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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Stats unavailable

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

A number of close finishes proved there is not much seperating the top end of a scintilating football season so far in 2024.

Giantkillers Sunbury remain the only unbeaten team atop of the BFNL ladder after a thrilling come from behind win over Darley at the Clarke Oval.

This game was seeming put to bed after three quarters when the Devils led by 21 points, but someone forgot to tell the Lions to turn off the bedside lamp.

Lions newcomers Brock Landt, Jordan Tentonello, Ben Eales and promoted Jacob Bygate highlighted the club’s enviable depth under Matty White to feature among the best players behind VFL listed defender Jack Newitt and progressive midfielder Jake Egan.

Ironically the sentiment recognising the denfensive contributions was endorsed by Devils’ coach Dan Jordan in the aftermath as Zane Le Huray (best), Jyson Fawcett, Matthew Brett and Jake Ancrum were lauded for their efforts in a losing side led by Luther Baker who was able to get off the hook as the focus of attention leant toward the competition's best player, Brett Bewley.

While the winners were held to their lowest score of the season (previous 99 v Redan Round 1) it was no surprise to see Mitch McLean (three goals) and Jake Sutton (two goals) combine for half of the Lions’ majors.

Heading in they were responsible for 44% of all Sunbury goals in 2024.

Goals came at a premium, only Joel Cadman (two goals) could register multiple goals for the visitors who wrestled their way to nine goals, with eight of those coming in the first three quarters.

The Devils have very little time to lick their wounds ahead of Melton in BFNL Match of the Round fixture, while Sunbury's unbeaten run looks likely to extend to seven on the road against the winless Lakers. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 10 tackles, 10 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 6 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 19 disposals, 13 marks, 13 intercept possessions   

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"(It) was a great win against a class outfit. They had us pinned for three quarters before we were able to break the shackles in the last to be able to run away with it."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"I thought we controlled the game for the most part in the first three quarters. Credit to Sunbury who came back at us and capitilised on a few key moments. Plenty to take away from the game against a quality side."

Redan survived a major scare to hold off a gallant Lake Wendouree outfit at City Oval.

Rohan Brown's winless Lakers simply refused to put the cue in the rack as they took it up to their more fancied rivals establishing a quarter time (17 points) and three-quarter time lead (11 points) before succumbing late to Gary Learmonth's young brigade led by Khy Jess (best) and Zac Mortlock.

Experienced quartet Jacob Short, Lachlan George, Jacob Werts and Stephen Fitzgibbon helped steer the ship ensuring the Lions finished with their noses in front.

Bailey Carroll finished with a game high three goals for the winners, while returning ruckman Taj Bond, midfielder Khy Jess and leading forward Grant Bell finished with two.

Bell has kicked multiple goals in all six games this season and currently sits third in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

The Lakers were brave and gave themselves every chance with eight contributors hitting the scoreboard, four registering multiples.

The clubs leading 'striker' Bailey Thompson, Bailey McKimmie, Jonte Jarrod and exciting up and comer Lincoln Koliba (best) each booted two goals.

Promising recruit Jaydon Wright (one goal) made a safe return after missing a month with an ankle injury.

Goals aside, Joel O'Connell, Phoenix James, Brayden Helyar and Bailey Ryan were all important for the Lakers who fell agonisingly short.

Tough match ups await these two sides in Round 7.

Redan are away at Mars Stadium for an intriguing matchup against North Ballarat while the Lakers get another opportunity to measure their improvement when they host ladder leaders Sunbury.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Khy Jess (Redan) - 36 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Jacob Short (Redan) - 27 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 intercept possessions

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 78 hit outs, 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Happy to win but we were lucky to hold on. Lakers controlled plenty of the game and will be in plenty of games during the year. We need to be better for longer. Great learning opportunity for the squad."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Good game of footy. Super proud of our group once again. We had chances late to win the game but unfortunately, we couldn't capitilise. Our steps are getting bigger. This is the most resilient group I’ve coached - we will show up again and have a crack at it next week."

East Point made huge inroads on their top three credentials with another nail-biting win over healthy rivals Melton.

Not dissimilar to the Kanga’s one-point win over the Bloods in last year’s semi-final, it was Matty Johnston who led his troops with a stand-out display through the midfield.

The see-sawing affair endured many lead changes as both sides looked the winner at stages.

When the Bloods arrested a nine-point quarter time deficit to lead by 11 points at the main break one could not be dragged over the coals assuming Troy Scoble's team would go on with it.

But Joe Carmody's Kangas had other ideas bouncing back to have their noses in front again at the final change.

Again, the Bloods wrestled back the lead and led by as much as 14 points before the never-say-die Kangas fought their way to finish on the right side of the ledger at the final siren.

Kanga’s playmaker Jordy Johnston complemented his brother Matty to feature prominently alongside lesser knowns Deng Lual and Hamish Thompson who highlighted the rich source of progressive young talent coming out of Eastern Oval.

Experienced duo Jordy Taylor and Jacob Brown (two goals) continued their run of recent form as did Jesse Cairns who looks more and more comfortable at the level against any opposition.

Bloods swingman Luke Heaney (four goals) almost won the game off his own boot in a master move forward from Scoble.

Defenders Lachlan Phillips, Jordy Cotter and Bailey Mawson were prominent for the hosts all day while the Kight brothers Braedan and Jordy Kight played the support role to Heaney on the goal front finishing with two goals each.

It's a rarity in more recent times you will see league heavyweights Melton and Darley meet after a loss adding further weight to what was already going to be a season blockbuster on the Round 7 BFNL Match of the Round.

The confident Kangas will fear no-one having claimed the league’s biggest scalp for a second time in as many hit outs.

It's onwards an upwards For Carmody's group as they prepare for Chris Maple's Ballarat in Round 7.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 24 conested possessions, 14 score involvements

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 25 disposals, 9 marks, 8 score involvements

Luke Heaney (Melton) - 13 disposals (9 contested), 8 marks (6 contested), 8 score involvements (6 goal involvements) 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Not good enough over the four quarters today. I thought East controlled the game in contest and in attack, executing their plan really well. Our defence phase was our best component absorbing a lot of the Kanga’s forward entries, but their contest element was better, which allowed them to play the game in their half. Five weeks into the new system, we think we know where we're at and the areas of improvement needed to match it with the best sides in the competition. A metre off here and there today - we will review the same as every week and look forward to playing another top team next week.".

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Great effort to hang in all day as Melton's pressure was excellent. We were able to generate better ball movement in the second half and also score off turnover. (Our) younger players are finding greater consistency and supporting our leaders well."

The Cobras moved into the top six with a comfortable win over the winless Panthers.

If this game wasn't over at quarter time it most certainly was at the half and later at the third as Dennis Armfield's young group piled on 14 goals to two up until the final change to lead by 78 points.

Cobras’ second gamer Kade Hilton finished with a game high five goals ahead of fellow up and comers Josh Huxtable (four goals) and Isaac Nixon (three goals).

Experienced pair Tyson Shea and Jake Owen were in everything as the Cobras welcomed back Rye Penny from Collingwood VFL duties.

Live wire Ethan McKercher and Huxtable continued their solid starts to the season to wind up in the better players conversation.

For the Panthers Daniel Zajac (two goals) never gave up the fight behind a handful of next generation talent Jarrod Bibby, Lachie Pritchard and Ryder Rousch.

