangas secured their first grand final berth since 2019 in an extra-time classic.

Never-say-die East Point has booked a date with Melton in the McDonald’s BFNL Grand Final following an epic, extra-time win over Darley at Marty Busch Recreation Reserve.

The Kangas led by just two points at three-quarter time needing to hold out the Devils who were kicking with the aid of a two or three goal breeze.

Goals to Bryson McDougall and Jackson Merrett late were enough to send the game into overtime as the Kangas managed to defend a wave of Devils’ inside 50s.

Hindsight can be the bearing of cruel realities given Darley needed to win the last quarter (with the breeze) by just three points or more to progress.

But East Point had other ideas.  

With scores locked together at the final siren, 2 x 5-minute halves (with time-on) would decide this grueling encounter littered with all the will, courage and determination you wish to see in the penultimate decider of the BFNL season. 

All this while the ‘lie in waiting' Bloods’ hierarchy looked on from the sidelines, ‘smoking the pipe’ the longer this game went.

The physical toll on the players was palpable - the third of its kind in a row for the Kangas and their sixth game on the trot against top six opposition.

Saturday's Grand Final against Melton will mark game number seven, arguably the toughest run home of any side in recent BFNL history despite their impressive three loss season.

Three quick goals with the breeze in the first half of extra time gave the Kangas all the momentum they needed, and a crucial 19-point lead.

The ailing Devils responded bravely in the second half of extra time with two goals of their own but fell short, left lamenting in the space of 'what could've been' after failing to capitalise in the final quarter of regular time.  

There were many stars, and for different reasons, as efforts with and without the ball were lauded by both teams in the aftermath.

Top end stocks did their reputations no harm making significant contributions while the next tier of talent put the competition on notice with a sneak peek at what's to come.

For the winners, Matty Johnston (one goal), Jackson Merrett (two goals) and Joe Dodd received the nod of approval from the Kangas’ camp ahead of new wave talent Jack Jeffrey (two goals), Alex Molan (two goals) and Liam Howard.

While Mickitja Rotumah-Onuscould find himself 'very stiff' to miss out on the list of honourable mentions but I’m sure all is forgiven as all roads lead to City Oval for a highly anticipated finale.   

Billy Myers (four goals) gave the competition a timely reminder his best is as good as anyone's on his day to be named best for the Devils ahead of tireless contributions from Joel Cadman, Brett Bewley (two goals), Matthew Brett, Brady Wright (two goals) and Mitch Ward.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 46 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 19 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 36 disposals, 17 intercept possessions, 15 marks

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 29 disposals, 8 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s, 2 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Very proud of our boys, we gave our all. We had our chance but credit to East Point for their effort to stand up and hang on. Wishing both sides all the best next week in the Grand Final."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"An amazing effort by the boys. Full credit to DJ and Darley, their pressure was enormous. Our younger players really stood up in the second half and kept running hard in extra time. Very proud of the group. Three teams (from East Point) in the Grand Final this week is fantastic for the club."

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.

A draw, a premiership defence, a statement win and an old fashioned shootout highlighted all the big talking points from Round 1!

Next to nothing separated the two sides entering Round 1. As the siren sounded in the first game under lights for the season at Alfredton, still nothing separates the Swans and Roosters.

The Roosters lead with a 12-point margin at quarter time, before the Swans charged back to go into the half-time break with a 1-point lead. It wasn’t long before the lead swayed again at the change, with North heading into the last quarter with a one goal lead.

The 10-minute mark of the last quarter saw Jack O’Brien contribute to the scoreboard for his third goal to bring the margin back to 5-points.

From there it was those yet to feature on the goal kickers list who brought the game to a draw. Jack Harwood and Harry Butler for the Swans both slotting goals with assists from veteran Andrew Hooper, whilst North’s Samuel Artz took an impressive grab and finished with a goal to get his team the two-points.

With Port Melbourne having the Bye in the VFL, North enjoyed the presence of Polkinghorne and White, both featuring in the Rooster’s best and having an impact.

Swans recruit Biggie Nyoun wasted no time getting used to the BFNL landscape. An impeccable vertical leap in the ruck, as well as a goal to his name.

It won’t be until Round 11 where the two sides meet again. Will one of the teams finally get the better of each other or are we taking flight for our third draw in a row?

STATS THAT MATTERED

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Wyatt Squires (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 82% disposal efficiency

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 clearances

An impressive first half of football set Bacchus Marsh up for their ideal start to the 2025 season.

Dennis Armfield’s Cobras entered the rooms at half time with a 40-point lead over the young Lakers side, who couldn’t quite find the big sticks until the second quarter.

Although, Lakers coach Rohan Brown may have had some words of wisdom to his side at half-time. The Lakers managed to win the third quarter 29 – 24, but it was Bacchus Marsh’s accuracy in front of goal that prevented that margin from being any bigger.

Eventually the home side ended their day with a 53-point win on the scoreboard.

It was hard to separate the performances of long serving Bacchus Marsh players Josh Huxtable (4 goals) and Jake Owen (7 goals), who both had impressive starts to their season.

Captain Joel O’Connell set the example for the Lakers, named as his sides best on ground.

Jake Lohman continues his return to play and rehab training with Werribee and will be a much-needed inclusion to the Lakers when they can get their hands on him.

A tough ask ahead for the Lakers, who face the reigning premiers in Melton, who have continued their good form. Meanwhile, Bacchus Marsh will face Redan who suit up for their first game of the 2025 season.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 67 hitouts, 16 disposals, 8 contested possessions

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree) - 20 disposals, 10 Clearances, 6 1%ers

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 24 disposals, 6 tackles, 4 goals

After three out of three wins against the Devils in 2024, it was business as usual for the Bloods in the first Match of the Round for the 2025 season.

It may have been the lowest scoring game of Round 1, but there was plenty of action from two early favourites.

Leading by 5-points entering the last quarter, Melton wasted no time (less than two minutes to be exact) in getting the ball to Jaycob Hickey for his first goal of the game, to extend their lead.

With 22-minutes gone the Devils looked a chance to even up the match, trailing by just 6-points. But it was Hickey again in his best on ground performance, receiving quick hands from Walker and launching the ball to what looked on track for a goal. However, it was a quick boot to ball from Ryan Carter that put the Bloods out to a 12-point win.

Nick Hind wasted no time in adjusting to football back in the BFNL, with two goals to his name in a best on ground performance for Darley. Micky Edwards was influential on the scoreboard kicking 4.1 with Zane Le Huray rounding out the top performers for the Devils.

Darley will strive to bounce back against Sunbury at home this weekend, whilst Melton take on Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 29 disposals, 16 marks, 9 rebound 50s

Nick Hind (Darley) - 45 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Kyle Borg (Melton) - 23 disposals, 9 marks, 8 tackles 

East Point continued their unbeaten run at the Eastern Oval with a 16-point win over Sebastopol.

It was essentially the first quarter that saw the Roos take the four points in the season opener. A 30-point lead that at half time slightly extended out to 32 points. From that moment on, it was the Burra chasing hard with an impressive 61 – 45 last half of football.

Micka Rotumah-Onus was a standout for the home side, alongside Bryson McDougall who continued his good form in front of goal, slotting 5. Up and coming youngster Ryder Lavery showed good signs in his performance in the ruck, giving 200-game veteran Joel Van Meel some well deserved rest up forward.

The Burra however will be rolling out the red carpet for Hugo Papst’s return after a year with Horsham Demons. Papst slotted 7 goals in his team’s loss, showcasing just what impact he has with the side. Lach Cassidy was back to his consistent performance across the ground finishing with an impressive 37 disposals.

Both teams face the sides coming off a Round 1 draw this week. Whilst Sebastopol take on Ballarat, East Point take on North Ballarat, who will have their VFL players in contention for selection.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 27 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s

Hugo Papst (Sebastopol) - 23 disposals, 6 marks, 7 goals

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 32 disposals, 10 clearances, 81% disposal efficiency

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."

There were plenty of interesting results to come out of Round 10, as our clubs kicked off the back half of the home and away season for 2025!

A depleted North Ballarat outfit found themselves overwhelmed by a near full-strength East Point on Saturday, with the Roos storming to a 78-point victory in a dominant display at home.

The Roosters entered the clash without key players Brock Leonard and Cam McCallum, while East Point had a late change with Micka Rotumah-Onus ruled out following an incomplete warm-up. But that didn't slow the Roos, who bolted out of the gates to take a 27-point lead at quarter time.

From there, the home side never looked back. East Point’s pressure and efficiency only improved as the game wore on, restricting North Ballarat to just 3.7 for the remainer of the match, while piling on scoreboard pressure of their own with 17.16 (118).

The four points were crucial for the Roos, lifting them back into third place on the ladder, and the percentage boost could prove decisive in the race for finals positioning later in the season.

While conversion has been a concern in past weeks, East Point looked far more composed in front of goal. Though seven rushed behinds slightly skewed the scoreboard at first glance, the signs were promising across the ground.

Jackson Merrett led from the front with a season-high 46 disposals, while Bryson McDougall and Jacob Brown were dangerous up forward, both finishing with four goals apiece.

For North Ballarat, it was a tough day at the office. Denver Grainger-Barras was a standout in defence, and Riley Polkinghorne toiled hard through the middle with 30 disposals and 10 inside 50s.

The loss sees North Ballarat slip out of the top six, adding pressure to their upcoming clash with Ballarat. A win could see them bounce back into the top five.

With finals hopes hanging in the balance for both sides, Sebastopol stood up in a must-win clash at Alfredton Recreation Reserve, producing a composed and consistent four-quarter performance to claim a 36-point win over Ballarat.

The Burra were in control for most of the day, winning three of the four quarters and taking full advantage of their scoring opportunities after a slightly wasteful opening term. Despite kicking 2.5 in the first, they still took an 11-point lead into the break – a margin they extended with a sharp 4.2 second term, highlighted by Cooper Littlehayes, who took his goal tally to three before half-time.

Ballarat responded after the main break, outscoring the visitors in the third quarter. But conversion remained an issue, and the Swans went into the final change still 24 points down. Any momentum was quickly snuffed out, as Sebastopol’s backline held strong, keeping the Swans goalless in the final term to ice their third win of the season and keep their finals hopes well and truly alive.

Adam Forbes was named best afield for the Burra, putting together an influential game with 14 contested possessions and two goals. Jack Bambury was prolific through the midfield with 31 disposals, including 16 contested.

For the home side, Fraser Perkins battled hard with 25 disposals and eight tackles, while Wyatt Squires continued his consistent season, notching 24 touches and seven tackles.

With finals places up for grabs, Ballarat now faces a crucial clash with North Ballarat, while Sebastopol’s next test comes against third-placed East Point – a golden opportunity to climb closer to the six.

With the top four as tight as it is, wins alone won’t cut it in this latter half of the season – and the Bloods knew that when they racked up a 96-point win over Lake Wendouree at home.

The reigning premiers were ruthless from start to finish, extending their lead at every break and putting on a final term blitz with 7.3 to 0.0, ending the day with a dominant 45-6 last quarter.

While the Lakers managed to hold their own in some midfield stats – winning the hit outs by 24 and trailing clearances by just five – it was efficiency that told the tale. Melton doubled Lake Wendouree’s forward entry and scoring efficiency, making the most of their opportunities with a sharp 19.11 return.

Braeden Kight added four majors to his tally, climbing the Tony Lockett Medal leaderboard, but it was Ryan Davis who stood out. Davis amassed 23 disposals, including 16 contested possessions, earning best-on-ground honours.

For Lake Wendouree, Will Clark impressed with 34 disposals, 12 clearances, and 17 contested possessions, showing grit in a tough outing. Tim Collins also found some reward with two of the team’s four goals.

The win sets up an epic clash for Melton against ladder leaders Darley this week. Meanwhile, the Lakers will look to regroup and prepare for a chance to stir up the finals race for opposition, as they take on Bacchus Marsh.

In their first meeting this season, it was Bacchus Marsh’s explosive opening quarter that caught Redan off guard. This time around, it was the Lions who came out quick —but their momentum was short-lived.

Redan’s Lachlan McLean opened his account with two early majors, and a late goal from Khy Jess saw the visitors take a 9-point lead into the first break. But from there, it was a frustrating day in front of goal for the Lions, who returned 1.4 in each of the remaining three quarters—finishing with a wasteful 3.12 (30).

Despite having two more inside 50s and an even share of possession, Redan’s 33% goal accuracy proved costly. Bacchus Marsh, on the other hand, made the most of their opportunities, registering 9.8 (62) to run out 23-point winners.

The result not only handed the Cobras a much needed win, but also lifted them back into the top six.

Brody Pope was again prolific for Redan, collecting 30 disposals (17 contested) and providing plenty of drive through the midfield. But it was Lachlan Bond who earned best-on-ground honours for the Lions, kicking three of their side’s goals.

For Bacchus Marsh, Tyson Shea had one of his best performances of the season with 25 disposals at over 75% efficiency, while Jake Owen continued his strong form up forward, finishing with four goals.

With momentum back on their side, Bacchus Marsh now turn their attention to Lake Wendouree—a crucial clash that offers a real chance to build percentage and cement their finals credentials. For Redan, the finals picture is fading fast, but a home clash with Sunbury offers one last opportunity to keep the door ajar.

Last time they met, it was a dominant second-half surge that gave Darley the edge. In their Round 10 rematch, it was another trademark finish from the Devils that proved decisive – this time with a fourth-quarter masterclass to snatch an eight-point win on the road.

It was a defensive battle early at Clarke Oval, with Darley grinding out a ten-point lead at the main break. The third term, however, belonged to Sunbury. Roaring back into the contest, the Lions piled on 7.2 to Darley’s three behinds, with Daniel Johnston and Jake Sutton (who finished with five goals) leading the charge.

Yet in the back of every coach’s mind this season is a truth hard to ignore: Dan Jordan’s Devils finish better than anyone.

Facing a 31-point deficit at three-quarter time, Darley turned the game on its head with a relentless final term, slamming home 7.4 to just 1.1 from the hosts. Despite Sutton’s fifth goal late in the quarter, time wasn’t on Sunbury’s side, as the Devils stormed home to a gritty, come-from-behind victory.

The loss was compounded by a serious ankle injury to Josh Guthrie in the third term – a key blow to Sunbury’s midfield structure.

While both sides found plenty of the football, Darley’s ability to create inside 50s when it counted most was the difference.

Best on Ground honours went to Jake Sutton for his five-goal haul and tireless forward pressure. For the victors, Luther Baker stood tall, delivering a commanding midfield performance capped off with a goal to be named the Devil’s best.

The result sees Sunbury slip to fourth on the ladder, sitting four points behind East Point but still boasting the second-best percentage among the top four. Darley remain atop the table, with a third consecutive heavyweight clash looming – this time against rival Melton.

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."

Wet and wild conditions made it tough going across the weekend allowing the class of the top sides to stand out with a number of strong results.

North Ballarat did what they had to do on the road with a 101-point win over winless Melton South.

Ironically it was the Panthers second lowest score of the season and second lowest concede of points in any game this year.

Both sides on paper are well shy of their best 22, but that couldn't deny a next wave of opportunity.

The visitors put the scoreboard to the back of mind, opting to work on method and strategy around the ball that will hold them in good stead moving forward.

The Roosters have always been considered a forward-thinking group, embracing development of good habits taking priority over scores.

With the result never in doubt, it was all about seeing the fruits of the Roosters’ labour verses the resistance levels shown by the hosts.

