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

As we approach the offical halfway mark of the home and away season, each club will have faced one another once to complete the league circuit.

With plenty of valuable wins on the board in Round 9, there will be eyeballs everywhere across the league awaiting results.

It was nothing short of an epic battle the last time these two sides met.

With a grand final berth on the line, East Point and Darley went toe-to-toe into overtime at Marty Busch Reserve.

It was the Kangaroos who emerged victorious, advancing to their third grand final in five full seasons.

But as we approach the halfway mark of 2025, it’s the Devils who come in as favourites for this cracking Round 9 clash.

While the overall head-to-head between the two is relatively even, a strong trend has emerged — home ground dominance.

Since 2018, these clubs have played ten home-and-away fixtures against each other.

Only one of those games has been won by the away team, with Darley boasting a perfect 4-0 record at home and East Point 5-1 on their turf.

Statistically, the two sides are well matched, though Darley edge ahead slightly in most key areas.

Accuracy in front of goal has been a major weapon for the Devils, while East Point trail — coming off an 18.23 scoreline in Round 8.

That conversion rate must tighten if they want to get a win on the road.

The Roos will be boosted by the return of Matt Johnston and Joe Dodd — two crafty ball users through the midfield — while Darley welcome back the Adam Azzopardi.

Roos defenders Liam Howard and Sam Cue will need to rise to the occasion to stem the Devils’ forward 50 entries.

At the other end, Darley’s Billy Myers has been the general down back all season, a key part of the league’s stingiest defence.

Forwards Bryson McDougall and Jordan Johnston will need to make the most of every chance that comes their way.

With top-two spots on the line, this shapes as a defining moment in the 2025 season.

It’s been more than a decade since East Point last claimed a win on Darley’s home deck — will history be re-written this weekend?

Tip:Darley

As with all clashes in Round 9, the Ballarat and Melton matchup highlights just how vital four points are at this point in the season.

For the Bloods, a win secures a top-two position at the halfway mark.

A loss, however, could see them slip as low as fourth in what’s shaping up to be one of the tightest ladders in recent memory.

The Swans currently sit six points clear of sixth-placed Redan, but with injuries piling up and the lowest percentage among the top eight, a loss here could make their second half of the season a serious uphill battle.

Melton has certainly had the upper hand in this rivalry in recent years, winning nine of the past ten encounters.

That said, these sides have only met twice at Alfredton Recreation Reserve since 2019 — with Ballarat winning in 2019 and Melton returning the favour in 2022.

If Ballarat wants to challenge the Bloods, they’ll need to capitalise on their inside 50 entries.

On average, Melton are +10 in that area — a stat that has helped them control games and build scoreboard pressure.

But if there's one area Troy Scoble’s group can target, it’s Melton’s conversion: the Bloods have recorded more points than goals this season, leaving the door ajar for opposition.

Ballarat will unveil an exciting debutant in 16-year-old Emerton Hooper.

His selection is a testament to the strength of the club’s development pathways and the trust they’re placing in their next generation.

Melton, meanwhile, remains largely unchanged, with the only notable omission being Ryan Carter, unavailable due to interstate commitments.

With opportunity knocking for both sides, it’s a massive test for Ballarat’s young and injury-hit outfit — and a chance for Melton to cement their premiership credentials on the road.

Tip:Melton

There’s plenty on the line in this clash — and not just the four points.

Sunbury sit fourth on the ladder heading into the halfway mark of the season. A win could see them jump into the top two, while a loss wouldn’t knock them out of the four, but it would make a top-three finish much tougher to lock in.

For Bacchus Marsh, a win keeps their finals hopes well and truly alive.

But depending on other Round 9 results, a loss could see them slip out of the six — and suddenly in need of a few upsets in the back half of the year.

Clarke Oval has long been a tough hunting ground for the Cobras, with just three wins there — 2015, 2018, and 2023.

History suggests they’ll need to be at their best to break through once again.

For that to happen, a strong first half is essential.

Sunbury have been the most damaging side offensively this season, leading the league in total scores — thanks largely to the forward trio of Jake Sutton, Daniel Johnston, and Jake Egan.

Slowing their influence will be critical, with Tarkyn Findlay likely handed a key shutdown role.