New edition, 6'7" big man Darrean Wyatt and Daniel Donaldson also earnt the nod of coach Travis Hodgson and his staff for their efforts.

The Cobras will savour the bye next week, a chance to rest up before a season defining block of games against four of last year’s finalists North Ballarat (H), Melton (A), Redan (H) and East Point (A).

The Panthers will eye the potential to improve next week when they host undermanned Sebastopol who sit in ninth on the BFNL ladder with one win and five losses. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 51 hit outs, 18 disposals, 12 score invovlements

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 31 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Another good win for the lads. Melton South came with a plan and made us adjust a few things early. I thought our boys adjusted well and took over after half time. We were able to win the balance and our work rate lifted. Happy to get another win before the bye."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Though we were really combative in the contest and had our best day in the midfield battle. (We) had a reasonable number of inside 50's based on improved stoppage numbers and the way we defended which was pleasing. (We) let ourselves down by foot and hand consistently throughout the day which reflected on the scoreboard."

Following a nervous start, North Ballarat booted 18 goals to two after quarter time to runaway convincing winners over Sebastopol.

Scores were level at quarter time as the Roosters struggled to get bang for buck with their weight of possession despite kicking into a two-goal breeze.

But the further this game went, the more it was realised that Brendan McCartney's group at their best is good enough, while on the flipside it confirmed the Burra are a mile off recent year returns.

Local footy can be harsh, as fortunes fluctuate with personnel from year to year and 2024 unfortunately is the season to witness the Burras' slide.

On a more positive note, Burras’ pressure forward Adam Forbes did lay legitimate claim to one of the goals of the year.

Somehow it was that freakish finish that actually triggered an emphatic response from North Ballarat in a game that was merely floating in the underwhelming category until then.

The Roosters went into overdrive with a 13-goals-to-one second half with ten of those coming in the last quarter.

It was a pleasure to see mobile trio Ned Nash (six goals), Jamie Quick (six goals) and Hugh Trigg (1 goal) dominate in the air, at ground level and with their finishing be it in general play or with shots on goal.

While we're familiar with the capabilities of Quick in particular and Nash, it was the aerial presence and footy IQ shown by young forward Hugh Trigg who must have 'clunked' double figure marks in the Roosters’ front half to set up numerous opportunities on goal. Roosters’ midfield trio Elliot Lamb, Brock Leonard and Riley Polkinghorne shared a majority of possession at the feet of big man Cam McCallum who had an enthralling duel with Burras’ ruckman Reece McNally all day.

North Ballarat returns to Mars Stadium for an important match against Redan aiming to keep their top six chances within reach.

Sebastopol will entertain the thought of a morale-boosting win over Melton South. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 14 score invovlements, 10 inside 50s

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 12 clearances, 9 tackles

Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol) - 28 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Good days work after a scratchy 40 minutes. We thought our system was solid around the contest and in defence which allowed us to score more freely after half time. Some of our younger players made good progress again today. More challenges are coming over the next few weeks."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Always a tough game against North, Proud of our boys efforts in the contest for two and a half quarters, however that won't win you a game of footy. North’s quality came over us after that point. Disappointing it (the margin) blew out so far in the end. We learn and build towards next week."

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

Scoop has all the updates from Saturday's action.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Round 7 saw a number of defining wins around the grounds as teams continued their fine form while others recorded a much needed bounce back.

North Ballarat continues their climb up the BFNL ladder with a 45-point win over Redan at Mars Stadium.

This game was put to bed early with a dominant eight goals to one opening half from the hosts, which saw the lead blow out to 46 points at the main break.

Progressive young forward Hugh Trigg put the writing on the wall last week that a breakout game at the level was near.

We didn't have to wait long for that to come to fruition as Trigg starred at the weekend with five goals and a best on ground performance.

Collingwood VFL listed Sam Glover (three goals) proved a handful to contain for the young Lions while leading forwards Jamie Quick (two goals) and Ned Nash (one goal) were made to fight hard for any advantage.

Midfield trio Riley Polkinghorne, Brock Leonard and Elliott Lamb featured prominently yet again in a copy paste performance of last week.

Nelson Troon (two goals) continued his upward trajectory giving every indication he's going to be a good player for a long time in North Ballarat colours.

For Redan, there were really two options for them at halftime given the 46-point deficit.

Show some fight or roll over.

Well, the response to Gary Learmonth's messaging after the main break was encouraging as the Lions dug in for the fight, gaining some confidence knowing they won the second half, albeit by a point.

Grant Bell (four goals) extended his run of multiple goals in games to nine to aid the rally in the second half.

While Bell, Jacob Short and Lachie George never gave up leading the response, it was youthful trio Khy Jess, ruck Rudie Forde and Under 17 debutant Bailey McKay (two goals) who caught the eye to finish among the best.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 14 marks, 9 score involvements

Lachlan George (Redan) - 27 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"We set the game up in the first half with some organised defending and ground positioning. Not our best in the second half but really pleasing to see our boys regroup and get back to our style of footy late in the game. Like all clubs, each week there were lots of learnings. We are making good progress and will keep looking to get better every day."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"So proud of the group today. Our first half was disappointing with too many skill errors costing us. Our second half was super - the boys were physical and showed a glimpse of what they can do against a very well organised team. Looking forward to a two-week break and getting some boys back. The club has played 18 boys Under 19 in the senior team in the opening seven rounds. Lots of improvement to come."

Melton returned to the winners list in emphatic style with a dominant 68-point win over a lacklustre Darley.

X-factor Bloods’ forward and captain, Braedan Kight, starred with seven goals, four of those coming in the first quarter, as the visitors stunned the reigning premiers with six unanswered goals.

The Bloods were airborne early, their work rate, pressure and disposal efficiency a feature, panels ahead of the Devils, who suffered their biggest loss under Dan Jordan since Round 11, 2022 (69 points v North Ballarat).

The well organised Bloods’ defence had midfield numbers on the back of their relentless work rate and will to assist teammates creating the outnumber and overlap in transition.

Poor Devils’ entries aided the Bloods’ intercept and turnover cause on a disappointing day for the black and white who were held goalless in three quarters in front of a big crowd.

All of the Devils’ five goals came in the second term, reducing the margin to 23 points at the main break. But either side of the Devils 'push' was an old school thrashing as the Bloods piled on 13.8 to 0.6 - and all on Darley Park, ending an 11-game winning streak for Jordan's men dating back to Round 10, 2023 (v Redan).

The result told us more of the gulf between the two sides after seven rounds. The Bloods (W5L1) are on track and play a solid, trusting brand of footy giving every indication they're a team on a mission - the buy-in is palpable.

Darley (W4L3) may have just become the unofficial fifth seed in the title race behind Sunbury, Melton, East Point and North Ballarat.

Leaving too much for too few is not sustainable even with the best player in the competition.

While Brett Bewley's numbers won't surprise, he was denied his usual time and space. Also, the once tedious conversation regarding Darley's slim title chances without a bona fide ruckman were confirmed.

All honours with Melton, special mentions to host of impactful Bloods in no particular order - Braedan Kight, Jono O'Brien, Riley Walker, Adrian Monitto, Jordy Cotter, Jaycob Hickey and Lachlan Walker.