The game was put to bed at quarter time 8.3 to 0.2 as North Ballarat essentially went to town on the struggling Panthers.

There has to be some merit given to the response of the young Panthers to minimise the damage from that point on restricting the Roosters to just 10 goals for the remaining three quarters while managing to post a couple of their own.

The Roosters welcomed back Stewart Crameri (two goals) for his first game of the season while promising up and comer Taj McMillan took game high honours on the goal front finishing with four goals.

McMillan joined Reggie Palmer (best), Isaac Carey, Josh Sparkman and Sam Artz (one goal) to be among voting contention for the winners while Broden Collins, Mitch Fino, John Kovarik and Ryder Rousch were the pick of the bunch from the losing side.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE 

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 35 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Broden Collins (Melton South) - 63 hitouts, 20 disposals, 14 clearances

Malachi White (North Ballarat) - 24 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Very happy with the boys effort. After our shocker a few weeks ago, we have competed hard and been pretty sound structurally. Our ball movement is improving and we've lifted our inside 50 average above 30 which although is 20 off the good sides, is substantially better than some early season games where we couldn't get above 15. The double bye is probably ok when 50% of team is 19 or younger and they've gone back-to-back against last year's grand finalists. Freshen up and try and get closer against the Marsh."

Shane McCarty (North Ballarat Coaching Staff)
"Our boys were fantastic in the tough and slippery conditions and against a young Melton South team that were having a red hot crack. Today we had 14 players under the age of 22 and it was another big step in their continued learnings and development which is what we are all about. We wanted to focus on our structures and set ups today without ever once looking at the scoreboard and we did this well. Our boys will be looking forward to the week off before getting back to work next week."

The Swans provided the upset of the year to date, downing top three contenders Sunbury at Alfredton Oval.

It was the first time for the season any of the current teams listed 6-11th on the BFNL ladder had enjoyed any success against the top five. The record stands at one win and 29 losses!

Chris Maple's group deserved every bit of their win after being in touch at half time before a five-goals-to-one third term broke the game right open leaving the Lions on the back foot and forced to do all the chasing.

Matty White's Lions were always going to come again late but their four-goal final return was matched by the hosts who managed to maintain the 22-point buffer held at three-quarter time.

With goals at a premium on a difficult day that saw just three goals kicked in the opening half, it was a credit to the two sides who were able to play a more attractive brand after the main break adding 14 goals collectively to reward brave fans with an entertaining spectacle, loaded with the upset of the season.

There's no denying the importance of the win for the Swans finals aspirations as the four points moved them a game clear and percentage ahead of nearest rival and seventh placed Redan.

Swans forward Jack O'Brien upstaged higher profile opposition sharp shooters Jake Sutton (two goals) and Mitch McLean (two goals) to finish with a game high four goals and best on ground honours ahead of Will Liston, Paddy Simpson and Marcus Powling.

For the visitors, a fourth trip to Ballarat proved their undoing despite the efforts of promising youngster Zachary Stevens, Fraser Ampulski and defenders Jordan Tentonello, Jack Newitt and Tyson Lever. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE 

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 29 disposals, 17 intercept possessions, 11 marks

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 12 tackles

Marcus Powling (Ballarat) - 64 hitouts, 13 disposals, 7 clearances     

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A top four quarter effort. We sustained our forward pressure throughout the game. Great to see our young team withstand a strong Sunbury team who kept coming all day. A lot of good learnings out of the game."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"(Ballarat) played their ground well, made it small and congested which suited their game and beat us in the contest. Full credit to Ballarat, they have some good players to be fearful of."

East Point’s dream run continued with a dominant win over an undermanned Bacchus Marsh outfit.

It was just the fourth time this year 40 scoring shots were recorded against any opposition, highlighting the gulf between these two sides albeit, under trying conditions and the lowest score from the Cobras since their 1.9-15 return against Melton in Round 6 last year.

The visitors were always going to be up against it given the form lines but the emphatic nature of the 131-point separation was above expectations on a cold Winters day at Eastern Oval.

The win consolidates Joe Carmody's men in second position on the BFNL table, only percentage shy of Melton who share the same win / loss record (W9 L1).

This game was played on the Kangas’ terms essentially from the outset as they held Cobras goalless until the third term.

An 86-3 scoreline at halftime, 21 scoring shots to three spoke volumes of the Kangas stranglehold on the contest.

As many as a dozen Kangaroos’ players hit the scoreboard, none moreso than leading forward Bryson McDougall who finished with a game high five goals to move into outright third in Tony Lockett Medal calculations.

McDougall joined notable defenders Billy Jones (two goals), Jacob Brown, Geordy Slater and Jackson Merrett in the best players alongside Mr. Consistent midfielder Matty Johnston (three goals).

For the Cobras on a tough day for the club the pickings were slim. If there were to be any consolation for the touring party, the age profile of those named in the best does yield some encouragement moving forward as Colby Piggott, Bailey Glascott, Isaac Nixon and Cody Gates all rated credible mentions.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE 

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 40 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 27 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 10 marks

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 21 disposals, 15 tackles, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Really good all-round performance against a young and up and coming side. Conditions suited our contested ball players, and we were able to generate a number of scoring opportunities with our high amount of inside forward 50's."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Tough day on a beautiful Ballarat day. Joe has his team well drilled and humming. Their leadership across the board was impressive. I was proud of our boys to keep fighting, regardless of the scoreboard. (We) had a very young team who will learn a lot from the experience."

Melton simply outclassed a resilient Redan at City Oval under single digit temperatures.

Rain, hail or shine, nothing seems to phase the Bloods - they just get the job done and make light work of their ability to hit the scoreboard.

In fairness, Redan had their fair share of the ball but were unable to finish off any of their territory gains due to the 'stingy' nature of the Bloods’ frugal defence.

Melton simply don't give you any easy scores -the Lions’ five shots on goal is yet an example.

In fact, it was the seventh occasion in 10 games this year that the Bloods have kept their opposition to 45 points or less.

While there were lengthy periods resembling the old 'arm wrestle' adage, the sheer ability of the Bloods to finish their work with an accurate shot on goal is having a profound impact.

Ryan Carter (three goals) and Braedan KIght (three goals) rarely miss given an opportunity.

Carter's set shot routine is faultless and his timing on the kick in red hot form while Kight just kicks them for fun and from anywhere.

It's break your heart stuff for any opposition side trying to gain some momentum against the ladder leaders.

On the flipside, it's a dream for Troy Scoble and the Bloods to have at their disposal.

Carter and Kight were again the beneficiaries of the consistent, hardworking Bloods’ soldiers from up the field.

Lachie Watkins, Lachlan Walker and Blake Souter thrived in the Wintery conditions once again to be named in the better players alongside big man Brett McIntyre who toiled hard in the ruck in the absence of Jono O'Brien.

For Redan, the performance wasn't without effort despite what the scoreboard suggests.

Jacob Short tried his heart out as a key pillar in defence and was caught out only when the supply was delivered on a platter.

Kye Jess and Lachie George were arguably the Lions’ biggest possession winners and had high territory gains by foot while Dean Matthews and Geelong VFL listed player Lachie Bond also received the nod of approval from coach Gary Learmonth.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE 

Khy Jess (Redan) - 36 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 31 disposals, 20 intercept possessions, 18 contested possessions

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Today's result was disappointing but I thought that for a good part of the game we were competitive. We weren't able to do the basics well enough against a really smart footy side. We loved the opportunity to test ourselves against a playing and coaching group we really respect and hope to be able to improve to reach their level sooner rather than later."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Strong in all phases of the game today, especially defensively in tricky conditions. Effort was strong as we try to see out the last three-week block. (It's) been a very challenging period and proud of our group in how they've united and supported each other. Week off comes at a good time for us as a club and group. Challenging week ahead and we will stay united, work on elements of our game style and look forward to the second half of the year."

An eight-goals-to-one final quarter blitz from the Devils was enough to earn them an encouraging 70-point win over Lake Wendouree at Darley Park on Saturday.

The inaccurate Devils were 6.20 at three-quarter time, having earned very little bang for buck from their 26 shots on goal that kept the visitors in the game, trailing by 25 points.

But finally, a correction of sorts from the powerful Devils saw them work their way to a more suitable margin validating the true gap between the two sides.

Devils’ midfielder Luther Baker was outstanding and lauded with best on ground honours - his seventh appearance at the pointy end of discussion in ten games, consolidating yet another body of work into an already consistent season.

Dangerous forward quartet Billy Myers (four goals), Brady Wright (three goals), Leigh Spiteri (three goals) and Harley Inglis (three goals) combined for 13 of the Devils’ 14 goals in the absence of Will Johnson who is another two or three weeks away from a return.

Underrated Devils’ defender Zane Le Huray joined Baker for a seventh appearance in ten games among the best players.

For the Lakers, they again showed periods of competitiveness but were unable to amount that to scores when forward or deny the Devils who are clearly well ahead in any finals or flag prospect discussions.

Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown welcomed further learnings out of the game while acknowledging the contributions of Ben Hayes, Angus Gove, Jaydo Wright and Ty Palmer who featured prominently for the touring party. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE 

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 41 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions

Luther Baker (Darley) - 29 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 score involvements

Brady Wright (Darley) - 22 disposals, 13 score invovlements, 11 marks  

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Thought we controlled all areas of the game except our entries and conversion in front of goal. Credit to Lakers who cracked in all day. Good to get some reward on the scoreboard in the last quarter."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Margin blew out in the last 30 minutes with Darley’s class players taking over the game. Really pleased with our contest and how we faced the game against a quality coached opposition. We look forward to the back end of the year knowing we are taking small steps in the right direction."

While the tussle atop of the BFNL ladder remains as fierce as ever, the gap between the top six and the remaining aspirants has started to creep open.

Lake Wendouree won its second game of the season, ending an 11-game run of outs on the road with a comfortable 29-point win over Bacchus Marsh.

The Lakers booted nine goals to four after quarter time, flipping a two-point deficit into a 16-point lead at the half, that margin became 20 at three quarter time before extending to 29 at the final siren.

The Cobras were disappointing and let themselves down on the scoring front with an inaccurate one goal, eight behinds through the middle stages while Rohan Brown's Lakers took their chances adding 5.6 for the period, earning vital separation on the scoreboard.

Momentum remained with the visitors for the final term, enough to see them through for their most satisfying result under new season coach Brown.

The elusive talent in Bailey Thompson (three goals) was named best on ground for the Lakers ahead of new recruit Jaydo Wright, Angus Gove, Joel O'Connell (two goals), Cooper James (one goal) and Jonte Jarrod. 

For the Cobras, it looked all too much like hard work with reward seemingly beyond their reach.

Jake Owen and Serafino Crea kicked two goals apiece to head slim pickings for the hosts on the goalfront. 

Cody Gates, Jake McCreery, Jack Kovacevic and Isaac Nixon all earned the nod of approval from the coaching staff in a losing side.

Unfortunately for Cobras coach Dennis Armfield, Saturday's result extends the clubs' losing run to five having not won since May 18.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Angus Gove (Lake Wednouree) - 38 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 8 score involvements

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 52 hit outs, 18 disposals, 9 intercept possessions

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree) - 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Another day of not capitilising on our momentum and the Lakers were able to hurt us when they had it. Connection is something we need to keep working on to finish the year off strong. Credit to the Lakers who showed that it meant a little more to them - great work by Rohan and his team."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"I've used the word resilience within our group and club throughout the season and today our group showed what this meant and they got what they deserved. To be down to 19 men for three quarters and come away with a win away from home is a great step moving forward for our club. Importantly 9/9 results for our club with football/netball is a huge achievement. (We) recover and look forward to Sebastopol next week."

Improving Ballarat confirmed its unofficial sixth seed status in the premiership race with a runaway win over seventh placed Redan at City Oval.

The 69-point win provides Chris Maple's Swans with a two game buffer and handy percentage advantage over the Lions with five games to play.

In a battle of attrition, the margin between the two sides became greater and greater the longer the game went.

Sure, the Swans upset over Sunbury in Round 11 turned a few heads, but I would go as far to say the nature of this win is on a par, if not more satisfying Maple and his developing group.

The match was considered a flip of the coin game heading in before ending in a whitewash.

The emphatic nature of the win validates the Swans position in the six - ironically their sixth win of the season ahead of an untimely bye (given recent form and momentum) in Round 13.

Angus Bade, Rhys Perry, Paddy Simpson, Zak Rinaldi (four goals), Will Liston and Andrew Hooper (four goals) were named best for the winners, with Rinaldi and Hopper sharing game high honours on the scoreboard.

While the result showed all the positive signs of a Swans unit on the rise, it was a different story for Gary Learmonth's Redan despite the efforts of Rudie Forde, Khy Jess, Lachie George and Jacob Short who continue to maintain their recent run of form.

Unfortunately for the Lions however, it was their fourth loss in five games and a major setback for any final’s ambitions.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan) - 24 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Marcus Powling (Ballarat) - 59 hitouts, 11 contested possessions, 6 clearances  

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Disappointing outcome. Was a promising first quarter but we weren't able to sustain it, especially during the second. (We) failed to capitilise on forward opportunities and defensively our ability to hold up the opposition failed. Loved the performance of Forde in the ruck. Look forward to Sunbury next week."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A solid four quarter performance. We were good around the ball which helped us in the territory game. A good day for our footy club."

A much superior and well organised Melton proved a class above visiting Sunbury to the tune of 77 points.

'Bang for buck' with time spent forward was always going to play a huge role defining this first v third outcome.

The scoreline suggests a landslide of inside 50's in favour of the hosts but that wasn't the case - rather a textbook example of workrate and efficiency going forward.

The Kight brothers Braedan (five goals), Jordy (four goals) and the Carters, Ryan (three goals) and Liam (two goals) made Sunbury pay - any error, indecision or hit and hope exits were pounced upon, making a job look easier than it was.

To be frank, this ominous Bloods quartet rarely miss and breaks your heart.

Sunbury were in the game for periods but never on the scoreboard.

Losing Jordan Tentenollo (cork) early, on the back of a Lions’ 22 already without Ben Cameron, Jake Egan, Jack Hannett, Mitch Lewis, Jake Egan and Nathan Wood was always going to make it tough for the visitors despite just four points separating the two sides three weeks ago.

There were concerns the sequel would not live up to the original and that unfortunately proved to be the case.

Bloods’ midfielders Jack Walker (Best), Jaycob Hickey and defenders Lachie Watkins and Conrad Farrugia were standouts in a dominant display from the ladder leaders.

For Sunbury, there was effort, but impact varied.

Josh Guthrie, Brock Landt and swingman Jack Newitt tried their hearts out while Leigh Brennan and Jake Sutton had their moments forward and looked dangerous at times.

But this game was over a long way out - the Bloods confirming they're the real deal and remain the team to beat alongside second placed East Point who have won their last 10 games on the trot.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 35 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Kyle Borg (Melton) - 25 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 10 score involvements

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 22 disposals, 9 marks, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Players approach to the first quarter after a week off was really pleasing. Strong focus to start well and play every minute we could consistent with our system. We really respect how Sunbury play and their performances this year so being able to compete around the contest and be well set behind and in front of the ball was always going to be important. Our pressure and effort was strong and to win every quarter against a top team was good reward. We now face another tough challenge in Ballarat which we are looking forward to."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really disappointing day for us. Four goals to zero early put us behind the eight-ball. (Our) effort lifted in the second but we couldn't stop the bleeding. Melton too good in all areas of the game.

