Round 2 Football Preview with Scoop!

With Round 1 in the books, this weekend's action provides clubs with the chance to bounce back or continue their strong starts to the season. 

New Cobras coach Jason Williams gets his first taste of the local derby when they host the Devils this weekend.

What's been prepared for Dan Jordan's boys in the lead up has the mind ticking on the back of a 121-point thrashing in Round 1.

It's fair to assume a 'warm welcome' won't be high on the agenda. Once the two teams have split from their collective respects honouring the Anzac tradition, it's game on.

The Cobras will be desperate to start well at home, giving some indication to home fans the rebuild is on the right track.

New Cobra additions Luke Goetz, Josh Onderwater, Jake McReery and Eamon Ogden performed well in their new colors and will be keen to impact again on what will arguably be the biggest stage for their season.

A handful of Cobra youngsters will return from the Coates Talent League Under 18 competition to bolster stocks and could make it interesting early with their sprightly enthusiasm but it will be a big ask to deny the Devils the premiership points.

Despite winning by 40 points in Round 1, the Devils looked every bit in need of the run and will be hopeful experienced campaigners Billy Myers, Matty Brett and Darren Leonard are available. On a positive note, Brett Bewley, Luther Baker and Shane Page seemingly play their best footy in these big games.

Surely trying conditions in Round 1 played a role in 'the look' of these two teams and we're privy to a spike first hand on that impression today.

Scoop’s tip:Darley

While you can't fully trust what version of Sunbury you're going get, the small sample size so far in 2023 suggests faith is being restored. So much so, I’m going to tip an upset here with the Lions to make it a 2-0 start to their season, by downing the visiting reigning premiers, Melton.

'Visiting' is the key word determining my selection. For all of the Lions frustrations in recent times they were only one of two teams (North Ballarat the other) to overcome the Bloods in 2022. That day at home, it could easily have been more than final 15-point margin given the Lions had 10 more shots on goal.

Bloods’ coach Aaron Tymms will welcome the press and conversation leaning toward a Lions win and use it as motivation. I've no doubt the Bloods best is still the best going around but can they bring the heat second after a comfortable win over the Panthers in Round 1. I'm tipping like a few clubs, they're still a way off their best in the contest while the Lions have been all in over the pre-season, desperate for early wins after two ordinary starts in '21 and '22.

Sunbury's additions for '23 have been measured, merely complementing a group that, despite a five-win season, were not far off challenging. The top-ups in, Cody Brand, Josiah Garisto, Rivva Karpany, and the full time addition of Josh Guthrie and Mitch Lewis adds depth and stability.

For me, this ‘Match of the Round’ contest is a flip of the coin result - home ground advantage and an 'up and about' Lions is enough to sway against the reigning premiers in a close one.

Scoop’s tip:Sunbury

Expect North Ballarat to bounce back at home when they take on impressive Round 1 winners Redan. Despite losing to Sunbury last week, Brendan McCartney’s boys showed enough to suggest they will be in the finals mix again.

Visiting Redan will be fresh after a week off but I'm not sure that is the ideal preparation so early in the season - how they adjust to the 'flying start' pressure from the hosts will interesting given they're coming off a 15-day break. The Lions are hunting a place in the final six, and will throw everything at their more fancied rivals. Their winning chances are real having beaten North Ballarat in their last meeting on City Oval.

The start will be all important for these two teams - let’s hope there is no significant wind advantage to one end - it always takes the edge off a promising spectacle. 

North Ballarat marquee signing Stewart Crameri was solid first up and will be improved by the run while the availability of Josh Chatfield (Footscray VFL) may have its own bearing on the result. Same can be said for Lions mid Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray VFL). In a boost for the Roosters, star mid Riley Polkinghorne is likely to return while Jack Riding is a 50/50 chance.

Redan are in form albeit a win over the Lakers, who've lost 16 in a row, means the jury remains out until a more formidable opponent is overcome.

Scoop’s tip:North Ballarat

The Panthers travel to Eastern Oval with a horror recent history against the Kangas. They will be praying for rain at least, hopeful of anything that can minimise the damage.

For new Panthers coaches Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy, let me introduce you to the Johnston brothers, for if you don't acknowledge them now they'll certainly get you later. Expect Matty Johnson to have a presence through the midfield and Jordy to help himself to a few goals as they lead the Panthers’ midfield and defence on a merry dance.

For new East Point coach Jackson Merrett, expect him to endure a few butterflies as he prepares for his first season in charge with the expectations on the Kangas sure to fluctuate.

Given the Panthers tough Round 1 result at the hands of Melton, what can we expect from the Kangas? Can they win by enough to please themselves come 5pm. I think Merrett will be just relieved with the four premiership points in the bank, be happy to get through unscathed and be encouraged by what he saw from his young group - for the Kangas will need more from their 'bottom half' talent if they're trouble the big guns in 2023.

Scoop’s tip:East Point

Both sides arrive off a nervous start following losses to Darley (Ballarat) and Redan (Lakers). In fairness, the nature of the Swans performance was considerably more positive. If not for wasted opportunities, they could easily have finished closer. I know the Lakers too visited the 'wasted opportunities' theme but one goal for an entire four quarters is not in the same mantle.

The Lakers bring some degree of confidence knowing they tested the Swans at their last meeting and were in fact beaten on the last kick of the day. They'll be a better team with newcomers Tom Zampatti and Mick Foster in the midfield, but their availability remains under a cloud.

A memo for Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick - beware the youth of the Swans and their ability to extricate from clearance, a notable area of difference in the Lakers opening round loss to the Lions.

Swans trio Will Liston (37 disposals), Paddy Simpson and the 'fine drop' Wyatt Squires impressed against the Devils last week and the beneficiaries of all important ruckman Marcus Powling. How much the young Swans can improve on their efficiencies with ball in hand remains their greatest challenge.

The game looms as the perfect opportunity for progress with a chance to go 1-1 on the line for both sides.

Scoop’s tip:Ballarat

With Round 1 in the books, a grand final replay headlines the action in Round 2 as our teams come out to play!

Who could forget the last time these two sides met when Darley came from behind to clinch its third premiership in seven seasons with the last kick of the day.

To put in perspective, over 100,000 viewers combined to watch in real time or replay the final moments of the 2023 Grand Final in a conclusion for the ages.

Given its unique evening time slot, expect again (while not at those lofty heights), significant, curious interest.

While Devils’ coach Dan Jordan is renowned for 'not looking back', it would be remiss of him to ignore his last two visits to Mars Stadium where his chargers have struggled to even score, beaten comfortably in both outings by 57+ points.

For the record, Mars Stadium is the only ground in the BFNL that Jordan (0-2) has yet to salute at. But the Devils won't be alone in this mental battle of attrition.

The heartbreak reminder of the one-point 2023 Grand Final loss against the Devils will feel like yesterday for Brendan McCartney's men at stages I’m sure, and more specifically during the days leading up and moments before the opening bounce.

How effectively the Roosters manage those emotions and turn into positive action will be telling against an in form visiting party that have won their last 11 BFNL games on the trot and are led by the competition’s best player.

Brett Bewley counts the sleeps to a new season of football like a kid counts those down to Christmas. The reigning dual Henderson Medalist's appetite for footy and competing was highlighted with a standout 44 possessions, three goal return in the Devils’ season opener - a 96-point dismantling of East Point.

Tipping some of the North Ballarat faithful in attendance wish they hadn't made the pilgrimage.

Expect Roosters’ trio Cam McCallum (in best v Darley 3 of last 4), Riley Polkinghorne (in best 3 of last 4) and Jamie Quick (kicked 10 goals v Darley last 3 @33%) to have the greatest say in the Roosters’ fortunes.

For the Devils, Bewley aside, midfielder Luther Baker hasn't lost a BFNL game since the 2022 First Semi Final, while Billy Myers is yet to play in a losing BFNL Darley side since his return to the club ahead of the 2023 season (17-0).

PLAYER WATCH

Will Johnson (Darley)
Kicked 40 goals last year (Comp rank 5) and has started the new season in fine style with four goals against East Point. Johnson looks the beneficiary of a solid pre-season and train-on time spent with Geelong VFL - capable of playing a number of roles.

Malachi White (North Ballarat)
New recruit from the Geelong Falcons will add depth to the list of midfield options for Brendan McCartney's group who aim to go one better in season 2024.     

SCOOP’S TIP

Darley

The Burra, under new coach Tony Lockyer, face their nemesis Melton on Saturday and will be keen to change the narrative - albeit a first win over the Bloods since the 2019 preliminary final.

It's not like Sebastopol haven't had the tradesmen to get it done, rather an execution of the tools per se has proven their undoing.

Sure, the Bloods have won 40 of 48 BFNL games for the period since including a premiership and the Burra aren't on their own falling short, but Saturday looms a timely footy audit.

The Bloods made light work of cross-town rivals Melton South with no less than 14 goalkickers with seven players accumulating 20 possessions or more that amounted to a landslide of inside 50s (72-29).

Not too dissimilar, the Burras 80-point routing of the Lakers saw the inside 50 count 64-38, while matching the Bloods for players enjoying 20+ disposals.

In essence, last week’s challenge for both teams could be described as the entree to this feast, spike if you will for the senses and levels of intensity.

Visiting Melton will have to do it without prime mover Liam Carter (5 goals last week) giving the Burra one less obstacle to overcome.

Burra small forward Adam Forbes told 'The Insider' midweek during an interview that the Burra will comply with a new system approach implemented by Lockyer will hold them in good stead, allowing every chance on that MO alone featuring prominently at the business end.

Easier said than done against the Bloods.

Troy Scoble is the new man leading the Bloods and has invigorated a group who would concede 'may have left a flag out there' given the clubs recent dominance.

Scoble is thorough, well credentialled, and popular among the Bloods faithful and brings a fresh set of eyes onto a proud group that has forgiven itself for a straight sets exit from last year’s finals, but surely not forgotten.   

PLAYER WATCH

Jaycob Hickey (Melton)
Seamless return to the club for Hickey landing in the best players last week. Adds vital depth to a midfield group aiming to look a little less predictable despite earning the last two minor premierships. 

Lachie Cassidy (Sebastopol)
Hard working mid who must lead from the front if the Burra are to be any chance ending their run of outs against the Bloods. Fingers crossed for Burra fans his body holds up following hamstring issues the last couple of seasons.  

SCOOP’S TIP

Melton

Former Lions coach Travis Hodgson faces his old team when he arrives with perennial recent battlers Melton South at the Clarke Oval on Saturday.

While intel on the opposition won't be a problem for Hodgson, having his new group more competitive and in games for longer looms his greatest challenge.

Despite trailing last week in their season opener against the mighty Bloods, the quarter time scoreline of three goals to one provided some glimmer of hope looking forward.

The Panthers aren't expected to resemble their best 22 for another week or two leaving Saturday's outcome in the 'worry basket', given Sunbury's block of form in the pre-season and their win over Redan in Ballarat last week.

Expect the 'link up' Lions to expose the under manned nature of the Panthers the further this game goes.

Containing Lions’ leading forward Jake Sutton will be one of many tasks that lies ahead for the Panthers.

Experienced Redan defender Jacob Werts was stoic in his performance last week despite Sutton's five goals.

It would not surprise if Sutton was the target in at least half of the Lions 43 inside 50's. It would be a brave call to estimate how many times Sutton will again be the target of opportunity, given Melton posted a monster 73 inside 50s against the Panthers last week.

Unfortunately, star Panthers’ recruits Patrick Veszpremi (broken hand - 6 weeks) and Anthony Wilson (hamstring - 10 weeks) are set for a significant stint on the sidelines after succumbing to serious injury last week.

For Sunbury, it will be all about maintaining good habits and getting through unscathed with a convincing second win of the season.

Sunbury's depth is as good as any, suggesting the separation on the scoreboard will be mounting the longer this game goes.

Two solid quarters matched on the scoreboard would equate to a mini win for the Panthers.

PLAYER WATCH

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury)
Former North Melbourne VFL listed player now integral part of the Lions midfield. Hit-up accumulator who keeps presenting and keeps opposition accountable. While Panthers coach Travis Hodgson knows all about the Guthrie game as a former coach, denying the mid a 30-possession game will be tough.   

Broden Collins (Melton South)
Hard working ruckman will no doubt be a shining light in a tough afternoon tipped for the Panthers.

SCOOP’S TIP

Sunbury

The Swans gave every indication their unofficial second year rebuild under experienced mentor Chris Maple is on track after a 16-point win on the road against the Cobras in Round 1.

Margin aside, it was the 30 shots on goal that grabbed my attention, all without Andrew Hooper!

Only once under Maple have the Swans had more shots on goal, Round 7, 2023 v Melton South.

The addition of Footscray VFL listed player Rhett Montgomery went under the radar as the former pick #4 in the AFL Rookie draft (Essendon) had 19 disposals, with eight contested, in his first hit-out.

The long-awaited debut of former Collingwood VFL listed product Callan Wellings was also significant (29 disposals ,10 contested).

Organic trio Wyatt Squires (22 disposals, 13 contested), Will Liston (20 disposals, 11 contested) and Paddy Simpson (21 disposals, 6 contested) showed further signs of progression.

A mirror image of those numbers would see the Swans well on their way to a 2-0 start to the season.

Redan aren't shy on quality youth either, paving the way for an entertaining brand of attacking football.

Lions’ forward Marty Boyer kicked two goals to open his 2024 account in last week's 25-point loss to Sunbury but could easily have had five with a touch more, well...touch!

Taj Bond (203cm) is a welcoming addition to the Lions rucks stocks and will have an important role to play against seasoned Swans big man Marcus Powling.

Unfortunately for the Lions, the tape will tell you there is too much reliance on Lachie George around stoppage to reap any clean advantage.

I'd like to see more protection for Kye Jess who was denied any real time to maximise impact, and was often rushed with his decision making.

Harry Lawson is not on his own as a rebound attacker off half back with Rory Gunser and Liam Farnsworth proving more than capable with their piercing left foot.

Looking forward to this battle of the youth brigades but I’m leaning to the Swans top end talent to sway the pendulum in their favour in front of a home crowd.     

PLAYER WATCH

Rhett Montgomery (Ballarat)
A huge asset for the Swans in their 16-point win on the road over the Cobras. Taken pick #4 in the 2022 AFL Rookie Draft the 190cm, 23-year-old utility will prove a handful at the level pending availability (Now Footscray VFL).

Harry Lawson (Redan)
Attacking defender off half back with his run, carry and distribution. Even snuck forward for a goal last week to be on the end of the Lions chain. Just reward for his gut running.

SCOOP’S TIP

Ballarat

The Cobras will aim to bounce back when they travel up the highway for a must win game against the Lakers.

Sure, it's only Round 2, but the Cobras you'd think would have to win with something in hand to gain the necessary confidence ahead of their Anzac Day weekend clash with cross town rivals Darley.

Both sides are coming off season opener defeats but will give themselves a realistic chance squaring the ledger on Saturday.