The Bloods host Lake Wendouree in Round 8 while the Devils will endeavour to regroup quickly ahead of a road trip to Sebastopol.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 30 disposals, 12 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Billy Myers (Darley) - 24 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

Riley Walker (Melton) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Disappointing day for us. We were outplayed in all facets of the game. Full credit to Melton, they're a very good side. Clearly, we've a lot of work to do."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really pleased with a four-quarter performance based on effort against absolute quality. We learned from last week’s performance and were able to execute our attack phase more efficiently. Darley are such a strong contest team so to compete in that area was important for us to get territory and try to play a forward half game. Darley is so well coached and disciplined, today gave us some confidence in what we are trying to build."

The Kangas made it five wins on the trot under new coach Joe Carmody to move into third place on the BFNL ladder.

Talented brother pairing Jordy Johnston (six goals) and Matthew Johnston (three goals) dominated the young Swans, who managed to stay in the game up until half time as East Point took a 17-point lead at the main break.

But an 11 goals to four second half in favour of East Point highlighted the difference between the two sides the further the game went.

The Swans were again made to pay full toll for their frustrating number of turnovers.

Bryson McDougall booted five goals for the winners to feature prominently alongside the Johnston's while the season build of Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Billy Jones continues in the right direction. Geordy Slater was the pick of the promising 'next gen' stocks out of Eastern Oval.

Veteran sharpshooter Andrew Hooper booted three of the Swans eight goals with limited opportunities.

Chris Maple's young group missed star rebound defender Rhett Montgomery who has departed for the SANFL.

Lauchie Dalgleish, Callan Wellings and Will Liston were required to pick up the slack and attempt to give the Swans a pulse, but in the end the Kangas were simply too strong.

The Kangas get their biggest challenge since Round 1 when they host ladder leaders Sunbury this Saturday.

Ballarat are at home looking to end a three-game losing streak when they face Melton South.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 45 disposals, 19 score involvements, 15 clearances

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 22 disposals, 15 score involvements, 10 marks

Lauchlan Dalgleish (Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(It) was a tight first half. Ballarat challenged us to defend. We won more contested ball in the third quarter and was able to capitilise up forward with greater territory. Another pleasing result with 22 contributors."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"After a reasonable start we kept ourselves in the game until half time. Our turnovers throughout the day were costly, and our inability to match East Point in the territory side of the game hurt us. Our levels of consistency of individuals and the team need to improve to match it against the top teams."

Sebastopol ended a five-game losing streak with a comfortable 73-point win on the road over winless Melton South.

The Burra certainly came to play, on a mission to eradicate their ways of recent weeks with a dominant opening term that saw the visitors earn a match winning 40-point lead.

While the Panthers showed some resistance in the second term to keep the Burra in check the was no denying Tony Lockyer's men a four-quarter winning performance.

The margin extended from 49 points at half time, 57 at the final break before 73 at the end of play.

The Burra had eight goalkickers contribute to their 15 goal scoreline led by James McDonald and Daniel Widgery who finished with three.

Defender Riley O'Keefe made a sound return from injury to be named best ahead of Luke Kiel (two goals), Adam Forbes (two goals), McDonald and Widgery.

For the Panthers Jarrod Bibby got the nod of approval from coach Travis Hodgson to be named best and not for the first time.

Again, goals came at a premium for the struggling club with Mitch Fino (two goals) their only multiple goal scorer.

Ex-AFL talent Tom Phillips (Melton South debut) and Jeff Garlett (2nd gamer) provided a major boost to the Panthers’ stocks but it wasn't enough to buck the run of outs for the struggling club.

Jayden Welch, Lachie Pritchard, Ryder Rousch and Fino made up the balance of players named in the best for the hosts.

The Panthers are away to Ballarat in Round e8 while the Burra host enigmatic Darley who are battling to find their best after back-to-back losses.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 39 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 rebound 50s

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 20 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Tom Phillips (Melton South) - 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"(it) was a relatively even contest after quarter time. Full credit to Sebastopol, when the game was there to be set up early they were proactive and aggressive. (It) was disappointing that we took 20 minutes to get going considering they had a tough start to the season. Pleasing to have 44 inside 50s and we could've had substantially more than 14 scoring shots if the last kick inside 50 had been executed better."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Very pleased with our first quarter especially which set up the day. Twenty-two contributors with some boys coming into the side playing their role perfectly. Credit to Melton South who never gave up and kept coming at us for four quarters. Look forward to the challenge vs Darley next week."

Sunbury continued on their merry way with a 128-point demolition job on the road over Lake Wendouree.

The Lions led at every change after a lightning start to the game with a seven-goals-to-one opening quarter blitz.

From there it was a matter of how far the Lions, as Matty White's unbeaten outfit showed little mercy piling on a further 18 goals to four to see their greatest advantage at the final siren.

It was more than a solid days work for the Lions despite every expectations on them winning the game.

The Lions running ability proved once again too overwhelming for their opposition, providing countless opportunities for in form Lions’ duo Jake Sutton (six goals) and Mitch McLean (five goals) to strut their stuff inside 50.

Again, the Lions were efficient hitting the scoreboard. Not once this year have the Lions ended the day with more behinds than goals.

Check out these returns - 15.9, 26.8, 17.12, 17.9, 10.10 and 25.12 (near 65% - comp average 52%)- truly remarkable and clearly the number one ranked team in the competition for conversion.

The reward speaks for itself. The Lions are flying, unbeaten in all six of their games. 

Lions’ utility Jacob Bygate did his selection credentials no harm with a best on ground performance ahead of purple patch defenders Nathan Wood, Dean Muir and Jack Newitt.

McLean was rightly lauded for his returns while Josh Guthrie was the pick of the Lions’ mids who enjoyed a day out.

For the Lakers, the tale of the tape was all too familiar as staple contributors Angus Gove, Joel O'Connell, Will Clark, Tom Zampatti, Kyle Anderson and Nathan Pring were made to shoulder more than their fair share of the load.

It doesn't get any easier for the Lakers next week on the road to Melton while Sunbury endure it's second trip to Ballarat in as many weeks to meet East Point who are on a five game winning streak of their own.

Looking forward to that one! 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 52 disposals, 90% disposal efficiency, 19 score involvements

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 28 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Outclassed by a very sharp side who were much cleaner and played a very good style of footy. Again, we cracked in and our effort was there but Sunbury were far too good today."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Another really good win. (I) knew we would have to come out strong against the Lakers. They have been starting games really well so it was nice to get off to a good start and finish the game strong."

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

Scoop reviews all the action from last round.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

The top of the BFNL Senior Football ladder could barely get any tighter after Round 8 produced inaugural defeats, big wins and steadying victories.

East Point made it five wins in a row toppling undefeated Sunbury by 20 points in a cracker of a game at Eastern Oval.

This finals like see-sawing affair had everything. All the traits that make the game of Aussie Rules so unique and a staple in our everyday lives were on show in front of a large crowd unsure which team could outlast the other.

The Kangas booted the opening four goals of the game, the Lions the next five, before a response from the Kangas saw them score another four unanswered.

There was really not much in it for the most part as the Lions arrested a 24-point deficit early to regain the lead before the Kangas steadied late to lead by four points at half time.

All the big guns came out to play and didn't let the show down.

All had their moments of brilliance and unique impact on the game.

The Kangas’ efficiency on goal in the second half was arguably the difference in the game as Joe Carmody's crew added 10.2 to the Lions 7.4. You could also argue that the Lions last three goals of the game flattered the scoreline. But I’m in the 'nothing between them' camp.

