Sebastopol FNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s essentially back to work for the Swans.

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

As we close in on the final rounds of the home and away season, a few more pieces of the 2024 puzzle fell into place across the weekend.

Somehow a never-say-die North Ballarat managed to salvage a draw after trailing by seven points inside the final minute of a thriller at Alfredton Oval.

The game ebbed and flowed for the most part and looked every slim chance of ending in a draw bar the second quarter scoreboard pressure from North Ballarat and the rally late from Ballarat to earn back the lead.

So fans and players alike were left to revisit the unique realisation of the draw as the brain is involuntarily split with its messaging.

We, the mere mortals, are left to process 'glass half full' or 'glass half empty'?

Both sides could find legitimate reasoning for winning the game and maybe letting one slip but after time to look at the game and it's many variables, it was the Swans for mine who were left lamenting.

Even when North Ballarat booted three unanswered goals in the second term, I wouldn't be surprised if there was little between the two in weight of possession.

If the Swans want to be spoken about as finals contenders, they can surely cop their deserves around missed opportunity.

Clumsy decision making and overuse of the ball cost the Swans the game.

You couldn't doubt the second and third efforts of both sides, they were super. However, those efforts were more often attributed to a failing of the first effort, with ball in hand.

North Ballarat had just seven players from their 2023 Grand Final side and travelled to Alfredton Oval to take on the Swans who had won their last three games.

With only Andrew Hopper and Callum Wellings to return for the Swans there was no better time to be getting the Roosters missing no less than eight of their best 22 despite the inclusion of Collingwood VFL listed commodity Sam Glover.

The Roosters three keys forward combined for seven of their 11 goals. Joel Freeman (3), Sam Glover (2) and Ned Nash (2) looked dangerous every time the Roosters went inside.

Reggie Palmer, Malachi White, Isaac Carey, Noah Cockerill, Tom Bromley-Lynch and 201-gamer Simon McCartin were named best.

Harry Butler (two goals) and Tom Mooney (2) were the only multiple goal scorers for the Swans who did miss the direction Hooper in the clinches.

The pick of the Swans troops on an 'almost' day were Marcus Powling, Tristan Maple, Wil Liston, Fraser Perkins, Rhys Perry and Paddy Simpson.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

William Liston (Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Isaac Carey (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Malachi White (North Ballarat) - 23 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Two young teams cracking in. A great learning day for our boys. Behind, in front, then even! We wasted some opportunities, and our overuse helped them in their territory game. They were also very efficient going inside 50. As I said, this game will give us plenty of learnings as we head forward."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"A fantastic game of footy. We had some great patches of play, and our pressure enabled us opportunities to score. (We) lost our way in a couple of key areas and the opposition took ascendancy away from us. Ballarat had some really good blocks of play. The learning and development continues for us. So proud of the fight in our players every week. They are a fantastic group of young men."

The high-flying Kangas extended their winning run to 12 with a dominant display against the Lakers at Eastern Oval.

The 155-point margin provided coach Joe Carmody with his ninth season win of 47 points or more. Only Melton (five points), Sunbury (20) and North Ballarat (27) have finished closer over the stretch (post Round 1).

Henderson Medal fancy Matty Johnston starred again with a game high seven goals, leading as many as nine other Kangas’ players to hit the scoreboard.

MJ has finished in the best on 12/13 occasions with five (considered) 'best on ground' performances including the last three games on the trot. Bryson McDougall (six goals) added to his already impressive season tally of 45 to move within eight goals of Melton's Braedan Kight (59).

Such is the scoring power of East Point, they have four players in the top 14 goal scorers in the competition. Super effort and another example of a team in rare form.

Behind Johnston and McDougall were tireless, recognised contributions from Mikitja Rottumah-Onus, Billy Jones, Tom Conlan and Liam Howard.

But in reality, there was room in the best for another 16 Kangaroos players according to Carmody.

For Rohan Brown's men, learnings will surely be taken following a first hand, birds-eye view into what's required to feature at the pointy end of the season.

Despite the efforts of Ty Palmer and usual suspects Tom Zampatti, Angus Gove, Joel O'Connell, Tim Collins and Bayley Thompson the gulf in class was palpable.

While it's a given that the Lakers have a long way to go, the Kangas, let it be said, are near joint favorites with Melton to win a third flag in seven years.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 24 disposals, 16 score involvements, 11 marks

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 25 disposals, 11 marks, 10 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 30 disposals, 11 marks, 10 intercept posessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(It) was a comprehensive performance. (We) defended really well and created a high number of scoring opportunities with effective ball movement."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"East Point out played us in every facet of the game. We had one winner in Ty Palmer who did an excellent job on Jacob Brown. Myself and 22 players own what we produced."

Visiting Sunbury usurped their Round 2 144-point advantage over the Panthers with a 188-point win at Melton Recreation Reserve.

Collectively, the two meets equate to a Sunbury scoreline of 56.28-364 to 4.8-32.

Handy percentage boosters for the now third placed Lions.

Leading forward Jake Sutton was the star on the goalfront with a season high 12 goals to move within four of once tearaway Tony Lockett Medal leader Braedan Kight who sits on 59 goals.

Sutton has recorded 18 of his 55 season goals (32.7%) against the Panthers alone.

The Lions embraced an opportunity debuting next generation talent Jackson McHenry (three goals) and Jake Walker (two goals) in the absence of Tyson Lever, Jake Egan, Jack Newitt, Mitch McLean and Harry Power.

While Newitt (quad) is the only certainty to miss upcoming clash with Darley, it will be interesting to see what Lions’ coach Matty White does with Jake Egan having gone on the record indicating it's back through the twos for any player in the event of missing more than a week of footy.

Egan has not been seen since Round 11. Lever, McLean and Power were more or less put on ice for the all-important Darley game this week and are in the clear of an elongated return.

Unfortunately, improving Lion Jack Hannett (collarbone) joins fellow starting defenders Newitt and Jordan Tentonello (leg) on the sidelines, opening the door of further opportunity at Sunbury.  

The Lions’ dominance on the scoreboard at the weekend progressed incrementally from quarter to quarter as they managed six, seven, eight, and nine goal terms to bring up the milestone 200.

Ageless forward Leigh Brennan finished with five goals in a support role for Sutton to finish among the better players named while Josh Guthrie, Nathan Wood, Riley Miller and debutant Walker got it done between the arcs.

Tough day for the Panthers, their second, one goal return in as many weeks. Cody Chapman, Darby Schilder, Jarrod Bibby all featured prominently while it was good to see new faces Lachlan Peterson, Jesse Muse among those recognised for their effort.  

The Panthers losing run of matches is now 36.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 29 disposals, 21 score involvements, 14 marks

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 36 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 35 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 10 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Poor performance after a good month, our kids had been up for a while. We fumbled at a level I’ve not seen, didn't stick tackles and took no risks with the ball, dumping it for most of the day and therefore not challenging Sunbury to defend us. Sunbury made our small ground huge with the way they set it up and shaped the ball exceptionally well."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Was a good four quarter performance and (we) unearthed some great young talent in (Jackson) McHenry and (Blake) Walker. We focus on recovery and Darley now."