Darley simply did 'enough' to overcome an undermanned North Ballarat outfit by 12 points.

In just their third game in 42 days, Dan Jordan's Devils were slow to start as Brendan McCartney's Roosters kicked the only three goals of the opening term, staking their claim, the visitors had come to play.

After a reset of sorts, reigning dual Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley led the reigning premiers back to the lead, assuming control for the most part of the games' remainder.

In a low scoring affair Harley Inglis finished with a game high three goals for the winners, proving an invaluable source given the difference in the final margin.

Bewley was arguably the best player on the ground, giving spectators something to smile about in an otherwise congested arm wrestle of sorts.

It was a game more so for the internal parties to navigate and appreciate the 'mini wins'.

For the viewer, it wasn't necessarily the most memorable spectacle but there was no denying the value and importance banking the four premiership points in the context of their respective seasons.

The win promoted Darley into third place, a game clear, with the toughest run home of any side with double up remaining games against East Point, Sebastopol, Sunbury, Bacchus Marsh and Melton.

Plenty more to play out here especially with the watch on Billy Myers (calf) who was unsighted after half time.

The former Williamstown VFL utility is crucial to the Devils’ title defence.

One major bonus, however, was the standout return of key defender Matty Brett (overseas) who dominated with his intercept marking.

The travelling North Ballarat were brave with up to six or seven first choice players missing with injury.

While goals came at a premium, the contributions of Malachi White, Elliot Lamb, Josh Sparkman, Ryan Hobbs and Charlie Darebin rated worthy mentions in the Roosters’ 'honourable' loss. 

It doesn't get any easier for North Ballarat next week despite a return home as a meeting with competition yardstick Melton awaits.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 57 disposals, 30 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Matthew Brett (Darley) - 22 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 13 marks

Malachi White (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 10 score involvements, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Good hard game of contested footy. (We) fixed up a few areas at 1/4 time and was able to wrestle the ascendency back. Good to come away with the points and keep building momentum after losing two (players) early. Credit to North Ballarat who cracked in hard all day."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Great tough game of footy which our games usually are. Super proud of the players. We kept putting ourselves in the contest and took away some good learnings. Some key playmakers for the 'oppo' took control when needed. We need to manage key moments a little better and that will come with education and teaching. Look forward to our challenge."

East Point extended their winning run to 10 matches with a convincing 54-point win over Sebastopol.

It was not only the Kangas tenth win of the season but their seventh success by 40 points or more, highlighting the trajectory of Joe Carmody's near all conquering group.

Their latest victim, hosts Sebastopol, were just 14 points shy at half time before the high-flying Kangas went into overdrive booting 10 goals to four in the second half to run out comfortable, deserved winners.

Star mid/forward combo Matty Johnston (in the bests 10/11 games) and Bryson McDougall (seven goals) did the job again for Carmody proving a dominant force and arguably the difference in the Kangas’ front half while Jacob Brown (in the bests 5/9) and Jackson Merrett (in bests 4/10) have sparked a newfound respect for the Kangas defensive unit in 2024, enough to give every indication this group is capable of going all the way come the business end.

Underrated ruck Joel Van Meel was sound once again with a fifth appearance in the best players from his 11 games this season.

Sure, the Kangas have had a great run with injury thus far, much better than their top five rivals especially but that could change given the increasing demands of competition in the BFNL enroute to finals.

Since the loss of Isaac Hucker in the season opener, the footy gods have been kind to East Point in the medical room.

Let's hope for the Kangas sake, the 'sparing' pattern continues. 

For Sebastopol, the effort was credible despite the separation on the scoreboard.

Nothing much has gone right for the Burra onfield in '24, but that's not stopping them from fronting up every week and playing for their inspirational leader Tony Lockyer.

Lockyer (two goals) led by example to be named best again (in the bests 9/11 games) ahead of Jack Bambury, Bailey Medwell, Ben Hutt, Jacob Wilkinson and James Curtain.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 35 disposals 19 contested possessions, 10 marks

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 33 disposals, 12 score involvements, 11 inside 50s

Billy Jones (East Point) - 26 disposals, 8 marks, 8 score involvements 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Sebastopol's midfield were on top in the first half and put a lot of pressure on our defence. Our mids started to gain territory during the third quarter and we were able to keep the ball in our front half which resulted in more scoring opportunities."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Proud of our efforts - we gave ourselves a chance and were within striking distance at three quarter time against a premiership contender. (We) gave them a fright but to East Point's credit they nailed their last quarter to put the game out of reach showing their depth of quality. With a rotation down in the first five minutes of the game, our players stood up. A shame the scoreline drifted out late, which I feel didn't reflect the even contest of the game. Continuous improvement is what we are showing week to week. Looking forward to continuing that next week!"

As Round 12 closed, we were left with more questions than answers as a big Saturday of varying results left the competition wondering what else 2025 has install for us.

The Cobras gave favourite son Tyson Shea the perfect gift to celebrate his 300th game milestone with a comfortable 35-point win over finals aspirant North Ballarat.

It was arguably the most clinical performance of the year to date from the progressive Cobras against teams around them amassing 30 shots on goal to 15, and consolidating fifth position on the BFNL table, now six points and sizeable percentage ahead of sixth.

Top end duo Jake Owen (six goals) and Jake McCreery (five goals) combined for 11 of the Cobras 14 goals providing an early headache, come migraine for the visiting party.

It was the Cobras’ third win a row.

While the narrative can be misleading it won't be long until we get confirmation whether the Cobras are capable of claiming a top four scalp.

While Redan plays no immediate role in the Cobras fortunes, there's no denying the belief teams will have derived from their upset win over Melton at the weekend.

Cobras coach Dennis Armfield must be rapt with the way his boys are travelling at the moment as they continue to build closer to resembling their best 22.

First and second year recruits Jamie Fulton and Rye Penny have fit perfectly into the red, yellow and black sharing one of their more influential contributions alongside Owen and McReery.

While Jack Parente and Shea filled out the remainder of the best players, there could have been a dozen more.

For North Ballarat, 'the journey' remains on track under Clint Proctor despite another loss.

Credit to Proctor, not dissimilar to Troy Scoble at the Bloods, he has been transparent with his sides struggles with injury and availability.

This season is proving teams need to be healthy as ever to earn a win on any given Saturday.

It's unfortunate the Roosters have lost x-factor forward Jamie Quick (jaw) and under rated midfielder Brock Leonard (concussion) for the season.

The uncertainty of week-to-week selection around VFL pair Riley Polkinghorne and Denver Grainger-Barrass must be frustrating for the group too, knowing their best is good enough.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh) - 20 disposals, 13 score involvements, 12 marks

Isaac Carey (North Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 7 intercept possessions, 7 score invovlements

Jack Parente (Bacchus Marsh) - 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Really proud to get the win for our man (Tyson) Shea who means so much to our football club and the community. It was a big build up and we knew we would be in for a fight and was happy with the way we handled it, backed by pressure. We need to do some work in front of goals but to have 30 scoring shots against a great defensive side is very pleasing. Lots to learn from the last quarter but credit to Clint and North Ballarat for their consistent efforts." 

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
"Congratulations to Tyson Shea on his 300th and to Bacchus Marsh for the way they celebrated the day. Although disappointing not to get a result we certainly come away with some learnings into next week. We were a little off with our touch and didn't handle the pressure but adapted our system to find enough chances to be in the match. We just didn't make the most of our contest around the ground - they were too strong."

Finals hope Sebastopol welcomed back key pair Luke Kiel (two goals) and Jed Hill in fine style recording a must win 58-point over Lake Wendouree at CE Brown Reserve.

The visitors put this game to bed early with an eight goal Burra blitz in the first term to set up a 50-point lead at the break.

The quarter time siren could not have come soon enough for the hosts who failed to cope with the intent, pressure and efficiency from a group who believes they're a real chance to feature at the business end.

If that first quarter alone was part of the application phase, surely they're welcome back for a second and possibly third interview for consideration.

If only it were that simple for Tony Lockyer's men.

Credit to the Lakers fighting back and digging their heels in for the remaining three quarters but needless to add this bird had already, well and truly flown.

For the record, the Lakers won the second quarter and were competitive for the remainder as the 50-point early deficit was minimised to 58 at the final siren.

X-factor Burra utility Hugo Papst booted six goals in another standout performance, his third haul of five goals or more this season.

Papst moved into seventh place in Tony Lockett Medal calculations but will have caught the eye deserving of attention moving forward.

Sebastopol interleague representatives Jack Bambury and Cooper Littlehales (two goals) continued their rich vein of warm while big man Jack McNab was named best ahead of a number of significant contributors including Papst, Ben Hutt and Jed Hill who returned for just his third game of the season.

Different story next week for the Burra when they travel down the highway to face reigning premiers Melton (3rd) who have lost their last two games in a row.

The Lakers will look to carry their late form of Saturday's game into their Round 13 meeting with Ballarat.

Coach Rohan Brown will be looking for a greater depth of contributors than the copy/paste version of better players in recent weeks.     

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 42 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 16 tackles 

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree) - 30 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol) - 23 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 11 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Huge effort from our boys again today despite another loss. Well done to Tony and his players. (We) got belted early then I thought we played our best game for the year, if not in all the time I’ve been at Lakers. We looked everything of how we want to be known as. To nearly win the last three quarters of footy, I was rapt and proud of our kids. (We) found a little gem in 16-year-old Hamish Birkett who made his debut and looks to have a bright future. (We) go into next week against Ballarat excited to watch these guys crack in again, and I know the group are too."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Happy with the first quarter - not that happy with the rest but good result overall. Credit to Rohan and the Lakers boys who displayed some good passages. (It was) positive to get some minutes into a few boys returning from injury. Looking forward to the Melton test next week."

Redan caused the biggest upset of the season with a barnstorming finish to overrun the reigning premiers by two points at MacPherson Park.

The Lions booted the last five goals of the game in less than ten minutes to keep their slim finals hopes alive.

Just what levels of belief gained amongst the pride will surely tell its own story over the final third of home and away games.

It seems the result stunned all bar Redan coach Gary Learmonth and to a degree Melton coach Troy Scoble who has been transparent with his progress reports, and the struggles with injury and unavailability despite an enviable 9-3 win/loss record.

Key movers Jordy Kight (hamstring), Ryan Carter (illness), Luke Heaney (ribs) Jaycob Hickey (lower leg), Jordy Cotter (ankle plate removal) all missed, not mentioning the late withdrawal of Billy Crofts (managed, Footscray VFL) which didn't aid the Bloods’ cause.

Don't get me wrong, it's just Melton’s turn to endure a tough run with injury, like many sides have over the football journey. Ironically, none less than Redan!

Finally, Learmonth could arrive with the arsenal capable of taking a scalp.

With the Lions in touch at halftime and the plan seemingly on track, it was the Bloods who would raise the bar first in the third term with a six-goal-to-two period.

Braedan Kight was again proving Redan's nemesis adding another bag of seven goals to his haul of five goals at their previous meet in Round 5.

However, while Kight was flying high on a relatively still afternoon, it was Redan who rose to prominence finding a way to win, a feat only East Point (twice) and Darley have been able to achieve since Scoble took over the Bloods at the start of 2024. 

Learmonth said the win came on the back of a very even contribution.

Their compliance and intent to their roles was palpable.

Lachie George was outstanding in his return leading the way, while Brodie Pope, Rory Gunsser and Taj Bond (three goals) all flourished after strong interleague performances on July 5th.

Quality swingman Lachie Bond (three goals) again did his job and stood up when needed most to give Learmonth arguably his biggest win in charge of a pride not shy on cubs.

Ok, great effort Redan (tick), time to back-up the good work at home this week against another top four side in East Point.

For the Bloods, a narrow loss is not the end of the world.

Credit again to Kight for his standout performance, and his experienced cohort in Adrian Monitto, Jack Walker, Kyle Borg (three goals), Harry Handley and Liam Carter who nearly did enough themselves to find the line.

All of a sudden, the Bloods’ Round 13 game with Sebastopol at MacPherson Park carries considerably more weight of interest than earlier predicted.

The BFNL will be watching. 

STATS THAT MATTERED

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 39 disposals, 10 rebound 50s, 9 score involvements

Taj Bond (Redan) - 22 hitouts. 9 marks, 3 goals

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 30 disposals, 8 intercept possessions, 8 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Good contest all day. Well done to Gary and Redan who earned their reward for effort. (Our) boys battled all day and cannot question their effort. Whilst we didn't capitalise on the second (quarter) with our kicking accuracy we'd done a fair bit right to be in a winning position with five minutes to go. The dam wall broke today - our third loss by a goal or less which is frustrating on the surface but today all the credit to Redan for their continued belief in themselves. They deserve the win and our blokes will continue to regroup. The challenge is in front of us as a club and we have a hell of a lot of work to do. We will stick together though, stay united and give it a crack."  

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"So happy for the boys and the club as a whole for their perseverance. We could've quite easily said that's a good effort again when we were four or five goals down, but every individual stood up and took their moment. (It) was a great game of footy - Melton were gracious in defeat - we respect them so much and hope we can get our group to the level they're at. I've been telling our group we are so close to getting some reward - was great to see the smiles on their faces. (We) understand it's only Round 12 and third win of the year but so, so proud of each player and coach that put the work in to get a result we hope can kick our year along. East Point will be another massive challenge."

Darley extended their winning streak to 11 games under fourth year coach Dan Jordan with a 25-point win over Ballarat.

The stretch matches the Devils’ previous best under Jordan, spanning from Round 11 2023 to Round 1 2024.

While the Devils went in warm favorites on the road, they were made to earn the win as Ash Baker's young Swans brought the pressure to lead at the first change and remain within touch (12 points) at the main break.

Not for the first time it was dual Henderson Medal winner and Devils’ captain Brett Bewley that led from the front to dominate the Swans with four match winning goals from the midfield.

It was arguably Bewley, Nick Hind (one goal) then a gap to the next best for the Devils who settled on Darcey Matricardi, Harley Inglis (one goal), Luther Baker and first gamer Jett Darcy to round out 'pick of the bunch' honours.

The Swans fought doggedly to avoid a fourth straight loss but overcoming the class of the Devils proved a bridge too far.

Coach Baker was pleased with their intent and pressure, two non-negotiable’s spoken about in the lead up.

The Rinaldi brothers, Zak and Lewis (two goals), Fraser Perkins (three goals), Tristan Maple and Harry Butler (two goals) earned the recognition in the aftermath as the Swans best, while defender Riley Constable was solid denying the Devils’ forward entries on their terms. 

The win for the Devils sees them remain a game clear of East Point on top of the BFNL table while the Swans once fifth, are now seventh and vulnerable on the back of wins to Bacchus Marsh (5th), Sebastopol (8th) and Redan (9th) at the weekend. 

Next week Darley host cross town rivals Bacchus Marsh on a three-game winning streak of their own while Ballarat are at home for a must win and percentage gain against the winless Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 47 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 16 clearances, 4 goals

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 12 tackles, 9 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 28 disposals, 17 hitouts, 9 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
"Whilst disappointed today, our boys were brave in the way we attacked the contest. The game threatened to open up a couple of times, but we were able to keep coming at Darley, applying plenty of pressure. In the end, Darley's class stood out - they're an impressive unit who are well drilled."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Happy with the win, today proved what we've always known to be an even season. Ballarat were ferocious with their attack on the footy and came to play. Encouraging signs for both sides moving forward. We were made to work hard for the win. Our focus shifts to an in form Bacchus Marsh."