The fact this game is played in Ballarat does give the Lakers an outside chance given the two sides were locked together late in the corresponding fixture last year before the Cobras finished with their noses in front.

While it's fair to suggest the Cobras will pose a more formidable combination in the new season, coach Dennis Armfield won't take anything for granted given the clubs opening round loss to Ballarat and 0-2 pre-season return against Avondale Heights and Williamstown CYC.

Looking forward to the ruck dual as Lakers duo Tom Zampatti and Felix Fogarty aim to deny leading Cobras’ big man Luke Goetz any advantage to his waiting midfield.

The Cobras’ leading mids, Tyson Shea (23), Jake McCreery (25), Josh Huxtable (27) and Ethan McKercher (9) combined for 84 disposals last week and will look to build on the three marks afforded inside 50 to prime aerial targets Jake Owen (2) and Joel Freeman (1).

Only Will Clark (24) had more than 20 disposals for the Lakers in their Round 1 loss to Sebastopol.

Winning more ball for a start will be high on the agenda for new coach Rohan Brown as he strives for an early confidence building win.

For any result favouring the Lakers, with the exception of Melton South, will be rendered an upset at this point in time.

Can't wait to see Jayden Wright's break out game in Lakers colors when it surely comes. If it happens to be against the Cobras, who knows what will happen!           

PLAYER WATCH

Joel Freeman (Bacchus Marsh)
Returns from the Western Jets (last year) for a full season with the Cobras under new coach Dennis Armfield. Has kicked 23 goals from his last nine senior games, is dangerous overhead and accurate shot on goal. Confidence player with plenty of upside.  

Bailey Thompson (Lake Wendouree)
Wiry forward/mid formerly of Camperdown who kicked more goals than any other Laker in 2023. Started well in their season opener with 3 goals against Sebastopol.

SCOOP’S TIP

Bacchus Marsh

Round 3 action looms with plenty of massive clashes set to take place, but a grand final rematch headlines this weekend's games. Scoop has a look at all the fixtures for this Saturday. 

Round 3 marks 1313 days since the last time the Burra had their way with the Bloods. That won't bother new coach combo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro too much but there's no doubting Tymms' crew have proven their nemesis over recent years.

In fact the Burra have struggled to hit the scoreboard against the reigning premiers in their last few hitouts prompting Kiel and Columbro to narrow the focus in the off season. "Adding efficient ball users with an ability to run," has been the player type targeted by the Burra.

How they'll stand up against the competition benchmark makes for compelling viewing - a classic footy audit awaits the hunters - albeit three rounds in. This scenario will suit them down to the ground as win, loss or draw learnings come sooner rather than later.

Previously, injuries have denied the Burra a real crack with 'genuine' momentum - they will surely ask questions of the Bloods who have answered all challengers in their opening two games. The Burra smashed an undermanned Cobras as outfit in Round 1 but this is a different assignment altogether.

In this instance, the Bloods have every right to consider themselves head of the class, just how they deal with the challenge will be timely for the competition after some big results in the opening rounds. Kiel and Columbro will have done their homework, they saw the Bloods in full flight last week, but whether they can get it done off a 14-day break and soft kill in Round 1, that’s the ultimate question we have heading into this one.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

The Cobras will be hoping to unleash new recruit Jake Long on North Ballarat to bolster their slim winning chances at Maddingley Park. The former Bomber has missed the opening part of the season with a hamstring injury but is right in the mix heading into Round 3.

With fine weather predicted Cobras’ coach Jason Williams will expect further progress from his developing team to challenge Brendan McCartney's men.

The visitors, while deserving favorites, will look to do some improving of their own - building on a system, a connection that can hold them in good stead. They've won just two of their last eight games since their upset win over Melton in Round 13 last year.

So, Cobras beware and be on notice - this will be the first time under McCartney North Ballarat meet the Cobras on a fine day.

Their only two previous meets (under McCartney) have been on heavy rain effected tracks yet somehow the Roosters near doubled the Cobras’ score. Sunbury key forward Cody Brand offered one piece of advice after playing North Ballarat in Round 1, "run and gun". In fact, the Cobras may need their bike to contain this lot. Even McCartney himself has been bullish of his teams' new ability to run. And a good track will suit.

There is plenty to like about the inclusions of the young Cobras back from the Coates Talent League, they can run. And they’ll need them all. Marquee recruit Jake Long will be a bonus too. Containing Stewart Crameri forward looms as Williams’ greatest problem - Jake Owen surely gets first crack?

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

It's been a brutal opening two weeks for Melton South and for dual coaches Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy it won’t get any easier for them when they host Sunbury in front of the Panthers loyal and faithful.

While the result for many externally looms foregone, you can bet your life Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson won't be taking his foot off the pedal, having lost two of his last three hitouts against the Panthers. Needless to add there'll be a few missing from that Panthers’ line up that got it done on those occasions.

Hodgson will understand percentage may well play a part in the latter season. In the event of ideal conditions, he will not want to waste them. The Panthers’ six-goal final term against East Point gives them some belief heading in, so expect them to show something early.

Hodgson will be all over it, homework complete, with only the exam to complete. Anything less will ask questions of the genuine nature of the Lions who are keen to bounce in 2023.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

Have every reason to expect another 'down to the wire' encounter between these two well respected rivals. It's hard to gauge the early season form given the small sample size. What we do know is that East Point thrashed the struggling Panthers to kickstart their season while the Devils went 2-0 with 'modest' wins over Ballarat and Bacchus Marsh.

Just who can roll up the sleeves and raise the bar on Eastern Oval will walk away with the premiership points and remain one of just two undefeated teams in the competition.

For visitors Darley, their ability to win the ball is as good as any. The support, especially with the ball, has been encouraging but skill execution and reward for those deeds are lagging. If the Devils fail the execution test against the quality of the Kangas they will be made pay on the scoreboard.

The home side has an enviable offering of riches forward of centre with the likes of Jordy Johnston, Brad Whittaker, Bryce McDougall and Isaac Hucker waiting to pounce.

Even if you don't support either of these teams it would be worth the entry fee alone to watch elite midfielders Matty Johnston and Brett Bewley go head-to-head. Both players would agree the duel for individual bragging rights sits at 1-1.

Jordy Johnston can be a thorn in the Devils side, even the most one-eyed supporters of the black-and-white have acknowledged his x-factor brilliance. With time spent on matchups seemingly aging in footy, you can back it in there'll be at least one reserved for 'JJ'. On the other hand Bewley looms the obvious 'contain' for new Kangas coach Jackson Merrett with MJ the likely run with option. Should be a belter.    

Scoop’s tip: Darley

This clash looms a potential crystal ball moment for these two sides even this far out as both teams aim to quash each other’s finals credentials. The hierarchy of both clubs wouldn't waste a minute agreeing with the theory, but the reality is eight does not go into six. Even the poorest mathematicians can tell you that.

The Swans reached the magic 12-win mark last season to earn second spot on the ladder - a remarkable achievement given Melton (2022) and East Point (2019) have been the only other two teams to do so in the last five seasons. The Swans had (as they did many) the Lions measure narrowly at their last meet but given the small sample size to date, my opinion has swayed.

The experience lost at the Swans will take its toll on their final win-loss tally, that for me is inevitable. However, the growth of the next generation of Swans are already mounting an impact to test the more seasoned Lions list. Even if the Swans lose, the learnings for midfielders Will Liston and Paddy Simpson will be invaluable against the Lions 'footy smart' clearance king, Lachie George.

If Bailey Van de Heuvel plays, the Swans have to be some hope of containing the Lions’ avenues to goal on their home deck. He's the player that behind the ball can really set the young Swans up with his intercept marking and distribution.

Lions forward Isaac Grant has two bags of four from his opening two games and will be dangerous again. Redan too have Grant Bell, Liam Hoy, Lachie McLean and George who can hit the scoreboard. Expect the visitor’s options forward will prove too much for the Swans in an entertaining affair despite both sides looking the winner at times.

Scoop’s tip: Redan

The round kicks off with an Anzac Day matchup on Thursday before all eyes turn to Saturday for a flurry of intriguing contests.

The 0-2 Lakers are playing with plenty of spirit and will make hard work of it for Ballarat who aim to keep their unbeaten record intact.

Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown has been 'proud' of his young group and the endeavour shown over his short tenure and will look to build on the nature of their ability to threaten.

Honourable losses can wear thin over time, so changing the narrative with a win will surely do wonders for a group that has clearly improved on previous seasons.

On exposed form Chris Maple's Swans will head into the Anzac Day clash warm favorites.

Sure, the Swans faithful would be rapt with their 2-0 start, but Maple's reservations expressed in the post-match of both wins give every indication there's a lot more work to be done “in all facets of the game,”.

I get it's a coach’s job to keep a lid on things, but there's been plenty to like about the Swans in 2024.

An improvement in personnel, be it organic or outsourced has seen the Swans tipped as league improvers by some rival coaches. On the evidence so far, I think they're right.

An opportunity for consolidation awaits the Swans whose collective speed across the ground will stretch the Lakers, especially on turnover.

Memo for the Lakers - give the ball back at your own peril!

Rhett Montgomerie has proven a real find in the opening fortnight - an injection of top end talent the Swans will need taking the next step. His availability at Footscray VFL however is out of the Swans hands.

Callum Wellings has also provided a major boost to the Swans’ arsenal between the arcs after missing all of last year with travel and surgery.

For the Lakers hopes, I’m keen to see Jayden Wright complement twin towers Felix Fogarty and Tom Zampatti.

The form of Bailey Thompson (seven goals), Timmy Collins (in best 2/2) and Brayden Helyar (2/2) is also having an impact despite a winless opening two rounds.

Do the Anzac Day occasion proud - wishing both sides all the best on an important day that truly represents the fabric of being Australian. 

PLAYER WATCH

Will Liston (Ballarat #2)
Club Best and Fairest winner who has taken his game to a new level over the last 12 months. Reliable mid with speed to burn. Dangerous on the spread.

Felix Fogarty (Lake Wendouree #18)
Mobile tall provides an aerial target for the Lakers. Kicks the ball well for a big man and will look to build on his solid contribution made in last week's narrow loss to the Cobras. 

SCOOP’S TIP

Ballarat

While Redan are expected to win and win well, the timing of having to face the struggling Panthers could well be the worst of the season.

Expect a whisper of unconfirmed top end talent to make a one-off appearance for the navy blue and white providing Coach Travis Hodgson with an injection of the necessary tools capable of aiding and executing a plan.

The long-term injuries to star recruits Patrick Veszpremi and Anthony Wilson has led to the club having to source more talent into the group that does not include Geelong VFL listed key defender Darby Schilder who will also debut having recovered from a calf complaint.

The Panthers will also derive some comfort knowing former Lions’ captain Isaac Grant has moved on in the off-season following returns of 11 and 10 goal hauls from their last two meets.

But what Redan has despite an 0-2 start to the season is some encouraging depth, a mountain of coachable young talent making their way with the Lions.

The youth are being complemented by experienced quartet Lachie George, Grant Bell, Patrick Fitzgibbon, and newly appointed captain Jacob Werts.

The Lions should prove too much for the Panthers the longer this game goes but they won't be exempt of an early scare when the legion of Panthers' cameos (up to four) endeavour to sway the pattern of on-field misfortunes embattling the club.  

PLAYER WATCH

Ryder Rousch (Melton South #11)
Up and coming young tall who has been a shining light in a disappointing start for the Panthers. Rousch has been named in the best 2/2 at his new club after making the move from Sunbury.

Grant Bell (Redan #23)
Clever, experienced forward who knows where the goals are. Expect Bell to feature prominently amongst the goals again adding to his impressive nine goal tally to start the season.

SCOOP’S TIP

Redan

The Devils will aim to put this game to bed early as they have done their previous two meetings with cross town rivals Bacchus Marsh.

Dan Jordan's men led by 23 and 35 points at the main break on those occasions before restricting the Cobras to just 14 scoring shorts for the entire game.  

Expect 'Killer Bees' Brett Bewley, Billy Myers, Luther Baker and Brady Wright to lead the Devils with significant intent after the reigning premiers fell short on the road last week against North Ballarat.

For Dennis Armfield's Cobras, a win last week, while not convincing, should derive enough confidence to at least take it up to the Devils early, denying a 'copy paste' version of recent Derby outings.

Cobras’ quintet Jake Owen, Luke Goetz, Joel Freeman, Will Lalor and Rye Penny (if available) will provide enough aerial presence to threaten if the delivery is up to speed.

The pressure from the Devils on the ball carrier has been a feature creating turnover, leading to scores.

The Cobras inferior numbers to the Devils re disposal efficiency could tell its own story on the scoreboard at games end.

The Devils have six current players that finished in the top 40 goalkickers of the 2023 season, Bacchus Marsh just two. Finding less predictable avenues to goal for the Cobras against the miserly Devils defence looms another challenge for Armfield and his staff.          

These games often unveil an unlikely hero or break out game for a youngster on the up.

Let's hope at least one of these encouragable scenarios plays out in what is arguably the biggest home and away stage for both clubs.

PLAYER WATCH

Joel Cadman (Darley #17)
Should be cherry ripe for a big game between the arcs after a big pre-season. His best is very good.

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh #33)
Dominant ruckman will be hoping for a spike in hit outs to advantage and marking presence around the ground.

SCOOP’S TIP
Darley

After a gritty three-point win over reigning premiers Darley, North Ballarat head to Melton to take on the competition yardstick, concluding a baptism of fire opening for the Roosters’ 2024 campaign.

Take from last week’s result achieved at Mars Stadium what you will, but it was nothing short of willing and courageous in the absence of a handful of top end talent that would walk into any side.

While an early spike in confidence and belief positively consumes the Roosters, it has indeed heightened the levels of expectation from the hosts who have dominated the opposition in their two games to date.

Melton's list bats deeper, but there's no denying the organised nature of North Ballarat, buoyed with the off-season additions of Noah Cockerill, Mal White and Liam Deering who all played a significant role in their debuts for BFNL premiership points last week.

More will be asked of Cockerill this week especially against a rampant Bloods front half boasting four of the competitions nine leading goalscorers already.

A general 'chop out' from the Roosters’ midfielders at the coalface denying the Bloods an exit and repeat entries into the forward 50 will aid organisation and accountability.

If the Bloods get on top between the arcs at speed and on their own terms it will be difficult to hold out.

Just where you expose the Bloods is not easy - in fact the Bloods have won 41/49 games since their 2019 preliminary final exit.

Brendan McCartney, however, can lay claim to being on the winning end of a couple and will be keen to add a third in what would be his one of finest days on the magnets during his four year tenure.

Easier said than done.

Bloods’ coach Troy Scoble has been very impressive in his short time in charge both on and off field and has the players up and about.

Despite losing big men Ben Archard and Brenton Payne the Bloods, albeit a small sample size, look to have taken their game to another level. Catch 'em if you can!

PLAYER WATCH

Braeden Kight (Melton #7)
Dangerous X-factor forward who started the new season with a bang returning back-to-back hauls of seven goals. The Bloods Captain is a man on a mission.