While Bacchus Marsh have consistently finished games strong, their third quarters have been their Achilles heel.

With the Lions’ ability to score quickly and in bursts, Dennis Armfield’s group will need a complete four-quarter performance to challenge them.

If the Cobras can bring their trademark tackling pressure and disrupt Sunbury’s quick ball movement, they’ll be in with a shot.

But if the Lions bring the same consistent brand they’ve shown so far in 2025, they’ll be hard to stop on home turf.

Tip: Sunbury

It’s essentially a must-win for both teams at Marty Busch this weekend.

With just two wins apiece so far, both Clint Proctor and Tony Lockyer would have hoped for more from the opening half of the season.

But despite slow starts, both sides remain in the hunt for finals — and this clash will go a long way to deciding who stays in the race.

Thanks to a stronger percentage, North Ballarat sits just two points outside the six.

A win here could see them leapfrog into a finals position by weekend’s end.

For the Burra, their Round 8 win over Bacchus Marsh has breathed new life into their campaign, and with the gap to sixth spot only four points, it’s games like these that become critical in the chase.

Since the beginning of 2019, Sebastopol has had the edge in this match-up, winning five of their last eight encounters.

They’ve only hosted the Roosters twice at Marty Busch Reserve in that period — both ending in wins for the home side.

The Roosters will be forced to shuffle the magnets with Cam McCallum sidelined through injury.

Expect Ryan Luke to rotate through the middle more frequently, with his support ruck work sure to test Burra big man Liam Stow.

With Lockyer back in the line-up for Sebastopol, centre bounce contests and stoppage clearances should tighten right up.

While neither side boasts a dominant goalkicker, both have benefitted from a healthy spread of contributors up forward.

That makes defensive organisation all the more important, both back six units will need to be switched on, covering all avenues to goal.

Expect intercept marking and team defence structures — like pressing high and zoning back — to be key for both outfits in what could be a low-scoring grind.

With finals on the line and momentum up for grabs, this one looms as a classic scrap between two sides with plenty to prove.

Tip:Sebastopol

Wins have been hard to come by for both teams this season — both showing glimpses of well-executed, finals-worthy football, but neither able to convert consistently.

Redan has had the edge in recent history, winning four of their last five and six of their past nine encounters with the Lakers.

However, last season told a different story — each side claimed a narrow win on their home turf, proving there's not much separating them when they bring their best.

Injury has continued to plague the Lions, with coach Gary Learmonth digging deep into the club's youth stocks to fill key roles.

It's created opportunity but has also tested Redan’s depth week in and week out.

For Rohan Brown and the Lakers, success this season isn’t solely defined by wins — but on paper, this is one of their best chances to bank four points.

At close to full strength, and facing a depleted Redan outfit sitting just one rung above them on the ladder, Lake Wendouree will need to leave nothing in the tank.

Winning the clearances is step one, but for the Lakers, they simply need to generate more forward entries.

Angus Gove has done plenty of work rebounding out of the backline, but it’ll be the likes of Will Clark and Kynan Raven that need to impact the other end by delivering the ball inside 50 with purpose.

For the Lions, winning the contested footy will be crucial — an area where Jake Connolly and Brody Pope have led the charge this year.

Redan have managed to get the ball inside 50 consistently enough, but it’s conversion that’s let them down.

Accuracy in front of goal will be a major focus if they’re to take control of this one.

With both clubs desperate for a win, expect a spirited clash between two proud sides.

Tip:Redan

An enthralling first week of A Grade finals raised eyebrows across the courts. From heavy-weight battles, dominant wins and upset victories, the weekend's action had it all.

North Ballarat have reminded the BFNL’s premier netball competition that they’re here to go all the way.

Annie McCartin’s Roosters produced a commanding win over the Cobras, extending their lead at every break and proving once again their ability to perform in finals.

With Poppy Douglas returning from overseas on Saturday, youngster Georgia Bodey earned the starting GA bib and more than rose to the occasion.

With goal shooter Maddy Selmon the main target under the post this season, Bodey added a new look to North’s goal ring — shooting 13 from 14 in the first half alongside Selmon’s 14 from 16.