East Point moved into second place on the BFNL table after hard fought 22-point win over Sunbury at Eastern Oval.

It was the 14th successive win at home for the Kangas highlighting the degree of difficulty for the Lions aiming to get it done without Daniel Johnson (Coburg VFL), Josh Guthrie (ankle-season), Dean Muir (overseas) and Brock Landt (overseas).

The Kangas weren't dealt any favours either without Mikitja Rottumah-Onus (wedding) and Alex Molan (ankle) for the day, not to mention Matty Johnston (ankle, cork), Kane Irvin (ankle), Bodie Willems (ankle) and Patrick Hannaford (shoulder) for the second half!

So, the situation leant itself to every bit an even contest and who could make the most of their opportunities in what was predicted to be a see-sawing affair.

Well, that's what transpired for the most part, but it was the Kangas who did enough to lead at every change and secure the premiership points - courageous effort.

Unfortunately for Sunbury on the opportunity front, while their defenders were arguably their best contributors the same could not be said for team entries inside 50.

Outside of Jake Sutton and fleeting moments with Jack Newitt there was no bona fide aerial target.

There is evidence to suggest an extra would have made little difference given the quality of entries.

Eastern Oval is a ripper ground, we know that - but it was difficult for a lot of players to get composure in the form of firm footing in places.

There were a stack of turnovers and slipping over from both sides and mounting stoppage numbers that denied the game reaching its full potential.

But what could not be questioned was the endeavour of both sides.

Combining for 24 goals was a decent effort from the two sides in the varying conditions.

Sunbury will lament their conversion in the second half that cost them momentum.

The Kangas won the half 7.3 to 5.7 to hold off the Lions who had a fair crack.

East Point forward Bryson McDougall finished with five goals and Joe Dodd three, while Sunbury sensation Jake Sutton booted four.

While the Sunbury defenders were super, it was the collective group of Kangas that had the greatest say.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordy Johnston (East Point) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 33 disposals, 12 Intercept Possessions, 10 1%ers

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 21 disposals, 10 score involvements, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Gutsy effort against quality opposition. Our pressure was really good throughout the game. We didn't have any bench for most of the second half so really proud of the boys to keep running and competing."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really disappointing day. Couldn't convert in the third quarter and the class of East Point stepped up when it was required. A really good outfit showed us up with no bench to finish the game. Lessons to be learnt."

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."

In difficult conditions around the grounds on Saturday, crucial wins were claimed and league wide statements made.

Potential flag favorites Melton provided yet another example of their dominance given any conditions with a hard fought 28-point win over North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

The scoreline in isolation confirmed the adverse nature of the conditions with the Roosters kept to their lowest score during Brendan McCartney’s four-year tenure.

In fairness, the numbers around scoring across the region in BFNL football equate to a forgive run as the elements dominated the landscape.

The Roosters only goal came in the second quarter to have them within 23 points at the main break.

Such is the miserly, stingy habits of the Bloods’ defence, no favours were forwarded to the hosts as they were held to just five behinds for the second half.

Credit to the North Ballarat group restricting the Bloods to just one goal post the break in a match I’m sure both sides were happy to hear the final siren with one eye firmly fixed on a lasting image of a simple hot shower.

Kyle Borg (two goals) was named best on ground for the winners ahead of a handful of Bloods that conditions suited down to the ground.

Warriors, Lachie Watkins, midfield trio Jaycob Hickey, Jack Walker and Brett McIntyre (ruck) earned the plaudits of Troy Scoble and his staff ahead of Liam Carter whose form continues on an encouraging trajectory since his return from injury.

For Brendan McCartney's Roosters, you can never deny their trademark effort in win or loss.

Tom Bromley-Lynch flew the flag for the hosts on a tough day at the office against the ladder leaders, ahead of Ryan Hobbs, Isaac Carey, Nelson Troon, Simon McCartin and Charlie Darebin who rated credible mentions.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Isaac Carey (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Brett McIntyre (Melton) - 58 hit outs, 12 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Jack Walker (Melton) - 23 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"(We) really only looked like us in the second half where we fought hard but struggled to convert. Full credit to Melton for how they set the ground up - very organised and connected. (We) butter up and move onto next week."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Full credit to both teams today in how we approached the contest. Full respect to North (Ballarat) given their unavailable players with the effort and attitude shown from their group. (We're) really proud of our group - you must be mentally prepared for days like today and be disciplined to your system. Contest after contest with some luck early to hit the scoreboard to get a lead meant we set ourselves up for the second half slog. Still had some good learnings today which we will review and move forward into our next game seeking continued improvement and focus."

Sebastopol kicked the sweep in arguably the most impressive win of the round albeit on the road, accounting for improvers Lake Wendouree.

The bigger bodied Burras denied the hosts a sniff with a four-quarter winning performance to keep their slim finals chances alive.

Tony Lockyer's group sit in eighth place on the BFNL table still two games and percentage shy of Ballarat who have a game up their sleeve.

Since Round 5 Lockyer (two goals) has been named 'best on' for the Burra in five of their eight games, an ageless veteran who keeps on keeping on, leading from the front with not only voice but action.

Dangerous pressure forward Adam Forbes finished with a game high four goals to earn his place in the company alongside Lockyer and playmakers Jack Bambury and Luke Kiel.

The Burra would take further encouragement on the back of contributions from lesser knowns Lachlan O'Keefe and Mitch Johnson who landed in the pointy end of best player discussions.

The aftermath wasn't so positive for the Lakers who couldn't match the Burra in most key areas and fell well short on an otherwise forgiving day for many sides plying their Saturday afternoon trade on the footy field.

Despite a disappointing 52-point loss in front of home fans, you couldn't deny the efforts of a handful of Lakers who never gave up the fight - namely, Angus Gove, Tom Zampatti, Brayden Helyar, Michael Foster, Cooper James and Ty Palmer.

No surprise to see the more experienced, seasoned pick of the Lakers crew landing in the best.

Next week Sebastopol have a very winnable game on the road against an injury depleted Darley while the Lakers get another chance to repay the faith to home fans with a meeting against Chris Maple's Ballarat fresh off the bye. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol) - 28 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 27 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Like everywhere in the state we had to play in really trying conditions where we were beaten comprehensively. We played our brand for 20 minutes. Sebastopol were cleaner and you can't give up three goals in those conditions and expect to win the game. Down to no rotations in the back half of the game hurt us again late but all credit to Tony and his side - he has them playing good footy."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"We were keen to produce a four-quarter performance against what we knew was a much improved Lakers team from Round 1. Very pleased to execute that in very trying conditions. We were clean with the slippery ball and responded to multiple Lakers’ surges. Twenty-two contributors got the job done for us. Lakers have a great young group - a lot to like about them going forward."

The flying Kangaroos made it 11 wins on the trot in abhorrent conditions at Eastern Oval, running away with a 50-point win over an undermanned Darley.

Twenty-nine shots to four spoke volumes of the separation between the two sides especially after half time (17-1).

The Devils’ slim winning chances were dealt a severe blow losing reigning dual Henderson Medallist and captain Brett Bewley in the warm-up while Brady Wright left the field in the first quarter and did not return.

Footy can be a cruel game as the experience of East Point inevitably took over the longer the game went on.

Matty Johnston (Best), Jacob Brown, Mikitja Rottumah-Onus, Jackson Merrett, Jordan Taylor and Jordy Johnston (two goals) all featured in the better players and deservedly so.

Their ability to handle the conditions had a bit on the fledgling Devils who resembled barely a shadow of their Round 1 side that inflicted Joe Carmody's group with their only loss of the season with eleven changes from that game for Darley.

Kangas’ forward Bryson McDougall (2.5) was stiff to miss out on the 'best' players and was probably the next man up making it a clean sweep on impact from the experienced brigade.

For Dan Jordan's luckless Devils, conditions suited the Matricardi boys while another brotherly pairing, Andy (two goals) and Adam Azzopardi fought tooth and nail with defender Matty Brett and ruckman Mitch Hovey to earn the nod of approval from the men with the magnets.

While East Point enjoy the week off and savour their bye ahead of the business end, the Devils (4th) will start as underdogs despite their respective ladder positions when they host Sebastopol (8th).   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 12 intercept possessions

Joel Van Meel (East Point) - 66 hit outs, 12 1%ers, 6 tackles

Riley Matricardi (Darley) - 22 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 13 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Really difficult conditions on a heavy ground and tricky breeze. We were able to generate a number of scoring opportunities once our midfield got on top. Darley suffered some injuries but made us work hard for the win."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Up against it early after losing Brett (Bewley) and Brady (Wright). Toiled hard to half time but too undermanned and were run over in the second. Trying conditions for our inexperienced group but credit to East Point, their top end especially proved too overwhelming for us and thoroughly deserved the win."

Sunbury too survived a scare and returned to the winners list with a 31-point over Redan.

Gary Learmonth's young Pride led the top three candidates into the breeze at quarter time before the hosts were able to regroup, steady and find their mojo.

After the first change the hosts booted eight goals to two earn the plaudits of a well-deserved win.

In another low scoring affair across the competition, goals came at a premium.

Unlikely source Nathan Doyle finished with a game high three goals for the winners ahead of formidable pairing Jake Sutton and Mitch McLean who booted two apiece.

Coburg VFL listed player Benjamin Cameron returned to the Sunbury line up to be judged best afield ahead of consistent midfielder Josh Guthrie, Jack Newitt, Nathan Doyle, Joshua Lee and Mitch Lewis, who has recovered from a soft tissue complaint.

For Redan, shots on goal after quarter time were scarce in the absence of Lachie Bond who returned to Geelong VFL duties.

Grant Bell assumed the role of the Lions’ leading forward and finished with a team high two goals.

Dean Matthews was applauded for his efforts on Jake Sutton to be named best for the visitors ahead of midfield combo Rudie Forde (ruck), Lachie George and Khy Jess.

Billy Douglas and Harry Lawson also earned the tick of approval.

Both sides have the bye in Round 14 and will enjoy some pressure off having each lost four of their last five games heading into their Round 13 match up.

All honours with Sunbury with a return to third spot on the BFNL table a fitting reward.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan George (Redan) - 30 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 45 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 6 marks

Jack Hannett (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

COACHES VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really happy to be back in the winner’s circle. Really had to grind it out against a young Redan side. Took a while to get it done but (our) guys really started to find form again."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Happy with our first three quarters but couldn't score with the breeze in the last to get the job done. Credit to Sunbury - they were well structured late and cleaner when it mattered most."

The Cobras avoided the upset of the year holding out a brave Panthers outfit by 17 points at Melton Recreation Reserve.

In tough conditions Dennis Armfield's touring party eventually wore down the hosts with a five-goal (12 behinds) to two second half, enough to walk away with the points and a relieving 'wipe of the brow' moment and fourth win of the season.

Cobras’ leading forward Jake Owen (three goals) was arguably the difference in the end given the final margin as the winless Panthers led by captain Cody Chapman put a scare through the hearts and minds of the Bacchus Marsh faithful who would have ticked this off as a win weeks in advance, despite having lost their last five games on the trot post their Round 7 bye.

Former Keilor junior Cameron Freake was named best afield for the winners ahead of Will Lalor, Jake Owen, Simon Lafranchi, Jack Kovacevic and Dennis Armfield.

Promising Panthers’ youngster Jarrod Bibby (two goals) landed in the best alongside Cody Chapman, Stuart Hobijn-Allen, Broden Collins, Jesse Geddes and the Geelong VFL listed Darby Schilder.

What the Panthers can claim given their struggles is their 'mini win' of the season - a first and second quarter win, culminating with a first half win.

Panthers’ coach Travis Hodgson had little time to savour the 'part' achievement, finding himself in with a real live chance of winning a game to the point of disappointment - unable to hang on after the main break.

Tough assignments await these two sides in Round 14 with the Cobras off to Mars Stadium to face North Ballarat while the Panthers journey cross-town for a local derby meet with Melton.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 60 hit outs, 17 disposals, 11 contested possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 30 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 12 intercept possessions

COACHES VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Our application was very good again, has been for a few weeks. Although we are lacking the weapons to win games, we won a couple of quarters today and led at the first three changes. Structurally we were sound and played with energy and intent and ticking the boxes that we set ourselves internally. (We) had long periods where we defended well and challenged them to defend us. Credit to the Marsh, they did what they had to do late to get it done."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Tough conditions and a tough win. I was really pleased with our young group to find a way to win an arm wrestle. Melton South played a totally different brand to earlier in the year and for our boys to adjust and come away with a win is pleasing."

Scoop Reviews Round 13

It was a weekend of tough, hard, fought out victories as teams went to task grinding out four quarters coming away with upset wins and season saving moments.

Ladder leaders Darley made it 12 wins in a row and remain a game clear of East Point after another 'grinding' win at the weekend against the old rival, Bacchus Marsh.

The Devils were pushed for the four quarters to earn the points as the Cobras booted three unanswered goals in the third term to lead by as much as 13 points.

Unfortunately for Cobra fans, the injury to leading forward Jake Owen (finger) didn’t help their cause, as the Devils booted seven of the last nine goals of the game to duly salute.

With goals at a premium, it was Devils’ youngster Jayven Tanner who proved the difference in the end with his bag of five, four of which came in the second term - coincidentally their only four goals with the tricky breeze for the period.

For the Cobras, only Josh Huxtable (two goals) returned multiples ahead of nine other teammates, including Owen, who was held to just one for the first time this year by Devils’ defender Billy Myers.

The nature of the Owen injury required surgery on Sunday, sidelining the competition’s number one goalkicker for at least the next three weeks.

Let's hope for Cobra fans their finals chances have not been compromised as a result, given Owen's current standing in the game as the number one ranked player for goal involvements.

Despite Cobras’ ruckman Luke Goetz’s ridiculous number of hit-outs, his opponent Mickey Edwards was crucial around the ground to earn the nod of approval from the Devils’ hierarchy as their best player ahead of Tanner.

The fact that there was no room for Nick Hind in the best could only mean he was the forgotten man amid the celebration post-game.

The former Essendon and St Kilda AFL product was industrious with and without the ball while Cobra midfielder Jamie Fulton impressed in his first derby in front of the large crowd.   

There was a host of progressive young talent on display from both sides which was one of the highlights in an otherwise hard-fought watch, played predominately on the inside with a number of stoppages especially in the first half before play opened up marginally in the second.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan fittingly described the nature of the win as a 'grind' in his post-match and acknowledged the efforts of his younger brigade, echoing the sentiments of Cobras’ coach Dennis Armfield who was equally as proud of his own band of next gen contributors.   

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 112 hit outs, 15 disposals, 13 contested possessions

Nick Hind (Darley) - 34 disposals, 12 clearances, 10 tackles

Brett Bewley (Darley) 30 diposals, 17 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Grinding win against a team who definitely came to play. Their intensity around the contest and dominance aerially in the ruck made us earn any advantage. We had 7-8 players still eligible for the Under 18.5 competition play today and all executed their role which was really important for us securing the points."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Unfortunately another close loss to a top-quality side. We came out and executed very well but didn't make the most of our chances (early) with nine scoring shots to three but only led by a point. (We) lost a few soldiers in the second half which forced us to adjust mid-game, and I couldn't have been prouder of the fight our young group, to maintain the arm wrestle to the final siren. Now we move onto another great unit in East Point."