The Lions, somewhat shy of their best 22, missing Mitch Lewis, Jake Egan, Nathan Doyle all injured and Ben Cameron to VFL duties with Coburg lost no admirers.

On the flipside, the result confirms East Point's status as the real deal after their win on the road over Melton.

Matty Johnston (three goals) starred for the winners while ever reliable forward Bryson McDougall got the job done forward with a game high five goals.

X-factor talent Jordy Johnston (three goals) bobbed up when the Kangas needed it most including a miracle goal from the boundary line.

There were many good players in this game for both sides as the 'Match of the Round' billing lived up to all expectations.

Lions forward pairing Mitch McLean (four goals) and Jake Sutton (three goals) looked dangerous all day and provided a target combining for seven goals.

Tyson Lever was stoic with his familiar intercept mark game while the run and carry out of defence from Dean Muir and Jack Hannett continued to threaten.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 42 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 17 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 19 disposals, 9 tackles, 9 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 20 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Quality game of footy. We were able to withstand Sunbury's pressure which was high quality. We were able to capitilise on our forward entries in the second half. (We) defended well to limit their dangerous forwards."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"We were beaten by a class outfit. Ten goals, two behinds for them in the second half doesn't help when they kick that straight. So we'll rest and review and go again after the bye."

Ballarat returned inside the top six following a big win over Melton South at Alfredton Oval.

The Swans opened up their shoulders after quarter time piling on 19 goals to one, highlighting the gulf between the two sides. In fairness, the Panthers were undermanned, missing seven players from their Round 7 loss to Sebastopol.

Given the landscape that saw the visiting Panthers have no less than seven under 19 representatives it was more a matter of how far for the Swans on their own deck given the touring party's lack of experience and season form.

The win was emphatic for Chris Maple's group after building on a hard fought 14-point lead at quarter time.

The game opened up as the Swans put their foot down extending the margin to 48 at the half, 88 at the three-quarter mark before 128 at the final siren. Convincing to say the least.

As many as half of the Swans hit the scoreboard led by Zak Rinaldi (four goals), Andrew Hooper and Tom Mooney, who both finished with three apiece.

Amid the rout, Tristan Maple, Zak Rinaldi, Callan Wellings, Will Liston, Paddy Simpson and Keegan Mellington received the Swans’ hierarchy nod of approval to finish in the best players.

While it was another tough day at the office for Travis Hodgson's group, one could not deny the contributions of Panthers’ organic bunch Cody Chapman, John Kovarick, Broden Collins, Lachie Pritchard, Mitch Fino and Jesse Geddes.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 42 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 marks

Callan Wellings (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 13 tackles, 11 clearances

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 28 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Our boys were pretty consistent in all phases throughout the game. Credit to Melton South, they continued to front up for the fight every contest."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
We went in with a pretty undermanned side and I thought we defended pretty well in the first quarter, and it kept us in the contest. Ballarat had good shape and balance around stoppage and once they got outside of us, they really got hold of us.

Melton returned to the top of the table with a big win over Lake Wendouree at MacPherson Park.

Braedan Kight was the star once again with seven goals, moving to 41 for the season, 10 clear of his nearest rival Jake Sutton (Sunbury) in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

Troy Scoble's men were super-efficient converting 23 of their 32 shots on goal, to leave visiting coach Rohan Brown scratching his head at the extent of the final margin.

That's very much like the Bloods - blink and you'll miss it!

One minute the Bloods are mopping up in defence, before Braedan Kight is having a shot on goal the next. Clinical. 

A thirty-point lead at quarter time grew to 52 at the half, 82 at the final change before 117 points separated the two sides at game’s end. 

Versatile Bloods quintet Lachlan Walker (two goals), Brodie Sullivan, Lachie Watkins (two goals), Jack Walker (one goal) and Lachlan Phillips were recognised for their support roles aiding Kight's star of the show performance.

Credit to the Lakers for their competitiveness during the game for long periods.

Unlike the Bloods, the Lakers struggled to score and cost them dearly in the wash-up. 

Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti was stoic in the ruck, while in form trio Lincoln Koliba, Angus Gove and Joel O'Connell enjoyed their fair share of ball.

Bailey Thompson booted two goals, taking his season tally to 16 - impressive given his side hasn't won a game. The wiry, run and carry forward is responsible for near 30% of the Lakers season goals (16/54).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 38 disposals, 11 score involvements, 11 marks

Jack Walker (Melton) - 41 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 39 hitouts, 10 contested possessions, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Good competitive game going into the bye. We were a bit inconsistent in all phases today. Our defence was strong and we were able to implement our defensive system. However, full credit to the Lakers, their contest phase was very competitive and challenged us today.Our attack phase was ok at times - we lacked a bit of synergy going forward but overall going into the bye to get through the last four weeks W3L1 gives us a platform to now build into the season. Like all weeks, plenty to learn and improve on, and we welcome that."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"(I) thought we were well and truly in the game - just the end of chains we would give the ball back to Melton and them being slick and cleaner, would capitilise. Effort and pressure was season high for us today. I walked away a bit bemused that the score ended up being the margin it was. Melton are very good and will be there at the end. Looking forward to the break."

North Ballarat banked an all-important four points on the road to deny Bacchus Marsh at the weekend.

Despite leading at every change Brendan McCartney's men were made to work hard for their reward as very little separated the two sides at the breaks with the margin sitting at 6, 1, 12 and 19 respectively.

The Cobras made a couple of 'runs' at the visitors who led comfortably before Dennis Armfield's group swung into action.

The hosts enjoyed some time in front in the third term but were unable to sustain the levels of consistency and efficiency required to overcome a team like North Ballarat who pride themselves on the 'contest'.

Three late goals to North Ballarat in the third quarter restored the visitors the lead and with it, a healthy momentum push into the final stanza. Game over.

The Roosters essentially shut up shop, denying the Cobras another sniff holding them goalless, an anti-climax of sorts to a game that was entertaining for three quarters.

The Loader brothers Harry (one goal) and Fletcher were named best for the winners ahead of Will Quinlan (four goals), Malachi White and Ned Nash who did the job again for the Roosters in the absence of Jamie Quick, finishing with four goals.

Nash has been a real find forward for the Roosters this year in a real masterstroke by McCartney and his staff. The former defender now has 17 goals (comp rank #7) to his name.

For the Cobras, there were varying opinions on the make-up of their major contributors.

The coaching group, however, settled with Jake McCreery (two goals), Ashton Craig, Ethan McKercher, Jacob Pawlowicz, Luke Goetz and Simon Lafranchi.

Jake Owen was their leading goalscorer finishing with three.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 26 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat) - 41 hitouts, 12 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"We had our chances....North were able to wrestle back momentum and out worked us. We let in three, third quarter, red time goals which hindered our momentum. Credit to North who were able to squeeze us and force us long and create a contest. Good battle all day which North won at the end of the day."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Really proud of our players today against a club having a crack and developing quickly. Good day for what we are about as a club. Under pressure we were organised and super competitive. Another good step forward in our development."

A more fancied Darley outfit were forced to dig deep on the road to hold off a gallant Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve.

The Devils led by eight points at three quarter time and were kicking into the breeze for the last quarter, asking questions of Dan Jordan's group, who have been struggling to find their best.