Nichole Gleeson kept her side unchanged through the first half, letting them settle into their first finals appearance in six years.

But trailing by 12 at the main break, she made a series of changes heading into the third and throughout the second half.

Lauren Shankland, part of the winless Cobras line-up last season, was injected into wing attack, while Eliza Moodie shifted from goal defence to goal attack to take some pressure off youngster Jasmine Paama.

McCartin made changes of her own, showing the depth of the Roosters’ line-up.

Douglas slotted into goal attack, feeding Selmon as she has for much of the season, while Stacey Matthews brought fresh legs and plenty of finals experience at wing attack.

By three-quarter time, the margin had stretched to 20.

All Bacchus Marsh could do in the last was fight it out, and to their credit they did.

Kimberley Phillips became a target under the post, opened up by Paama’s movement, and the Cobras managed to take the final term 13–12.

While the season ends here for Bacchus Marsh, making finals probably feels like a win in itself — a sign of what hard work and club culture can build.

North Ballarat, meanwhile, turn their focus to Sunbury as they look to lock in a spot in the 2025 A Grade Grand Final.

If there was a team capable of writing the fairy tale of sixth beating third, we said it would be Lake Wendouree. And on Saturday at Maddingley Park, they did exactly that.

A commanding start from the Lakers was all it took to book their spot in this weekend’s Semi Final 1.

Led by defenders Kate Drew (GK) and Remi Hooper (GD), the Lakers capitalised early, feeding young shooters Ade Funcke (GS) and Ebony Porter (GA), who converted 11 of 16 attempts to Redan’s 6 from 9.

The Lions looked to shift momentum in the second quarter with the injection of recruit Tahlia Thompson into GA.

She made an immediate impact, shooting 6 from 8.

But Courtney McLean’s Lakers had a response of their own, calling on the experience of Mel Allen at GS, who steadied with 4 from 5.

Trailing by four at half-time, Redan threw everything at the contest through the midcourt.

Lily Francis and Sadie Cheeseman fought hard through the centre position, while defenders Erin Riley (GK) and coach Ash Smith (GD) started to generate turnovers in the Lakers’ attack.

The Lions dominated possession, producing 15 scoring shots to the Lakers’ 9, but Allen and Porter were clinical, finishing the quarter at a flawless 100%.

With just two goals in it heading into the last, the game was there for the taking.

Redan clawed back the lead late and looked set to spoil the fairy tale.

But the composure and relentless defence of Lake Wendouree came to the fore, just as it had in the first quarter, sealing the win by a single goal.

The Lakers now continue their dream run as they prepare to face Darley in Semi Final 1 on Sunday.

The qualifying final between Sunbury and Darley could well have been a Grand Final preview.

With the two sides boasting more players than any other team with high-level netball experience, the scoreline reflected the class of netball on display.

Sunbury wasted no time on their journey to back-to-back flags, finding competition leading goal scorer Becca Hicks under the ring, missing not a single shot in the opening term.

Down the other end, Sunbury’s Elly Randall (GK) and Eliza Gollant (GD) were able to double team Darley’s Liv Cawthray (GS) and limit the feeds to the dominate shooter.

However, captain Mon Nagle (GA) lead from the front, providing another scoring option in the goaling ring for her side.

Whilst Shannon Blackman’s side remined unchanged heading into the second term trailing by one, Kim Bailey experimented with the wing defence position across the opening half, seeing who out of Georgia Hellyer, Sarah Croft and Abigail Inglis could provide a shutdown of the speedy Lucy Taylor (WA) and provide connection in transition.

Darley’s reliable duo Anna Lawley (GD) and Matilda Elliott (GK) were able to limit the Sunbury’s feeds to Hicks in the second quarter, covering the high ball beautifully.

Similar to the Devils, it was goal attack Caitlin Hill who then provided the go to option, contributing 7 goals from 9 attempts.

With both Blackman and Bailey having done their homework on how one another’s sides play, changes at the main break were made by both teams.

For the Lions, Croft came into the centre to limit Blackman’s influence and Tayla Honey was moved to wing defence. For the Devils, Ailish McCormack entered the game into wing attack and Lucy Taylor was given the task of combating reigning dual Sally McLean medallist Simona Di Fillipo.