Finals aspirant Ballarat put an end to a four-game losing streak with a morale boosting 80-point win over bottom side Lake Wendouree.

The Swans set up the win with a six-goal-to-one opening term to put this game to bed early.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, the recent pattern of first quarters isn't helping their outside chances of registering an upset.

Their six-goal-to-one concede on Saturday was not dissimilar to their previous eight goal 'cough up' against Sebastopol a week earlier.

Swans’ forward Harry Butler booted six goals while Tristan Maple played arguably the best individual game of any for the season according to Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown.

In form Swans’ mids Fraser Perkins and Lewis Rinaldi maintained their consistent run of accumulation while ageless veteran Andrew Hooper continues to bob up adding another three goals taking his season tally to 22 (comp rank 10th).

The Swans camp would be rapt Hooper has been able to play every game this year given his struggles with injury in previous campaigns.

Lakers’ utility Jaydo Wright (three goals) can hold his head high after being named in the bests for a seventh time this season during in his second year at the club ahead of Kynan Raven, Ethan Preston and Otto Conlan.

The challenge doesn't get any easier for both sides next week as the Swans head to Sunbury, with the Lions aiming to bounce back after a disappointing loss to North Ballarat, while the Lakers after off to Darley for a meeting with the league heavyweights.

Enough said.       

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jaydo Wright (Lake Wendouree) - 42 hit outs, 28 disposals, 8 score involvements

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 13 score involvements, 13 tackles

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
"Extremely pleased with our effort and application today. (I) thought the boys stuck to our plans against a gritty Lake Wendouree outfit. In trying conditions, a 10-12 minute patch late in the first quarter with the wind was able to set us up for the remainder of the game."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Beaten in most aspects of the game. We had a few nice moments but not enough. We are giving effort and showing up each week which will continue to do. (I) thought (Tristan) Maple played probably the best individual game against us this year."

East Point maintained its recent stranglehold over Redan with a 22-point win at City Oval to remain within a game of ladder leaders Darley.

Joe Carmody's group had to get the job done without its leader and reigning Henderson Medallist Matty Johnston (ankle/sore) against a side full of confidence following their upset win over Melton.

Their return of 59 points for the game was just the second time this season a score under 60 has saluted in the 65 home and away games to date.

Ironically, across town on the same day at Mars Stadium North Ballarat's winning score of 44 was the other to buck the trend.

In a game of small margins, the Kangas could claim their inaccurate 2.8, to two behinds third term was enough to provide the separation and set up the win extending a 12-point half time lead to 28 at the final change.

Kangas’ pair Liam Canny and Jordy Johston were named for the winers ahead of triple 'J' combo Jacob Brown, Joel Van Meel and Joe Dodd all of whom were prominent the previous week in their win over Sunbury.

Brown was the Kangas’ only multiple goal scorer on the day, finishing with three while tall man Taj Bond booted two for the Lions.

Despite natural disappointment for the Lions, one could not deny the efforts of Rory Gunsser, Zach Mortlock, Zachary Lang, Bond, Brody Pope and Lachie George who were the pick of the Lions’ challenge.

Massive games await these two teams next week as the Kangas prepare to host a Bacchus Marsh outfit aiming to cling to a top six spot without Jake Owen (finger), as Redan face Sebastopol in what looms an unofficial elimination final for Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 26 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Brody Pope (Redan) - 26 disposals, 9 marks, 9 clearances

Liam Canny (East Point) - 20 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Disappointed with the result - East controlled stoppage and defended our ball movement for much of the game. We weren't able to put scoreboard pressure on when the ball lived in our forward line during the second. Skill execution cost us again - we need to play with the same freedom in the early part of the game as we did in the last to remain in the game. Lots to work on ahead our next challenge against an in-form Sebastopol."  

Joe Carmody (East Point)|
"Gritty performance today. Tough conditions against an up-and-coming team so good to get away with the win."

North Ballarat remains the 'box of chocolates' team in the league after a stirring 15-point win over Sunbury to keep their finals chances in check with five rounds to play.

It was just the third win for teams outside the top four against teams inside, validating the upset nature of the win.

Visiting Sunbury were denied their free-flowing overlap run and carry and had to settle for a frustrating stoppage game that suited the hosts under the direction of coach Clint Proctor.

The nature of play was confirmed by frustrated Sunbury coach Matty White whose Lions were kept to their lowest score of the season.

Could Proctor have found the blueprint to defeat Sunbury with a team arguably shy on talent head-to-head? Other teams outside the top four should take note.

Lesser knowns Ollie Huf, Max Faulkner and Finn Russell were named best for the winners in a low scoring affair ahead of experienced head Simon McCartin, and Sam Artz who made it six appearances among 'the celebrated' from 13 games.

That would be most pleasing for Proctor and his group who have struggled for any continuity all season long.

In a game yielding just ten goals, highlights were slim pickings, reserved only for the purest which would've suited Proctor just fine.

The Roosters had been knocking on the door for a top four scalp season, and finally they get their reward and most importantly cling to a spot inside the top six.

Only Jackson McInerny (North Ballarat) and Jake Sutton (Sunbury) could register multiple goals for their respective teams, the Lons were held to just two goals after quarter time.

Riley Miller, Murphy Boyd and Blek Walker were named best for the visitors who were without key forward Daniel Johnson (Coburg VFL) for a second straight game that has evidently ended in loss.

The BFNL season is becoming less predictable by the week which can only be good for the competition.

May the pattern continue.        

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 37 disposals, 17 intercept possessions, 11 marks

Simon McCartin (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Josh Morris (North Ballarat) - 23 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
"It was a really tough game in difficult conditions - we looked organised and had the game where we wanted it in terms of our stoppage work and defensive system. Consistency is always a challenge when you are providing opportunities to new players at the level. So that's the focus now moving forward. Another great test against the reigning premiers next week."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Disappointing day. (We) couldn't get our game going due to North's ability to lock us down at stoppage and stopped any ball movement. (I) would love to see the stoppage numbers, as they played that stoppage game to their advantage. Low scoring affair played into North's hands. Well coached and well played by a young team. Full credit to North, they stopped anything we wanted to do."

The Burra are officially coming and are mounting a challenge for the final six after ending a run of outs against reigning premiers Melton spanning more than five years with a 20-point win on the road.

Tony Lockyer's men have been fighting to get its core on the park since he took over at the start of the 2024 season and on Saturday achieved their proudest result of his 28 games in charge.

While held scoreless into the breeze in the opening quarter, it was that very period Lockyer acknowledged as the catalyst in the come from behind win.

The inaccuracy of the Bloods again cost them at key moments maxing out any separation and kept the visitors in it holding a slender eight-point advantage at the final change.

Talk about taking opportunities, the Burra swooped in the last quarter with four unanswered goals to win by 20, a margin that could've been greater given the nature of the 4.7 to 0.2 returns for the term.

Ironically both sides finished the game with 22 scoring shots, but it was the more accurate Burra who saluted adding more credence to the theory that conversion remains one of the most undervalued commodities in the game.

It was the Burras’ third win from their last four games and find themselves just two points outside of the top six.

On the flipside it was Troy Scoble's third loss in a row and second against teams outside the top four.

Continuity at the selection table remains an issue for the Bloods who are a shadow of resembling their best 22 for the here and now, not dissimilar to the struggles Lockyer at the Burra has had to endure over his tenure.

More positively, it was Lockyer himself and Lachie Cassidy who led the way for the winners ahead of quartet Riley O'Keefe, Gedd Hommelhoff, Jacob Wilkinson and Hamish Everitt who played his first game at the level for the season.

For the Bloods it was no surprise to hear Braedan Kight was the leading scorer on the ground with four goals, his sixth return of four or more this season taking his tally to 46, nine shy of Cobras’ leading forward Jake Owen, who looks set for a stint on the sidelines with a compound fracture of the finger that has required surgery.

Two must win opportunities loom on Saturday for these two sides as the Burra host Redan while the Bloods are off to Mars Stadium in a Match of the Round showdown with North Ballarat.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Well done to Tony and his team. Terrific win, good contest. We thought defensively and contest wise we were strong but offensively when we had momentum we failed to convert our opportunities. We were always vulnerable in the last quarter and to Sebastopol’s credit they got their offence going and ran through us. Tony has done a marvellous job this year, he has weathered the storm got his team together - really happy for him and the group. We learnt a lot from them in how they stayed united and now we face a similar challenge in front of us. We will keep our head down, take our medicine and see if we can claw some form back. We won’t give up on the year until it's done. Well done, Sebastopol."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Great to get the win on the road against quality opposition. (I) felt our first quarter into the strong wind really set up the contest. The wind died as the game went on so was good to get some free flowing footy as the game opened up. Some further belief for our group that our best is good enough. Huge amount of respect for Troy and the Melton boys. Challenging little patch for them right now but no doubts they'll rebound back up the top on the run home."  

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 ladder continues to shape after 14 rounds of football thus far! There were plenty of big wins and crucial encounters across the weekend that will be telling come season's end.

North Ballarat earned a much-needed percentage boost with a runaway 77-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Mars Stadium.

Following an underwhelming arm wrestle of sorts in the opening half, the Roosters raised the bar after the main break with an impressive 13-goals-to-three finish leaving the Cobras in their wake, a class above.

Let's not forget the Roosters (on paper) currently resemble a mere shadow of their 2023 grand final side.

In fact, just eight players from that side ran out against the Cobras.

Of the 14 players absent, 13 remain North Ballarat listed players unavailable due to injury, unavailability or VFL duties.  

One player that did run out was Simon McCartin, for the 200th time.

McCartin has been a constant in the Roosters line-up for many years now and received his just deserves with a post-game acknowledgement from both teams.

Former Cobra Joel Freeman starred in his third game in new colors with a game high five goals, ensuring McCartin got the dream result on his 200th.

Freeman spent his time rotating forward and, in the ruck, proving a thorn against his old side the longer the game went.

McCartin (best) and Freeman led a dominate second half for the hosts ahead of Joshua Sparkman, Tom Bromley-Lynch, Malachi White and Sam Artz who rarely play a bad game.

For the Cobras, there was obvious disappointment in the wash-up given they had a moment in front on the scoreboard in the second term before the flood gates opened.

A 17-goal concede given the Wintery nature of the conditions wouldn't sit comfortably with Cobras’ coach Dennis Armfield despite the efforts of a handful troops who led the resistance attempt.

Second gamer Leo Nixon showed plenty of promise to be named best ahead of Armfield, Jack Kovacevic, Josh Huxtable, Will Lalor and Isaac Nixon.

The Cobras have lost six of their last seven games and should soak up the bye while the Roosters are off to Alfredton Oval for a tricky assignment with Ballarat.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 39 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Malachi White (North Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 73 hit outs, 15 disposals, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Another step in the right direction after two challenging weeks in tough, contested games. Our young boys continue to grow and learn. Plenty to like and plenty to work. The whole club did a great job in celebrating our Captain Simon McCartin's 200th game. It was great recognition for a club icon. Thanks to Bacchus Marsh for their acknowledgement at games end."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"It was a tale of two halves unfortunately. Thirty minutes of footy cost us again. It's changes in momentum, confidence and execution. Our young list is learning a lot about moments in games. We tried different styles and a small skill error hurt us on turnover, but they were having a crack."

Ballarat look set for a return to finals after moving three games and percentage clear of seventh with a 32-point win over the Lakers.

If not for a six-goals-to-one blitz from the Swans in the second term, the BFNL’s ‘Match of the Round’ did live up to the billing - an otherwise even affair full of contested ball and skillful moments played under trying conditions.

In fairness, CE Brown Reserve (except for the cricket square) was a firm deck, allowing players to run on top of the ground and execute the fundamentals without excuse, for the most part.

The Swans led narrowly at the first change before Lakers’ debutant Monty Maloney kicked truly to get the hosts within a point.

Special moments like these can trigger a spark in momentum but the Swans were quick to put an end to such theory with an emphatic response of their own with three goals in three minutes to rattle Rohan Brown's group, silencing the loyal band of faithful onlookers in the process.

The Lakers simply went missing for 30 minutes on the back of an ailing work rate without the ball.

The result, the punishment evidently, a 41-point half time deficit. Credit to the Swans, they look more organised than I’ve seen in recent outings.

Their intent and attack on the footy gives every indication the once young Swans are not shy on belief either.  

After the main break, a rejuvenated Lakers returned with the type of effort and work rate that has earned the praises of rival coaches throughout the season.

Brown would have been happy winning the second half 6.3 to 4.6 but left lamenting another 'sleep at the wheel' quarter.

For Maple and his Swans, their display showed enough to confirm their win over top three contenders Sunbury in Round 11 was no fluke.

While there was plenty to like, the Lakers response in the second half grounded any thoughts for the Swans getting ahead of themselves.

It’s essentially back to work for the Swans.

If they can get it right for longer, their best is capable of testing another top six team sooner rather than later.

Harry Butler (Swans) and Bailey Thompson (Lakers) shared game high honours on the scoreboard with three goals while Butler got the nod of approval from the Swans camp as best on ground ahead of Jack O'Brien, Will Garner, Tristan Maple and Rhys Perry.

For the Lakers, Phoenix James impressed all afternoon and never gave up competing with his front half pressure ahead of Jaydo Wright and the Helyar boys, Braedyn and Cody.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 14 intercept possessions

Tom Mooney (Ballarat) - 23 disposals, 9 clearances, 9 score involvements

Zak Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Another frustrating day. I thought we were fantastic for three quarters of the game. (In) the second quarter we went away from what we wanted to do and how we wanted to play footy - "fell asleep at the wheel!" Credit to Ballarat they took full advantage and won the game in that period. Once we fixed a few things up and the boys got back to cracking in, our contest was much better."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Credit to Lakers today, they applied a lot of source pressure on the ball and at times, controlled stoppage. I thought we just did enough during the game. Our second quarter was encouraging but we didn't put the game away at any point. (We) must learn from that."

Ladder leaders Melton put on another clinical display taking care of cross-town rivals Melton South at MacPherson Park.

With the result deemed inevitable ahead of the opening bounce given the two sides contrasting seasons, it was more a matter of how far the Bloods.

Troy Scoble's men continue to ramp up the pressure on the back of undeniable efficiency on the scoreboard.

The Bloods rank #1 in the competition for accuracy (62.8%) and two for shots on goal (average per game) behind East Point.

Conversion on goal is considered one of the most underrated stats in the game by many coaches, an area Scoble would surely be proud of his group thus far.

Only twice this season in the Bloods’ 13 games to date have they kicked more behinds than goals - extraordinary effort, now deservedly recognised.

While it poses an ominous sign for future opposition, it does serve as a prime example to replicate.

Saturday was Jordan Kight's day out in front of the big sticks with a game high six goals, ahead of Liam Carter four goals and as many as ten other Bloods to hit the scoreboard.

Jordy's returns were enough to earn him 'best on ground ' honours.

The six-goal haul catapulted the dangerous small forward into 10th place for the Tony Lockett Medal with 24 goals. Dare I add, 35 goals behind leader and brother Braedan Kight on 59 goals!

It's worth noting, acknowledging the powerful Melton machine if only for a moment - all but one of their players from the weekend are 'one pointers'. Remarkable.

Lachie Watkins and Jaycob Hickey continued with their excellent block of recent work to feature alongside Jordy Kight, Liam Carter, Blake Souter and Adrian Monitto.

For the Panthers, their struggles against the old enemy continue.

Not since 2017 have the Panthers enjoyed a win over the rampant Bloods.