But, as good teams often do, the Devils found away, not for a moment taking the result for granted as Jordan praised the efforts of an undermanned Burra outfit in the aftermath.

Devils’ key defender Matthew Brett was named best on ground ahead of the Cadman brothers Joel and Duncan, Brady Wright and midfielders Adam Azzopardi and Matt Denham.

On a day where goals came at a premium, it was Wright and Wil Johnson (three goals each) that proved the difference on the scoreboard.

For the Burra, selfless leader Tony Locker (one goal) was lauded for his effort on Brett Bewley ahead of an experienced group of contributors who went down despite ‘pride in the jumper' performances - namely Luke Kiel (two goals), Bailey Medwell, Ryan Noether, Daniel Widgery and Ryan Birthesel.

Both sides will welcome not only this weekend off, but their upcoming byes in Round 9 (Darley) and round 11 (Sebastopol). A chance to regroup and replenish ahead of a season defining conclusion.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Ben Hutt (Sebastopol) - 34 disposals, 12 tackles, 10 marks

Joel Cadman (Darley) - 31 disposals, 14 contested posessions, 13 marks

Adam Azzopardi (Darley) - 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 12 pressure acts

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Extremely proud of the boys today. A great contest against a quality side played in great spirit. Darley took their chances going forward in the second half and we missed a few that could have impacted the result. Credit to them getting it done after a couple of losses. Looking forward to a week off after a big eight game stretch."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Proud of our boys today. Credit to Sebastopol, they really came to play and challenged us in all areas. The Burra will test a few sides above them on the way home for sure. Our boys showed some 'ticker' into the breeze in the last quarter to get the points."

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

Scoop reviews all the major talking points from last round.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Strong wins were the order for the day when it came to the Round 9 action across the Ballarat Football Netball League.

North Ballarat continues to progress under the radar with a convincing win over Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

The win moves Brendan McCartney's men into fourth place on the BFNL table ahead of their mouthwatering Round 10 meeting with East Point.

The Roosters’ young brigade continue to produce as Riley Polkinghorne (Best), Joshua Sparkman, Elliot Lamb, Hugh Trigg (three goals), Mal White and Fletcher Loader gave the visitors a headache for the most part, restricting the Swans to just three goals.

Just on the visitors, while clearly disappointed, it was their fourth attempt against top five opposition this season and again they've fallen well short.

Eighty-two points separated the Swans and the Roosters, 64 points the Swans and the Devils, 78 points the Swans and the Kangas and 70 points the Swans and the Bloods.

It's clearly a level above for Chris Maple's young group giving every indication they're another 12 months away from bucking the trend.

Such was the conviction of the Swans’ most recent defeat at the weekend, only two players featured in the best players - Angus Bade and Lachie Dalgleish.  

This game was still in the balance at half time despite the Swans having just two goals on the board.

The assignment for the Swans was always going to be a stretch after the main break reeling in a 26-point deficit but the ball was in their court to deliver a response worthy of an unofficial sixth seed given their four wins to date. But that didn't eventuate at all.

The Roosters kicked 10 goals to one after half time to run out deserved, comfortable winners.

Youngster Will Quinlan matched his four goal effort against the Cobras in Round 8 with a game high four goals, filling the void with aplomb in the absence of Jamie Quick (ankle).

Next week the Roosters host East Point in a battle of fourth versus third. Ballarat will welcome their Round 10 assignment when they host Sebastopol (W2 L7) in what looms a flip of the coin match up.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 marks

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 19 contsted possessions, 11 clearances

Marcus Powling (Ballarat) - 51 hit outs, 16 disposals, 14 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Our way of playing is coming along pretty well. The players are investing into the testing parts of the game as a group. Spirit and energy is strong and they are playing for one another. It's been super pleasing to see young players come into the team and develop in their positions."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"After a competitive start, it was a very disappointing day. North Ballarat pressed hard and created a lot off turnover. They won a territory game from stoppage far too easily. We will review and look forward to next week."

While the result did not surprise, the Lakers certainly turned a few heads posting the second highest score of the season en route to a belated first win under new coach Rohan Brown.

The Lakers dominated the listless Panthers from the outset with seven unanswered goals while kicking with the breeze, setting the tone for the remainder of the afternoon.

As many as 13 Lakers players hit the scoreboard with damaging effect, especially in the second half registering 18.3 to the visitors’ 1.6 in a dazzling display.

Sure, the Panthers have struggled all year having not won a single quarter in their opening nine games but the way the spirited Lakers went about it resembled more of a side in top six contention.

Their efficiency levels by foot and their ability to create the overlap with their run and carry handball chains was a feature.

On that performance alone it's hard to believe it was just their first win of the season.

The Lakers had arguably the best dozen or so players on the ground, taking full advantage of the struggling Panthers who were hampered with the loss of key movers Tom Phillips (broken hand) and Jeff Garlett (hamstring). To add insult to injury, no pun intended - the Panthers were dealt no favours the longer the game went losing another three players resulting in 'no bench' for the most part of the second half.

Take nothing away from the Lakers, they were impressive, and well worth the watch.

Boom recruit Jaydo Wright arrived in the BFNL with five goals, matched only by teammate Bailey Thompson (five goals) who moved to sixth in the pecking order for the Tony Locket Medal.

Tom Zampatti, Timmy Collins, Angus Gove and Joel O'Connell essentially 'brought their own footy' amassing huge numbers between the arcs while the efforts of Kyle Anderson across half back topped off a huge day for the club.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 42 disposals, 10 score involvements, 10 rebound 50s

Jaydo Wright (Lake Wendouree) - 26 disposals, 20 score involvements, 14 contested possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 21 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"The club and players were rewarded today for the effort and the resilience they have shown since pre-season since last October. Absolutely rapt for them. Thought our attitude and attack on the footy early set the scene for the game. We go into the back half of the season with confidence that our brand and system will get us some more wins. Melton South down to no bench and injuries hurt them early."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"First 30 minutes were horrible. We were poor and the Lakers were outstanding and scored heavily wind assisted. Nothing went right for us from that point on unfortunately and we finished the game short of players."

Melton continued their winning ways, outclassing visiting party Bacchus Marsh.

The Bloods’ complete four quarter winning performance was highlighted by another seven-goal return from co-captain Braedan Kight.

For the record it was the x-factor forward’s sixth bag of seven goals in eight games, extending his lead in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal to 12. Kight has 48 goals, averaging six per game and is in rare air.

The Tony Lockett Medal may not be the only accolade within his reach in 2024 having featured in the Bloods’ best players on six of eight occasions.

Kight's impact on games has been significant, unrivalled at least on the goal front while averaging 16 disposals per game.

Jack Walker continued his run of stellar games against the Cobras, his run and carry a feature again to be named best afield in front of a host of Bloods including Lachlan Walker, Lachlan Phillips, Lachlan Watkins and Ryan Davis (four goals).

The Bloods kicked the first five goals of the game before extending to a match winning 52-point advantage at the main break. Game Over.

Despite not winning a quarter the Cobras saw positive progress in next gen duo Joel Freeman (best) and Cody Gates, who weren't intimidated by the might of the Bloods.

Experienced quartet Tyson Shea, Jake McCreery, Jake Owen (two goals) and playing coach Dennis Armfield ensured the Cobras had their moments, denying the Bloods a contest entirely on their own terms despite being held to their lowest score of the season.