The game started to drift in the hands of Sunbury, extending their lead throughout the third term.

Darley responded though, bringing McCormack into the goal ring, and Jaime Smith back into wing defence.

They clawed the game back to trail by three heading into the last.

As the final quarter progressed, Sunbury extended their lead out to as much as six goals.

But the relentless pressure from the Devils and perhaps complacency from the Lions saw back-to-back turnover through attack.

The Devils capitalised and brought the score back within one.

However, it took one turnover for the Lions to find their rhythm again and remain composed and in control to take a three-goal win.

Darley will now face Lake Wendouree to keep their finals hopes alive, with Sunbury set to take on North Ballarat after Redan’s shock exit.

With the recent launch of the BFLW, we thought it would be a great idea to go back and visit one of the more exciting finishes to a Grand FInal in recent memory, with Redan taking on the East Point Dragons in the 2018 AFL Goldfields Women's decider.

We hope you enjoy the extended highlights, followed by the tense final quarter, which saw the game decided by less than a kick!

Sit back, relax and enjoy this Flashback all thanks to Buxton Ballarat

Please find below important information for supporters and attendees to be aware of for this Saturdays Carlton Draught Grand Final Day at MARS Stadium.

General Information

• Mars Stadium, Creswick Rd, Ballarat

• Saturday 17th September 2022

Match Schedule

Admission prices:

• Adults $15.00
• Family (2A / 2C) $35.00
• Pensioners $8.00
• 8 - 16 y/o $6.00
• Under 8y/o Free
• Football Record $5.00

EFTPOS is available at all gates

NO DOGS

Gates:

• Main entry - Gate 1 on Creswick Rd
• Beech Ave, Wendouree (Best entry point for netball and carparking)
• North Ballarat Sports Club from 10am

Catering

Full catering is available throughout the day with bar facilities from 12pm.

Live scores

Live scores of all football and netball games are available throughout the day at:

• Football - https://bit.ly/3Q4H8gg
• Netball - https://bit.ly/3KPteh6

Live Streaming

Can't get to the game? Catch the live stream of the Senior Football and A-Grade Netball. The Senior Men's Grand Final will be live on BallaratFNL Facebook and Cluch.tv. The A-Grade Netball will be live on Cluch.tv - links below.

• Melton v Sebastopol Senior Mens Football: https://bit.ly/2022-GF-Melton-vs-Sebastopol
• North Ballarat v Darley A-Grade Netball: https://bit.ly/2022-GF-A-Grade-NorthBallarat-vs-Darley

General Parking:

• Creswick Road. No parking within concrete barriers stationed outside Gate 1.
• Around Northern Oval 2. MUST enter via Beech Avenue – Cars will NOT be able to move between the North Ballarat Sports Club Car Park & Northern Oval 2.
• STRICTLY NO PARKING IN NORTH BALLARAT SPORTS CLUB.

Disabled Parking:

• Designated disabled parking can be accessed through North Ballarat Sports Club Entry. Patrons must be always a disabled parking permit holder and display permit.

The 2022 Federation BFLW Grand Finals will take over Mars Stadium tomorrow. Find all the Grand Final details below, including match times, parking information, entry details and match vision.

Watch the 2022 Federation BFLW Senior Grand Final LIVE from 1:20pm here: https://bit.ly/3KEBMY2

Federation BFLW Grand Finals – Event Information

Ahead of the first Federation BFLW Grand Final Day at Mars Stadium, please see some important information for supporters and attendees to be aware of:

General Information

• MARS Stadium – Creswick Road, Wendouree VIC
• Saturday 3rd September 2022
• The Federation BFLW Grand Finals will be an Alcohol-Free event.

Match Schedule

Admission Fees

BFLW Grand Final 2022

• Adults - $12
• Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $26
• Age Pensioner - $7
• 8 - 16yo - $5
• U/8 – Free
• Footy Record – $2

Note: Eftpos is available and encouraged as the preferred payment method.

Gates & Parking

• Gates open at 7:00am
• Entry into MARS Stadium via Gate 1 (only) located on Creswick Road.