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat #1)
A lot will be asked of Sparkman's ability to rebound off half back against the powerhouse Bloods. Expect a solid performance from this progressive type, win, lose or draw. 

SCOOP’S TIP

Melton

Let's be honest, both sides are coming off embarrassing losses and will be desperate to represent a greater version of themselves under lights on Saturday night.

Expect the contest to be dour and low scoring especially if the nighttime dew sweeps through as it did last week at Mars Stadium that witnessed 10 goals for the game, and just two in the second half!

On the flipside, the likelihood of a predominately 'inside' contest could be just what coaches Joe Carmody (East Point) and Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) are after - an opportunity to get to work in tradesmen like fashion, an area that deserted them in losses to Darley and Melton respectively.

Both sides have talented lists, boasting a succession of recent finals appearances.

An Anzac Day weekend stage in tough conditions is surely to say a lot about the desire and commitment to win the hard footy given a mountain of stoppages are on the cards.

Picking a winner is difficult, neither side will arrive boasting a full book of confidence. Maybe the Kangas with a week off have had longer to process and work on their failings, with a keen eye firmly toward making a better account of themselves against similar opposition on the rebound.

Courage, territory and opportunity will be the overriding themes under the lights at Eastern Oval. Win all three variables, you surely win the game.

PLAYER WATCH

Mikitja Rottumah-Onus (East Point #2)
Inside mid who has returned to the club after a stint in the Mallee. Expect a solid response from one of the more consistent players in the comp after a round one thrashing at the hands of the Devils.

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol #2)
U/23 Interleague rep defender who rarely plays a bad game. Will play a key role in the Burras’ defence denying an East Point forward combo on the rebound. 

SCOOP’S TIP

East Point

An action packed Round 4 will give the opportunity for teams to strengthen their finals credentials, while a premiership favourite faces a good test on the road.

Scoop is here to take you through all the games coming up this weekend.

The Bloods return to MARS Stadium for the first time since their Grand Final triumph over Sebastopol in 2022. Again, Aaron Tymms' boys have rightfully retained benchmark status following a come-from-behind win over an improved Sebastopol.

The Bloods won’t want to be slow to react when they meet a determined North Ballarat who are renowned for playing their best footy at home. That observation could not be more relevant given North's win over the reigning premiers on this very ground last year.

The result certainly turned a few heads across the wider competition, but rest assure Tymms wasn't the least bit shocked of North's capabilities under Brendan McCartney. In fact, North Ballarat are 2-0 against the Bloods at MARS Stadium under McCartney.

Expect marquee big man Stewart Crameri to return to bolster North Ballarat's hopes. Whichever Blood defender gets the role, it looms arguably the toughest one-on-one match up for any in the competition.

If Crameri plays, and is contained, expect the Blood responsible to feature amongst the best even without registering a possession.

Tymms loves his role players, that's what makes them so hard to beat. The Bloods will welcome the unlikely unavailability of North Ballarat’s Collingwood VFL listed player Sam Glover, who would pose a double handful.

On the flipside North Ballarat will want to be better by foot with the bar raised this week, for the Bloods lap up any opportunity to rebound off turnover and sparingly give the ball back. North's handball connection, however, is their trump card. 

For the Bloods, the Carters brothers and Braedyn Kight are the obvious headliners forward of centre but merely front a collective 22 man buy-in, with individual returns usurped for the greater good of the team.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

Rebuilding Bacchus Marsh are running out of time to notch a win with the aid of their AFL Under 18 crop as the Coates Talent League enters its penultimate week in recess.

Add the highly anticipated debut of Jake Long into the Cobras mix and they have to be some chance to remain in this game for longer than previous weeks.

In fairness, the Cobras have played Sebastopol, Darley and North Ballarat - all bona fide finals chances. Expect Cobras coach Jason Williams to start raising the bar of expectation on his players as we enter the fourth round, for their top end and Coates Talent League Under 18 affiliated talent are better than their current zero from 12 quarter win season suggests. Newcomer Long may prove the catalyst.

For Redan, they won't want to be coughing up this game as their journey toward a finals berth takes another step forward under new coach Gary Learmonth. Sure, there will be some hiccups along the way, all clubs have them. But at home against the 0-3 Cobras, a loss would be a setback.

The Lions start obvious warm favorites, their good players are all in form with the likes of Izaac Grant (14 goals), Lachie George, Pat Fitzgibbon and Jacob Werts all impressing in the opening rounds. They'll be forced to sweat on the availability of Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray VFL). The Cobras have the potential to scare a more fancied opponent, time will tell if that is indeed Redan this week.

Scoop’s tip:Redan

Weather permitting, Sunbury hold the aces to bounce back to the winners list in emphatic style when they face the 0-2 Lakers. While the Lakers have proven to be competitive for long periods in their opening two games, their last quarters have been the cause of much frustration for second year coach Jack Fitzpatrick.

In the Round 1 loss to Redan, the Lakers conceded 6.3 to 0.2 before a near repeat fail in Round 2 against Ballarat, as they were outscored 6.2 to 2.0 in the final term.

Just what Fitzpatrick and his support staff have conjured on the back of another 14-day break remains a mystery. Surely more game time is the right medicine for the young Lakers, hinting their bye in Round 3 was untimely.

Sunbury will continue to build, nurturing good habits ahead of their Round 5 meeting with Darley. The connection with new key forward Cody Brand is already showing positive signs as a fourth week legitimises a trusty sample size ahead of the Devils. The Lakers young mids will continue to give their all, guaranteeing the Lions mids for one, will know they've played a tough game of footy.

While premiership points should never be taken for granted, especially from an enigmatic Sunbury, it's fair to say the Lions have bigger fish to fry.

There will be genuine interest in the progress of the Lions’ connection as the underdog Lakers have another crack ending a 17-game losing streak.    

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

Expect Sebastopol to use this hitout against an undermanned Melton South to tweak a few things, experiment if you will, with an eye at finding alternative solutions if required to overcome more seasoned opponents, in particular competition benchmarks Melton.

Don't be surprised to see a few new faces roll through the midfield, making the most of an opportunity for depth players to find touch in a game where the result looms an inevitable conclusion.

While the Panthers showed some grit at home in their last meet at the back end of 2022, kicking 14 goals in a 29-point loss, a repeat of that scoreline given the small sample size this year is unlikely.

Games into young talent and further learnings for the more established Panthers will be the theme of the day with an aim at minimising the carnage on the scoreboard. It's been a tough opening month for the Panthers - Melton, East Point, Sunbury and now Sebastopol.

The Burra are likely to miss Lachie Cassidy (hamstring) for a period with the extent of the strain to be treated more on the cautious side referencing a return. The challenge for some of the Burra crop will be holding their place in the side. Impressing against the Panthers will do their prospects no harm.  

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

These two sides represent a common theme across the 2023 BFNL competition - the path of youth. This Round 4 meeting at Alfredton Oval provides another opportunity to showcase the exciting organic talent from around the region.

How that comes to fruition at senior level around more experienced personnel will be worth the watch. Each side has near double-digit numbers aged 20 or under, so if you're contemplating which game to go to amid a full round of games in Ballarat, this may be the pick of them.

But don't expect to see this year’s premiers, rather an appreciation of youth and quality top end talent chasing a second win of the season for their respective teams.

The Swans’ winning chances hit a snag with the injury to progressive young midfielder Paddy Simpson, who has impressed in his new role. Simpson is expected to miss at least a month after his injury setback. Furthermore, the availability of Swans VFL listed trio Bailey Van de Heuvel (Geelong), Angus Bade (Footscray) and Tristan Maple (Footscray) will play its own role impacting the result.

Kanga’s duo Jackson Merrett and Joe Dodd are nearing a return but could be another week away leaving it, to a degree, a battle of the young guns. The Johnston brothers will again have a major say in the fortunes of the Kangas and how much ball forward they can get to Brad Whittaker, Bryce McDougall and the likes of Liam Canny and Jack Jeffrey.

It should be a ripping game, the Swans however will need to play out of their skins to contain the Kangas. If Andrew Hooper can get off the hook forward for the Swans, there may be some cause for concern for the 2018 and 2019 premiers.     

Scoop’s tip: East Point

With early season form lines starting to take shape, Round 4 presents as an opportunity for teams to continue their winning ways and rectify slow starts.

Dennis Armfield’s Cobras will look to jump the Lions early, coming off their bye in round three, aiming toward a first half-time lead of the season.

The visitors arrive with a sprightly 2-0 record under Matthew White and will like their chances to make it a hattrick of wins on a firm deck expected at Maddingley Park.

The midfield battle provides plenty of interest with Lions trio Josh Guthrie, Jake Egan and Ben Cameron up against welcoming party Jake McCreery, Tyson Shea and Josh Huxtable.

Just who can extricate best from a high number of predicted stoppages at the feet of Fraser Ampulski and Luke Goetz will have a large say in the territory game and inevitably the result.

While both sides provide varied options forward, it's Lions’ lead up spearhead Jake Sutton that looms the Cobras’ greatest challenge.

The snowy haired former Essendon VFL listed player has 11 goals already from his opening two games.

Rye Penny is the Cobras’ best defender but given his rebound attacking style it may be a case of 'robbing Peter to pay Paul' entertaining the unlikely match-up.

The Cobras have a significant presence forward of their own with Jake Owen, Joel Freeman and Isaac Nixon all aerially capable.

Fans of the red, yellow and black will be hopeful they have their kicking boots on providing every chance kicking a winning score.

Tipping you'll need to be in the 80 points range at the final siren to earn the 'W'.    

PLAYER WATCH
Ben Cameron (Sunbury #26)
newcomer averaging 25 disposals. Ranks #2 in the comp for ground ball gets, #7 for hard ball gets, #8 for handballs. Handy type.

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh #20)
Ranks #2 in the comp for Pressure and #1 at the club for inside 50s.

SCOOP’S TIP
Sunbury

The Lions host Sebastopol at City Oval in one of the more evenly weighted games in Ballarat for the round.

While I’m prepared to afford Sebastopol a 'mulligan' for their disappointing loss to East Point under the lights at Eastern Oval last week I won't be going as far as tipping them.

With a kind draw this season I still expect the Burra to feature at the business end.

They're not in the Melton conversation we know that, but not many are so let's temper expectations a bit.

This match will tell us even more about where the Burra are at. Sure, personnel reads well on paper but what is their ceiling? Can the 30-50 game players get any better, it's not a given.

Footy is a hard game to play let alone developing into an impact player week in week out after 38 hours on the tools.  

Redan too have a promising group of progressive types with even less experience than their Burra counterparts and will again be asked for the 'impact' effort alongside senior bodies Lachie George, Grant Bell, Patrick Fitzgibbon and Daniel Bond.

The Lions have been without star recruit Lachie Bond and dangerous forward Lachie McLean for their opening three games (W1L2) so now looms as good as time as any for Tony Locker's men to earn valuable premiership points.

Easier said than done however as was proven the case at their last meeting at Marty Busch Reserve ahead of last year’s finals series when the Lions won by 20 points.

PLAYER WATCH

Rory Gunsser (Redan #8)
Left foot distributer - comp rank #10 for disposals averaging 25.7 inc. 20 of those kicks.

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol #12)
'Elite' numbers in most areas including comp rank #1 for tackles, #3 for handballs, #4 for pressure, #6 for score involvements, #7 for clearances.

SCOOP’S TIP
Redan

After a tough draw to start the season, Brendan McCartney's one win, one loss Roosters get an opportunity to consolidate with a win over the Lakers (0-3) at Mars Stadium.

Despite missing a handful of top end talent the frugal Roosters barely gave an inch to last year's minor (Melton) and major Premiers (Darley) winning four of the eight quarters including a win.

Any side would take that, especially in the absence of key personnel.

So, what is to gain for the Roosters against the Lakers? A game spent more on their own terms for starters - so finding more ways to goal on the back of that hard work witnessed in their opening two games will enhance their threat even further. 

I've no doubt the Lakers will deliver some contested resistance for periods but it's the impact of scoring either side of those periods for North Ballarat that provides the greatest means for an interesting read in the aftermath.  

Expect North Ballarat to be too strong replicating a margin similar to their previous meet (68 points) and Jamie Quick to get his first bag of the season (five) and match it with a further five score involvements.

Saturday looms as the Lakers’ greatest challenge of the season in so many ways despite losses to Sebastopol, Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat in the opening three weeks. The reality is the Lakers rank 10th for average points scored, scores against, shots on goal, and quarters won.

PLAYER WATCH
Isaac Carey (North Ballarat)
Enjoying his role at wing and half back. Is top 15 in the comp for rebound 50s, defensive 50 tackles, Intercepts and knock ons.

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree)
Important key tall ranks #2 in comp for throw-in clearances and #5 for hit-outs.

SCOOP’S TIP
North Ballarat

Saturday's match up between league improvers Ballarat and the reigning premier will tell us more about Chris Maple's Swans following wins over Bacchus Marsh, Redan and the Lakers.

How the Swans progressive midfield group cope against experienced Devils’ quartet Billy Myers, Brett Bewley, Luther Baker and Matt Denham will go a long way validating the separation on the scoreboard.

The Devils will need to maintain their clearance efficiency advantage (63%-56%) over the Swans or risk being exposed on the spread.

The Swans should hold the faith, believing their group is capable of netting a big fish.

Given their 3-0 start, Saturday's opportunity in front of a home crowd looms the ideal stage to announce their 'official' arrival.

BUT, the Swans will be made to earn that right, with questions raised on all lines.

While the Swans’ abundant leg speed presents a challenge for any opposition, the Devils pose a different assignment altogether (aerially and at ground level) than Bacchus Marsh, Redan and the Lakers.

The Devils are still shifting through their gears since their dominant opening round win over East Point and will aim to peak for longer periods.

For the record, the Devils have won 22 of their last 25 BFNL games.

Swans inclusions Rhett Montgomery (Footscray VFL), Lachie Dalgleish and the availability of Tristan Maple (Footscray VFL) and Angus Bade (Footscray VFL) will only help the hosts cause, denying a versatile and formidable Devils front six led by inform duo Wil Johnson and Brady Wright.   

Naturally, experienced Swans small forward Andrew Hooper will generate his usual level of attention.

PLAYER WATCH
Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat #24)
Averaging 24 possessions per game, 14 contested (team rank #2), 7 clearances (team rank #1).

Mitch Ward (Darley #9)
Currently the Devils #1 turnover defender (#7 in the comp).

SCOOP’S TIP
Darley

It's back to the drawing board again for Travis Hodgson's Melton South following the surprise inclusion of four top end Ovens and Murray league players in last week’s 10 goal loss to Redan.

Given the cameo nature of their selections last week we can hardly call them genuine 'outs' but I’m sure Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody is a little relieved his group has been spared the match up.

In reality, it's a case of how far the Kangas on Saturday at Eastern Oval, a venue the Panthers have been on the wrong end of some big losses in recent years.