Despite the gulf in class, and one sided scoreline, coach Travis Hodgson praised the efforts of Broden Collins, John Kovarik, Jarrod Bibby, Darby Schilder, Lachlan Peterson and Cody Chapman (one goal).        

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Broden Collins (Melton South) - 73 hit outs, 24 disposals, 24 contested possessions

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 25 disposals, 12 tackles, 12 score involvements

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 24 disposals, 10 marks, 10 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Defensive side of the game strong, which was pleasing. (The game provided us with the) opportunity to work on strategies to penetrate large numbers of opposition players inside our forward 50. We did this well at times and other times average. Every week no matter the result, or how opposition try to play against us, is a learning opportunity and we will treat the game as that."  

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Obviously out of our depth against a very good side but was again pleased with the way we competed. Shrinking losing margins significantly second time around so we are making progress. Shout out to the eight boys that played two games and never stopped trying. Looking forward to next week v Sunbury with a goal to keep building our brand and also get closer than we did in Round 2."

Undermanned Darley held off a late challenge from Sebastopol to keep their top three chances alive.

Despite the Devils winning each of the opening three quarters, very little separated the two sides at Darley Park in a low scoring affair.

Progressive young Devil Adam Azzopardi rose to prominence in the absence of star midfielder Brett Bewley to be named best afield ahead of solid leaders Matthew Brett, Luther Baker and Matty Denham.

Devils’ utility Riley Matricardi made it two solid contributions on the bounce to earn another landing in the best players alongside 10 gamer Jack Crawford.

With goals coming at a premium, a barely recognisable Devils’ front six toiled manfully on their way to seven goals which surprisingly, proved enough.

Harley Inglis ended as the sole multiple goal scorer for the winners finishing with two majors.

The win saw the Devils move back into third place ahead of Sunbury who have a game in hand.

While it was the fifth consecutive win for Dan Jordan's Devils over the Burra, you could argue, none have been more important, or satisfying for that matter, than Saturday's five point 'backs to the walls' success.    

The Burra’s winning chances suffered a major setback early, losing key playmaker Luke Kiel who was taken from the field in the first quarter with a suspected hyper extension of the knee that will likely sideline the experienced, popular utility.

Tony Lockyer made it a sixth 'best on' for the Burra in his last nine games ahead of Lachie Cassidy, Jack Bambury, Jacob Wilkinson, Ben Hutt and Jed Hill.

Cooper Littlehales was the leading contributor on the scoreboard for the visitors with his two goals.

Unfortunately for the Burra, their finals chances are next to slim with Ballarat a near certainty to hold the prized sixth spot, now three games and percentage clear of seventh.

The Burra host Redan next week while the Devils savour a timely bye to rally the troops ahead of a showdown with Sunbury in Round 16.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 42 disposals, 11 clearances, 11 tackles

Matthew Brett (Darley) - 23 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 10 1%ers

Matt Denham (Darley) - 30 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Very pleased. We had 22 contributors in a very high-pressure game today. Having 7 or 8 players with 10 games or less under their belts was always going to be challenging against a well led, improving Sebastopol. Our focus was always for a 'team effort' response. Rapt to get the result."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Disappointed but proud of the fight late to nearly get there. (I) felt we were on top especially in the first, just didn't capitilise on our opportunities which caught up with us later. Down a key rotation early losing Luke Kiel (first quarter) hurt, our boys dug deep to grind it out. A lot of respect for Dan and Darley - backs against the wall and they came away with it. (They) showed their class without key cattle. Wish them all the best for their finals campaign. Our journey continues - we have come a long way this year. We dust ourselves off and we go again next week."

Scoop reviews Round 14

We witnessed one of the closest rounds this BFNL season with games going down to the wire as the battle for spots in the top 6 gets tighter by the week.

Reigning premiers Melton bounced back to the winners list with a hard fought, five-point win over North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

It was the lowest winning score of the BFNL season to date.

Conditions warranted a contest in the 'hard watch' category but credit to both sides who fought it out from start to finish with the endeavour worthy of a final.

Unfortunately, the game was essentially a 'territory battle' with little room for the usual flare we're used to.

When Max Faulkner (two goals) put North Ballarat in front with eight minutes to go, the Bloods were looking down the barrel of a fourth straight loss, but unlikely hero Lochie Ericson was elevated to momentary stardom with a finish you're more likely to see on a dry day.

Quite a number of players had tried and failed from a similar position to Ericson earlier in the day, but the premiership player owned his opportunity and sealed the game.

It was a genuine 'arm wrestle' that prevailed with the Bloods entourage simply relieved to be in front at the final siren.

Unfortunately for the Roosters it was their second loss against the Bloods this season decided by less than a goal.

Lachie Watkins saved the day across half back numerous times for the Bloods to be named best ahead of Kyle Borg who was one on a short list of players that could gain any separation in an otherwise congested affair.

The 'inside' nature of the contest also aided Blake Souter who was never far away from the action.

VFL listed talent Josh Morris was arguably the best for the hosts ahead of Isaac Carey who was important with his second half drive at the feet of returning ruckman Cam McCallum who fought tirelessly all day at record number stoppages. 

The Roosters’ Max Faulkner was the only multiple contributors on the goal front on a tough day for forwards seeking bona fide opportunities.

While Riley Polkinghorne was not named in the best, he was one of the bigger contributors and a welcomed inclusion from his affiliation with VFL club Port Melbourne.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Jack Walker (Melton) - 25 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 24 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
"Really proud of the lads today - huge effort against such a talented team with a lot to prove. Trying conditions for both teams. We didn't quite make the most of the wind in the first quarter kicking 1.5 to Melton’s 3.0 when they had the wind was the difference. Amazing effort to hit the front in the last quarter and almost take the 'W'."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Another game decided by under a kick in our two games vs North Ballarat this year. Not about today in isolation but this group always makes you proud. To all players that were out there today, both teams did a super job in tough conditions and tried hard all day to move the ball with method. The game could've gone either way halfway through the last and I was happy for our group to work the scenario better than we have recently. North's contest game is elite and game style challenges you so much, we had to do a lot right to be in front at the end. We were happy to win our first game for July with plenty of learnings and experience to come from it." 

A relieved Sunbury has virtually locked away their place in this year's finals with a hard fought nine-point win over Ballarat at Clarke Oval.

Lions’ coach Matt White acknowledged the importance of the win against a plucky Swans outfit, having witnessed firsthand the potential of the young visitors in their Round 11 loss last year.

The win lived up to White's original concerns as the Lions were made to reel in a 26-point deficit at quarter time after they were held scoreless by Ash Baker's bevy of Swans.

The response with the breeze for the Lions in the second term was emphatic to say the least. Whatever White said to his pride at the first change obviously worked and should be locked away as a future source if faced with a similar position of 'missing the start'.

With the lead restored for the Lions, the home side led at every change thereafter despite the visitor’s will to stay in touch.

Just six and seven points was the Lions’ advantage at half and three-quarter time - essentially anybody's game down to the wire.

Lions’ pair Zachary Stevens and Murphy Boyd had arguably their best games at the level while Jake Sutton did his thing (again) on the goal front finishing with five majors, essentially half of the Lions score. The dependence on the consistency and wizardry on Sutton is palpable.

Opposition coaches need to find a way to nullify the Essendon VFL listed talent who has 49 goals to his name, six shy of injured Cobras’ forward Jake Owen.

The Swans were gallant in defeat and earned the praise of their coach Ash Baker, but he conceded there to plenty of work ahead to plan for an unlikely result against East Point at Eastern Oval given the Kangas have won 15 straight at the venue.

The form of Wyatt Squires, the Maple and Rinaldi brothers continues to trend upward while the contributions of young pair Paddy O'Brien and Emmerton Hooper will add confidence ahead of a rare 'muddy mission' to Eastern Oval. 

STATS THAT MATTERED

Wyatt Squires (Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 14 tackles

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 17 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"After a slow start and some fear of previous encounters with Ballarat, the boys settled and got on top of the contested possession after quarter time which helped us get in front at the main break. An arm wrestle of sorts prevailed after that after that, and we were really happy to be able to hold off a hard finishing Ballarat."

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
"Solid effort from the boys, unfortunately we were unable to get the points. After a really positive start, Sunbury hit back hard in the second quarter. We gave ourselves good looks at it late in the game, however, couldn't capitalise. Plenty to continue to work on as we come up against another quality outfit in East Point next week."

East Point put this game to bed early setting up a 47-point half time lead virtually denying an ambitious Bacchus Marsh any sniff of an upset win under trying conditions.

Yes, even Eastern Oval can be difficult to play on, a victim of the elements but it hasn't stopped the Kangas’ winning ways at home now extended to 15.

Many had the Cobras’ chances slim at best after leading forward Jake Owen was declared a nonstarter post his finger injury sustained in Round 13's loss to Darley.

The Cobras need a scalp and will be without Owen for the immediate period and cannot afford to give away 47-point margins at the main break.

It was the Cobras’ lowest score of the season and their biggest half-time deficit, trailing eight goals to one.

The Kangas weren't without their own challenges in the lead up with the absence of Matty Johnston, Bryson McDougall and Alex Molan (season).

Joe Carmody did welcome back important inside mid Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, joining x-factor star Jordy Johnston to deny a progressive Cobras midfield any impetus out of stoppage.

Johnston was again named best for the Kangas, his 13th appearance in 14 games, doing his Henderson Medal chances no harm.

Kangas’ warrior Joel Van Meel was acknowledged for his effort against the BFNL's premier ruckman in Luke Goetz while defenders Liam Howard and Jackson Merrett featured prominently.

The Cobras, who can take solace having won the second half, paid credit to Josh Huxtable, Jamie Fulton and defenders Rhy Penny and Jack Kovacevic.  

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordy Johnston (East Point) - 42 disposals, 27 contested possessions, 20 clearances

Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 30 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 29 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 14 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Excellent first half where we owned the territory in trying conditions. Bacchus Marsh challenged us in the third quarter with some quick ball movement. We were able to get on top again in clearances in the last quarter and keep the ball in our forward for the majority of the quarter."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"A good old school wet weather game of footy, more mud than grass. East were cleaner and showed greater cohesion early. We had our chances but missed some opportunities and mindset (coaches included) cost us a goal or two. Really proud of our group for their second half, won the contest pressure and were rewarded with scoreboard pressure. Some of our younger players are taking huge strides and our leaders are setting the tone. (We're) back at home next week against another strong opposition in Melton. We will review, regroup and go again." 

Popular Burra's veteran Luke Kiel provided jubilation for home fans with a last gasp winning goal to elevate the blue and gold inside the top six for the first time this season.

With the euphoria, came heartbreak for the visiting Lions whose slim finals chances came to an end.

Unfortunately, it would become Gary Learmonth's last game in charge of Redan, a surprise announcement that essentially hijacked BFNL news in the aftermath.

The Lions led at every change apart from the one that mattered most - at the final siren.

The visitors led by as much as 26 points at quarter time, but it wasn't enough in the trying conditions to earn the win.

The Burra, fighting for their own season mortality, booted six of the last eight goals of the game to finish with their noses in front and more importantly - a spot in the top six.

While finishing third has always had its advantages, teams like Melton and Sunbury would be a little nervous coming up against Tony Lockyer's men who have won four of their last five games.

The Burras only loss for the period was when they fell just five points shy of flag contenders East Point.

Familiar Burra names dominated the list of best players, namely Lachlan Cassidy, Riley O'Keefe, Cooper Littlehales and Hugo Papst while newcomer Tarun Raven featured prominently in just his fourth game alongside Lachlan O'Keefe.

For Redan the narrative could've been so much different having done so much right before snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. 

Lachie George was back to his best on a day that suited the bigger bodies as Daniel Bond, Dean Matthews and Zach Mortlock all played significant roles aiding the cause.

In a low scoring affair and goals coming at a premium, only Cooper Littlehales (three goals). Luke Kiel (two goals) and Hugo Papst (two goals) finished with multiples for the winners while Lachie George (three goals) and Lachlan McLean (two goals) were prominent but evidently a goal shy flipping the mood of a telling loss of 'what could've been'.

Ironically the slender margin of two points was all that separated them back in Round 4 when Redan walked away with the points. Consider the ledger, squared.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 38 disposals, 26 contested possession, 14 clearances

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol) - 25 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Brody Pope (Redan) - 32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 15 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"(It) wasn't the best performance of the year at all but just so proud of this group to stay patient, grind away and get the win in the end. We persisted after a poor first half. Credit to Redan and Gary who took advantage of the conditions early and outplayed us. They have a great young list and will be a real handful for all sides they face on the run home. Promising future for Redan." 

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"(We) didn't take our chances again. Played some great footy but just weren't able to compose ourselves in crucial moments in the last half. Tony and his leaders closed the game down and were able to take control to get over the line. Proud again but disappointed all the same. Tony has his side heading into the back end of the season in good form and will shake up the top six."

The Devils consolidated their position on top of the BFNL table with a 123-point win over Lake Wendouree at Darley Park on Saturday.

Despite resting a few key players, star duo Nick Hind (seven goals) and Brett Bewley (five behinds) went to work and ran riot against a visiting party still winless in 2025.

Young Devil Jayven Tanner (seven goals) made the most of his afternoon as the focal point up forward in the absence of Will Johnson who was afforded the weekend off, alongside Billy Myers, Luther Baker and Joel Cadman.

While there was little doubt the Devils would do enough to earn the points given their current standings on the BFNL ladder, there was a question around just how well, arguably 10 players shy of their best 22.

Coach Dan Jordan said it was 'an educational day' for the club as the hierarchy embraced the opportunity to have a look at a few, essentially exposing depth stocks bare.

It wasn't all one-way traffic for Jordan's crew, as the Lakers enjoyed some periods of their own in particular the third quarter when they booted four goals to five, taking it up to their more fancied opponents.      

Lakers’ trio Jaydo Wright, Will Clark and Angus Gove earned the nod of approval for their efforts in a losing side, while Darcy Martricardi (in best 4 of the last 11 matches), Harley Inglis (three goals) and Matthew Brett were next best for the Devils behind Bewley, Tanner and Hind who shared over 25 shots on goal between them.

It was Darley's 13th win on the trot.

Next stop - a road meeting with Redan at City Oval while the Lakers are at home to North Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 44 disposals, 23 score involvements, 20 contested possessions

Jaydo Wright (Lake Wendouree) - 43 hitouts, 27 disposals, 10 clearances

Nick Hind (Darley) - 28 disposals, 21 score involvements, 7 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Morale boosting win for the boys against a Lakers group that really tested us throughout the third quarter especially. We were in a position to expose our depth and reward our youth for their form at underage and reserves level, both of whom play a critical role in our club’s mission for success."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"(I) don't think it was a 'walk in the park' like reported. I was super proud of the way our boys played the game, we hold our heads high and keep learning every week. We found out a bit more about ourselves again against a high-quality side with some of the best players in the league. Sometimes you just have to sit back and say, "too good!" We played some great footy in the third quarter only being outscored by one goal. Credit to DJ and Darley the way they represented themselves especially helping our reserves and we thank them."

Saturday's eight-point wins, ladder leapfrogging and rare victories were all part of the highlights to come out of Round 15. 

Bacchus Marsh duly saluted with a morale boosting win on the road against Melton South.

While the result may have been expected, Cobras’ coach Jason Williams wasn't prepared to take anything for granted given their modest two-win season.