Parking is available at the following locations:

• General Parking:
  • Creswick Road. No parking within concrete barriers stationed outside Gate 1.
  • Around Northern Oval 2. Entry via Beech Avenue ONLY – Cars will NOT be able to move between the North Ballarat Sports Club Carp Park & Northern Oval 2.
  • STRICTLY NO PARKING IN NORTH BALLARAT SPORTS CLUB.

• Disabled Parking:
  • Designated disabled parking can be accessed through North Ballarat Sports Club Entry.
  • PARKING MUST ONLY OCCUR IN DESIGNATED AREA AND IS FOR DISABLED PARKING ONLY.

Grand Final Filming

• All matches will be filmed with the Senior Women’s match being live streamed - link via Facebook and this website on the day.
• Matches will be available for purchase following the Grand Finals and further information will be provided around this in the coming weeks.

Live Scores

• All matches will be live scored on the day for those that are unable to attend the match. Scores can be accessed through specific competitions on the BFNL public results pages here - https://bit.ly/3Q4H8gg

Redan started it's 2023 campaign under new coach Gary Learmonth with an emphatic 92 point win over a disappointing Lakers outfit in Good Friday's stand alone fixture at City Oval.

IN A NUTSHELL

Experienced Lions’ big guns stole the show with midfielder Lachie George named best afield and Grant Bell finishing with a game high five goals.

Reigning Club best and fairest and rising star Isaac Grant joined in bagging four majors while Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers could manage just one of their own for the entire afternoon coming via the boot of Nathan Pring.

Learmonth and Lions fans would have been all smiles over the Easter weekend before a birds-eye view opportunity, scoping future opponents presents at the conclusion of round one matches this coming Saturday.

For the Lakers, a 15-day break ahead of their round two meeting with Ballarat provides some valuable time to work on the fundamentals and improve connection.

Redan (Goals); G.Bell 5, I.Grant 4, L.McLean 2, H.Lawson, D.Phillips, L.Hoy, D.Bond, L.George.

Lakers (Goals); N.Pring.

Redan (Best); L.George, G.Bell, W.Madden, I.Grant, L.Phillips, J.Werts.

Lakers (Best); P.James, E.Preston, L.O'Connell.

COACHES VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan); "I was really happy with our commitment. Our pressure around the ball was excellent and our willingness to share the ball gave us plenty of forward entries to kick a winning score."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree); "The fact we went from 5 goals down at the 21-minute mark of the third quarter to losing by just under 100 is incredibly disappointing. Redan played very well, credit to them. “They belted us up around the ball and used it better than we did."

The BFLW is proud to announce Federation University as the inaugural BFLW Finals Series naming rights partner.

Federation has today been announced as the naming partner of the upcoming BFLWomens finals series and grand finals, commencing this Sunday the 14th of August 2022. 

The partnership will see Federation not only as naming partner of the now Federation BFLW Finals Series and Federation BFLW Grand Finals but will provide valued support to grow female football in Ballarat and regional Victoria. 

Since its inception in 2021, BFLWomens has continued to grow and be the home of female football participation across regional Victoria from Melton, Maryborough and across the wider Ballarat district. 

Support from Federation will ensure the McDonald's Ballarat FNL, as custodians of female football in the region, can continue to build on the current competition with the stated aim of maximising female sports participation. 

Ballarat FNL General Manager, Shane Anwyl 

“The partnership with Federation is an exciting step in the growth of female football, and more broadly participation across Ballarat. The Ballarat FNL is committed to the growth of female sport and an 'access for all' priority”. 

Federation is Victoria’s leading regional university focused on transforming lives and enhancing communities. They have a 152-year history of partnering with community, industry and government to meet the needs of the regions they serve. 

Federation University Vice-Chancellor, Liam Sloan 

“We are proud to be partnering with BFLW in the inaugural finals series for the League and look forward to enjoying the competition during the Federation Finals Series and supporting the growth of women in sport in Ballarat and surrounding areas. This collaboration between Federation and BFLW is driven by our shared value of inclusion and common goal of equality in sport."

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the Week 1 match schedule for the McDonald’s BFNL Ballarat Toyota Junior Finals Series.

Matches will kick off with the Qualifying Finals at Northern Oval 2 on Saturday 20th August, followed by Elimination Finals at Wendouree Reserve and the Northern Oval on Sunday 21st August.