Next week's games carry their own weight of interest and expectation as the two sides prepare for like-for-like opponents having won the same number of games.

The Bloods are on the road to Sunbury (W7 L1) while the Cobras host Redan (W3 L5).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachie Watkins (Melton) - 32 disposals, 13 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Braedan Kight (Melton) - 23 disposals, 18 score involvements, 13 marks

Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 12 marks, 5 rebound 50s

COACHES VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really well pleased with our response off the bye. We had to be competitive in the contest phase today, a strength of Bacchus Marsh. While we were patchy for periods, lots of the game was fairly even - the Marsh are a very talented young team. Overall, happy with our players application under duress with a couple of rotations down and our ability to make the most of our opportunities forward of the ball. We look forward to playing one of the best performed teams on their home ground in Round 10."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
(It) was a great learning against arguably the best. Got jumped, five goals down in the first 15 minutes and from there I thought it was an evenly fought game except for another ten-minute patch in the third quarter. They are well drilled, clean and hurt us big time on our mistakes. Tough game and proud of our lads to give it their all a couple of men down."

Joe Carmody's rampant Kangas made it seven wins on the trot, embarrassing a disappointing Lions outfit in front of their home fans at City Oval.

The visitors put their foot to the floor for the opening three quarters and had this game put to bed by half time with an unassailable 60-point lead.

The nature of the 12.5 to 2.5 scoreline highlighted the gulf between these two sides, especially when East are at their best.

The merciless Kangas went on to add a further 7.4 to just 0.1 in the third term consolidating their authority over the contest.

Redan's final score was the lowest recorded under Gary Learmonth, now in his second season.  

Kangas forwards Strahan Robinson and Bryson McDougall shared the honours in front of the sticks with a game high four goals ahead of seven others to hit the scoreboard.

Alex Molan (three goals) made a welcoming return from Essendon VFL duties to add to the firepower that clearly overwhelmed the Lions.

Jack Jeffrey (two goals) was named best afield ahead of a host of impacting Kangas - Joel Van Meel, The Johnston brothers, Jesse Cairns and Deng Lual to name a few.

There was little to smile about for the Lions in the aftermath, but it was encouraging to see star recruit Lachie Bond (two goals) make a safe debut after an ankle complaint delayed his gameday arrival in Redan colors.

Midfielder Khy Jess continued with his rich vein of form to be named in the best for a sixth time in eight games.

Cracking Round 10 match-ups await these two sides as the Lions head to Maddingley Park to face the Cobras - both have three season wins to date.

East Point are off to Mars Stadium to meet North Ballarat who have an imposing home record under Brendan McCartney having won 22/26 at the venue including 11 of their last 13 since the start of 2023.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 score involvements

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 score invovlements

Daniel Bond (Redan) - 22 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 6 intercept possessions 

COACHES VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"We were terrible. (We) put it behind us and focus on Bacchus Marsh next week."              

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"We had 22 contributors today. (We) defended really well and were able to capitilise with the high amount of forward 50 entries we created."

Sunbury remain level on points with Melton and East Point atop of the BFNL table after nine rounds. The trio have lost just one game, each averaging over 100 points (for) per game.

If it's any consolation for Sebastopol they did deny Matty White's Lions recording a fifth ton of the season despite a 59-point loss.

Strangely, the margin was the closest of any BFNL game at the weekend - make of that what you will.

After a relatively even start to the game, the Lions raised the bar after half time with an impressive defensive display restricting the visitors to just one goal while adding six majors of their own to earn the separation on the scoreboard.

Josh Guthrie was named best afield for the winners ahead of recalled Harry Power and recently promoted Murphy Boyd who answered the call from White. Dean Muir and Jordan Tentonello provided plenty of drive out of the Lions’ defence while spearhead Jake Sutton reaped the rewards of a favourable inside 50 count with five goals.

Offsider Mitch McLean continued his breakout season adding another two goals, taking his tally to 27 (comp rank #3).

For the travelling Burra, effort wasn't lost but their failings to convert opportunities in any event of scoring was palpable. Unfortunately for Tony Lockyer's men it was the third time this season his chargers were kept to under 30 points.

Usual suspects Tony Lockyer, Bailey Medwell, Luke Kiel (two goals), Ben Hutt, Riley O'Keefe and Ryan Birthisel featured prominently again to minimise the difference at the final siren.

The Burra remain in ninth place on the BFNL table with two wins.

Sunbury look threatening in second place ahead of their top of the table clash against Melton.

Sebastopol will consider themselves a live chance when they travel to Alfredton Oval to take on Ballarat (W4 L4).    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 45 disposals, 9 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 10 marks

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 10 score invovlements, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really good defensive game. (We) held Sebastopol to a low score and low inside 50 count. We broke even in the midfield battle and came away on top which is great after a week off."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Credit to Sunbury who are quality side and always tough to beat at home. Very even contest especially in the first half. Unfortunate we didn't make the most of our chances, which could have changed the trajectory of the game. We regroup and look forward to Ballarat next week."

Scoop Reviews Round 11

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gee, footy can be cruel. 

What the coaches said:

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 15

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

The Swans have done it again!

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

Tough ask.

What the coaches said:

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 16

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

Scoop Reviews Round 17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 18

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

So what to draw from the weekend?

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

Round 10 Football Preview

with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 12 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

There are a few top-of-the-table clashes in Round 12 of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL Senior Men's competition, but perhaps the bottom of the ladder clash will turn out to be the game of the week.

It would take a brave judge to tip against the undefeated Bloods who are expected to continue their winning ways when they meet the Cobras at 'Maccy Park'.

While the Bloods will be without gun midfielder Jack Walker (broken jaw), the Cobras will be hopeful of Daniel Burton (foot) and Harry King to return and give them every chance to pinch the upset of the year. But it's highly unlikely. The spread of Melton's depth has defined their superior separation on the BFNL ladder. So far this season, only one team has had a closer final margin to the Bloods, with Redan finishing within 10-points at City Oval in Round 10. Containing the Bloods' potency will be a huge ask for the Cobras' back six led by their newfound key defender and captain Jake Owen.

The Bloods leading five goalkickers Ryan Carter (35), Braedan Kight (23), Liam Carter (19), Luke Heeney (16), and Lachlan Hickey (13), have combined for more goals than the entire makeup of the Cobras team in 2022 (106 vs 104). It's a daunting assignment for Cobras coach Tom German, but he will appreciate the challenge it presents - an opportunity to see how you stack up against the competition's best.

Cobras’ newcomers Jason Robinson, Jack Williams, Michael Culliver, Sam Crea, Rex Hickman and Max Eastmure have bolstered the line-up joining the usual suspects to warrant an outside chance. But numbers suggest weather permitting, the Bloods will do it comfortably. The Cobras have proven they can travel this year with three wins on the road, but the ladder leaders loom a different task altogether.

Ballarat will not want to give East Point a good start when second on the ladder meets third at Alfredton Oval. The amount of firepower the Kangas have up forward was explored in the Round 11 review. Five times they've reached the ton and fell just one point short (99) in Round 9 which would have had them equal with Melton’s wins over 100-points.

The Swans' inability to start well despite their 7-3 winning record is a concern. In fact, Joe Carmody's boys have trailed seven times at the halftime siren! Somehow, they lost three quarters last week and were still able to get the job done by the barest of margins. Furthermore, the Swans rank ninth for quarters won (16.5/40) despite their third placing on the table with only Melton South (13.5/40) and Lake Wendouree (10/40) below them.