The Burra gave sponsors and fans something to smile about with a second 'home win' of the season, downing Redan by 56 points.

The match was considered the unofficial battle for the 'best team outside the top six'.

The response from the Burra in the absence of Luke Kiel (knee) was emphatic.

Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer took ownership of his side’s recent inability to score and went forward in a genius move that yielded the veteran utility a game high five goals.

With Lachlan Cassidy back and others on the mend, it's likely we will see more of Lockyer forward in his twilight years.

Surely, a headache for opposition coaches moving foward.

This game was over at half-time as the Burra earned bang for buck returns for their efficiency on goal to set up a 42-point lead over the Lions who struggled without reliable defender and distributor Jacob Short (hamstring).

Lockyer wasn't alone leading the charge toward the Burras’ highest score of the season.

As many as eight other Sebastopol players shared the spoils on the goal front behind Lockyer, six of those multiple contributors.

Adam Forbes (three goals), Liam Mason (2), Cooper Littlehales (2), Bailey Medwell (2), Chase Dummett (2) and Cassidy (2) elevated the threat in the Burras’ front half from moderate to dangerous, a rare feature for the Burra camp this season, for one reason or another.

Cassidy gave every indication he's back to full strength over his troublesome hamstring and was named best afield ahead of Medwell, Forbes, Luke Phillips, Ben Hutt and of course, Lockyer.

For Redan, they would be disappointed with their returns on the back of 26 scoring shots. The Lions have now lost six of their last seven games by an average of 63.5 points.

Lachie George (one goal) was named best for the Lions alongside Liam Farnsworth, Grant Bell (three goals), Khy Jess, Riley Collins (one goal) and Patrick Fitzgibbon.

For the record, consistent forward Grant Bell has multiple goals in 12 of his last 14 games.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol) - 41 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 33 disposals, 17 score involvements, 17 contested possessions

Lachlan George (Redan) - 26 disposals, 12 score involvements, 8 pressure acts

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"We were after a consistent four quarter performance. We wanted to set the tone early and play the game on our terms. Pleasing to execute on all fronts, very happy with the way moved the ball. Twenty-two contributors all day. The first of three important games to finish off our year. Looking forward to Ballarat next week."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Sebastopol were cleaner and took their chances in front of goal early which set the game up. I thought the boys battled it out in the second half with mounting injuries."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Round 16 saw the top six officially locked in for finals action, but there is still plenty to play out over the remaining two home & away rounds.

The Kangas extended their winning run to 13 games with a hard-fought win over a spirited, undermanned North Ballarat.

Seven unanswered goals in the opening term for the Kangas had this game, albeit on the scoreboard, put to bed.

Sure the 60-point margin validates some degrees of ease but credit to the young Roosters who were able to minimise the damage after half time.

The Kangas led by 56 points at the main break but were denied an ensuing blow out on the back of unquestionable effort.

With all respect to a depleted North Ballarat, the match up resembled boys v men on occasions as the Kangas went to work early.

Bryson McDougall was the beneficiary of the hosts early dominance with seven first half goals before finishing the day with eight.

Progressive forward Strahan Robinson looks well beyond his years with his imposing size, mobility and aerial presence proving a handful for the Roosters’ defence.

Robinson's impressive afternoon ended with four goals.

The bigger bodies of East Point all ended in the best players on a perfect day for football.

Mikitja Rottumah-Onus (Best), Billy Jones, Jordy Johnston, Joel Van Meel (199 games) all featured alongside McDougall and Robinson in a real display of quality depth from the Kangas.

Any number of up to 14-15 players could easily have landed without surprise.

For North Ballarat, there were encouraging signs in defeat.

Newcomer and former Cobra Joel Freeman booted five goals and joined Simon McCartin, Cam McCullum, Isaac Carey, Ned Nash and Taj McMillan at the pointy end for club voting discussions.

Again, the Roosters had just seven players from their 2023 Grand Final side and must be craving the returns of top end, more experienced stocks to support the wave of next gen talent currently flying the flag.

Kangas veteran Drew Murphy celebrated his 200th game in fine style kicking the last goal of the game to send the loyal and faithful social club into a frenzy. Bigman Joel Van Meel will play his 200th game this week against Sunbury.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Simon McCartin (North Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 21 disposals, 15 score involvements, 10 marks, 8 goals

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 31 disposals, 9 marks, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Terrific first quarter. We won all the key stats and set up the win. North (Ballarat) kept challenging us throughout the day and will be a handful come finals time."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Hard working and testing day for us. East (Point) are a very good side that make you compete every minute of the game. Our leaders were very good today. Young players are doing a mighty job for us and we are developing quickly. Looking forward to getting some troops back to support them."

Ballarat remains unbeaten since Round 10, following a testing win over Sebastopol at Marty Busch.

The win sees the Swans draw level on premiership points with fifth place North Ballarat.

Melton South (A) and East Point (H) will round out the Swans’ home and away season before a tilt at finals.

North Ballarat are at City Oval with Redan before a bye in Round 18.

The Burra started well, establishing a handy 10-point lead in front of home fans before the Swans used the quarter time break to reset.

The Swans not only regained the lead but went on with it through the middle stages to outscore the hosts 8.10 to 3.4.

Essentially 18 scoring shots to seven.

While the response from the Swans was pleasing for coach Chris Maple, you can't help but revisit the Swans’ inability to get 'bang for buck' on their opportunities despite Zak Rinaldi's game high four goals.

Clearly the young Swans remain a work in progress but when they click, they'll be dangerous, if not already given their leg speed, attack on the footy and greater aerial presence.

Connection is a season long wish for any coach.

For outgoing Maple, let's hope the Swans can find that connection - it could result in winning a final such is the scope and potential of the group.

The Swans’ midfielders are covering the ground and finding a heap of the footy at the right end of the season.

Paddy Simpson, Tristan Maple, Wyatt Squires, the Rinaldi brothers Lewis and Zak all thrived with their run, carry and distribution.

Bigman Marcus Powling, who is crucial in the Swans’ fortunes, was again a mainstay with his aerial combatants.

For the Burra, it was encouraging to see some new faces featuring among the best. Sam Wilkinson, Chase Dummett, Ben Hutt, Lachlan O'Keefe, Jack Bambury and Luke Phillips all earned the nod of approval.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 8 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"We started really well but eventually faded in the second half after losing a couple of key midfield rotations in the second quarter. We still could have controlled things a little better after this, however credit to Ballarat who move the ball with pace in the second half and put us under duress. We have come a long way this year and look forward to finishing the year off strong."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Very proud of our young boys with today's performance. We wasted opportunities early but settled into a consistent four quarter effort. We were solid around the ball. but just need to tidy up some of our basic fundamentals as we move forward."

Melton has flexed its muscles with a dominant win over Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

Bloods’ leading goalkicker Braedan Kight was again the beneficiary of a weight of possession and forward 50 entries to be the standout with nine goals.

Usual suspects, more so dangerous support crew, didn't miss out either as Ryan Carter (four goals), Kyle Borg (four), Liam Carter (three) and Jordy Kight (three) added to Braedan's tally to finish with a combined 23 of 27 Bloods goals.

The quintet all feature in the BFNL's top 14 goalkickers for the season.