Will we see the first big bag of 10 goals from one individual? Kangas’ trio Jordy Johnston, Bryson McDougall and Strahan Robinson are the obvious front runners and more than capable.

Party stuff aside, Carmody will look to build on good habits. Sure, selflessness and pressure in the front half are on his radar but it’s the back six and their organisation that will be his biggest (season long) project.

Carmody led the Swans into a Preliminary Final in 2022 on the back of sound, organised defence and will replicate some of those traits at his new club.

For Hodgson, another 100 minutes of senior experience into his young group will aid the rebuild theme as the struggling club aims for a 'mini win' even if that be a quarter of football.

The Panthers won 1/64 quarters in 2023 and are 0/12 for the new season.

The challenge continues.

PLAYER WATCH
Jackson Merrett (East Point #1)
Relinquished of coaching duties, injury free and returned with 38 disposals last week in tough conditions.

Darby Schilder (Melton South #14)
Geelong VFL listed made solid impression first up with 20 disposals @75% including 8 marks (3 contested). Plays key back, plenty will be asked of him on Saturday.

SCOOP’S TIP
East Point

Round 5 presents a number of tantalising contests, with the opportunity for first wins and the chance to break away from the pack on the cards for some clubs. Scoop previews all the action coming up this weekend.

Some will suggest that the winner of this contest will assume the third seed favouritism for the flag behind premiership fancies, Melton and Sebastopol, by the time Round 5 concludes.

While the result will not define either side’s season, the outcome should tell us more about Sunbury and their level of improvement.

If you go back to grasp a better sample size of recent form from the Lions, while missing last year’s finals, Sunbury are 6-2 from their last eight games, while Darley sit at 7-1.

If you wanted to dig a little deeper into the form, matches against top six (from last year) opposition sees the Devils with a 5-3 record ahead of the Lions 2-6. Hence the call of onus on Travis Hodgson's near full strength line up at home getting it done.

Not only is Sunbury's list healthy, off-season recruits, Cody Brand, Rivva Karpany and Josiah Garisto have been significant, not mentioning the full-time additions of Mitch Lewis (ex-Port Melbourne VFL) and Josh Guthrie (North Melbourne VFL) - the Lions are primed for success in 2023.

How these two sides settle into their work early will be interesting given the Devils are coming off the bye and Sunbury with dominant wins over the Lakers and Melton South.

Whether the Devils can secure VFL listed duo Mace Cousins and Bailey Young will be important to their chances. The want to bat as deep into the list will likely play its own role in the result.

The best players from both sides have started well in 2023, so there'll be no excuses. Sunbury will start favorites, on home ground advantage alone, and will be keen to play as such. It's fair to say the Lions let their last two matches against the Devils slip through their fingers.

A three peat is unlikely so another mature effort (and some) from Dan Jordan's Devils will be required if they're to leave Clarke Oval with the Premiership points. 

Scoop’s tip: Darley

If you're in the 'firm believer' camp regarding Sebastopol's flag prospects this season, expect them to take care of Ballarat on Alfredton Oval and go 3-1 come 5pm on Saturday.

The Burra look more seasoned than the young Swans, with bigger bodies and greater depth. Those features alone will have an impact the further this game goes. In fairness to the Swans, they're under no illusions where they're at and would be the first to accept the underdog tag heading in.

Win/loss aside Swans’ coach Chris Maple will be looking for his young group to hang in longer and take more of their opportunities as they present. Failure to do so will be validated on the scoreboard.

Not to be outdone or ahead of themselves, the Burra concede they too remain a work-in-progress so expect coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro to flirt with the magnets as they strive to find the right combination to challenge for the title moving forward.

The Swans will ask questions of a few Burra players and their capabilities. The job on Swans’ sharpshooter Andrew Hooper is always a difficult task while negating Marcus Powling in the ruck carries its own levels of interest.

Swans midfielder Will Liston has been the beneficiary of Powling's work to be among the top possession winners on the ground. Kiel and Columbro touched on their desire to be a running team with efficient distribution. A run-with-role on Liston will soon determine the running capabilities of a few.

It was pleasing to see Toby Hutt kick a bag of 10 goals last week, he's likely to prove a handful again on projected weight of entries alone. Angus Bade looks the likely match up.

Swans coach Chris Maple summed it up perfectly last week identifying the gulf between their best and worst footy. For how long they bring their best looms their greatest challenge again for anything shy of it could see the young Swans on the wrong end of a blow-out.   

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Despite a 3-1 season record (wins over 8th, 9th, 10th) for Redan and an impressive eight wins from their last nine games, reigning Premiers Melton loom a different assignment altogether.

I thought one lifelong Lions’ fan in particular was getting a little ahead of themselves last week touting this match to be top billing, essentially 1v2. Brave call, but for all of Redan's recent form, it pales in comparison to the mighty Bloods.

Redan finished within 10 points on City Oval at their last meet with Melton but the competitions' benchmark was coming off a rare 21-day break and seemingly off their mantle, struggling with the restart.

Don’t expect the Bloods to give the plucky Lions much of a sniff especially if the weather holds up. While one might expect the Bloods to continue on their winning ways, the Lions will be hopeful as many of three of their missing six players from last week can return, giving their slim chances of an upset win a welcoming boost - none more so than Footscray VFL affiliate Cooper Craig-Peters.

Melton are not at their best just yet, having trailed at half-time for a second time in three weeks but glimpses of what that resembles has been scary good, against quality opposition - Sunbury, Sebastopol and North Ballarat.

Expect the Bloods to have too many winners across the ground and prove too strong for the Lions.   

Scoop’s tip: Melton

For all of North Ballarat's promise (2-2) they've still only won three of their last 10 games giving East Point (2-1) every reason to think they can win at home in an all-important game for both teams.

While the belief that North Ballarat are well and truly in the finals mix this year on sample size thus far, coach Brendan McCartney will be hoping for more evidence of progress against the Kangas. Let's not forget North Ballarat led Melton at half-time last week and turned a few heads midafternoon while East Point piled on nine goals against Ballarat in a match winning second quarter blitz.

North Ballarat will have to get it done without Stewart Crameri (groin) who failed to return after leaving the ground in the third term last week. But the reinforcements, the next gen of North Ballarat soldiers, are well drilled, can run, and not shy on confidence. Surely, it's McCartney's undeniable belief in his boys that exudes the confidence.

There is no reason why North Ballarat can't build on that honest hitout against the Bloods and look the winners for the most part in this game, but if opportunities are not taken, the Kangas will surely swoop.

The Johnston brothers and Alex Molan have led the Kangas midfield while usual suspects Bryce McDougall and Brad Whittaker have looked dangerous forward of centre along with a swarm of young talent waiting to impact at ground level.

Jackson Merrett and Jo Dodd couldn't be far from a return to give the Kangas a major boost but I’m happy to go with my gut at the moment predicting a win for the visitors.     

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

While winless, on the road, and coming off an 18-game losing streak, Expect Lake Wendouree to bring the heat, and even go in favourites, against fellow cellar dwellers Melton South.

On exposed form, bragging rights and a long-awaited celebration are at stake as these two struggling clubs go head-to-head.

Finding a winner despite the winless nature of the two will be easier for most, with every right to assume the Lakers hold the advantage on form, having been competitive for longer periods in their three games to date.

However, Melton South will not know themselves this week on the back of a horror draw namely Melton, East Point, Sunbury and Sebastopol. How they cope with a more evenly matched opposition will go a long way to determining their genuine winning chances.

Either side will be made to earn it, even if the Panthers start underdogs despite being at home. They may have some confidence behind them having beaten the Lakers in Ballarat at their last meet.

Mini wins are a bonus for all clubs in the context of the season but for these two sides there's no such thing. It will be a major result for the winners, and only contemplation of what's next awaits the loser.

This should be an entertaining game. Unfortunately, the Panthers may be too many troops shy of their best 22 to win in front of their faithful. The Lakers while made to earn it, will be hopeful it could be all smiles ahead of the journey home.

Scoop’s tip: Lake Wendouree

Get set for a big weekend of games as the BFNL celebrates its Indigenous Round! With plenty of blockbusters across the board, Scoop checks out what there is to look forward to come Saturday.

This game is set to tell us more about North Ballarat, who fell short on expectations again last week with a 20-point loss to East Point.

Despite their 2-3 record heading in, the reality is North Ballarat has won just three of its last 11 games with wins over Melton South, Bacchus Marsh and Redan. Brendan McCartney's boys look a far cry from their Round 13 win last year over eventual premiers Melton.

North Ballarat's best is very good but often reserved for MARS Stadium. On Saturday, the young Swans welcome the Roosters and should hold no fears.

For Chris Maple's young boys another step toward closing the gap between their best and worst footy will be a focus. While McCartney has not said anything public resembling a similar narrative, I suspect they're in the same boat.

This battle will be entertaining, an exciting look into the youth of the BFNL and what it holds for the future, especially for these two sides.

While the Swans averted down the path of youth and have been reluctant to spruik finals for obvious reasons, today looms more as an ideal opportunity for the Roosters to put a game to bed. But that task will come with its challenges, especially on the road.

The contest in the middle should be a ripper with Swans duo Marcus Powling and Will Liston taking on Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne. Jack Riding's availability for North Ballarat will be a point of interest while the return of Tom Hotchin (knee) nears by the day.

Expect North Ballarat to do enough without setting the world on fire as both sides strive for a complete team performance. With that seemingly unachievable in a week, expect some individual brilliance to prove the difference. Given that scenario, it's the Roosters who hold the aces.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Unbeaten Darley will be happy to get through the meeting with bottom side Melton South unscathed, as a top of the table clash looms with Melton in Round 8.

The struggling Panthers are 0-5 to start the season with each loss in excess of 100 points. In fact, the home side hasn't won a game in its last 12 matches.

Darley on the hand are 4-0 and 10-2 in the same timeframe. Only Melton (11-1) has won more over that period, including a premiership and current run of 10 games unbeaten.

Darley second year coach Dan Jordan will be well aware of the plight suffered by Sunbury after their two week build up (Melton South & Lake Wendouree) into the highly anticipated Round 5 meet with the Devils ended in a 56-point disaster.

Jordan will be hopeful any resemblance for his group (vs Melton South Round 6 & vs Lake Wendouree Round 7) into Melton can be avoided. Sunbury booted scores 170+ against the Panthers and Lakers, proving in essence, a false economy.

A handful of tireless Panthers faithfully led by Cody Chapman will keep the Devils honest for a period before the visitors projected weight of possession and forward 50 entries on the small ground takes its toll on the scoreboard. 

How the Panthers contain the Devils top end talent in Brett Bewley and Billy Myers will tell its own tale, while a way around the Devils’ defence to score presents its own degree of difficulty.

The visitors average just 47.5 points against (comp rank #2) from their opening four games, all on the road.

One overriding concern for new Panthers coach duo Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy is these Devils are just warming up with plenty of scope for improvement. 

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Expect the Bloods to continue on their winning ways after this round’s meeting with Bacchus Marsh.

While sharing a common goal, it's fair to say these two are at completely different stages of their journey. The Bloods, under Aaron Tymms are aiming to go back-to-back and sit unbeaten on top of the BFNL table with five wins while the rebuilding Cobras, under new coach Jason Williams, are 10^th with a winless start from their four games.

To put the Cobras rebuild into perspective, just six members played in both meetings against Redan (Round 17, 2022) and more recently (Round 4, 2023), essentially five games apart. What we saw of the Cobras in Round 4’s narrow loss to Redan was encouraging, enough almost label last week's bye as untimely.

A stall in momentum looms more likely for the Cobras as they say goodbye to up to six of their Coates Talent League Under 18 representatives who return to Western Jets and GWV Rebels duties.

Depth against the competition benchmark will be exposed, that is a given, but it provides Williams with another sample of size of where the Cobras are at and where greater improvements lie.

The Bloods enviable strength is with their even spread of impact players. Go after two or three, there's another three or four to assume the mantle and get the job done.

When you combine the Bloods even spread of talent with a collective selfless buy-in, the potion equates to an even broader run of success - 10 games unbeaten, including 11 of their last 12 and a drought breaking Premiership.

The Cobras will look to gain the type of learnings only the very best can provide and look to resemble more of Williams vision into the future.      

Scoop’s tip: Melton

Even the most devout Lakers fan would have savoured last week’s win over Melton South, however forecasting Round 6 chances against the Burra could be slim at best.

The Burra sit at 3-1 on the ladder and have been playing some good footy for a while with nine wins from their previous 12 games - their only three losses coming against Melton.

After shrugging off Ballarat in the second half last week, Burra coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro will aim to put this game to bed early, removing any residual confidence from the Lakers after ending an 18-game losing streak last weekend.

The Burra have been difficult to score against in first quarters from their opening four games with a 111-23 point (+88) advantage. With games already against Bacchus Marsh (0.2), Melton (1.1), Melton South (0.1) and Ballarat (2.1). Only the Swans have manufactured more than one goal.

So, heed the warning Lakers, file away last week's win with an eye forward to your next success. While it's unlikely to come against a well drilled Burras outfit, you can minimise the damage by starting well.

For the record the Burra are 133-61 (+72) for second quarters but would concede the one-sided nature of their numbers are enhanced having played three of the four bottom sides. This week’s meeting against the Lakers will make it four bottom side meets for the Burra in their five games. They must be champing on the bit for their next like-for-like challenge.

Can the Lakers be the ones to surprise and provide that? Only time will tell, but a fair dinkum crack is what coach Jack Fitzpatrick will ask for and knowing Kiel and Clumbro, would gladly welcome.          

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The progressive Kangas will be hoping to deny the Lions four-premiership points and remain firmly inside the top six when the two sides meet on Eastern Oval.

The 2018/19 Premiers will start warm favorites considering the Lions three wins have come against Ballarat (8th), Lake Wendouree (9th) and Bacchus Marsh (10th).

As East Point coach Jackson Merrett nears a return to the playing field he's had a birds-eye view into the potential capabilities of his young group.

The Lions will provide a legitimate challenge as both sides eye a spot in the bottom half of the six.

Merrett's boys could not have been more impressive last week disposing of North Ballarat by 20 points. 30 scoring shots to 20 in favour of the Kangas gives every indication the margin could have been greater. 

For Gary Learmonth's Redan some luck on the selection front will only help their cause. Without Lachie George, Cooper Craig-Peters and Liam Hoy last week, the Lions look well shy of their best despite some encouraging performances from the younger brigade in recent weeks.

There were no surprises in the nature of last week’s 67-point loss to Melton, in fact a run against the competition benchmark should hold them in good stead.

The Kangas took care of the Lions at their last meeting, albeit some time ago, but on current form there is not enough evidence to suggest Redan has made up the ground in that time.

For the record, East Point has won four of the last five meetings between the two sides by an average of 48.5 points.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Get set for a massive weekend of BFNL football action with a number of tantalising contests across the league as we close in on the opening third of season 2024.