I'm aware the Swans were underdone at their last meet - that's a given - but there's no denying a footy audit awaits. The Swans have not played a team currently in the top six since Darley in Round Seven, and their form is questionable despite their winning streak. Ballarat has won twice by one point and struggled against the bottom side Lakers (13-point margin). They're an interesting prospect against the Kangas, who are warming back to their best football.

While there is a clear advantage on paper to East Point in the forward half (averaging 97.3 points per game for a competition rank of #2) over Ballarat (averaging 70.4 points per game for a competition rank of #8), it's the Swans' defence (#3 in the comp) who have the edge against the Kangas (#8 in the comp).

The Swans will be a much better side when gun ruckman Marcus Powling (hamstring) returns, and for as long as Bailey Van De Heuvel is on VFL duties the Swans appear a little short in their ruck stocks.

Two weapons Carmody's group have in their armory are options for Jordy Johnston and a decent midfield. But they won't start favourites in either challenge from the opening bounce. 

While it's fair Darley goes in as favourites there can be no denying this match looms as a danger game. Both sides have had ongoing injury issues and rarely, if at all, field their best 22. Panthers’ star forward Dylan Conway has had a quiet year by his standards on the goal front, scoring 15 goals from his 8 games. At the opposing end, Devils spearhead Nick Rodda has featured in all ten games for his league-leading 40-goal haul.

The scary prospect for the Devils is that Conway is due. The former Port Melbourne forward will have fond memories of his last visit to Darley Park where he delivered a match-winning nine-goal performance. The Devils without Matty Brett don't have an obvious match-up, so again Dan Jordan will be asking for a shared effort from his young back six. Rodda too, if given a suitable supply, will back himself in hitting the scoreboard having kicked eight goals at their previous meet in Round 3.

Brett Bewley and Luther Baker will lead the Devils’ midfield. On form, the Devils look one short through the middle without Essendon VFL affiliate Dylan Landt. His availability will be subject to VFL commitments. The stark reality for the Devils despite being ranked third in the competition forward of centre is another avenue to goal outside of Rodda. Wingman Andy Azzopardi is their number two goal scorer in '22 with 11 goals.

For the Panthers, Shaun Wyatt, Mitch Fino and Cody Chapman have been the beneficiaries at ground level due to the ruck dominance of Dylan Jones, whose influence will be significant in validating the result. Whether Jake Thornton-Gielen (shoulder) has recovered will have its own impact. He is another player with a good individual history against the Devils.

Whether they can build on a 6-4 record for teams coming off the bye remains an unknown, but one thing is certain, Heath Pritchard's boys will bring the heat early. Good starts have featured in each of their three wins this season, all of which were won on the road. On the flip side, this is a must-win game for the Devils if they have genuine finals aspirations.

With just two wins between them this season, these two bottom sides will be giving themselves every chance at singing their club song come 5pm. While both have 1-9 win-loss records, Sunbury has shown more than the Lakers over recent weeks and will go in as favourites. The Lions led both East Point and Ballarat for lengthy periods but couldn't finish off their work. Maybe on this trip up the road, they can relinquish the disappointment with a convincing win - or a win of any nature. The Lakers have shown they can bring the heat in patches, but their ball use/execution has been their worst enemy in recent times.

Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers will be happy returning home after back-to-back road trips and will be desperate to give fans a reason to smile. Clearly, missing personnel and a bunch of young talent learning what senior footy is all about is making it a tough season for the Lakers, but what Fitzpatrick can ask for is effort and intensity. He will be looking for efforts similar to what they brought last week in their 30-point loss to Bacchus Marsh. Callum McKay, Jake Coxall, Harold Pritchard and Bailey Thompson will share the load as they endeavour to post a winning score.

For Sunbury, the five-goal return of youngster Jake Egan in last week's one-point loss to Ballarat will give him the necessary boost that he belongs at this level.

There was also several other youthful Lions talent starting to impact games. These efforts pose a shining light in an otherwise disappointing year for Travis Hodgson's men. On paper, finding a winner looks like a comfortable study, however, you just don't know which Sunbury you're going to get. The Lions did post their only score of 100 points or more for the season the last time these two sides met in Round 6. Look for the Lions youngsters to get the job done.

Both sides are coming back from a loss in Round 11 for a must-win game at City Oval. Measuring where these teams are at from the outside is tough, but what we do know is that their best is very good. I can't imagine both bringing their 'A-game' as that rarely happens. Just who can hang in the longest with momentum against them and who can capitalise on their own momentum will surely walk away with the points.

How good was it to see reigning Henderson Medallist Lachie Cassidy back in the 'Burra side last week after a lengthy layoff? The bona fide ball-magnet finished with two goals, featured among the best and got through the game unscathed. What a relief for 'Burras coach Michael Searl, who has had the worst run of any (other than maybe North Ballarat?) on the injury front to key players. Another welcomed return for the visitors will be James Keeble.

The 45-point Lions routing of the 'Burra in Round 3, well, nobody saw that coming. The Lions have since welcomed back inspirational leader Liam Hoy, as well as midfielder Lincoln Barnes and new signing 'Tippa', a 6-foot 4-inch product from the Tiwi Islands. Any resemblance of the Lions' 10-point loss here to Melton in Round 10 should hold them in good stead, given Sebastopol could only manage to get within 41 points of the Bloods last week.

This match looms as your classic arm wrestle, although Sebastopol's inability to hit the scoreboard in recent weeks is a concern. In their last two games, the Burra hasn’t posted more than 45 points and while Redan (8th) have an inferior position on the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder, they do rank 5th for points scored, 4th for shots on goal and equal 4th for total quarters won.

You can 'um and er' all you like with this game; cases can be made for both. A win for Redan keeps them in the hunt while a win for Sebastopol will likely see their return inside the top six. There's a bit at stake here amid a very even year - the win or loss will have consequences on finals chances, that is certain.    

Scoop' Reviews Round 12

Away sides continue to prove capable of getting the job done, increasing their advantage to two (31/29) over home teams in McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s comp in 2022. On the highway travel front, the away teams lead 13/12 (52%) over home teams, up from the 27.7% win record over the 2018-2021 period.

Flag favourites Melton extended their unbeaten run in 2022 to 11 games, muscling their way to a convincing 66-point win over Bacchus Marsh.

Leading Bloods' forward Ryan Carter recorded his fourth bag of five goals for the season. He moves to within one major of Devils' spearhead Nick Rodda (41) in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal. Individuals aside, it was the Bloods' nine goals to two in the second half, including four unanswered majors in the third – making it eight wins by 40 points or more in 11 games.

Bloods' midfielder Lachie Watkins (three goals), Blake Souter, Jordyn Cotter and early season recruit Daniel O'Leary were named best afield. They provided Captain Braedan Kight (three goals) and the Carter brothers, Ryan (five goals) and Liam (two goals), every opportunity to hit the scoreboard. While the Cobras missed the drive of injured ruckman Daniel Burton, defender Jason Williams and the aerial presence of Rex Hickman forward, the result for many was deemed inevitable regardless

Replacement young combative ruckman Spencer Meagher impressed again for the Cobras in just his second game, while Tom German, Sam Crea, Tyson Shea and Captain Jake Owen continued their run of good form despite the loss. Coach Tom German will look to bounce back and keep their finals hopes alive with a win on the road this Saturday against Melton South.      