For the record, East Point are one shy matching the Bloods’ offensive weaponry on the goal front with four of the top 16.

When Bacchus Marsh led a lacklustre Bloods 15-14 midway through the first term something just clicked for the ladder leaders who went into overdrive as they piled on 25 goals to five for the remainder of the game to make yet another compelling 'action' statement to the broader competition.

Since half time of the Bloods emotional fuelled win over Sunbury in Round 10, Troy Scoble’s connected group have lost just one quarter. It was the Bloods’ eighth score of 100 or more, only East Point have done it more in '24 (nine).

The Cobras’ chances were slim at best heading in - the Bloods inclusion of North Melbourne VFL star Jack Watkins didn't help their cause either as he and brother Lachie featured prominently in the best ahead of a host of contributors including Jaykob Hickey, Lachlan Walker and their headache handful of match winning forwards.

Consistent, hardworking Cobra Jake Owen (three goals) was named best for the hosts as Tyson Shea made a safe return from a layoff to lead the overwhelming battle of resistance.

Shea too was prominent as he always is while Cameron Freake (two goals), Ethan McKercher, Will Lalor and Josh Huxtable rated credible mentions.

The Bloods look primed for another 'fill-up' on the road against the Lakers while the Cobras host Darley in their last game at Maddingley Park for the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 36 disposals, 15 score involvements, 12 clearances

Braedan Kight (Melton) - 18 disposals, 15 score involvements, 9 marks, 9 goals

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 87 hitouts, 11 disposals, 7 marks, 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"The scoreboard doesn't fully represent the game. We had some very good patches of play against a top-class team in the comp. Our method works when we can execute. Unfortunately, fumbles and execution of inside 50's hurt us on turnover. Melton were able to make the most of their moments and this is great learnings for our young lads. (I) couldn't question our effort."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Great to play footy in good weather. Much respect for what Bacchus Marsh are building, lots of top end young talent. We were scratchy in all phases early off the bye, our contest got us into the game and remained strong all game. We're a lot more effective in the second half and was pleased with how we ran the game out. Really proud of the club and being part of five sets of brothers playing senior footy. Look forward to another Ballarat trip next week as we build to finals."                 

Redan's run of four straight losses has come to end with an entertaining 24-point win over a plucky Melton South.

Lions’ key forwards Lachie Bond (six goals) and Grant Bell (five) proved the difference, clearly two match ups beyond the Panthers.

Travis Hodgson's touring party can take solace in the fact they won the second half in isolation 9.5 to 9.3 and recorded their highest total score since Round 7, 2022 (vs Sebastopol) some 39 BFNL matches ago.

Regardless of the humble margin, Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth saw the positives in the aftermath paying tribute to Lachie George, Bond and Bell especially for standing up and leading the team in the absence of club leading possession getter, Khy Jess, who left the field early.

Other notables to feature in the best players from the Lions camp were Liam Farnsworth, Jacob Short and Xavier Gleeson.

Jarrod Bibby enjoyed a team high four goals for the Panthers, while Nathan Gemmell, Mitch Fino and Ryder Rousch were the other multiple goal kickers on the day.

Hodgson's young group return home this week to host Ballarat while Redan remain at City Oval and will endeavour to upset North Ballarat who have endured a mounting injury list for the most part of the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 37 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Lachlan Bond (Redan) - 16 disposals, 11 marks, 10 score involvements, 6 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"A great day for the footy club celebrating 'Chip Barker's 300th club game. Great to have so many past premiership players back at the club. Proud of the boys against a determined (Melton) South side. We were challenged went Khy Jess went off early. (Lachie) George and (Lachie) Bond led an invested group to sing the song for the first time in a while."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"After our worst performance for the season last week we produced our best on Saturday. We were dominant around stoppage, and we had some really good passages in transition. Although we defended pretty well as a team, we had no answers for Lachie Bond and Grant Bell who combined for 11 goals. They were the clear difference in the four-goal loss. Probably the two youngest teams in the comp with 12 underage kids each running around. Credit to Redan being able to win five games this season with so many kids."

The Devils moved into third place on the BFNL table after a convincing runaway win over Sunbury at Darley Park.

To the eye, it was arguably the reigning premiers most impressive performance since their season opening win over East Point. 

With just two home and away rounds left, the win couldn't have come at a better time for Dan Jordan's men.

Inevitably questions would be answered.

Could Sunbury manufacture the connection in their back half that has been a feature, in the absence of Jack Hannett, Jordan Tentonello and Jack Newitt? The scoreline, to a degree, confirmed the concerns.

The Devils’ score of 121 was the highest of any recorded against the Lions this year.

As for Darley, what was under the bonnet given a host of changes in just their fifth game in 10 weeks?

Could they run out a four-quarter game against a top six opposition and not be overran as they were against the Lions at their previous meet? 

As for the bonnet, that did generate a few surprises.

Wil Johnson booted five goals in his first outing since June 1st while Alex Sweet delivered with four crucial majors to follow his SOS inclusion for Leigh Spiteri (finger).

Furthermore, the Devils silenced any short-term speculation they were vulnerable late with a nine-goals-to-one final quarter blitz. 

Johnson and Sweet duly landed among the best players alongside in form defender Matthew Brett, Vic Metro ruckman Lucas Impey, and the Matricardi brothers Riley and Darcy.

Brett Bewley also returned to finish the leading possession winner on the ground with 42. Ironically, that came as a little surprise.

For Sunbury, leading forwards Jake Sutton (four) and Mitch McLean (two) combined for six of the Lions’ eight goals.

Brock Landt, Cody Bramble, Josh Guthrie, Ben Eales, Riley Miller and Sutton all finished among the best, keeping the visitors within touch up until three quarter time before the flood gates opened.

The Lions have little time to lament as the focus shifts to East Point on Saturday in the BFNL’s Match of the Round with LIVE commentary and vision from 2PM. The Devils face crosstown rivals Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 42 disposals, 11 marks, 10 rebound 50s

Lucas Impey (Darley) - 62 hit outs, 16 disposals, 12 tackles

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 6 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Very pleased with the boys especially in the second half when we were able to kick away against a quality side."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Great game to watch for three quarters, then Darley put us away. Disappointing we couldn't finish off the way we did last time but that's footy. We'll regroup and review and get ready for this week."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury):34 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"A real game of momentum swings. Great effort from our boys to dig their heels in and get the game back on our terms when Sunbury threw everything at us. Some great learnings to prepare for finals."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Poor start as we were totally outworked early. Darley's conversion at quarter time meant we paid the maximum price. (We) lifted our work rate and played some really good footy reducing the margin back to single digits during the last quarter. Other results going against us meant that it was a disappointing way to end the season."

Lions’ matchwinner Izaac Grant consolidated his Henderson Medal credentials with a five-goal haul, leading his pride into an Elimination Final against North Ballarat on Sunday.

Stakes were high, especially for the visitors with their season on the line. Credit to Gary Learmonth and his young group bucking the trend that was the Sebastopol force playing in Ballarat.

In their previous 12 games in Brick City, the Burra had led (11) or were level (once) at halftime and were unbeaten at home.

The pattern was flipped on its head as Redan led at every change to run out deserved winners despite five less scoring shots.