Given what transpired at their last meeting it's hard to fathom visiting Sebastopol's chances of repeating the dose are slim at best.

Ironically it was barely 10 games ago the Burra were seemingly up and about heading into a final’s series on the back of a 22-point win over the Roosters.

Unfortunately for Tony Lockyer's group, barring the 80-point win over the Lakers in Round 1, Burra fans have had little to smile about.

And this week’s assignment doesn't get any easier for the Burra who head to Mars Stadium aiming to avoid a fifth straight loss.

The hosts deserve a forgiven run for their failings on the road against Sunbury last week for they were decimated for reasons beyond their control.

Any resemblance of Brendan McCartney's group to the one that downed the Devils in Round 2 or were within a goal of Melton will likely prove too much for the Burra who have had their own share of bad luck with injury and unavailability.

Given the current landscape McCartney will be just happy banking the win and seeing his players healthy with a response following last week’s disappointment.

And I expect them to do so against a Burra outfit completely bereft of confidence. What confidence they do in fact have will not be enough to trouble the Roosters on their home deck.

Lockyer is a realist, he'll be citing 'mini wins' throughout the afternoon to validate signs of improvement given an upset result is firmly in the 'highly unlikely' basket.

While the thought of the Burra slipping to 1-5 on the win/loss front and entrenched in the bottom three, the Roosters will be keen to return to the winners list themselves, avoiding the unlikely scenario going 2 wins and 3 loses come 5pm.

PLAYER WATCH
Brock Leonard (North Ballarat)
Enjoying break-out season with elite returns in most areas - disposals (26.8), Contested possessions 14.8), Handballs (13.2), Clearances (7.5), Inside 50'5 (4.8), Tackles (7.8), Turnovers (5.5), Ground ball gets (11).

Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol)
Shinng light in tough start to the Burra season. Ranks elite for disposals (23.8), Contested possessions (12), Handballs (13), Marks (7.2) and Groundball gets (8.6)

SCOOP’S TIP
North Ballarat

Who could forget the Kangas’ nail-biting upset win over the Bloods in last year’s Semi Final?

Well, Melton can.

A fresh set of eyes in the name of a coach into the 2024 season has re-invigorated a Bloods list determined to deliver on a range of new goals and KPI's from week to week, confident process will take care of results.

It’s hard to fault Troy Scoble in the infancy of his Bloods’ reign with the club’s unbeaten, superior percentage record from its opening four games.

Only North Ballarat gave them a scare getting within a goal despite the Bloods leading all day.

It's hoped more broadly the same challenges for the Bloods will come in the form of the Kangas because let's face it - only North Ballarat, East Point, Darley and Sunbury look capable, on exposed form, of upsetting Scoble's scrupulous plan.

Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody will be no stranger to the potency of the Bloods outfit especially forward of the ball.

Denying dangerous quartet Braedan Kight (25 goals, comp rank #1), Ryan Carter (12, #9), Kyle Borg (10, #13) and Ryan Davis (8, #15) opportunities around goal won't be easy.

Sure, the direct matchups will have a say, but it's the source, the providers that will determine this result - namely the midfield.

If, and only if, the Kangas midfield can win stoppage and clearance numbers efficiently enough to limit turnover can they be given a chance. And it's in this area they match up well against the Bloods - The Johnston brothers, Mikitja Rottumah-Onus, Alex Molan (if available) and Joe Dodd are more than capable of getting the numbers to warrant advantage.

It's how efficiently they avoid an unforgiving, rebounding Bloods half back line that will ask more their execution and decision-making abilities.

The Kangas have two primary threats forward, Strahan Robinson (14 goals, rank #5), and Bryson McDougall (12, #10) both of whom proved a handful at their last meet, on the back of an efficient midfield without Jordy Johnston.

The result will tell us more about East Point and their credentials after their horror first round failure against the similar opposition Darley, a month ago.

PLAYER WATCH
Braedan Kight (Melton)
Dangerous x-factor forward leading the Tony Locket Medal with 25 goals (4 games). Averaging just under 17 disposals per game means Kight is kicking a goal every 2.68 possessions (avg). Look out!

Matty Johnston (East Point)
Key driver in the Kangas upset Semi-Final win over the Bloods at their last meet. The classy midfielder is averaging 20 kicks, 13 handballs, 7 marks, 7 clearances and 5 inside 50's in 2024.

SCOOP’S TIP
Melton

Similar to the East Point scenario, this game’s outcome will tell us more about high flying Sunbury (4-0) on their home deck when they meet reigning premiers Darley (4-1).

The Lions have done everything right under new coach Matt White, making the adjustment to team planning and preferred structure look seamless.

Nonetheless, four games in is not enough sample size to get carried away with any forecasting just yet.

Let's see how the Lions perform under the pressure against the likes of Darley, East Point at Eastern Oval (Round 8) and league heavyweights Melton (Round 10).

I'm happy to give decimated North Ballarat a mulligan for their effort last week, due largely for health reasons.

So that leaves the Lions form with a win over Redan (25 points), Melton South and Bacchus Marsh.

In fairness, each of the Lions’ four wins have shown compliance and an heir of dominance that Devils’ coach Dan Jordan cannot ignore.

While Lions forward duo Jake Sutton (20 goals, comp rank #2) and Mitch McLean (13, #6) make up 44% of all Sunbury goals to warrant like for like attention, it's the efficiency of their defence that has seen the greatest improvement on last year.

Tyson Lever, Nathan Wood, Jack Newitt, Jack Hannett, Sean Reilly, newcomers Dean Muir and Jordan Tentonello make up an impressive back seven option and are clearly thriving under the team defence theory with high efficiency numbers.

Their ability to exit cleanly at low risk has been a feature- Wood, Hannett and Muir especially. You know what you're getting with Lever - essentially the licensed beneficiary to rebound pressured or bombed entries with his customary intercept mark game.

However, the likelihood of an experienced Devils’ midfield succumbing to the Lions intentions are slim at best.

In form trio Brett Bewley, Luther Baker and Matt Denham remain the competition yardstick of midfield combos and will stretch the Lions core for output with and without the ball.

The dominance at their two previous meets was palpable, two wins for the Devils by a margin of 40+ points.

Any midfield advantage for the Devils will equate to considerably more entries inside 50 to a feverish forward line eager to put a dent in the Lions new found levels of trust and confidence.

For the record, Sunbury (4-0) have won 15.5 of their 16 quarters to date (comp rank #1), Darley 15/20 (comp rank #3).

PLAYER WATCH
Mitch McLean (Sunbury)
Confident pressure small forward enjoying weight of Lions forward 50 entries. Kicked 13 goals from 4 games (comp rank #6)

Brett Bewley (Darley)
The reigning dual Henderson Medalist even had Lions fans in awe at his last trip to the Clarke Oval with 50 possessions and six goals out of the midfield. Ridiculous numbers!

SCOOP’S TIP
Darley

Expect Bacchus Marsh (2-3) to consolidate with back-to-back wins and square their win/loss ledger under new coach Dennis Armfield when they host the embattled Panthers at Maddingley Park.

Ironically, it was this corresponding fixture last year that Melton South won their only quarter of the season after leading the Cobras 3.2 to 1.5 at the first change in Round 9.

As it stands, since the beginning of the 2023 season Melton South have won just one of 80 quarters.

To be frank, this meeting gives every indication of how far for the Cobras.

Armfield will not be taking anything for granted as the Cobras remain a work in progress themselves striving for the complete four quarter performance under the former Carlton utility.

There were many encouraging signs for the Cobras witnessed on the road last week in the club’s big win over Sebastopol.

Surely the group needs little motivation to build on those habits in front of a home crowd given a likely win will see them inside the top six come 5pm ahead of their bye in Round 7.

The Cobras, as their form suggests, can vary from matching it with the best for periods by taking the game on with their encouraging run and carry with the ball and frantic pressure to a stagnant, insular brand Armfield is desperate eradicate.

Count on more of the 'positive' Cobras against the struggling Panthers, an all-in attempt to peak again with an eye toward adding another layer of belief and confidence that will prepare them mentally post bye.

Looking forward to seeing the potency, discipline and isolation of the Cobras front half and what that can amount to.

Surely the team first theme will prevail over the want of any individual's agenda and that be validated on the scoreboard.

Given the right service and weight of entries a compliant Cobras outfit could eye something in the 25-goal range on the scoreboard.

For Travis Hodgson's Melton South, another tough day at the office is expected but they can take solace getting more games into progressive young talent, remaining on the path of increased sense and purpose at the level.

PLAYER WATCH  
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
Despite his primary role as coach the former Carlton player is averaging a handy 16 disposals and 5.4 score involvements. Also 8 goals, 5 games (comp rank #14)

Cody Chapman (Melton South)
An injury interrupted start to the season has since witnessed a positive return for the Panthers Captain - above average for disposals (19) and elite for tackles (6.7)

SCOOP’S TIP
Baccus Marsh

Despite a 66-point loss to Darley last week Gary Learmonth’s young Lions will look to replicate their efforts from the last three quarters when they host Lake Wendouree at City Oval.

While the Lions will again be without a few prime movers, they're not short on quality young depth that can come in and fill a role.

At least 10 Under 19 eligible players including two Under 17s tested their mettle against the Devils and performed admirably. Enough to carry further confidence into this matchup against the winless Lakers.

Lions’ forwards Grant Bell (19 goals) and Marty Boyer (7 goals) will look to bounce back and fill their pockets after a tough day at the office in Round 5.

Expect them to be up and about wreaking havoc with a weight of forward 50 entries that will provide them with every chance hitting the scoreboard.

Tipping Lakers duo Brayden Helyar and Angus Gove might be set the task of containment. Both have enjoyed solid starts to their respective seasons despite the 0-5 narrative.

Lakers big men Tom Zampatti and Felix Fogarty will enjoy a distinct height advantage in the ruck in the absence of Taj Bond who is subject to availability with his Coates Talent League commitments.

Looking forward to seeing if Bailey Thompson can add to his innate ability of hitting the scoreboard.

The wiry forward/mid has 12 goals (comp rank #7) to his name from five games and has impressed.

Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown will be wanting a response from his midfield this week up against a youthful Lions combo with the exception of experienced campaigner Lachie George.

Both sides will again have the opportunity to explore the potential of their young groups in what should be an entertaining watch for those in attendance.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, the Lions look well ahead in the progress stakes, hence their unofficial warm favorites tag.

PLAYER WATCH
Rory Gunsser (Redan)
Excellent inside fifty kick averages elite for kicks (22.2) and inside 50's (5.2)

Will Clark (Lake Wendouree)
Ranks elite for average kicks (19) and turnovers (4.4).

SCOOP’S TIP
Redan

Some interesting road trips headline the action of Round 7 as the respective tiers of the BFNL ladder start to take shape as we roll into the second third of the season.

Scoop previews all the major games coming up this weekend.

The travelling Lions will have to get it done without their captain and reigning club best and fairest winner in Tyson Lever, with the key defender set to be sidelined for a minimum of six weeks following results of recent foot scans with a specialist.

The absence of Lever in the Lions 56-point loss to the Devils in Round 5 was palpable. Coach Travis Hodgson, eager to kickstart the Lions’ season with a few scalps fell horribly short in their most recent match-up against Darley.

So, the search off the bye for another scalp continues for the Lions against the tenth placed Cobras who are yet to win a game.

Cobras’ coach Jason Williams is under no illusions where his new club is at and can assume some positives knowing his draw doesn't get any harder having already met Sebastopol, Darley and Melton who have lost just one game between them.

Externally, few give the Cobras any chance, but this contest is more about Sunbury than Bacchus Marsh who have been transparent, open and honest with their struggles. The Lions on the other hand, have been tipped to be in the conversation come the business end, but that wouldn't be for the first time.

Sunbury's best is very good. Some resemblance of their ceiling today would see a similar result to their last meeting at Clarke Oval. Anything less than a six-goal win for the Lions would indicate Williams' young Cobras were up for the fight, denying the visitors a game played entirely on their terms.

While little wins within games provide the Williams’ camp with tempered belief and confidence, it pales in comparison to the idea of one and all engaged in song and victory.

The history books tell us Sunbury haven’t conquered at Maddingley Park in 9 years, this may be the chance for the Lions to buck the trend.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

Beware East Point, these Bloods are just cruising in second gear and this game may well be the perfect entree into a Round 8 showdown with fellow undefeated challengers Darley.

While the 43-point separation at their last meet in favour of the Bloods gives every indication the Kangas have significant ground to make up, note the Bloods had just three more scoring shots that day (12.12-20.7). Not to mention the 25-point half time deficit, the greatest the Bloods have endured at the main break since their 2021, Round 8 loss to North Ballarat when they trailed by 27 points.

In fairness the Kangas are considerably younger in 2023 despite enviable top end talent that can match their more fancied opposition, but the further you go down the list, the reigning premiers hold sway with seemingly minimal separation between their best and worst compared to their rivals.

Bloods’ coach Aaron Tymms has spoken highly of the buy-in from his group, eager to make it back-to-back titles but that is always easier said than done. The flag favorites have found themselves trailing at half time in two of their six games before hitting the gas in the third term. Their 'premiership quarters’ have been an example to the competition, their one wood to use a golfing vernacular.

It takes more than a half to take care of the Bloods.

Can the Kangas sustain a performance worthy of an upset? There will be doubts on the reliability of an enigmatic young group who fell short against Redan at home last round.

Regardless, of the result - both sides will gain significant learnings from the hit-out.   

Scoop’s tip: Melton

Sebastopol can make it five wins against the bottom five sides with a win on the road over North Ballarat at MARS Stadium on Saturday. Somehow, that just doesn't sound right, does it?

North Ballarat is currently outside the six with a 3-3 record so far this season. The seventh placed side will want to replicate the early form that saw them lead reigning premiers Melton at half time in Round 4 by 15 points.

The defensive effort to keep the Bloods to three goals in that half should be the blueprint ahead of the clash with the Burra.

Brendan McCartney's boys will need to bring the heat, for this Burra outfit is ready to burst. Dual coaches Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro have been frothing at the mouth for a challenge resembling something like for like, having played only Melton from the top six up to this point.

McCartney has been bullish on the Roosters’ running ability and attack on the footy. Today the Roosters get another opportunity on their home deck to confirm those beliefs worthy of taking down one of the bona fide contenders in 2023. 

We know the Burra got the better of McCartney's men by 15 points in Round 16 last year, but there was very little in it, in fact North Ballarat led at quarter time and shared an equal 20 shots on goal.

But what is daunting for the home side is the seasoned Burra are coming, and loaded with more experience.

It's unlikely the Roosters will hang onto star duo VFL affiliates Sam Glover and Josh Chatfield who combined for eight goals last week as they return to the higher level.

If that is the case, it stands as an almighty challenge for North Ballarat to get the job done without them.    

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Expect the Lakers to make some impression on their previous meet against the Devils, labelled by coach Jack Fitzpatrick as their worst performance of last season.