Once again, the league thanks the City of Ballarat for their support in hosting finals at the premier football and netball venues across the region and country Victoria.

View or download the scheduled football and netball matches for this weekend below.

Every match from last weekend's Ballarat Toyota Junior Grand Final Day is now available for purchase on BFNL.com.au. And you can find all the match information, teams lists and more in the Digital Record.

All the matches from Sunday's Ballarat Toyota Junior Grand Final Day are available for purchase. 

You can find the links to each match by clicking the button below or go to the BFNL Media tab and select 2022 BFNLJ Grand Finals.

Each match is available for purchase for $15.

To download the match to keep or to watch online when you want, follow these steps:

1. Click on the match you wish to purchase
2. Click on the video screen
3. Create an account, or log in if you already have an account
4. Follow the payment prompts (credit card and PayPal payments available)
5. Watch the video online 
6. To download, refresh the page or log back in and select the download arrow to keep the match forever!
7. Please note: online viewing is available for 24 months

You can also find the Digital Record under the Football tab and select Junior 2022 Grand Final Record or simply click on the cover below.

There has been plenty of movement around the league ahead of a blockbuster 2023 season. Find all the additions to your club below thanks to Quest Ballarat.

Bacchus Marsh

Ballarat

Carisbrook

Darley

East Point

Lake Wendouree

Melton

Melton South

North Ballarat

Redan

Sebastopol

Sunbury

The Lions will be savouring their second successive #1 rated draw that, along with their mix of talented youth and experience, makes a finals berth seem likely. Scoop will continue to serve up the pros and cons of the fixture for every BFNL club each day this week.

Redan

Draw rating points: 94
2021 draw ranking: #1

PROS:Play only TWO teams (Darley, East Point) TWICE from the 2019 top six.

- DO NOT leave Ballarat after round 14

- Play FOUR of BOTTOM FIVE sides from 2019 TWICE

- THREE of their opening FOUR matches are at home against North Ballarat in Round 1, Ballarat in Round 3, Bye in Round 4 then Bacchus Marsh in Round 5

CONS:

- Arguably the most well-balanced draw in the comp. Even Redan's back-to-back highway travel commitment in Round 12 (Bacchus Marsh) and Round 14 (Darley) is split via a timely bye.   

Comment:Once again, Redan have landed with the most favourable draw according to the draw rating formula. With a few select additions to the playing group and the likes of Lachie George and Orron Stephenson likely to go around again, they won’t be far away. Expect the mix of talented youth and experience to see Redan making finals for a second successive season. They won't have any arguments with their draw, that's for sure.

With the 2025 season on the horizon, Scoop has caught up with all our senior footy coaches as we build towards an epic Round 1!

A year of development in 2024 for Redan saw the next generation of players take their opportunity at senior level. How far can these young Lions go this season?

SCOOP: Well Gaz, great to see you back for another crack in charge of Redan. Given the age profile of the group last year, what is the plan ahead of the coming season - get more experience around them or persevere with the teaching?

GARY LEARMONTH: We love what our young boys bring and several such as Liam Farnsworth are likely to play their 50th senior game in their first real year ineligible for the junior competition. A better run with injury will ensure greater competition for spots and a spike in overall performance. We have picked up several guys in their mid-20's which will help, but our greatest strength is the youthful talent coming through. The coaching group remains focused in the teaching space. 

S: In six of your last 12 games you've conceded 100 points or more. Has there been a focus on teaching the (predominately) young group how to defend?

GL: We limped to the line late last year with 20 plus players unavailable so I’m not worried about those numbers. (However) it is an area that we need to improve on and full team defence will be front of mind. We have brought in several defenders as well as Nick Barker (from injury) so we will be much stronger (in this area). We hope greater stability in the team will see us a more competitive and capable side who can wrestle momentum and deny opposition sides multiple goals.

S: Consistency is always an element of frustration with a young group - is the solution simply to keep playing them or is it important for them to go back and find some touch in the reserves or U/18s?

GL: Our U/18's and Reserves will look totally different with a large influx of U/17's and U/19's stepping up so guys will need to perform to hold their spot in the senior side. We will back guys in - educate and support them over the journey to play good footy and create opportunities. Consistency is something we will be looking for across the board. 