Lions’ ruckman Nathan Dunstan was named best alongside Grant and was well supported by experienced trio Liam Hoy, Lachie George and Jacob Werts.

The focus on the Burra's best and handful contributors on the goal front took a back seat quickly as the attention shifted on the season ending injury to Luke Kiel (broken leg) in the third quarter.

The Burra are obviously devastated with the loss of their inspirational leader and will sweat on the availability of top end duo Toby Hutt (knee) and James Keeble who are rated a 50/50 chance.

Sebastopol meets East Point on Saturday, while Redan have North Ballarat, who have won both of their previous meets in 2023.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan George (Redan):26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 inside 50s

Flynn Atchinson (Redan):22 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 7 intercept possessions

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):54 hit outs, 22 disposals, 10 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Redan applied good pressure and controlled the game for longer patches. Our attention turns to the Elimination Final this week."

Gary Learmonth (Redan): "The boys were super across four quarters. Took the game into their own hands and were able to work together and play a consistent brand of footy. Really happy they got reward for effort."

Bacchus Marsh made it four wins on the trot to end their 2023 season under outgoing coach Jason Williams in eighth place with a nail biting two-point win over Ballarat.

The Cobras continued on from their momentous win over Sunbury in Round 17 with a four-goal-to-one opening term to have the visitors on the back foot trailing by 19 points.

But the response from Chris Maple's young group warranted enough to reduce the deficit marginally to 18 at the half and within one point at the final change.

With the unofficial title of the BFNL’s eighth ranked team at stake both sides fought out a tense final term that could have gone either way but it was the much improved Cobras who held their nerve to hang on and win a thriller.

Cobras’ wingman Alex Porter made a fourth appearance in the best players from his last six games ahead of tireless midfielder Tyson Shea, match winner Josh Huxtable (two goals) and Jake Owen who finished with a game high four goals taking his season tally to 34 (comp rank #8).

Despite the fact the Swans managed just one goal in the opening term for an eighth occasion this year their response was emphatic outscoring the Cobras nine goals to six through the middle stages but couldn't land a killer blow in the last to steal the points.

Homegrown quartet Paddy Simpson, Will Liston, Rhys Perry and Tristan Maple led the charge for the visitors with significant impact but unfortunately on this occasion, they fell agonisingly short.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh):31 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh):77 hit outs, 21 disposals, 10 clearances

William Liston (Ballarat):34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Really proud of the boys and the way the club has finished off the season (four wins in o row). Credit to Ballarat who never gave up, coming back to give us a scare late. Rapt the boys were able to hang on."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"After quarter time we played a good brand of football. Centre bounce became the deciding factor. A shame not to get the points after another strong comeback, our lads will be better from the experience.

The Bloods achieved what they wanted from their visit to CE Brown Reserve at the weekend downing a persistent Lakers outfit by 55 points - injury free.

This game was over early as the newly crowned back-to-back minor premiers combined for seven unanswered goals.

Credit to the young Lakers for showing some pride in their performance against the competition's benchmark winning two quarters leaving interim coach Tim Shearer evidently pleased with the effort after quarter time.

Given the young profile of the Lakers’ list it was always going to be a tough ask despite the Bloods missing four or five from their best side.

Expect Blake Souter, Lachie Walker, Brodie Sullivan and Lachie Watkins to return for this week’s qualifying final against Darley.

Both Brentan Payne and Jono O'Brien, who missed Round 17's 21-point loss to Darley, are expected to play.

Bloods’ captain Braedan Kight (four goals) and Payne (three goals) were the major contributors on the scoreboard while best afield honours went to in-form trio Kyle Borg, Jordy Cotter and Adrian Monitto.

For the hosts, bigman Tom Zampatti impressed ahead of the Lakers’ sole interleague representative Flynn Loader with Joel O'Connell, Michael Foster and Nathan Pring also being named. Their five-goal match returns were all singles.

The Bloods will prepare for a back-to-back flag mission this week kicking off against the Devils. Both sides are expected to be just one or two shy off their best 22.

Should be a belter given the Devils are the only side to beat the Bloods this year, achieving the feat on two occasions.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Braedan Kight (Melton):27 disposals, 9 marks, 8 score involvements

Riley Walker (Melton):27 disposals, 12 rebound 50s, 9 marks

Michael Foster (Lake Wendouree):22 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"Pleased with our guys today. Won two quarters, outscored by three points after quarter time. Plenty of boys under 21, had a crack. Expect to see Melton show their class in the next month. For mine, they remain flag favourites.”

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Got the job done, starting the way we wanted. To the Lakers credit they adjusted and made it a real slog for the rest of the day. Happy to get through unscathed."

The last home & away round saw tentative upsets, some pre-finals sparring and enjoyable wins to savour over the summer. 

Sunbury led by as much as 39 points with the breeze at quarter time before hanging on to beat a spirited Cobras outfit by 13 points at the Clarke Oval.

The Cobras won each of the remaining three quarters to eat into the deficit but the assignment proved a bridge too far.

Speedster Harry Power was named best for the Lions ahead of Mitch McLean (four goals), Ben Cameron, Blake Watson and recalled big men Fraser Ampulski (two goals) and Leigh Brennan (two goals).

Leading forward Jake Sutton (two goals) was well held by Cobras’ defender Colby Piggott.

The visitors were aiming for a repeat of last year’s come from behind win, but it wasn't to be, in one of their most connected performances of the year post quarter time.

Jake Owen was again the star finishing with a game high five goals for the Cobras to feature among Henderson Medal vote contention ahead of Piggott, and consistent quartet Jake McCreery, Josh Huxtable, Luke Goetz and Rye Penny.  

The Lions gain an all-important morale boosting win ahead of an elimination final showdown with Ballarat, who remain unbeaten since Round 10, while the Cobras look to bounce strongly in the coming off-season with an eye to improve on a four game winning season (9th).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 48 hit outs, 19 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Cody Bramble (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 9 score involvements, 7 marks 

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 94% disposal efficiency, 7 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Was a good, hard-fought win in the end. Got off to a flying start and had to battle a fired-up Bacchus Marsh outfit to win in the last. Got through with minimal pain but it looks like we've lost (Jake) Egan to another hamstring injury."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Was very proud of the character and belief of the lads. Forty points down at quarter time and we were able to work our way back into the game and finish the year off with positive football and connection."

The Swans gave us a timely reminder they're not in the BFNL finals series to make up the numbers with a thrilling seven-point win over East Point at Alfredton Oval.

The upset win ended the Kangas’ unbeaten run of 14 straight games.

In a seesawing affair, the Swans started well to lead by 16 points at the first change before a four-goals-to-one second term response from the Kangas gave them the half time lead, albeit narrowly by three points.

The Swans made another push in the third term to restore the lead at the final change before it was game on in the last, a classic that went down to the wire.

But in the end, it was Chris Maple's Swans who held on to defeat Joe Carmody's men, a feat not achieved by any club since the season opener.

The Swans’ top end stood up under the heat with Tristan Maple, Rhys Perry, Harry Butler, Lachie Dalgleish, Andrew Hooper and Will Liston all featuring among the best players in arguably the club’s best win since the 2022 semi final victory over Darley.