The ninth placed Lakers kept flag contenders Sebastopol to just 10 goals last week on the back of a 102-point win on the road over the Panthers.

But for all the Lakers defensive kudos, they simply can't score. Outside of their win over the Panthers, Fitzpatrick’s boys have managed just 19 goals in four games.

On the flipside, the Devils look to be going from strength with this hit-out posing as the penultimate lead up ahead of a genuine footy audit against the all-conquering, undefeated Bloods.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan takes nothing for granted with this group, and nor the broader club considering a winless 2021. Since Jordan's appointment the progressive Devils are now 19-7 for win loss including 11 wins from their last 13. Only Melton (12 from 13) have won more over the period.

Given the medium sized nature of the Lakers group, there is little expectation held for their chances albeit at home. The Devils’ 'top end talent', led by reigning Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley (16 goals) and full time addition Billy Myers (19 goals in four games) will prove too much to handle, let alone intercept defender Matty Brett and reborn swingman Darren Leonard.

The Devils hold all the aces ahead of this clash and will get the job done with a bit in hand. Devils’ fans will be hopeful the footy gods are kind, getting through with a win and injury-free ahead of a no excuse showdown against Melton.

But first, they must take care of the Lakers.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The Swans have the perfect opportunity to give new season coach Chris Maple his second win in charge when they meet winless Melton South.

The Panthers are a mile off troubling any opposition at the moment, crippled by off-season list turnover and injury. Their 2023 campaign went from bad to worse last week on the end of a season high thrashing at the hands of Darley.

While this week’s result seemingly looms as foregone, the extent of the damage poses a challenge for both coaches.

Can Chris Maple's Swans get the percentage boost they so badly need? Can they turn weight of possession into scores? For the Swans have been held to 40 points or less in four of their six games.

On the flipside, can Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy's Panthers get enough reinforcements back to take it up to the Swans? All the hierarchy at Pantherland can ask for is a red hot crack in front of their loyal supporters, the players owe them that at least.

The struggling Panthers had 10-minute patches of competitiveness last week and will look to increase that to near 20 minutes per quarter against the one win Swans.

Ballarat sharpshooter Andrew Hooper will be hoping for some silver service delivery - if forthcoming the former Western Bulldog is capable of kicking a tally in the double digits. I'll limit expectations, and tip Hooper to kick seven. Tipping this variable at least appears the greater challenge than the match result.

While we expect to see some resistance from the Panthers, the focus will be on the Swans ability to capitilise on majority opportunity, especially in front of goal.    

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

With a number of last year's finalists set to face-off for the first time since September action there is plenty to look forward to this weekend.

Expect a monster crowd to witness the renewal of this fierce rivalry when Darley (3rd - W4L2) host Melton (2nd - W4L1).

If the game can live anywhere up to the hype, lock yourself in - we're in for a hell of a ride.

The Devils under Dan Jordan had the wood over the Bloods winning all three meets in 2023.

Prior to that you had to go back to 2017 to find any joy for the Devils, one of the club’s longest run of outs against any team since joining the BFNL in the mid to late 90's.

New Bloods’ coach Troy Scoble will have done his due diligence, having cast an eagle eye over the reigning premier for some time.

The former Geelong development coach will be fully aware of the Devils’ strengths, and gets his first opportunity (of at least two) to find a way through with arguably the best defensive and potent front half combos in the comp.

But it's the battle between the arcs that looms as Scoble’s greatest challenge.

Keeping Devils’ quintet Brett Bewley (41.5 avg disposals), Luther Baker (26.3), Billy Myers (25.5), Adam Azzopardi (20.8) and Matt Denham (23.8) in check won't be easy, a midfield combo that has had a large say in the clubs (current) 11 game winning streak on Darley Park.

On the other hand, Jordan will be the first to concede that previous results account for very little come Saturday and will have endured his own set of prioritising mid-week hoping to find a way through the league heavyweights on the rebound.

The Bloods have matchwinners at both ends and two bona fide mids of their own namely Jack Walker and Jaycob Hickey who average 26 and 27 disposals per game.

The Devils missed Brady Wright last week, his availability will be structurally crucial with his aerial presence alongside Billy Myers who has proven a handful at their previous three meets.

My leaning to the Devils is with Wright in the team and the trust in Jordan's group to resemble more of their best for longer.

Surely the Bloods will bring theirs, they have some improving to do also having won just 3/8 quarters (at home) against fellow top three contenders North Ballarat and East Point. 

TEAM WATCH
Darley
Comp rank #1 for contested possessions (168.7 avg) and contested marks (19.5 avg)

Melton
Comp rank #1 for intercept marks (20 avg) and centre clearance (13 avg)

SCOOP’S TIP
Darley

Visiting Sebastopol (9th - W1 L5) will welcome the idea of celebrating a second win of the season when they meet winless Melton South (11th W0 L5).

The phrase 'better for longer' has been an ongoing struggle for both sides.

Three of the Burra’s five losses saw Tony Locker's men concede six goals or more in four quarters against Melton (twice), Bacchus Marsh and North Ballarat.

They just can't stem the flow on the run in games, I bet Lockyer would have liked the option of a 'time-out' to reset his group.

How Lockyer’s support staff in the dug-out look to stop the bleeding moving forward will be an ongoing case study.

I know the Burra have personnel issues missing up to 16 names from last year’s squad, but the show must go on.

Can the Burra find their feet and connection to trouble a few sides this year? Welcoming back Luke Kiel after a rest will be a major boost for a start.

Resembling the pressure of last week’s opening quarter and a half against North Ballarat will be the level Lockyer demands of his group.

If that can be achieved, expect the Burra to end a five-game losing streak despite their vulnerabilities.

For Travis Hodgson's Panthers, mini-wins will be the order of the day.

Given the current landscape, anything under a 100-point loss could be deemed a mini-win.

That's the unfortunate reality for a team who hasn't won a game since Round 9, 2022.

One positive for the Panthers has been the recent signing of former Collingwood/Hawthorn player Tom Phillips (now Carlton VFL listed). 

TEAM WATCH
Melton South
Comp rank #1 for defensive 50 tackles (18.4 avg)

Sebastopol
Comp rank #2 for creating turnovers

SCOOP’S TIP
Sebastopol

North Ballarat (5th W3 L2) will look to build on last week’s nine goal final term that catapulted Brendan McCartney's men to a 106-point win over Sebastopol when they host Redan (7th W3 L3).

Not too dissimilar to the age profile of the Lions, the young Roosters get another opportunity to show their talents in front of loyal and faithful fans, aiming to keep their unblemished 2024 home record intact.

McCartney conceded his boys were a little slow out of the blocks last week and won't want to give Gary Learmonth's young brigade any momentum.

The Lions will again front with no less than ten Under 19 eligible players who are making healthy progress at the level.

The surface at Mars Stadium is as good as any and will give both sides every chance to deliver on their potential.

Learmonth will look to contain the Roosters, eyeing a match-up for Jamie Quick and Ned Nash who combined for 12 goals last week.

The Quick (10 goals/3 games) match-up especially is always a tough one given his x-factor brilliance.

If anything, you need the elusive forward to aid the cause with an off day.

Cutting supply will be paramount for Learmonth against the competition’s number one ranked side for clearances (Redan #7th) and ball up clearances (Redan #7th).

If it's any consolation the Lions rank second for centre clearances behind Melton - for Redan's sake they'll hope each centre bounce has not come on the back of a Quick or Nash goal.

The midfield battle will be an interesting one.

Lions’ ruckman Taj Bond (if available) will be conceding a lot of weight to North big man Cam McCallum and will need to be smart around stoppage not getting thrown around.

Can Khy Jess, Lachie George and co deny in form trio ball magnets Riley Polkinghorne, Brock Leonard and Elliott Lamb long enough to correlate to an advantage on the scoreboard?

I'm not so sure, especially on Mars, the Roosters play the venue better than any.

Looking forward to seeing if the North Ballarat defence can put an end to Lions’ forward Grant Bell's run of multiple goal returns (8 games).  

TEAM WATCH
North Ballarat
Comp rank #1 for clearances (49.8 avg)

Redan
Have 10+ Under 19 eligible players in senior line-up

SCOOP’S TIP
North Ballarat

East Point (4th - W4 L1) return home to consolidate their recent run of good form when they host Ballarat (8th - W3 L2) coming off the bye.

The frenetic nature of last week’s win over Melton will have instilled Joe Carmody's group with the necessary confidence capable of matching it with any opposition.

The Swans arrive without their season-to-date best player Rhett Montgomery who has left the club for the SANFL.

The loss of the rebounding half back will surely impact the win/loss prospects of Chris Maple's group, especially against teams above them - and more immediately East Point.

Sure, the Swans have improved in their second year under Maple, enough to make inroads on their last visit here that ended in a 52-point win to the Kangas.

Given the youthful age profile of the Swans, the bye was timely after big losses against bigger bodied Melton and Darley.

Given last week’s feat, the Kangas won't be any easier assignment for the Swans despite their recent freshen up.

The Kangas’ impressive work between the arcs has amounted to them being the number one team for inside 50's providing dangerous pairing Bryson McDougall and Strahan Robinson with repeat opportunities hitting the scoreboard.

The Johnston brothers and the return of Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Jacob Brown has seen the weight of inside 50 numbers on the rise at the Kangas.

The young Swans midfield will need to be on their mettle in this uphill battle for time spent in the front half.

Unfortunately for the Swans I’m not convinced they have the personnel to post a winning score, weather permitting on Eastern Oval.

X-factor forward Andrew Hooper (6 goals) is the leading Swans goalkicker ahead of Ben Wardly and Jake Drever (5 apiece).

No Swans player is listed in the top 30 race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

East Point has three - Strahan Robinson (16), Bryson McDougall (13) and Jack Jeffrey.  

Expect the Kangas to usurp the loser of Darley (3rd) v Melton (2nd) on the BFNL ladder come 5pm Saturday.   

TEAM WATCH
East Point
Comp rank #1 for inside 50s (58.4 avg)

Ballarat
Comp rank #2 for Marks (102.6 avg) and Intercept marks (19.4 avg)

SCOOP’S TIP
East Point

Lake Wendouree (10th - W0 L6) host an unbeaten Sunbury outift (1st - W5 L0) who are flying at the moment after recent wins over last year’s grand finalists Darley and North Ballarat.

While it's hard to make a case for the Lakers on the scoreboard, coach Rohan Brown will be asking for genuine effort, at the levels witnessed in last week’s narrow loss to Redan.

Brown went on the record saying his young team were "the most resilient group of any he has coached,". I'm tipping that resilience will be tested to maximum levels given the form of the Lions who have taken all before them under new coach Matty White.

Lakers’ defender Brayden Helyar will likely get first crack at Lions’ leading forward Jake Sutton (22 goals), while the jury is out on a like for like match up with pressure forward Mitch McLean (16).

The two have combined for 38 of Sunbury's 85 goals (44.7%). That's a fair place for the Lakers to start!

But the Lions boast aerial and ground ball quality, not to mention leg speed.

Newcomers Jordan Tentonello, Brock Landt and Ben Cameron all have 'good wheels' and make Sunbury a different proposition in degrees of difficulty to face than recent years.

The Lions’ midfield and forward group are complemented by a well organised defence led by Tyson Lever.

It won't be easy for the Lakers to score unless Bailey Thompson (14 goals) and spruik recruit Jaydon Wright can find a way through in general play.

The odds are against them.    

TEAM WATCH
Lake Wendouree
Comp rank #1 for rebound 50s (44.8 avg)

Sunbury
Comp rank #1 for marks (103 avg)

SCOOP’S TIP
Sunbury

A top of the table clash is just one of many tasty fixtures coming up in Round 8, with hotly contested top six spots on the line and elusive rare wins up for grabs.

Scoop previews this weekend's action.

Unbeaten league heavyweights Melton and Darley face off in a highly anticipated top of the table clash at MacPherson Park.

For all of the Devils’ progression under second year coach Dan Jordan, a timely footy audit awaits against the reigning premiers. Plenty will need to go right for the hunters, Darley, to walk away with the points come 5pm.

In the event of a seventh straight win on the road ahead of the King's Birthday bye, the Devils will have ended a 2226-day winning drought against the Bloods dating back to April 29 Round 2, 2017 and more broadly, a 16-0 winning run at home for Aaron Tymms' men.

While the Bloods current 7-0 season run has a familiar sense of déjà vu, the jury might still be out to see if they're as strong as last year despite similar returns forward from the Carter brothers and the efforts of Brett McIntyre filling the ruck void in the absence of Ben Archard (now returned) and the departed Mark Orr.

The Bloods have proven to be the competition's blueprint for the soldier in, soldier out theory. Today will be no exception with crucial midfielder Jack Walker set to miss with concussion.

Despite the Bloods’ six-year reign, the Devils have rarely been put to the sword, even in more testing times. Needless to say, the Devils’ failings to post a winning score against the Bloods must be corrected if they're to cause an upset win on Saturday.

Finding avenues to goal will go a long way determining the Devils’ fate, with fine weather expected. Sure, the Devils rank one in offence after seven rounds but four of the clubs six wins have come against the bottom four teams who have just three wins between them.

The Bloods will be buoyed with Archard and Kyle Borg back in the mix, but it’s no guarantee that Tymms' all conquering Bloods will have the game weighted on their terms.

The Devils will need midfield duo Brett Bewley and Luther Baker to provide enough drive to challenge the Bloods enviable depth of riches. There is no denying questions will be asked of the Devils’ defence to contain the Bloods’ barometer trio in the Carter brothers and Braedyn Kight but don’t be surprised if there is a cat thrown amongst the pigeons and the flag favorites are knocked off in a close one. 

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Sunbury will look to correct on its previous two slow starts, with a 'statement-like' impression in the first quarter when they host Redan.

While there are doubts on the Sunbury Lions matching it with the top few sides without Tyson Lever (foot), Harrison Minton-Connell (Essendon VFL) and Mitch Lewis (Overseas), Redan are well within their sights.

The visitors too will be without some of their top liners as Lachie George and Liam Hoy endure more time on the sidelines with injury. Redan will be sweating on the availability of Footscray VFL affiliated Cooper Craig-Peters with his selection unknown until Friday. Getting it done on the road without their key mid, George and Hoy will be tough assignment despite a seven-point success at Clarke Oval last year.

Evidently, Craig-Peters missed that game but George and Hoy both featured. To give the visitors some comfort, Sunbury did have Lever, Minton-Connell and Lewis but still fell short.

Just what version we're going to get from these two teams will tell its own story in the aftermath. Both seemingly have patches of minimal impact at stages in games and are prone to conceding back-to-back goals, which would be well known to both camps.

Sunbury simply must get it done at home and rebuild their ruthless Clarke Oval reputation, with the venue once considered a fortress. For the present however, only Lake Wendouree, Bacchus Marsh and North Ballarat have failed to win there over the past two seasons with Sebastopol not making the trip down either. 

There's a bit at stake here, as both sides fight for a similar spot in the top six.