S: Former Geelong VFL listed player Lachie Bond was an exciting addition last year but had an injury interrupted season. Will we see him in Redan colours this year?

GL: Lachie has signed on again at Redan for 2025 and is currently training with Brendan McCartney at Port Melbourne VFL. We're hopeful we'll see him for some games throughout the season adding to our forward set-up.

S: Lachie George has been a real asset for you since joining from Williamstown VFL a few years ago - what's his plan for 2025 and are we likely to see him play more time forward?

GL: Lachie was terrific last year winning our best and fairest and working with our midfield who were pretty much all Under 19's (excluding him). He'll continue to lead our midfield with a spell forward depending on match-ups or a run off half back.

S: BFNL Rookie of the Year Khy Jess is a raw talent. He knows how to find the footy as good as any but his decision making to kick or feed by hand is a work in progress. What have you tried to add to Khy's game over the Summer to aid development matching it with the 'big boys' through the middle of the ground?

GL: Khy has spent the Summer training with Essendon's VFL side so I’m hoping that the experience will see him VFL listed or at least come back to us in even better shape to continue his development. With a more stable line-up in 2025 I’m sure we'll see Khy's kick to handball ratio change and see him continue to be a key player in our side who's dangerous with ball in hand.

S: Congratulations to the club on the drafting of Jonty Faull to Richmond - that would have given the place a nice boost - tell us a bit about him....

GL: Terrific for the club particularly the junior program who did all the leg work in supporting Jonty's development. He's a great kid - loves the contest, has a booming boot on him and is comfortable in the air and on the ground. We would have loved to see him run around one more time last year in the senior side (after a four-goal debut in 2023) but it wasn't to be. It's a huge step up but Jonty is mature and has a wonderful work ethic which will give him a great shot at the top level. The club will follow his progress closely.

S): Give us three next gen players we can expect to see genuinely impacting games this season?

GL: Rory Gunsser- started last year really strong but had ankle surgery and missed a large chunk of the season. Has spent the Summer at Essendon VFL and has worked hard on his running (beautiful Kick).

Rudie Forde- exceptional athletic ability - with a full pre-season under his belt we feel he will continue to progress in 2025 working alongside 'Georgie" and a team with Taj Bond in the ruck. Rudie had some strong performances last season against some of the better ruckman with limited preparation. 

Harry Lawson- back from the Rebels, now full time with us. We expect Harry's game to spike similarly to what Khy's did last season, with the consistency of being in the one program and locking down a role in the midfield.

S: Where does Redan think they're at - year two into a development phase, looking to spike quickly up the ladder or simply in the space of having a dip with playing finals a bonus?

GL: No doubt we're still in a development phase but that doesn't mean we can't win more games than we lose and move up the ladder in 2025. Our aim will be to play finals in all three grades and hopefully we will be in a position at the back of the year to win a final. The comp is so even that all sides will be looking at finals. We know we're a bit off Melton, Darley and East Point but we did beat two of those three in 2023 so playing good football is our focus and hopefully that sees some wins chalked up along the way. 

S: Does the extra two game season and opportunity to play each other twice make it the hardest flag to win in recent times?

GL: It will be great to play each other twice, a chance to develop rivalries further and enable better continuity with two more games into our players. The last two flag winners had to endure some hardship either having no facility or losing one of their own, so I don't feel it will be any harder. The comp is in such a strong position with any team capable of beating anyone on their day so whoever wins will have earned it. Our club is in a good place at the moment and I’m excited about what the season has in store.

PLAYER INS:

Brody Pope (Horsham Demons - 2024 Wimmera Rookie of the Year), Jordan Grant (Hepburn), Jordie Keyte (Horsham Saints), Harry Knight (Trentham), Dean Chester (Carisbrook), Zach Lang (Overseas)

PLAYER OUTS:

Marty Boyer ('Wagga way'), Nick Kelson (Albury), Riley Collins (Beaumaris), Lincoln Barnes (Qld).