Hardworking Swans’ forward Harry Butler finished with a game high four goals, three of those coming in the third term to keep the hosts in the game with some telling marks.

Butler has played just seven games this year including six wins and a draw. His agility and presence in the air and at ground level has been significant, not mentioning his 16-goal tally at 2.43 goals per game. 

Veteran Andrew Hooper chimed in with three invaluable goals.

The Kangas, while warm favorites, were brave and lost no admirers with clearly bigger fish to fry as a qualifying final lies in waiting this Saturday against Melton.

The Johnston brothers Jordy (three goals) and Matty featured prominently once again, alongside in form defenders Jacob Brown and Jackson Merrett.

Sam Cue and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus were next best.

Forwards Bryson McDougall (three goals) and Strahan Robinson (two goals) combined for half of the Kangas’ ten goal afternoon.

Ballarat remains unbeaten since Round 10 and as a result of their weekend success were promoted to fourth with an elimination final against Sunbury now on the radar.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 40 disposals, 12 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 25 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Lauchlan Dalgleish (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 11 marks, 11 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A good effort from our lads. We were pretty consistent in all phases of the game. We will reflect, educate and get ready for next week."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Outworked by Ballarat who beat us comprehensively in uncontested ball. No injuries were a positive and we were able to get games into Joe Dodd and Geordie Slater after long layoffs. Excited to prepare for a big finals series."

The Bloods secured back-to-back minor premierships with a 15-point win over the Devils at MacPherson Park.

Both sides were happy to get through relatively unscathed ahead of a challenging finals series.

The Devils kicked with the aid of a two or three goal breeze in the opening term but could only manufacture a six-point advantage.

For the record it was the Bloods’ first 'quarter' loss since half time of their Round 10 win over Sunbury.

The Bloods arrested back the lead in the second quarter on the back of two Jordy Kight goals.

While it looked as though both sides were simply 'playing time' for periods in the second half there was no discounting the performances of a number of individuals.

For the winners, Adrian Monitto, Lachie Phillips, Riley Walker, Jaykob Hickey, Kyle Borg and Conrad Farrugia (three goals) were the standouts while for the Devils, Adam Azzopardi, Harley Inglis, Mitch Hovey, Brady Wright, Leigh Spiteri and Joel Cadman (two goals) showed enough to suggest they've hit form at the right time of year.

Bloods’ quartet Lachie Watkins, Blake Souter, Max Scoble and Bailey Mawson will be in the mix for a return next week while Jordy Cotter faces a race against time to be available at all throughout September.

The Devils are expected to recall Luther Baker, Matt Denham and key back Matthew Brett for their do or die Elimination Final against North Ballarat as the availability of Lucas Impey and Jayven Tanner remains up in the air.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Adam Azzopardi (Darley) - 29 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

Riley Walker (Melton) - 29 disposals, 13 marks, 11 contested possessions

Lachlan Phillips (Melton) - 22 disposals, 14 marks, 10 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"A good day for both clubs I would have thought. Solid hit out against a finals team we respect greatly that has set the standard in the competition in the last 18 months. We were inconsistent in all phases today, however we experienced a strong contest team in tricky conditions and both clubs got through the game managing their playing groups. We built on a few key focus areas and will focus on working on other areas we know will need to be at a high level to be successful in the next few weeks. Home and away done and we look forward to playing in a finals game next week. Proud of our group!" 

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Clearly a bit more to play out from the two sides given the context of both respective seasons. I think we weren't on our own trying a few things. We saw things that we liked and clearly identified areas of further improvement. Wishing Melton all the best for their finals campaign."

The Lakers overcame a 12-point deficit at half time to win an entertaining shoot-out at CE Brown Reserve.

The result gave Rohan Brown's group a thoroughly deserved third win, and positive way to exit to the home and away season.

Livewire Lakers’ forward Bayley Thompson finished with a game high four goals and best on ground honours to lead as many as six multiple contributors for the hosts on their way to a second score of the season beyond the 100 mark.

Veteran Laker Nathan Pring booted three goals in his 200th game to aid the cause ahead of Jaydo Wright, Timmy Collins, Cooper James and Rory O'Keefe who each finished with two.

Among the best players named behind Thompson were Bailey Ryan, Joel O'Connell, Tom Zampatti, Lewis Gilbert and Cooper James.

For Gary Learmonth's Redan it was disappointing back half of the season losing six of their last seven games by an average of 44 points.

Lachie George (three goals), Rudie Forde, Marty Boyer (three goals), Khy Jess, Liam Farnsworth and second gamer Lachlan Kroussoratis were named best for the losing side.

While it was disappointing for the Lions to end the season on just five wins, there's no denying the mountain of promising youth stocks at Learmonth's disposal looking forward.

On the other hand, the Lakers just need to add some top end class to a group on the rise under Rohan Brown.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rudie Forde (Redan) - 41 hit outs, 21 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 49 hit outs, 19 disposals, 8 score involvements

Bailey Ryan (Lake Wendouree) - 31 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Good game of footy. Nathan Pring even showed he's still more than capable in his 200th (game). Really rapt for our group to get a win, thought our contest work was fantastic, and we played a solid four quarters of footy. Credit to Gaz and Redan for doing what they have done this year with injuries etc, their future looks bright, as does ours. We believe we have taken steps forward this year and are already looking forward to next."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Credit to Lakers, they played a solid four quarters. Rohan has done a good job. We played some good footy but as has happened a lot during the year, fundamental mistakes hurt us. Our pressure was super but we didn't make the most of our opportunities. Looking forward to 2025."

An inaccurate Sebastopol did what they had to, notching up a sixth win of the season to finish outside the top six in seventh.

The Burra won every quarter but were wasteful with their opportunities on goal recording 4.15 to 1.5 in the second half to extend a 43-point half time lead to 71 at the final siren.

Adam Forbes (two goals) was named best afield for the winners ahead of Ben Hutt, Liam Mason (two goals), Daniel Widgery, Jacob Wilkinson and William Deans.

Panthers big man Broden Collins made it a tenth appearance in the best players from his 16 games alongside Lachlan Peterson, Riley Theo, Mitch Fino and ever consistent Jarrod Bibby.

The Burra will look for a return to finals next year after an indifferent season starved of continuity.

For the Panthers, it was another tough year on the field, but gradual improvement would have been one of Travis Hodgson’s goals for 2024.

The struggling club averaged just 30 points per game in 2024, a slight uptick from 2023.

However, in defence the club conceded an average of 143 points against, down from 187.5 in last year’s campaign.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 42 disposals, 13 marks, 13 tackles

Broden Collins (Melton South) - 40 hit outs, 28 disposals, 22 contested possessions

Adam Forbes (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 13 score involvements, 8 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Good to finish off the season with a win. Will review and assess as per usual but now all eyes are on 2025 and taking a big step forward with this exciting young group. Wishing Melton South all the best with their 2025 campaign. They are in excellent hands with Trav at the top."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
Beaten comprehensively in most areas with the inside 50 count of 67-26 highlighting the gap between the two sides. Although nowhere near the level of the opposition, credit to the boys for persisting with what we wanted all day and having some really good passages of play because of it. Sebas have improved considerably after starting the season 1-5 and then winning five of their last 10 and I’ve no doubt they will bounce hard next season, so we were well out of our depth. But as they have most of the season our boys showed plenty of spirit and kept the heat on all day making it harder for Sebas to convert in front of goal.