In fact, it was against the Cobras at their earlier meet where the winless Panthers won their only quarter for the season. Given that was the opening term back in Round 9, Williams’ focus was eyeing an impactful start from his visiting party.

Prime mover jake Owen didn't let him down with two goals in the opening four minutes to lay claim on a potential big day in front of the sticks.

While the former captain finished with a game high five goals, he may have come up shy on the days potential given he had 10 shots on goal for the day.

Cobras’ next generation pair Rylan Porter and Spencer Jenks both kicked three goals.

Owen was named best for the winners ahead of Tyson Shea, Josh Huxtable and Jack Parente. Improver Xavier Jenks also featured for a fourth time this season.

For the embattled Panthers, they did show some fight matching the Cobras with a two goal second term but again the reality of victory was beyond their reach.

Jarrod Bibby, Rhys Lee and Aydn Reilly were once again prominent contributors for the hosts while big man Broden Collins fought valiantly against arguably the competitions’ premier ruckman, Luke Goetz.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 28 disposals, 22 marks, 17 score involvements

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh): 33 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 14 tackles

Rhys Lee (Melton South): 36 disposals, 13 marks, 10 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"Felt our first half was really good, especially the second quarter where we defended well. Unfortunately, we lost our way a bit in the third (quarter) where Bacchus Marsh got control at the stoppage and weren't able to quell momentum. Credit to our boys, they stuck it out in the last quarter which was pleasing."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Grateful to win and have a lot of contributors across the day. I enjoyed seeing the boys really enjoy themselves. Melton South were good in the second half and challenged us which I think will help us over the coming weeks."

Darley moved into outright second on the BFNL table, just one game behind ladder leaders Melton, after a hard fought 34-point win over North Ballarat.

In what was billed as one of the games of the round, the contested brand of footy on display earned the plaudits of all and sundry in attendance.

While scoring on the major front was a difficult assignment for both sides, it was the Devils who held their nerve to breakthrough the Roosters defence, extending their lead at each interval en route toward a meritorious four quarter win.

The convincing nature of the result put pay to any doubts held more broadly across the competition that the Devils could turn the tables on their 57-point loss earlier in the season.

In fairness, the Roosters chances were dealt a severe blow with the late withdrawal of Jack Riding (Werribee VFL).

The creative playmaker’s recall was untimely given the absence of sharpshooter Jamie Quick (concussion), Sam Artz (concussion), Ryan Hobbs (calf), Harry Loader (overseas) and Thomas Hotchin (knee). 

For the Devils, top end talents Matthew Brett, Shane Page and Brett Bewley were the prime instigators in the all-important win while Joel Cadman and Darren Leonard were the only multiple goal scores on the day finishing with two each.

Roosters’ defenders Isaac Carey and Isaac Lovisson were named best for the travelling party, while Callum McCullum, Riley Polkinghorne, Brock Leonard and Tom Bromley-Lynch fought bravely between the arcs.

Honours with the Devils for keeping North Ballarat to their lowest score of the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 41 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Matthew Brett (Darley): 24 disposals, 12 marks, 11 contested possessions

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 78 hit outs, 17 disposals, 13 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley): "A good performance against an undermanned North Ballarat outfit. We were strong in the contest and executed mostly what we wanted for the day. Still plenty to work on."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"Tough day for us. Darley were strong in all areas of the game, in particular overhead and owning the outside of the ground. Dan is a high-quality coach and is building a team built to succeed in finals. Another challenge for us next week where we can put some of our learnings to the test."

An inaccurate Redan took more than a half of footy to shrug off the one-win Lakers to gain a much needed four premiership points to elevate themselves back inside the top six at the expense of East Point.

The Lions had won just three of their previous eight games and were looking to consolidate early but were often denied by a plucky Lakers outfit who played some good footy to be within a goal at the main break.

However, the Lions awoke from their post bye slumber adding 7.15 to 1.3 after half time to earn some separation on the scoreboard.

Twenty-two shots on goal to three after the main break tells its own story of dominance. Nonetheless the Lions would be disappointed with their 10-goal return given the Lakers’ average concede per game is in excess of 100 points.

Isaac Grant (four goals) and Grant Bell (three goals) found their mojo around goal while Declan Phillips, Declan Hart, Jacob Short, Daniel Bond and Lachie George won more than their fair share of the ball to feature in the best players.

For the Lakers, Bailey Thompson continued his run of recent form, booting three of his team’s four goals to aid the efforts of midfield duo Timmy Collins and Michael Foster who accumulated possession whilst under the pump.

Lakers’ big man Tom Zampatti made it a fifth appearance in the best from just seven games with his new club.

While the Lakers have just the one win to their name, they've shown longer periods of competitiveness that should hold no grave fears ahead of their Round 16 clash with Bacchus Marsh this Saturday.

Redan's ongoing battle with East Point for sixth place on the BFNL ladder continues when Gary Learmonth's pride head to Alfredton Oval aiming to consolidate an eighth win of their season.

For the record, East Point host third placed Sebastopol, who will be without livewire forward/mid Jay Dahlhaus with a hand injury. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 32 disposals, 14 score involvements, 14 contested possessions

Declan Phillips (Redan): 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 pressure acts

Bailey Ryan (Lake Wendouree): 28 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree): "Another competitive effort today. Playing group was excited about the opportunity in front of them at half time. Redan showed why they are heading towards finals with the poise they displayed after the break."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Lakers never gave up and played some good footy. We gave the ball back too often and left plenty of goals out there. We take the win and move on to a great test against Ballarat."

Melton stood up when it counted to deny Sunbury with a four-quarter winning performance at Macpherson Park.

While the visitors were brave for the most part, the Lions were unable to make inroads, trailing by eight, 13, 17 points at each of the breaks before going down by 27 at full-time.

Coach Travis Hodgson cited 'crucial mistakes' at both ends of the ground as the catalyst for their inability to arrest the gradual separation on the scoreboard.

The Lions were in the contest all day but couldn't deny the 'forever honest' Bloods who were well served by their more experienced heads Ben Archard, Jordy Cotter, Braedyn Kight (four goals), Lachie Watkins and the Walker brothers.

Liam Carter returned from a calf injury sustained in Round 7 to finish with two goals alongside Port Melbourne VFL listed speedster Kyle Borg (two goals).

Back-to-back goals for the hunting Lions against the might of the Bloods defence was always going to be a challenge.

With goals at a premium young gun Jake Egan, Jake Sutton and Mitch Trimboli managed two apiece while Patrick Scanlon, Josh Guthrie and Riley got the nod, featuring at the head of the best players.

Melton have the bye his week while Sunbury head to Mars Stadium for another footy audit against fellow Round 15 losers North Ballarat (fourth).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 33 disposals, 13 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Ben Archard (Melton): 75 hit outs, 25 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 38 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 17 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"A really good contest and we were able to grind out a professional win against strong opposition. We were able to control the game and were able to adjust to the different looks they gave us."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Tight contest all day. Proud of the boys and I thought we were a genuine chance for most of the day and during the last quarter. We made some crucial mistakes in front of goal and deep in defence that no doubt hurt. That's what makes Melton so good, they punish you for it."

Scoop Reviews Round 15

A flurry of big results across the league on Saturday has upped the tension with spots on the BFNL ladder becoming increasingly more valuable.

Bacchus Marsh kicked the last three goals of the game to upset the Bloods in a grandstand finish at Maddingley Park.

The win breaks a seven-year drought against the reigning premiers, consolidating the Cobras’ fifth place standing in the process.

Young Cobra Ashton Craig was the hero with three telling goals, his composure beyond his years.

A second quarter smother, denying a Bloods’ exit from defence, ricocheted goal side as Craig swooped on his 1% reward before running into an open goal to maintain the resistance.

The Bloods were pressing after quarter time having trailed by 18 points, with seven of the next nine goals going Melton’s way to build a 16-point lead at the 14-minute mark of the final term.

Enter Craig again.

Following a nasty knee dislocation to Cobras’ forward/wing Cody Salmon a, break in play of some five or six minutes ensued giving the hosts an ideal 'time out' to regroup and salvage enough belief to reel in a 16-point deficit.

Craig's finish shortly after the restart was sublime threading the needle inside time on from the boundary.

Luke Goetz owned his forward stoppage moment to grab the ball from the ruck contest and snap truly.

With time ticking away and the Bloods hanging in by a thread, a loose, albeit clever handball from Ethan McKercher (two goals) rolled goalward as Craig steadied with little space to gather between, he and the goal line to send the Cobras’ loyal and faithful into raptures.

On the flipside, you could have heard a pin drop among shocked Bloods’ fans suffering a fourth loss in five weeks.

Melton's five season losses have come by an average of 7.6 points and as a result are demoted to fourth on the BFNL table.

All kudos for the "Owen-less" Cobras who led at every change and did enough to respond in the clinches when challenged.

It was the first time the Bloods had trailed at every quarter break in a game since June 26, 2021.

Goetz, Craig, Jake McCreery, Cody Gates, Simon Lafranchi, Jack Parente were important all day for the winners, while Interleague trio Jack Kovacevic, Josh Huxtable and Isaac Nixon had some critical moments that led to scores.

For the Bloods, Liam Carter was stoic in the absence of his brother Ryan carrying the load while Jordy Cotter made a safe and prominent return from injury. Jack Walker, Blake Souter and Braedan Kight were best of the rest.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 60 hit outs, 23 disposals, 18 contested possessions

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 24 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 marks

Liam Carter (Melton) - 20 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 10 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Really proud of the heart we displayed against a very well organised Melton. We missed opportunities early and Melton were able to wrestle back momentum. The fight back and leadership to execute roles after an injury break was sensational. Our young list is building belief and to score three goals late to win was character defining. We now reset for another big game."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Well done to the Cobras. Thought their first quarter they did not get reward for dominance, and we just hung in there. We were really strong in all phases of the game for the remaining three quarters in what became a wrestle. Our feelings are two-fold tonight - so proud of the group to hang in with no rotations for the last half. Our want to compete kept us going, sending a player back on the ground just to help out did not feel great but we hung on till the last minute. On the flipside. another game lost by less than a goal from a winning position and that remains frustrating as you contemplate what could have been. But for now, we live in reality, and I would like to give full credit to Bacchus Marsh and their young list for fighting and fighting and getting the reward they deserved."  

The outcome took second stage to the heartwarming senior debut for Lake Wendouree’s Isaac Torpy, who faces major surgery in the coming period.

The BFNL wishes Isaac and his family all the very best ahead of, and post-surgery emanating with a successful recovery.

The Roosters were across the nature of the occasion earning the utmost respect of Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown in the aftermath.

The game itself was evidently one sided as Clint Proctor's visiting party went to work in the opening term to establish a 30-point lead at the first break.

The nature of the lead continued in an upward trajectory until the final siren as the Roosters piled on their highest score for the season and just their second north of 93 points since its Round 1 draw against the Swans.

VFL listed talent Jaylon Thorpe, Ned Nash and Jackson McInerney all enjoyed a day out in front of the sticks to share the spoils with a game high five goals each.

If there's any consolation for the struggling Lakers, their score of 49 was their second highest in ten weeks.  

Roosters’ quartet Isaac Carey, Sam Artz, Reggie Palmer and Harvey Lewis were named best alongside the goalkicking trio in a timely boost ahead of a season defining three games against Redan (H), Sebastopol (H) and Darley (A).

Coach Brown will continue to lead his Lakers with the glass half-full approach, appreciative of the ‘what haves’ rather than the ‘have nots’ for the here and now.

Morale among the group remains in the enviable space as they continue to front up not shy on effort.

The Lakers’ final three games come against Sunbury (A), Redan (A) and East Point (H).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jaydo Wright (Lake Wendouree) - 51 hit outs, 32 disposals, 10 clearances

Isaac Carey (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 13 score involvements, 11 clearances

Declyn McGuigan (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
"Today provided perspective of what community sport is all about. Congratulations to the Lakers and Rohan on the way they conducted themselves in such difficult circumstances. On behalf of the North Ballarat Football Netball Club, I want to wish Isaac all the love and respect for the way he carried himself today. Good luck with your journey young man."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"The result wasn't our focus of concern. A very proud day at our club with Isaac Torpy playing his 150th and first senior game with his mates before he heads to Melbourne next week for major surgery. Immense gratitude and thank you to North Ballarat for the respect they showed for Isaac, his family and our club. We take a deep breath, follow, help and support Isaac along his journey.

Footy wise North were sharp. At times it was too much for our boys, especially when giving them time to run through with speed. Some good passages/momentum swings for us but we just conceded too many multiple goals in 5-10 that put the game to bed. Clint has them well drilled and once they get a full squad, they can do some damage."

Joe Carmody's Kangas extended their winning streak to six matches with a humble 43-point victory over the Swans.

After a shaky first term, the Kangas raised the bar registering 15 goals to six to keep their unbeaten run at home in check, climbing to 15 games.

Expect the record to be challenged in Round 17, when they host Darley on a 14-game winning streak of their own. More on that closer to D-day.

Again, the hosts were forced to get it done without barometer pair Matty Johnston and Bryson McDougall who missed for another week.

Swingman Jacob Brown picked up the slack forward in the absence of McDougall to finish the game with six goals to land in the best players behind midfield trio Jordy Johnston, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Jessie Cairns.  

Third gamer, 190cm Jarrod Joyce (four goals) made a statement of what's to come in September and is likely to grab the attention of fellow finalists. 

Joyce booted 12 goals (and considerably more behinds) in his four-game apprenticeship with the Kangas’ reserves, as the former tennis pro turns his hand to footy. Bonus acquisition.

Needless to add Jordy Johnston did his Henderson Medal chances no harm with another best on ground performance according to the Kangas’ hierarchy.

For Ash Baker's Swans, the reality of where they're at received further confirmation. The young group have shown positive signs for the most part of the season and rate about five or six goals shy of the top end.

Growth and maybe the addition of one or two targeted options in the coming off season may be all that is needed to push their case for a spike on the 'W' front.

Promising utility Harry Butler booted three goals for the Swans to be named best ahead of the consistent Maple brothers Tristan and Zack. Wyatt Squires and Lewis Rinaldi maintained their consistent form to feature alongside Tom Mooney.

The Kangas face a tough fortnight ahead against Melton (A) and Darley (H) before a freshen up meeting with the Lakers (A).

The Swans’ slim finals chances will come down to their returns against Bacchus Marsh (H), Melton (A) and Redan (H).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 35 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Joel Van Meel (East Point) - 64 hit outs, 21 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Wyatt Squires (Ballarat) 31 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Tough game against a well-coached side that move the ball well. Happy we were able to defend better after quarter time and create scores off turnover."

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
"Well done to Joe and his East Point troops - he has them playing a good brand of footy. We were able to take it up to them during the first half, however they got hold of us late in the second quarter and into the third. Credit to East Point, they were very good in the contest today. We'll learn from it and move forwards."

Mercurial forward Will Johnson booted 11 goals on his return from a well-managed 'rest' to star for the Devils in their 46-point win over the Lions at City Oval.

While it's not ideal from a team perspective to have such a weight of goals from one individual, sometimes you just need to sit back and enjoy the show.

Johnson elevated his position for the Tony Lockett Medal race to equal third with Melton's Braedan Kight on 48 goals, seven shy of injured leader Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh).

The 11-goal haul usurps Johnson beyond his previous best of 40 in the Devils’ 2023 Premiership year, matching Owen's season high return against the Lakers (Round 11) in the process.  