Scoop's tip: Sunbury

You may well expect a similar result to the last time the Roosters met the Panthers at Mars Stadium.

Brendan McCarney's North Ballarat have an opportunity to capitilise on their good doings over the last fortnight that has resulted in the Roosters winning seven of its past eight quarters, including three over flag fancies Sebastopol last week.

If Roosters’ big man Stewart Crameri does indeed play, there's every reason the bona fide key forward will spend a majority of minutes deep inside 50, giving his ailing groin issue some respite.

Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne will enjoy a day out with the latter the likely beneficiary of McCullum's first tap dominance.

Skillful Roosters’ half forward Jamie Quick is every chance to have a big afternoon in front of goal having kicked 17 goals this year to lead the tally for North. While tips on the margin are purely speculative, a mini win for Melton South would be keeping it under 100 points, a feat they haven’t achieved thus far this season. 

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

The visiting Kangas will endeavour to back up their near upset performance over competition benchmarks Melton last round when they take on Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve, but that will be easier said than done for a young group, especially after such a solid, physical hit-out.

Sebastopol are coming off their own disappointment, finishing 30 points short of North Ballarat and will be eager to atone.

Surely the battle for spots in the Burra line-up is as competitive as ever given their depth, as coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro look for a combative response validating their first choice. On paper, the Burra read seriously good, loaded with an enviable blend of talented youth and experience, cherry ripe in the premiership window.

However, sides laden with depth can struggle with ownership, leaving it up to others to carry the slack. If that scenario infiltrates a group, they can be suspect to flat performances. The Burra will not want to be flat against a promising East Point that's for sure so expect Kiel and Columbro to get the response they're after and with it, a much needed scalp in the finals mix.

For Merrett's well led young Kangas, they're progressing in the right direction and will continue to ask questions of any opposition. This time, Sebastopol.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The travelling Cobras front their best winning opportunity of the season to date when they meet the one-win Lakers.

Coincidentally, the Cobras’ six games in 2023 have been against the top six teams on the ladder as they stand. The Lakers draw hasn't been full of luxuries either, with four of their six games coming against the top six.

But recent history will account for very little today as both sides eye a prized win and a chance to sing as one in victory come 5pm.

Finding a winner is tough. The Lakers, similar to the Cobras, have very inexperienced 'bottom halves' of their groups and what returns will come of those are likely to have a significant bearing on the result.

For if it were solely based on top-end talent, I would lean to the Cobras with Jake Owen, Jake McCreery, Luke Goetz, Eamonn Ogden and in-form consistent duo Tyson Shea and Jack Parente. I'm not sure the Lakers 'bat' as deep with their top end, but to use a cricketing vernacular their tail may wag a little more favourably the further down the list you go.

Both sides will look the winners at some stage in this contest and be hopeful recent lapses in games are kept to a minimum for the result here could well be decided by which team manufactures the greater number of chances in a game of momentum.

While the winners are set to rejoice and embrace this rare opportunity for victory, contemplation and despair awaits the losers.    

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Ahead of the King's Birthday Bye next weekend, teams across the league will be looking to head into the break on a high with strong performances this Saturday.

League improvers Sunbury will aim to make it seven wins on the trot in a dream start for the club under new coach Matty White.

While the Lions are flying and have done everything right, let's not get too ahead of ourselves.

They came from the clouds to beat Darley who were all over them for three quarters and dismantled North Ballarat who had legitimate health issues - both games were at home.

The Lions match ups with East Point and Melton over the next three weeks will tell us more of where Sunbury is at in the pecking order.

What is real for the Lions is they're healthy and have added quality ball users and leg speed to a list many had in the finals conversation last year before they fell off the perch.

Having former Essendon VFL listed dangerous forward Jake Sutton (28 goals - comp #2) full time and breakout accomplice Mitch McLean (21 – comp #4) hitting the scoreboard has been an overwhelming feature for the super-efficient Lions who rank first for conversion on goal, which is a mighty effort given their number of shots on goal. 

The additions of Dean Muir, Ben Cameron, Jordan Tentonello, Ben Eales and Brock Landt should not be underestimated either.

Super depth, with few injuries will make it hard for Joe Carmody's Kangas endeavouring to extend their winning run to six. And why shouldn't they give themselves every chance to deny the all-conquering (thus far) Lions.

Ironically the Kangas’ off day against the Lions in Round 11 last year was arguably the line in the sand game for them having since won 11/15 games since including a preliminary final appearance.

The Kangas remain a serious proposition in their own right given the returns of Jacob Brown, Mikitja Rottumah-Onus and the rise of Alex Molan and Strahan Robinson.

The Johnston's have always been, well, the Johnstons, with Jordy adding fuel to the friendly 'better mid or forward' debate with six reminder goals last week. Jackson Merrett and Bryson McDougall have been healthy too, complementing the Kangas’ run of solid form.

Nonetheless, the hosts must take care with their distribution, especially post clearance given a host of intercept Lions’ defenders will be waiting with open arms to swing the 'Whitey plan' led by Tyson Lever, into action.

SCOOP’S TIP
East Point

The Cobras’ hierarchy understand that wins over the bottom three teams will not be enough to validate progress under new coach Dennis Armfield.

What they're chasing is a scalp, and North Ballarat present as the ideal footy audit when the two sides meet at Maddingley Park with the Cobras fresh off the bye and raring to go.

Forget last year’s 68-point loss as any form guide given the Cobras were in the preparatory phase of a rebuild following a mass exit of players post the 2022 season.

Twelve months on, the next measurement of growth and progress comes to a head in front of a Cobras home crowd who would (fairly) be unsure where they stand in the pecking order - curious what their best is capable of.

Well Brendan McCartney's disciplined Roosters loom the perfect candidates to provide some of the answers - a proud blend of youth and experience that will keep you honest with and without the ball to the last seconds of every quarter.

McCartney respects the competition, is never too far ahead and will reiterate his message of playing the minutes against the Cobras.

The fight for a top three finish just got harder with the improvements of Sunbury and East Point- no results will be taken for granted.

The Roosters were outscored in the second half last week against a young Redan boasting 10+ Under 19 eligible players.

The Cobras won't have that many but aren't shy on their share of Under 20 representatives.

The Roosters will understand keeping a young group in check is to deny momentum.

McCartney's group are good at that, they suck all the air out of a game and have you fight for the simplest pleasures in footy.

Even though the Roosters are likely to be without Collingwood VFL listed Sam Glover who booted four goals at their last meet, expect Jamie Quick (11 goals, 4 games, comp #15), Ned Nash (13 goals, 6 games, comp #11) and Hugh Trigg (10 goals, 6 games, comp #17) to prove more than a handful in the front half and the primary beneficiaries of an inform midfield. 

SCOOP’S TIP
North Ballarat

After a tough month, the Swans get a golden opportunity to end a three-game losing streak when they host the winless Panthers.

Expect dangerous Swans forward Andrew Hooper to have every chance of matching his six goal return from their last meet.

More broadly, the likelihood of the Swans matching the heights of a 158-point scoreline will be an interesting watch as the Panthers endeavour to 'dig in' for longer.

The addition of former Collingwood and Hawthorn left footer Tom Phillips is a welcoming bonus for Travis Hodgson’s group still yet to win a game since Round 9, 2022.

Young Panther Jarrod Bibby has been a solid contributor despite the clubs run of outs alongside former Sunbury junior Ryder Rousch and key big man Broden Collins.

Former Collingwood VFL listed giant Darrean Wyatt and Geelong VFL listed Darby Schilder have added some necessary aerial presence for the battle.

But the challenge for the Panthers this week won't come in the air.

A swarm of improving young Swans namely Wil Liston, Paddy Simpson, Wyatt Squires and the Rinaldi boys are progressing nicely, an adequate support base to more experienced trio Call Wellings (despite his age), Lauchlan Dalgleish, Marcus Powling and the X-factor Hooper.

Both coaches will cast a keen eye on their abilities to retain the footy.

Costly turnovers have been a frustrating constant for the most part. Some clean entries will at least give the respective loyal and faithful in attendance something to smile about.

SCOOP’S TIP
Ballarat

Two sides, two agendas.

The travelling Devils look to end a two-game losing streak when they face the Burra whose two season wins have come against the bottom two teams.

But the nature of the Burras’ previous form will account for very little as Devils’ coach Dan Jordan eyes a correction from his own group who failed to deliver on expectation in their previous two starts.

Sure, it's no surprise for any side at the moment falling short of Sunbury (8 points) and Melton (67 points) but it was the way they went about it.

Since three-quarter time of the Sunbury game in Round 6 the Devils have been outscored 140 (21.14) to 45 (6.9), while being smashed in all key areas of pressure confirming a clear drop of intent from the reigning premier.

The last five quarters of the Devils’ season has seen them cough up 21 goals from just 64 entries while forward half has also had its challenges with just six goals from 44 inside 50s for the period.

Expect a response this weekend from a proud led group both on and off field.     

For the Burra, a win last week over the struggling Panthers could be just what Tony Lockyer’s men needed.

The feeling of a win on the back of impactful returns from Riley O'Keefe and Luke Kiel will have the Burra up and about, well, for as long as the Devils allow it.

Both sides have had pressure issues in recent weeks, so the race is on to find who can resemble closest to their best for longer.

While Lockyer has surely tempered expectations on the season whole for his group, there'll be no denying the Burras an appetite from week-to-week adding to their two win tally.    

SCOOP’S TIP
Darley

Gee, if Lakers' coach Rohan Brown conceded a gulf in class between his young group and Sunbury last week, I’m at wits end to predict the superlatives the former Beaufort coach will come up with for Melton.

The Bloods, alongside Sunbury and East Point are the form sides in the comp taking everything before them and putting away any side that lapses on the job. And a memo for Brown and his group - the Bloods don't discriminate having made the reigning premiers look second rate in front of their home crowd last week.

Just where do you start containing the Bloods? Troy Scoble's improving group managed 16 goals from their 42 forward 50 entries against the Devils, hitting the scoreboard in one way shape or form with more than half their opportunities. Super effort.

Their midfield is sound, led by Jono O'Brien in the ruck, and a handful of rotations all capable of impacting with and without the ball.

In defence the Bloods take more intercept marks than any side in the comp and will feast on any Lakers errant or pressured entries.

Forward 50 entries for the visiting Lakers will be in the minority range adding to a heightened level of care factor importance on the ball carrier to deliver.

Getting through the Bloods is not easy, especially at MacPhersons Park.

If the Lakers can usurp their last score of 44 against the Bloods, they will have shown plenty of character to warrant more of the consistent narrative around resilience coming out of CE Brown Reserve.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, the reality is there's a headache whichever way you look in the form of a Bloods jumper.

A tough day at the office is expected for the touring party.   

SCOOP’S TIP
Melton

After the bye weekend the action is back this Saturday with a number of tantalising contests set to be on display across the competition.

Scoop looks ahead to the Round 9 schedule.

Expect the Cobras to make it back-to-back wins when they host the struggling Panthers.

The club is hopeful Cobra fans will turn out in large numbers to witness their second win of the season coinciding with their annual "Fight the Beast" MND Fundraiser where a selected group of Cobra faithful take the plunge down the slide into the icy waters below for the worthy cause.

Despite the Cobras one win season to date, new coach Jason Williams has been relatively pleased with the effort of his under manned group for the most part, giving every indication a big win against the Panthers is on the cards.

If the Cobras midfield can get on top of the visitors early, former Captain Jake Owen can look forward to a big day in front of the sticks.

Any returns for the home side from the AFL's Under 18 pathway competition will only make the Panthers task more difficult as they strive for a first loss of the season under 100 points.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Seventh placed East Point must win and win well when they host the Lakers.

While Jackson Merrett's boys are knocking on the door of the top six, they sit two games and another 34% behind the fifth placed side in Sunbury. East Point will be hopeful a win will be enough to replace sixth placed Redan who face a testing meet with Sebastopol.

Given the departure of Lakers’ coach Jack Fitzpatrick last week, history says a spike in effort more often follows from the playing group, eager to impress off a fresh start.

Merrett will be hoping to put this game to bed early and deny the one-win Lakers any momentum. For the longer the Lakers remain in the game, the less percentage gain the dangerous Kangas will accumulate.

While the likely match result will not surprise, it will be the nature of the projected Kangas win that will attract the greatest attention.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Despite the Devils’ impressive 7-0 run on the road, this match-up looms just as much a danger game for the ladder leaders as it does the hosts.

The Roosters win/loss record under Brendan McCartney at Mars Stadium sits at 14-3, giving every indication a 15th win would not surprise, with their chances set to be buoyed by the likely return of marquee signing Stewart Crameri from injury.

And, when you consider the potential influence of Werribee VFL listed Jack Riding and current BFNL leading goalkicker Jamie Quick (25 goals) forward of centre, the Roosters pose a real handful.

Furthermore, Dan Jordan's boys will have to be at their best around the coal face denying in-form midfield duo Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne first use out of stoppage. The visitors will be without heart and soul inside mid, Luther Baker (hamstring), and will count on an impact contribution from their promoted soldier.

The contest between two of the more astute operators off field with the magnets could also play a role in the outcome. McCartney and Jordan similarly prefer process over match ups - just who gets it done, a game on their terms for longer will surely earn the four points.

The Devils, led by Brett Bewley, Billy Myers, Matthew Brett and Shane Page, have done everything right thus far but something tells me, this game in particular, they're cherry ripe for the taking.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

League improvers Sunbury will be looking to consolidate their place in the top six with a win on the road over Ballarat.

Sure, they'll have to do it without their Captain Tyson Lever and midfielder Mitch Lewis but you're likely to find nearly all sides are shy of their best 22 with the season eight rounds in.

While experienced Swans forward Andrew Hooper (22 goals) poses the Lions greatest threat causing an upset on the goal front, the visitors seemingly hold the aces covering the former Western Bulldog.

Lions’ trio Jake Sutton (17 goals), Cody Brand (14 goals) and ageless go-to-man Leigh Brennan (10 goals) provide enough spread in the front half getting it done on the scoreboard even if Hooper has his way.

Lions’ newcomers Josiah Garisto, RIvva Karpany and Brand are beginning to gel with their team mates and will continue to build on that synergy into the second half of the season. 

An all important sixth win beckons for the Lions who will look to start well having trailed at the half in their previous three games (Redan, Bacchus Marsh, Darley).

Sunbury aside, Saturday provides a young Ballarat outfit with another opportunity to ply their trade under coach Chris Maple with an eye on staying in games for longer.

Sunbury will be stiff opposition and are set to start warm favorites to make it a hattrick of wins ahead of another road trip and tougher assignment against Sebastopol in Round 10.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

Redan host Sebastopol in an all-important game as both sides aim to keep the wolves from the door. The Lions cling to sixth place on the BFNL table ahead of East Point, who are knocking, while the Burra aim to stay in touch with the top two.

If Sebastopol are fair dinkum and play to their strengths, they should be too good for Redan despite some genuine resistance in Jarrett Giampaolo's milestone 250th game (Congratulations!).