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray), Lachie Bond (Port Melbourne train on), Rory Gunsser (Essendon train on), Khy Jess (Essendon train on)

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 22 -vs Drysdale (home)

March 29 -vs Eaglehawk (home)

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF REDAN):

GL: Sebastopol

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF REDAN):

GL: Darley

We know the Redan fans are excited and the expectations are running high for a team that had beaten every team in the comp in 2019. Coach Jarrett Giampaolo is thinking big, setting the club's first premiership in eleven years as the pass mark for the season.

Redan

Scoop’s 2021 prediction: 3rd - 5th

EXPECT Redan to join a host of BFNL teams in flag discussions (if not already) throughout 2021.

Only Ben Smyth (Darwin) from 2019's mud bath first Semi Final loss to Sebastopol has left the Lions, giving coach Jarrett Giampaolo every reason to think big.

"A Premiership is a pass mark for us this year, why not?" he said.

"It's been 11 years since we won our last one. [We've] thrown in a few Preliminary Final losses along the way and we've had enough.

“We're ready to go." 

Reigning Best and Fairest Lachie George looks set to partner up with veteran ruckman Orren Stephenson once again hoping to emulate the club's stunning 7-0 run to start 2019. Experienced campaigners Liam Hoy, Grant Bell and young gun *Lachlan McLean are sure to have found the necessary belief and fire in the belly to lead this current group deeper in September.

"We know we have the talent," Giampaolo said.

"So, the focus for us this year is all about development.

"2019 was a bit of an unknown for us."

Despite the lingering confidence in the current list, Giampaolo is hopeful they can bolster their stocks further ahead of Round One.

"We're still in the market for a relief ruckman for Orren (Stephenson) and a tall key position that can go forward or back," he said.

In the meantime, the club has signed Colby McDonald (Tatura - defender) and are hopeful popular duo Tom Lamb and Chris Giampaolo can play a role after a stint away.

VFL-listed youngsters *Cooper Atchison, *Cooper Craig-Peters and newcomer *Izaac Grant (Hepburn, Rebels - medium forward/mid) will complement the age profile of the group perfectly, and with that, the fitness edge that comes from the VFL program.

The Lions draw reads similarly favourable to 2019, but Giampaolo wasn't phased either way.

"I haven't looked that much into it to be honest. We beat everyone in 2019, that I do remember."

The Lions will be hopeful of starting one step ahead of the competition as they did in 2019 (7-0), given they managed just three wins from the last nine home and away games. Fingers crossed for Redan fans they haven't been worked out already.   

Promising up and comer Liam Phillips (AFL Barwon) is the only other notable departure.

*Affiliated players: Lachlan McLean (North Melbourne VFL), Cooper Atchison (North Melbourne VFL), Izaac Grant (North Melbourne VFL), Cooper Craig-Peters (Geelong VFL)

Giampaolo's Tips

Scoop' Reviews the Round 1 Good Friday Match

It was a big day at CE Brown Reserve and an equally big win for new coach Jack Fitzpatrick.

A nine-goal second-quarter blitz has led the Lakers to a convincing 43-point win over Redan in their stand-alone meeting on Good Friday.

It was the perfect start for the Lakers under new Coach Jack Fitzpatrick, banking the four points and posting the club’s highest score since Round 10, 2016.

Donning their new look jumpers in front of a bumper crowd, the Lakers looked swift with their ball movement going forward, particularly after quarter time. Jake Coxall (four goals) was the standout for the Lakers with his inside work around the contest and his ability hurt a loose checking Lions outfit pushing forward. Geelong VFL listed player Scott Carlin gave the Lakers surety across half-back and through the middle of the ground with his clean ball use and distribution.

For Redan, the late withdrawals of Cooper Craig-Peters and Lachie George didn't help their cause, despite the efforts of Cooper Atchison and Pat Fitzgibbon, who shouldered the bulk of the drive with new ruckman Nathan Dunstan. Nonetheless, the Lakers were far superior with their ball use and movement.

Fitzpatrick would be delighted with the shared nature of the Lakers' returns across eight goalkickers, their ability to kick repeat goals - within seconds on occasions - and impose scoreboard pressure, which has been a rare feature for the club in recent times. The scoring dominance proved too overwhelming for a Lions outfit who were given a lesson on how best to use the ball in breezy conditions.

*Photo courtesy: Lake Wendouree FNC