Statement wins and grand final revenge was all part of the script to come out of Round 2.

Undermanned North Ballarat ended Darley's run of 11 unbeaten BFNL games, winning a thriller by three points under lights at Mars Stadium.

While the spectacle was rendered 'a hard watch' for many onlookers, the endeavour on display from both sides under tough conditions could not be questioned.

To put into perspective the nature of the arm wrestle, there were two goals kicked for the entire second half! 

Furthermore, North Ballarat won the game adding just two goals to their tally after quarter time.

The level of free-flowing football you would like to see from a grand final rematch was denied by the evening dew, minimising any genuine aerial impact or efficiency in transition.

The last quarter especially was dour in its purest form, included 17 boundary throw ins and 14 ball-ups in general play.

Neither camp were prepared to make any excuses in the event of a loss as Devils’ coach Dan Jordan conceded in the aftermath. "Conditions are the same for both sides,” he said. "You have to win a game of footy in a number of different ways, especially with two very organised sides."

Despite the struggles of both teams, another grandstand finish played out as North Ballarat newcomer Malachi White broke free in the dying seconds to kick his second goal of the night and the sealer, sending the Roosters faithful, who braved the cold night air into raptures.

Off season North Ballarat additions Noah Cockerill (best), Liam Deering (two goals) and White played pivotal roles swinging the pendulum in the hosts favour who were brave and resolute without top end talent Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL), Jack Riding (Werribee VFL), big man Cam McCullum (knee), Ryan Hobbs (hamstring) and Stewart Crameri (hamstring).

Billy Myers was clearly best for the Devils, while Jack Bewley finished with a game high three goals. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 51 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Joshus Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 12 contested possessions

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"We want to be a resilient, organised and connected group. We were last night. Very proud of the players’ grit to keep working through a really tough contest. Good day for our club. Looking forward to seeing us growing as a club."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"The little amount of scoring did not reflect the effort of both sides. The game was a pure physical, arm wrestle (type) affair that went down to the wire. Unfortunately for us it was North Ballarat who had their noses in front at the final siren. I was proud of our effort. We butter up and look ahead to the local derby with Bacchus Marsh."  

Ballarat made it back-to-back wins under coach Chris Maple, now in his second season, with a nail-biting three-point win over Redan.

Both sides split the 'quarter wins' as an exciting mix of experienced and progressive talent dominated the narrative.

For the second time in as many weeks VFL listed affiliated Swan Rhett Montgomerie heightened the degree of difficulty for opposition sides overcoming the red and white.

Experienced duo Andrew Hooper (three goals) and Grant Bell (five goals) looked ominous around goal for their respective teams sounding alarm bells of the 'attention required' variety for future opposition.

Montgomerie, Rhys Perry, Lewis Rinaldi, Tristan Maple and Will Garner were all named in the best providing Maple's group with an encouraging, albeit different look in that space and every indication the rebuild is on track with more and more players by the week capable of having a significant impact on game day.

Twice the Swans were asked to come from behind to earn the win after trailing at quarter time (13 points) and three-quarter time (12 points).

Unfortunately, there was always going to be a team on the wrong end of this entertaining stoush and in this case, it was Gary Learmonth's Redan. 

Lions’ half dozen Kye Jess, Lachie George, Grant Bell, Patrick Fitgibbon, Harry Lawson and Taj Bond were the pick of the visitors, doing plenty right for a group that fell agonisingly short.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomery (Ballarat) - 24 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 intercept possessions

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Harry Lawson (Redan) - 18 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"(The game) was an even contest for four quarters. Again (we) did a lot right across the game but let ourselves down late which allowed Ballarat to get up. Lots of pleasing signs but (we) need to be better for longer to get some reward for effort."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A really tight contest all day. Credit to Redan, they played a tough contested game. Happy to get the points in the end but we have a lot to improve on in all facets of the game."

Sunbury recorded an efficient dismantling of league strugglers Melton South to the tune of 144 points under lights at the Clarke Oval.

As many as 13 Lions joined the party on the goal front led by dangerous forward Jake Sutton (six goals) and utility Mitch McLean who finished with four.

While the phrase 'a game of two halves' did not apply to this one-sided affair. In fact, it was the similarities that caught the eye.

Twelve goals to two for the opening half, and 14 goals to one in the second highlighted the drive of Matt White's Sunbury ahead of their bye in Round 3.

A 2-0 start and healthy percentage is all Lions fans could have asked for under their new coach.

With Sutton and McLean posting most of the damage on the goal front, Lions quartet Ben Cameron, Jack Newitt, Harry Power and Fraser Ampulski were named in the best players for their mountain of work in general play that was one way traffic for the most part.

The Panthers lost star recruits Patrick Veszpremi (hand) and Anthony Wilson (hamstring) but welcomed the return of captain Cody Chapman and newcomer Stuart Hojein-Allen for their first hit out of the season.

Former Sunbury young gun come Panther Ryder Rousch was named best for his new club for the second week in a row. The Panthers have averaged 187.5 points against in their opening two games, identical to their 2023 season returns.

Melton South are at home to meet Redan in Round 3.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 38 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Nathan Doyle (Sunbury) - 37 disposals, 13 score involvements, 11 contested possessions

Daniel Donaldson (Melton South) - 19 disposals, 9 pressure acts, 9 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really pleased the way the boys went about it. It was a shortened game due to an unfortunate incident in the reserves game, but the boys settled and started the game strong. We have a week off now, so we'll start focusing on Bacchus Marsh the week after."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"The boys tried hard and competed well in periods. We were better in some areas than we were last week. Poor execution of basic fundamentals hurt us consistently throughout the night."

A seven-goal second term from the Lakers wasn't enough to deny Cobras’ new coach Dennis Armfield his first win in charge.

Despite heading into the game as favorites, the visiting Cobras found themselves behind at the main break on the back of a wasteful opening term kicking 2.8.

With the door of opportunity left seemingly ajar, the hosts pounced and were rewarded for their accuracy as they kicked 7.1, earning Rohan Brown's young group an eight-point lead.

Both sides struggled for any periods of momentum in the second half as the degree of difficulty to get the ball on the outside and into clear air fell into the 'easier said than done' basket.

A spike in ground ball pressure led to more stoppages, raising the value of any goal to premium status. Eventually it would be the Cobras who would correct their errant ways on, and defending goal, outscoring a gallant Lakers outfit six goals to three in the second half to win by seven points.

Cobras veteran Tyson Shea was judged the best player on the ground by many observers while Lakers’ defender Brayden Helyar was recognised for his efforts on key target Jake Owen (three goals).