What the coaches said:

Aaron Tymms (Melton):Very well-rounded performance with 22 contributors.

Tom German (Bacchus Marsh): I thought we matched it with them in the first half and played well. They just moved it better in the second (half) and are a more mature side......they are clearly the benchmark this year.

Third-placed Ballarat trailed at halftime for the eighth time in 11 games, but this time found themselves seven points from catching flag contenders East Point at the final siren. Yes, the Swans stumbled out of the blocks again, trailing by 18 points at quarter-time, but on this occasion, it was the might of the reigning dual Premiers they had to reel in. To Joe Carmody's Swans, credit to them, flipping the 18-point deficit into a 17-point advantage at the final change, but from the outside, it looked like they'd used up all their 'petrol tickets' in the process.

The Kangas star-laden midfield went to work in the final stanza as the 'A-graders' got it done. Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Matty Johnston led the charge finally wearing down a gallant Swans outfit with four unanswered last-quarter goals. The way the Kangas have gone about it late in games over recent weeks has been significant in outscoring their opponents comfortably. Their last four games in fourth-quarter comparisons are impressive: 34-8, 35-12, 32-20, 26-4 (+83 points). X-factor Kangas forward Jordy Johnston and youngster Liam Canny finished with two goals each in a low-scoring affair while Harry Ganley had arguably his best game for the year.

For Ballarat, perennial hard workers Will Liston, Sam James (two goals) and Daniel Kennedy almost shouldered the Swans over the line on the back of a solid Angus Bade effort in defence, but it wasn't to be. Josh Gibson (three goals) and Andrew Hooper (one goal) hit the scoreboard for the Swans as they welcomed the return of club Best and Fairest ruckman Marcus Powling. Nonetheless, 'hats off' to East Point, they are travelling nicely in second place on the BFNL ladder with one win and considerable percentage clear of third.

What the coaches said:

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):East Point were very good around the contest. We worked (hard) to a lead by good ball use in the third quarter but couldn't sustain it. Their inside mids took control in the last (quarter).

Jake Bridges (East Point):Great team effort to get the result but still plenty of improvement and learning (to draw) from the game. We have been super impressed with our young blokes playing their roles and combining with our experienced leaders. The grit and determination the group showed after being a rotation down from 10 minutes into the first quarter, was a big plus also.

Darley essentially bank the Premiership points won at the weekend and move on quickly to Sunbury after a 26-point win over a plucky Melton South. While the Devils won all four quarters, the Panthers were left lamenting missed opportunity on the goal front and a missing...well...Dylan Conway (unavailable).

The former Port Melbourne star forward was arguably all the Panthers needed to get close to winning their fourth victory on the road. In fairness, the Devils were missing a few troops of their own. But in their absence, Dylan Landt (three goals and BOG), Mace Cousins and Luther Baker picked up the slack while Bailey Young, Joel Cadman (two goals) and Brett Bewley (three goals) maintained the pressure.

Panthers' big man Broden Collins was named their best for his defensive role on BFNL leading goal scorer Nick Rodda (one goal). Around the stoppages, Billy Lloyd and Cody Chapman were solid, while Jake Thornton-Gielen's run was significant. John Kovarik's efforts to minimise Brett Bewley's impact in the middle were also recognised by Panthers coach Heath Pritchard. Melton South should be encouraged by their efforts and give themselves a chance at home this week when they meet Bacchus Marsh.  

What the coaches said:

Dan Jordan (Darley):Hard fought win (in the end) undermanned with no bench. Not a pretty game but the players gave their all and did enough to come away with the 'W'. (We witnessed) growth in some areas but plenty to work on.

Heath Pritchard (Melton South):Poor kicking at goal cost us. We made some errors on turnover which were also costly. Our effort could not be questioned but our execution let us down. (I) thought we actually dominated the second half of the game.

Sunbury recorded their most even performance of their year to date with an emphatic routing of bottom side Lake Wendouree to the tune of 64 points. The Lions booted 11 goals in each half, led by Jake Sutton (five goals) and Leigh Brennan's (four goals) return forward of centre. Midfielder Harrison Minton-Connell continued with his solid year to be named best ahead of usual suspects Tyson Lever, Daniel Toman and Haydn Ross.

Riley Miller proved another example of the organic growth at Sunbury despite their disappointing two-win season. Sunbury led by 35 points at the half before the two sides 'squared off' in a six-goal apiece entertaining third-term shoot-out. But that was 'all she wrote' for the Lakers as they put the cue in the rack while the Lions went to work adding five unanswered last-quarter goals to stretch the margin to an emphatic 64 points at the final siren.

While clearly disappointed, the Lakers would be buoyed by the progress of youngsters Bailey Ryan and Cooper James who featured among the better players on a losing side. More experienced campaigners (while still young) Timmy Collins and Jacob Coxall (two goals) flew the flag but unfortunately, it would resemble more of the 'surrender' kind of game's end.

What the coaches said:

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lakers):A very disappointing result. She's been a battle (the season so far) but we soldier on.

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):(We've) been building some good form over the last few weeks and it was good to see the boys break through. Ball movement was again a 'tick’, and we were combative with our pressure around the ball which was an improvement.

It was suggested in the preview that it's rare to see two teams bring their 'A-game' and deliver on the promise of match-of-the-round billing. Not for the first time this BFNL season, the 'spruce' game ended in a fizzer. The 'Burra simply brought the pressure to overwhelm a disappointing Redan by 52 points at City Oval. The Lions' home ground woes continue, now 1-5 from their six games at City Oval. While the 'Burra have had their fair share of bad luck on the injury front, they're beginning to resemble a little more like their 2019 Runners-Up selves. 12 players from that one day in September took it to the Lions last weekend.

The game itself was over at quarter-time as the 'Burra led a goalless Redan by 30 points. In fact, the winners won every quarter to stretch the lead to 52 points at the final siren. Ryan Noether, Riley O'Keefe and Hugo Papst took the honours to be named best for Sebastopol in a rare miss for star duo Tony Lockyer and Lachie Cassidy. These featured names would be an encouraging sight for coach Michael Searl as the dependence on Lockyer and Cassidy is momentarily relinquished. Jed Hill, Liam Stow and returning forward James Keeble booted two goals to maintain the advantage on the scoreboard.

While this game was put to bed early, Redan did offer something despite a goalless opening half. The Lions were outscored five goals to seven after quarter-time but the 'bird had already flown'.

Lions forward Izaac Grant finished with three of his side's five goals while Daniel Bond, Lincoln Barnes and Stuart Aberdein, never gave up the fight in a losing side. The result sees Sebastopol (5th) rocket back into the six while Redan (8th) look vulnerable, now two games and percentage outside of finals calculation.

What the coaches said:

Jarrett Giampaolo (Redan):Dirty day for Redan. We just weren't able to get our hands on the ball enough and when we did our disposal was not up to standard. Sebastopol outworked us and dominated around the contest. They were the much better side on the day.

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):Good to be back on the winners list. (I was) pleased with the ball movement and getting the balance right between when to go and when to go slow. It was a good contest and great to put in a strong contest.

Scoop' Reviews Round 13

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said:

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

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

Round 14 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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