It was the Devils’ 14th win in a row, unbeaten since the season opener.

While Johnson took care of the finishing, midfielders Brett Bewley and the Azzopardi brothers, Adam and Andy, ensured the supply was enough to create the opportunity.

Returning small forward Leigh Spiteri and first season lockdown forward Jarrod White earnt the plaudits of the Devils’ hierarchy who were made to earn the win.

There are a number of superlatives you could use to describe Redan's week in the lead up against the Devils with the jury out on how the young Lions would respond.

Often with a changing of the guard comes a response, immeasurable until games end.

Lions’ fans can be proud of how their young group negotiated their way through arguably the toughest match-up alongside East Point in the BFNL at the moment.

Lions’ tall Taj Bond finished with six goals and best player honours ahead of fellow interleague duo Brodie Pope and Rory Gunsser.

Ruckman Rudie Forde, key utility Lachie Bond and experienced campaigner Lachie George rounded out the pointy end of Lions’ contributors who showed some kickback with a narrow third quarter win.

Steve Kane has taken over the reins at Redan with three winnable games ahead in the west, namely North Ballarat, Lake Wendouree and Ballarat. 

Dan Jordan's Devils have Sebastopol (H), East Point (A) and North Ballarat (J).   

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 42 disposals, 13 score involvements, 12 clearances

Will Johnson (Darley) - 22 disposals, 18 marks, 17 score involvements

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 34 disposals, 11 marks, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Steve Kane (Redan)
"Proud of the way our boys battled out the game after a taxing week. I thought we were able to show some really exciting ball movement when we were able to execute our skills. Unfortunately, we ran into a very strong Darley team that gave us lesson in preparation, fitness and skill. Although we have a young side stacked full of talent we saw today what it takes to compete with the very best sides and we'll go to work on that in the next few weeks to try and narrow the gap."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Very pleased with the win. We showed evidence of progress in a few areas while Redan were able to highlight a few we need to work on. Redan were a tough opposition and look to have a bright future with their talented youth. Credit to the Lions pushing us on the back of what I anticipate to have a been a difficult week for the club."

Sunbury overcame a 17-point deficit at three quarter time, downing finals contender Sebastopol in an entertaining affair at Marty Busch Reserve.

The win promotes the Lions into an all-important third position on the BFNL ladder while the Burra find themselves outside in seventh, having spent just one week inside the top six.

The Lions welcomed back key forward Daniel Johnson (three goals) from a three-week hiatus with Coburg VFL to be reunited with Jake Sutton (four goals) providing a dangerous, two-pronged attack. Both made significant contributions combining for more than half the Lions’ score.

While the quarter-by-quarter scores suggest the presence of a breeze, the see-sawing nature of the affair was purely coincidence.

Periods of momentum came simply on the back of pressure and clearance numbers according to Sunbury coach Matty White.

It was a must win game for both clubs as the Burra aimed to consolidate their vulnerable sixth position on the table by claiming a second 'top four' scalp for the year while the Lions looked to reclaim some form and keep their top three chances alive.

Both sides looked well on their way for periods achieving the mission but come 4pm. Thanks to the early start, honours were with Sunbury who end the battle with their noses in front.

The Burra led at quarter time, were level at the half and again in front at the final change but to Sunbury's credit, their cream rose to the top.

Spearheads Johnson and Sutton were instrumental leading the Lions to their second highest score in 9 games while Jake Egan (four goals) provided a third option on the goal front.

Harry Power and Jack Newitt joined the attacking trio in the best as Murphy Boyd enjoyed another week amid his senior footy renaissance.

Crucial Burra 'six pack' Jack Bambury, Hugo Papst (four goals), Cooper Littlehales (three goals), Toby Hutt, Adam Forbes and Lachlan Cassidy were tireless fighting the battle for home fans, but it was the touring party who left with the chocolates.       

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 27 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 24 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"A cracking game of footy played in great spirit. Shattered not to get the winning outcome, but some great positives and learning which will help us grow further over the coming weeks. We played some excellent footy to have Sunbury on the ropes, however full credit to Matty and his boys, they responded beautifully to the challenger in the last quarter and came over the top of us. Wish them all the best for the run home. We review/learn as we look forward to the Darley challenge this week."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"What a cracking game of footy - would have been the best game of the year to watch. Offensively brilliant and was some great moments of defence. In the third quarter Sebastopol stepped up the pressure and had us chasing our tails but we were able to settle at three quarter time. If Sebastopol get into the final six, they'll be a team to keep a close eye on. Really happy with the result and getting some guys back into form."

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."

Round 16 saw the top six officially locked in for finals action, but there is still plenty to play out over the remaining two home & away rounds.

The Kangas extended their winning run to 13 games with a hard-fought win over a spirited, undermanned North Ballarat.

Seven unanswered goals in the opening term for the Kangas had this game, albeit on the scoreboard, put to bed.

Sure the 60-point margin validates some degrees of ease but credit to the young Roosters who were able to minimise the damage after half time.

The Kangas led by 56 points at the main break but were denied an ensuing blow out on the back of unquestionable effort.

With all respect to a depleted North Ballarat, the match up resembled boys v men on occasions as the Kangas went to work early.

Bryson McDougall was the beneficiary of the hosts early dominance with seven first half goals before finishing the day with eight.

Progressive forward Strahan Robinson looks well beyond his years with his imposing size, mobility and aerial presence proving a handful for the Roosters’ defence.

Robinson's impressive afternoon ended with four goals.

The bigger bodies of East Point all ended in the best players on a perfect day for football.

Mikitja Rottumah-Onus (Best), Billy Jones, Jordy Johnston, Joel Van Meel (199 games) all featured alongside McDougall and Robinson in a real display of quality depth from the Kangas.

Any number of up to 14-15 players could easily have landed without surprise.

For North Ballarat, there were encouraging signs in defeat.

Newcomer and former Cobra Joel Freeman booted five goals and joined Simon McCartin, Cam McCullum, Isaac Carey, Ned Nash and Taj McMillan at the pointy end for club voting discussions.

Again, the Roosters had just seven players from their 2023 Grand Final side and must be craving the returns of top end, more experienced stocks to support the wave of next gen talent currently flying the flag.

Kangas veteran Drew Murphy celebrated his 200th game in fine style kicking the last goal of the game to send the loyal and faithful social club into a frenzy. Bigman Joel Van Meel will play his 200th game this week against Sunbury.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Simon McCartin (North Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 21 disposals, 15 score involvements, 10 marks, 8 goals

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 31 disposals, 9 marks, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Terrific first quarter. We won all the key stats and set up the win. North (Ballarat) kept challenging us throughout the day and will be a handful come finals time."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Hard working and testing day for us. East (Point) are a very good side that make you compete every minute of the game. Our leaders were very good today. Young players are doing a mighty job for us and we are developing quickly. Looking forward to getting some troops back to support them."

Ballarat remains unbeaten since Round 10, following a testing win over Sebastopol at Marty Busch.

The win sees the Swans draw level on premiership points with fifth place North Ballarat.

Melton South (A) and East Point (H) will round out the Swans’ home and away season before a tilt at finals.

North Ballarat are at City Oval with Redan before a bye in Round 18.

The Burra started well, establishing a handy 10-point lead in front of home fans before the Swans used the quarter time break to reset.

The Swans not only regained the lead but went on with it through the middle stages to outscore the hosts 8.10 to 3.4.

Essentially 18 scoring shots to seven.

While the response from the Swans was pleasing for coach Chris Maple, you can't help but revisit the Swans’ inability to get 'bang for buck' on their opportunities despite Zak Rinaldi's game high four goals.

Clearly the young Swans remain a work in progress but when they click, they'll be dangerous, if not already given their leg speed, attack on the footy and greater aerial presence.

Connection is a season long wish for any coach.

For outgoing Maple, let's hope the Swans can find that connection - it could result in winning a final such is the scope and potential of the group.

The Swans’ midfielders are covering the ground and finding a heap of the footy at the right end of the season.

Paddy Simpson, Tristan Maple, Wyatt Squires, the Rinaldi brothers Lewis and Zak all thrived with their run, carry and distribution.

Bigman Marcus Powling, who is crucial in the Swans’ fortunes, was again a mainstay with his aerial combatants.

For the Burra, it was encouraging to see some new faces featuring among the best. Sam Wilkinson, Chase Dummett, Ben Hutt, Lachlan O'Keefe, Jack Bambury and Luke Phillips all earned the nod of approval.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 8 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"We started really well but eventually faded in the second half after losing a couple of key midfield rotations in the second quarter. We still could have controlled things a little better after this, however credit to Ballarat who move the ball with pace in the second half and put us under duress. We have come a long way this year and look forward to finishing the year off strong."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Very proud of our young boys with today's performance. We wasted opportunities early but settled into a consistent four quarter effort. We were solid around the ball. but just need to tidy up some of our basic fundamentals as we move forward."

Melton has flexed its muscles with a dominant win over Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

Bloods’ leading goalkicker Braedan Kight was again the beneficiary of a weight of possession and forward 50 entries to be the standout with nine goals.

Usual suspects, more so dangerous support crew, didn't miss out either as Ryan Carter (four goals), Kyle Borg (four), Liam Carter (three) and Jordy Kight (three) added to Braedan's tally to finish with a combined 23 of 27 Bloods goals.

The quintet all feature in the BFNL's top 14 goalkickers for the season.

For the record, East Point are one shy matching the Bloods’ offensive weaponry on the goal front with four of the top 16.

When Bacchus Marsh led a lacklustre Bloods 15-14 midway through the first term something just clicked for the ladder leaders who went into overdrive as they piled on 25 goals to five for the remainder of the game to make yet another compelling 'action' statement to the broader competition.

Since half time of the Bloods emotional fuelled win over Sunbury in Round 10, Troy Scoble’s connected group have lost just one quarter. It was the Bloods’ eighth score of 100 or more, only East Point have done it more in '24 (nine).

The Cobras’ chances were slim at best heading in - the Bloods inclusion of North Melbourne VFL star Jack Watkins didn't help their cause either as he and brother Lachie featured prominently in the best ahead of a host of contributors including Jaykob Hickey, Lachlan Walker and their headache handful of match winning forwards.

Consistent, hardworking Cobra Jake Owen (three goals) was named best for the hosts as Tyson Shea made a safe return from a layoff to lead the overwhelming battle of resistance.

Shea too was prominent as he always is while Cameron Freake (two goals), Ethan McKercher, Will Lalor and Josh Huxtable rated credible mentions.

The Bloods look primed for another 'fill-up' on the road against the Lakers while the Cobras host Darley in their last game at Maddingley Park for the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 36 disposals, 15 score involvements, 12 clearances

Braedan Kight (Melton) - 18 disposals, 15 score involvements, 9 marks, 9 goals

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 87 hitouts, 11 disposals, 7 marks, 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"The scoreboard doesn't fully represent the game. We had some very good patches of play against a top-class team in the comp. Our method works when we can execute. Unfortunately, fumbles and execution of inside 50's hurt us on turnover. Melton were able to make the most of their moments and this is great learnings for our young lads. (I) couldn't question our effort."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Great to play footy in good weather. Much respect for what Bacchus Marsh are building, lots of top end young talent. We were scratchy in all phases early off the bye, our contest got us into the game and remained strong all game. We're a lot more effective in the second half and was pleased with how we ran the game out. Really proud of the club and being part of five sets of brothers playing senior footy. Look forward to another Ballarat trip next week as we build to finals."                 

Redan's run of four straight losses has come to end with an entertaining 24-point win over a plucky Melton South.

Lions’ key forwards Lachie Bond (six goals) and Grant Bell (five) proved the difference, clearly two match ups beyond the Panthers.

Travis Hodgson's touring party can take solace in the fact they won the second half in isolation 9.5 to 9.3 and recorded their highest total score since Round 7, 2022 (vs Sebastopol) some 39 BFNL matches ago.

Regardless of the humble margin, Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth saw the positives in the aftermath paying tribute to Lachie George, Bond and Bell especially for standing up and leading the team in the absence of club leading possession getter, Khy Jess, who left the field early.

Other notables to feature in the best players from the Lions camp were Liam Farnsworth, Jacob Short and Xavier Gleeson.

Jarrod Bibby enjoyed a team high four goals for the Panthers, while Nathan Gemmell, Mitch Fino and Ryder Rousch were the other multiple goal kickers on the day.

Hodgson's young group return home this week to host Ballarat while Redan remain at City Oval and will endeavour to upset North Ballarat who have endured a mounting injury list for the most part of the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 37 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Lachlan Bond (Redan) - 16 disposals, 11 marks, 10 score involvements, 6 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"A great day for the footy club celebrating 'Chip Barker's 300th club game. Great to have so many past premiership players back at the club. Proud of the boys against a determined (Melton) South side. We were challenged went Khy Jess went off early. (Lachie) George and (Lachie) Bond led an invested group to sing the song for the first time in a while."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"After our worst performance for the season last week we produced our best on Saturday. We were dominant around stoppage, and we had some really good passages in transition. Although we defended pretty well as a team, we had no answers for Lachie Bond and Grant Bell who combined for 11 goals. They were the clear difference in the four-goal loss. Probably the two youngest teams in the comp with 12 underage kids each running around. Credit to Redan being able to win five games this season with so many kids."

The Devils moved into third place on the BFNL table after a convincing runaway win over Sunbury at Darley Park.

To the eye, it was arguably the reigning premiers most impressive performance since their season opening win over East Point. 

With just two home and away rounds left, the win couldn't have come at a better time for Dan Jordan's men.

Inevitably questions would be answered.

Could Sunbury manufacture the connection in their back half that has been a feature, in the absence of Jack Hannett, Jordan Tentonello and Jack Newitt? The scoreline, to a degree, confirmed the concerns.

The Devils’ score of 121 was the highest of any recorded against the Lions this year.

As for Darley, what was under the bonnet given a host of changes in just their fifth game in 10 weeks?

Could they run out a four-quarter game against a top six opposition and not be overran as they were against the Lions at their previous meet? 

As for the bonnet, that did generate a few surprises.

Wil Johnson booted five goals in his first outing since June 1st while Alex Sweet delivered with four crucial majors to follow his SOS inclusion for Leigh Spiteri (finger).

Furthermore, the Devils silenced any short-term speculation they were vulnerable late with a nine-goals-to-one final quarter blitz. 

Johnson and Sweet duly landed among the best players alongside in form defender Matthew Brett, Vic Metro ruckman Lucas Impey, and the Matricardi brothers Riley and Darcy.

Brett Bewley also returned to finish the leading possession winner on the ground with 42. Ironically, that came as a little surprise.

For Sunbury, leading forwards Jake Sutton (four) and Mitch McLean (two) combined for six of the Lions’ eight goals.

Brock Landt, Cody Bramble, Josh Guthrie, Ben Eales, Riley Miller and Sutton all finished among the best, keeping the visitors within touch up until three quarter time before the flood gates opened.

The Lions have little time to lament as the focus shifts to East Point on Saturday in the BFNL’s Match of the Round with LIVE commentary and vision from 2PM. The Devils face crosstown rivals Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 42 disposals, 11 marks, 10 rebound 50s

Lucas Impey (Darley) - 62 hit outs, 16 disposals, 12 tackles

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 6 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Very pleased with the boys especially in the second half when we were able to kick away against a quality side."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Great game to watch for three quarters, then Darley put us away. Disappointing we couldn't finish off the way we did last time but that's footy. We'll regroup and review and get ready for this week."