While Lakers’ pair Timmy Collins and Bailey Thompson finished with a game high four goals, it was the spread of Cobras contributors that would prove the difference in this see-sawing affair.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 70 hit outs, 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions

Jack Parente (Bacchus Marsh) - 25 disposals, 9 marks, 6 score involvements

Will Clark (Lake Wendouree) - 34 disposals, 17 rebound 50s, 6 marks   

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Whilst always disappointing to lose, I’m very proud of the way the boys competed today. (It) was a great game of footy to be a part of. Koliba and Hicks gave us a great view into our future. Bacchus Marsh handled the big moments late just a little better. Can't wait for our club to be a part of Anzac Day footy next week."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"We came with a real positive attack on the ball but couldn't finish off our work early. Lakers were very accurate and were able to wrestle back momentum. We were able to fight back, slowing their ball movement and winning more 1v1's. Credit to the Lakers they were very impressive and lively all day. We were very happy to come away with a hard fought four points."

Sebastopol were completely outplayed by competition yardstick Melton, thrashed by 119 points, leaving home fans stunned in the process.

While most pundits outside of Sebastopol gave the Burra little chance of ending a five-year run of outs against the mighty Bloods, the final margin was compelling.

Key Bloods’ trio Ryan Carter (7), Braedyn Kight (7) and Kyle Borg (5) combined for 17 goals in a rampant display, a game that was near over at quarter time.

A 29-point lead extended to 51 at the main break, 87 at the last change before the final siren served as the unofficial white flag for Tony Lockyer's men.

Even the Bloods faithful had every reason to ponder "what just happened there" such was the nature of the one sided affair..

Recently returned Blood Jaykob Hickey was named best for the winners ahead of a handful of top end talent that has inadvertently put the competition on notice.

Jordy Cotter, Jack Walker, Ryan Carter, Braedyn Kight and Ryan Davis were a constant thorn in the Burras’ side, and relentless with their intent. Liam Carter, Blake Souter and Brett McIntyre did not play. 

For the Burra on a forgettable day if not for the learnings, Tony Lockyer, Riley O'Keefe and Ben Hutt led the charge of resistance on home soil but the tsunami that was the visiting Bloods proved all too overwhelming.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Walker (Melton) - 33 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 12 tackles

Ryan Davis (Melton) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES' VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Disaster of a day where we simply did not get going at all. We take full responsibility for the performance, learn as much as we can and look forward. Full credit to Melton who were really a class above today and punished us. This won't define our season."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really pleased to travel 'away' and be able to perform against a quality side. We were able to execute our contest method throughout the day which was a major focus leading in. A step in the right direction in how we're trying to play ahead of another test next week against potential top two side North Ballarat."

A grand final rematch highlighted the Round 3 action with a handful of contenders this year also claiming their stake in the premiership race. Scoop takes us through all the key games from the weekend.

Reigning premiers Melton arrested an 18-point deficit at half time to overrun a gallant Sebastopol in Saturday's grand final rematch.

The Bloods were indeed the hunted as Burra coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro went about ending a 1313 day winning drought against Aaron Tymms’ boys dating all the way back to their 2019 preliminary final clash.

Tymms conceded they "didn't cope as well as we would have liked", as the hungry Burra unsettled the league's benchmark to lead by 19 points at quarter time. The main break proved a timely reset for the Bloods, enough to restore the confidence and belief required to mount a match winning comeback. Despite winning just the one quarter, the Burra are coming but will have to wait until finals for another crack at their nemesis.

Bloods youngsters Harrison Hanley, Adrian Monitto and Lachlan Phillips were named amongst the bests with Ryan Carter and Brodie Sullivan booting two goals. For the visitors, Bailey Medwell, Riley O'Keefe and newcomer Liam Latch were dangerous, while mobile forward Toby Hutt finished with a game high three goals.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 39 disposals, 13 marks, 11 rebound 50s

Adrian Monitto (Melton): 36 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 marks

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):34 hitouts, 27 disposals, 14 clearances, 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"It was a really tough game and we’re proud of the boys’ response to a below par first quarter. Credit to Sebastopol, they brought the heat early and we didn't cope as well as we would have liked. Our second half was back to what we do best, outstanding efforts by individuals to play the team role."

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):"We were on top in the first half, but they opened us up and kept the ball moving in the second. We still had opportunities but turned the ball over going inside 50. Melton are still the benchmark, and we need to be better for longer to beat them."

Redan recorded an important all-the-way win over a wasteful Ballarat at City Oval at the weekend.

The Swans were made to pay this time for their errant ways in front of goal, after trailing by 25 points at half time despite having the same amount of scoring shots as the Lions (5.7 vs 10.2).

While the Swans won the last quarter, the damage was already done.

Lions’ sharpshooter Izaac Grant starred with a best on ground performance that included six goals. Grant has bags of 4,4 and now 6 goals from his opening three games - a memo indeed for Cobras’ coach Jason Williams, who meets the Lions this week at City Oval.

Despite Redan having some young talent of their own it would pale in comparison to the numbers the Swans are fronting up within the early rounds. The 'average games' stat would tell its own story of experience separation between the sides which can play a role in sealing moments in games.

Unfortunately for the Swans it wasn't their first example of missed opportunity, and it won't be their last, but they're in no better hands to see them through.

New Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth would be rapt taking care of a 'thereabouts' challenger for a prized spot in the top six.

With Sunbury seemingly on the rise eyeing a finals berth, eight does not go into six. Saturday's win adds currency to the Lions credentials at the expense of the Swans who are clearly in a rebuild.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 25 disposals, 8 marks, 6 goals

Lachlan George (Redan): 22 disposals, 10 score involvements, 8 inside 50s

William Liston (Ballarat): 29 disposals, 16 tackles, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Really happy with the effort from the group after being down two (players) at quarter time. We've got lots to work on moving forward with the progressive improvement of our young players."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"Once again we didn't make the most of our opportunities in the first half. We were happy with our contest in the second half, and were competitive on the scoreboard, with far better ball use and goalkicking."

Darley remains one of two unbeaten BFNL teams following a 39-point win on the road over East Point. The Devils came to play early, delivering the heat to unsettle the young Kangas, opening up a 27-point lead at quarter time.

The 4.9 to 1.0 scoreline suggested the separation could easily have been greater. What transpired thereafter was considerably more even on the scoring front but again the Devils held sway with some late goals to win going their way.

New Kangas coach Jackson Merrett is under no illusions where his team is at, and quite conscious of their age profile.

Merrett conceded the game was put to bed in the first quarter but gave credit to his boys for the remaining three quarters despite being outscored 10.7 to 8.7.

Liam Canny and Matty Johnston were named their best.

For the winners, Devils coach Dan Jordan would just be happy to claim the premiership points to make it a hattrick of road wins to start 2023, ahead of a bye in round 4.

Full-time Devils addition Billy Myers (four goals) is building into some form that resembles what he is capable of at his best. while Shane Page and Brett Bewley (three goals) continued their good form to start the season. 

The Kangas meet the Swans at Alfredton Oval this week in a battle of the young guns while the Devils enjoy the week off ahead of a Match of the Round billing with Sunbury in Round 5.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 48 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Mace Cousins (Darley): 28 disposals, 11 tackles, 10 marks

Matt Johnson (East Point): 35 disposals, 19 clearances, 9 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"The game was won in the first quarter. Our ability to apply pressure across the ground wasn't at the level we expect of ourselves. (However) super proud of the young groups response after quarter time to keep us in the game before we conceded late goals."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"(I) thought we executed our game plan well in the first half all bar some finishing. East Point came at us hard in the second half, but we were able to adjust and get the win."