Again, the Lions will have to sweat on the VFL selections of Cooper Craig Peters (Footscray) and Will Madden (Essendon) and have their fingers crossed on whether crucial mid Lachie George is ready to make a return.

Veteran Liam Hoy will miss again. In a nutshell, the Lions fall shy on experience and polish in the absence of the aforementioned to sway an upset result. 

For the Burra, they’ll be seeking to broaden their avenues to goal. Hugo Papst (14 goals) has been a real find hitting the scoreboard in a support role for Toby Hutt (20 goals). Too often, Tony Lockyer (8 goals) is the Burras saving grace at either end. What a player. You wouldn't think eight rounds in only Papst and Hutt have kicked more goals. 

Despite having played all bottom four sides (4 wins between them), the Burra rank 5th for shots on goal and the same for points scored despite their #1 ranking for goal accuracy.

Clearly, they remain a work in progress, which is a dangerous thought for the remainder of the competition.    

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

After a weekend off, coaches, players and fans alike will all be hungry to get stuck back into the action this Saturday.

To suggest both sides need a win is an understatement.

For the Lakers, Saturday will mark 400 days since their las win, albeit a 102-point routing of the Panthers who will hit 100 weeks since their last on field success, a six-point win over the Lakers in their corresponding Round 9 fixture way back in 2022.

For one relieved outfit, the run of outs ends this weekend.

With all respect to Travis Hodgson and the Panthers, they're not in the same conversation as the Lakers despite sharing the same 'zero win' season to date.

The Lakers can boast mini wins, equating to four winning quarters from their 32, the Panthers are 0/28.

While scoring and defending has been a struggle for both sides, it's the Lakers who hold the advantage averaging 21 points MORE per game.

There's a similar pattern on the defensive front with Lakers conceding 33 points on average LESS than the Panthers.

Here's hoping the BFNL's Match of the Round is full of goals and game defining moments - enough for one team at least to savour in celebration and song.

It's all about making the most of an opportunity that beckons for these two sides in front of a keen viewing audience. Given the current landscape, who knows when the next victory salute will come.

For The Record
Despite ranking 3^rd (Lakers) and 4^th (Panthers) for average hitouts per game, it does not correlate to other aerial gains with the clubs ranking 10th and #11th in the competition for contested marks and intercept marks.

Lakers’ utility Bailey Thompson has 16 (comp rank #10) of the Lakers’ 54 season goals (30 %).

Scoop’s tip
Lake Wendouree

It felt all clubs welcomed the Kings Birthday break, but if there was one I had to nominate as a possible exception, it would most certainly be East Point.

Since the Kangas’ bye in Round 2 they've won six games on the trot inflicting Melton and Sunbury with their only losses on the way.

Over the period Joe Carmody's Kangas have averaged near 114 points per game, conceding just 50.5 (avg per game) in the process.

If Gary Learmonth's Redan were looking for flaws in the Kangas camp, maybe something as simple as a break in continuity for the Kangas could provide an edge, especially early.

If the Lions could in fact get the jump, momentum can do wonderous things, especially for a young group that has double figure representation from their Under 19 and Under 17 stocks.   

On the flipside I fear for a young Lions group the break has invigorated the Kangas even further.

Their best is very good.

We've known that at the coal face and forward of the ball for a while, but the assurance found now behind the ball in the name of Jacob Brown and Jackson Merrett gives a new look for the Kangas despite their familiarity and experience.

Bryson McDougall, Strahan Robinson and Jack Jeffrey make up just part of the problems that lie ahead for the Lions given the Johnston brothers, Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Joe Dodd's form through the midfield.

Needless to add, all are goalkicking mids (27 goals combined).

Learmonth will look for further progress from his young group as another timely footy audit presents in the name of East Point.

Excited for the potential debut of star recruit Lachie Bond (foot) who has not been seen since his four goal highlights reel against Drysdale in a pre-season practice match.

Lachie McLean (knee) who hasn't played all season is also in the mix for a return in a possible double boost for the Lions. 

For The Record
While East Point rank #1 for average clearances per game (Redan #8) and #2 for contested ball (Redan #10), Lions midfielder Khy Jess is currently the #1 ranked player in the BFNL for (avg) contested possessions (22 per game).  

Scoop’s tip
East Point

If Chris Maple's young Swans have any aspirations toppling North Ballarat at Mars Stadium, a good start hitting the scoreboard will be paramount.

The hosts have won 21/25 games at the venue since Brendan McCartney took over in 2021.

Ironically Ballarat (2022) was one of those four sides over the journey to upset the narrative, but it will be a much younger Swans outfit endeavouring to upset the winning trend of the Roosters (at home) and the pattern of conviction that comes with it.

Just scoring against the miserly North Ballarat defence has been a struggle for all opponents at Mars Stadium.

Since the start of 2023 the Roosters are 10 wins, two losses, conceding an average just shy of 48 points per game.

Given the cooler conditions forecasted, expect goals, especially for the visitors to come at a premium.

Clearly an improvement on the Swans effort here last year will earmark the bare minimum of expectation, no doubt the experienced Maple won't be beaten on what he already learnt here last year.

The Swans did lead at quarter time on that occasion and were within four points at the half.

The old 'better for longer' adage could not have been more fitting in the aftermath as McCartney's army extended after the break booting seven goals to two.

In the here and now, can the Swans marking game unsettle North Ballarat who are so accountable behind the ball?

The Swans will want to ensure their link up by foot is in order to find a way through especially in the absence of Rhett Montgomery (SANFL).

The Swans are not without a prizefighter’s chance, but I expect the pressure from the hosts at the coalface to prove the overwhelming difference.

The Roosters still have a few important cogs to return - namely Jamie Quick and Simon McCartin. Their presence only enhances the Roosters 'warm favorites' tag.

For The Record
Ballarat rank #1 for average marks per game (103), North Ballarat 10th (67). On the flipside North Ballarat rank #2 for clearances (48.3), Ballarat 7th (42.9)

Scoop’s tip
North Ballarat

The King’s Birthday break was timely for these two sides amid a climbing injury toll ahead of their Round 9 clash at the Clarke Oval.

While the Burras’ on field woes, largely beyond their control, has attracted varying degrees of scrutiny, Sunbury copped some misfortune of their own with injuries to Mitch Lewis, Jake Egan, Nathan Doyle and earlier, season ending ACL tear for Tom Scanlon.

Ben Cameron (Coburg) and Harry Minton-Connell (Williamstown) remain in the VFL.

The loss of personnel surely played a role in the Lions’ first loss of the season on the road against the Kangas in Round 8.

Needless to add, Matty White's group was gallant in defeat despite trailing at every change.

Conceding periods of four and five goals in succession really was the difference.

Just what resemblance of each side’s best 22 we see on Saturday will surely play its own part but given the depth of the Lions and season returns of the Burra to date on the win/loss front, it's hard to entertain a conversation in the 'upset' camp.

But that notion will account for very little to Burra leader Tony Lockyer who is fully aware of where his team is at.

You have to admire the popular veteran having made little reference to the changes in personnel, that has clearly impacted the recent perennial finalists.

Sebastopol will arrive in Sunbury with every intention of winning, despite its unlikelihood.

Darley coach Dan Jordan gave the Burra some encouragement after the Devils’ 19-point win in Round 8 suggesting Lockyer's group will test, if not upset a few sides on the way home.

For Matthew White's Sunbury, it will be all about maintaining their good habits that led them to a promising 6-1 start to the season ahead of a Round 10 blockbuster against Melton.

Special mention to Lions’ forward Mitch McLean who is having a breakout season. His 24 goals to date (comp rank #4) has been complemented with 20 forward 50 tackles (Comp rank #1).

For The Record
Sunbury rank 1st for Handballs (152.7 avg per game), Sebastopol 6th (128.6). Sebastopol rank 3rd (13.4) for Back 50 tackles, Sunbury 10th (8)

Scoop’s tip
Sunbury

Flag favorites Melton will look to consolidate their recent run of good form with a win over Bacchus Marsh at MacPhersons Park.

Call this bout an entree for the Bloods ahead of their top of the table clash on the road to Sunbury in Round 10 - a chance to regroup and fine tune after the week off.

Dennis Armfield's touring Cobras will have had a fortnight to identify and plan for their toughest assignment to date. So where do you start?

Sure, Braedan Kight's 41 goals (7 games) fits the 'concern' criteria.

The Bloods’ captain is averaging a goal every 3.5 disposals in 2024 which is truly remarkable for a 16 disposal player. The damage is not limited there either from the x-factor talent.

While Kight is shy of six feet in height, he leads the competition for marks inside 50 (5.1 avg per game), goal involvements (7.9) and ranks 6th for score involvements (9.9).

At the other end you have a dominant Bloods’ back six led by Jordy Cotter who ranks #1 at the club for kicks, efficiency by foot, marks, intercept marks and intercept possessions.

Only Sunbury's Tyson Lever has taken more intercept marks than Cotter. Keeping the ball away from him despite a clear message will be easier said than done.

The Cobras will need a 'spike' in most areas to compete against the relentless Bloods.

Jake Owen's importance is not capped by his contested marking ability alone (Comp rank #2). The star forward ranks #7 in the comp for both goal involvements (6.3 per game) and score involvements (9.6) - worthy of a bona fide match up from the Scoble camp.

Ruckman Luke Goetz leads the Cobras clearly for intercept marks ahead of defenders Jack Parente, Simon La Franchi and Collingwood VFL listed recruit Rye Penny.

Expect the Cobras, like all other BFNL sides to be stretched in the air and at ground level against the competition yardstick and be made to pay on the scoreboard for their inefficiencies.

For The Record
Melton rank #1 for tackles (69.7 avg per game) and Forward 50 tackles (16.3), Bacchus Marsh 9th (59.7) and 8th (10) respectively. The Cobras rank #2 (16.6 avg per game) for contested marks with a slender advantage over the Bloods 5th (13.4).

Scoop’s tip
Melton

2018 E-Grade Netball Grand Final - Ballarat FNC vs Melton South FNC.

A modern day Netball GF classic saw Ballarat FNC take on Melton South FNC in the 2018 E-Grade decider!

Sit back and enjoy the extended highlights, followed by the tense last quarter, all thanks to Buxton Ballarat

Get your copy of Photos taken from this game at the link to Red Photos below:

It was a tough decade for the Melton South boys, however they showed some promosing signs at stages as they continued to develop!

The Panthers will be looking to rise up the ladder in 2021, how far can they rise?

Well coached with some boom recruits and a reasonable draw, the Panthers are set for some big gains in Season 2021. Scoop will keep serving up the pros and cons of the rest of fixture for every BFNL club every day this week.

Melton South

Draw rating points: 103
2021 draw ranking: #6

PROS:Play 2019 Grand Finalists East Point and Sebastopol only ONCE

- Play THREE HOME GAMES in FOUR WEEKS before the bye, with Round 8 at home to Ballarat, Round 9 at home against East Point and Round 11 at home against North Ballarat before a BYE in Round 12

- Meet only THREE finalists from 2019 TWICE (Melton, Redan, Darley)

CONS:FIVE highway trips to Ballarat including THREE in FOUR weeks from Round 14 to Round 17 (versus Ballarat in Round 14, Redan in Round 15 and North Ballarat in Round 17)

- Play AWAY FOUR times in FIVE weeks from Round 13 to Round 17, including THREE highway trips, up against Bacchus Marsh in Round 13, Ballarat in Round 14, Redan in Round 15 and North Ballarat in Round 17

Comment:Despite five trips to Ballarat (equal competition high with Melton) locked in for 2021, the Panthers additions to the playing group should stand them in good stead to win their first (or more) highway game in three years. Well coached and the addition of boom recruits means oppo beware. Expect remarkable improvement from the Panthers in 2021. Ironically, their draw is better than 2019 and has a gap on the intended 2020 draw. 

With preseason preparations well under way and Round 1 fast approaching, Scoop goes one-on-one with all 11 senior coaches ahead of the 2023 McDonalds BFNL season.

CLUB: Melton South

COACH: Jason Hamilton & Ryan Hoy (1st Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 10th (3-13, 53.49%)

Scoop: Jason, welcome to the BFNL. Tough gig, the Panthers, given the club has won just 9/58 games since 2018. I think it would be unfair to define your coming season with win/loss. In that case what is you and Ryan's idea of 'season defining' for your young group?

Jason Hamilton: Progressive improvement from week-to-week. Continue to put time into those young blokes as 'Pilch' did before me promoting organic growth and development.

S: In our brief conversations ahead of today you come across quite the 'straight shooter'. Win/loss aside what will you and Ryan be looking for on a weekly basis to ensure the confidence you're on the right track?

JH: Our ability to compete deeper and deeper into games. We're confident of having three full teams representing our club each week.

S: Dylan Conway, Shaun Wyatt and Billy Lloyd all depart the club. Losing three big guns would impact any team - what has been the intentions of the club to replace them - what player type have you and Ryan targeted in the off season?

JH: We’re after bigger body inside mids. A key back and key forward. We're not the finished product yet, still in the marketplace.

S: There's some progressive talent among the youngsters at the club who are starting to notch up considerable game time - can we expect any in particular to graduate into the midfield or have a significant impact on games? Who has taken your and Ryan's eye on the track?

JH: Mitch Fino, Cody Chapman, Jarrod Bibby and Riley Theo are a promising quartet you can expect to see playing minutes in the midfield. They're fit, strong and showing enough to give every indication they're ready to take their game to another level.

S: Do you know much about your BFNL opposition given your short time? What are your observations and expectations on what you know already via vision, word of mouth, etc?

JH: It’s a quality competition with accomplished players and coaches. The vision indicates a skillful brand of footy - I’m really looking forward to the opportunity coaching at the highest level of my career. I just love the footy!

S: What are some of the identified strengths of the club?

JH: Youth who are eager to learn and improve. Also, we hope our level of fitness can be an advantage.

S: Where do you expect to see your projected improvement come from?

JH: Tinker the game plan to suit us specifically. We don't want to try and play some other team’s game. Focusing on our plan maximising our own strengths can only help us, I think. I also think a new voice, something fresh if you like, will invigorate the group and hopefully we can have a few more wins.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

JH: Going great, I’m very happy with our fitness levels.

S: Who do you expect to be the biggest improvers this year? (Outside of your club)

JH: Sunbury.

S: Who is your flag tip? (Outside of your club)

J: Melton

KEY INS:

Phillip Moimoi (Geelong West), Cassius White (Hillside), Tevita Hallett-Tauali'I (St Kilda City), Phil Hoyland (Rockbank), Tyrell Lafituanai (St Kilda City), Aydin Reilly (St Kilda City)

PLAYER OUTS:

S.Wyatt (Point Cook), Br Sullivan (Melton), B.Sullivan (Darley), B.Lloyd (Horsham), D.Conway (Retired)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Tevita Hallett-Tauali'I (Sandringham). Phillip Moimoi (Sandringham)

Scoop's Melton South prediction: 9th - 11th