'Season smokey' Sunbury inflicted Melton South with a third successive loss in excess of 100 points at the Melton Recreation Reserve on the weekend.

Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson was most pleased with the convincing nature of the result given the Panthers had won two of their past three encounters. In fairness, only the brave would have tipped the Panthers to extend on that record.

Lions’ key forward Cody Brand booted a game high six goals and found some nice touch around goal proving he's going to be a handful for all opposition defenders moving forward. Nathan Wood, Harrison Minton-Connell and Tyson Lever were named best amid a 'share fest' of possession despite the efforts of a willing Panthers group clearly shy of depth and top end experience.

Despite another heavy loss for the undermanned Panthers there's no denying the commitment of inspirational captain Cody Chapman who battles the odds every week taking pride in his performance. Riley Theo continued with his run of good form in a losing side.

It doesn't get any easier for the Panthers in Round 4, a road trip meeting with Sebastopol awaits.  Sunbury too are on the road to face Lake Wendouree off the bye. All five games in Round 4 are scheduled in Ballarat. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cody Brand (Sunbury): 10 marks, 8 score involements, 6 goals

Tyson Lever (Sunbury): 31 disposals, 10 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 30 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"I don't think the scoreboard told the full story to be honest. (I'll) give Sunbury credit, they stuck to their guns and plans to have a convincing win in the end. (It's) back to the drawing board for us but pleasing to see we are improving every week." 

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Credit to our boys, they stuck to how we want to play all day and it eventually shone on the scoreboard. Melton South were honest and deserve credit for cracking in all day."

North Ballarat made a successful trip to Maddingley Park to defeat Bacchus Marsh by 68 points.

The 'Crameri-less' Roosters were inadvertently compensated with the inclusion of Collingwood VFL listed player Sam Glover - and didn't he look the part, running a merry dance on occasions to finish with a game high five goals.

Glover's laconic nature gives the indication he's rarely out of second gear but his footy smarts, and ability to read the play proved a handful for the Cobras to contain.

North Ballarat midfielder Riley Polkinghorne was clearly the best man on the ground, his two way running and possession accumulation was a feature. Isaac Lovison and Harry Loader look right at home at their key posts in defence confirming a bright future lay ahead for the former powerhouse club.

When North Ballarat gets their running game going, look out! Their will to take the game on by hand especially ran rings around the trying Cobras and led to scores in transition often out of defence.

If there were any reservations on North Ballarat and their dare, it's with their field kicking. Coach Brendan McCartney conceded his boys remain a work in progress, becoming an exciting team to watch.

For the Cobras, Western Jets addition Joel Freeman (four goals) looked dangerous with limited opportunity while ruckman Luke Goetz had the better of North Ballarat giant Cam McCullum.      

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorn (North Ballarat): 38 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 clearances

Simon McCartin (North Ballarat): 30 disposals, 8 score involvements, 4 tackles

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh): 27 disposals, 8 clearances, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Disappointing day at the office, really let down in attitude early and transition all day."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"A good days work against a really young Bacchus Marsh team. We are a bit clunky at times but also really exciting at times. We are doing our best to develop into a good team and be good to watch."

We saw Round 3 kick off with a big Anzac Day clash on Thursday before the action kept on rolling all the way through Saturday.

The Swans extended their impressive, unbeaten start to the season with a 68-point win over Lake Wendouree at Alfredton Oval.

The frugal nature of the win, restricting the Lakers to just two goals will have pleased Swans’ coach Chris Maple ahead of a timely exam against the reigning premiers this Saturday.

As for the Anzac Day clash, well this game was over at half time as the speedy Swans opened up a 16-point advantage at quarter time with six unanswered goals in the second to lead by 54 points at the main break.

The nature of the scoreline was telling as the Lakers remained goal less at the final change despite periods of an even natured affair through the first and third terms that saw the Swans manage just four goals of their own.

Tristan Maple and Lauchlan Dalgleish starred for the winners as ten Swans hit the scoreboard on the goals front. While scoreboard contributions were scarce for the Lakers, there was no denying duo Kyle Anderson and Brayden Helyar recognition from the coach in the aftermath.

The Lakers challenges do not get any easier with a Round 4 meeting scheduled at Mars Stadium against a stingy North Ballarat outfit who won't give an inch.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Gray (Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 12 marks

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 16 contest possessions, 8 clearances

Michael Foster (Lake Wendouree) - 25 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
The game was certainly closer than the scoreboard indicated. We thought we moved the ball better at times and defended the ground well at times. It was great to be able to play on such an important day and see so many people there."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
(We were) beaten comprehensively by a very well drilled side who played very good footy - (Lachie) Dalgliesh outstanding. Whilst happy with the first quarter we can't keep giving the opposition chances through error, falling down structurally and give them momentum. We will regroup and go again after what was a disappointing performance. That's what I like about our group - their willingness to pick themselves up and go again, we have too."

The reigning premiers set up a hard fought 12-point win with a nine-goals-to-three opening half to secure local derby honours in front of a big crowd at Darley Park.

‘A tale of two halves’ fits the narrative as the Cobras came back from 40 points down in the third quarter to finish as close as they did on the final siren.

The Devils had many contributors sharing time in the spotlight without 'getting off the hook' for too long.

Leigh Spiteri (three goals), Will Johnson (three goals) and Harley Inglis (three goals) were clean around goal with their opportunities while key forward Brady Wright (one goal, five behinds) monstered the Cobras in the air but couldn't finish off his aerial dominance.

Midfielders Luther Baker, Matt Denham and Brett Bewley were solider-like with their heavy work inside the contest and distribution on the outer to ensure the Devils did enough to hang on.

For the Cobras, it was not the first time in recent derbies they have been made to do the chasing after half time.

Collingwood VFL listed player Rye Penny and ruckman Luke Goetz were the standout contributors for the Cobras that should take plenty of positives out of the game ahead of an interesting Round 4 clash with Sunbury at Maddingley Park.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 71 hit outs, 19 disposals, 12 clearances

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 33 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 27 disposals, 19 hit outs, 13 contested possessions

COACHES VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Came away with a win where we saw patches of our best footy. Plenty to work on as we move forward. Full credit to Bacchus Marsh for a great challenge and running out the game."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Solid hit-out against a quality side. We had our chances but missed them and you can't do that against Darley. They were able to react to turnover quicker. To our credit, we fought it out hard and had the run late. A positive finish against last year’s top team. (We) just need to focus on our inside 50 connection."

Travelling North Ballarat gave unofficial flag favorites Melton an almighty scare before falling short by six points.

Despite the close margin, the Bloods led all day but couldn't shrug the resistance of Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat who were up and about having defeated Darley just a week earlier.

The Bloods started well, as they so often do to lead by 14 points at quarter time but were outscored for the remainder on the back some efficiency around goal from the travelling party.

The Roosters booted 10.4 to the Bloods 8.12 after the first break but it wasn't enough to inflict new Bloods’ coach Troy Scoble with his first loss in charge.

The spread of 'player type' major contributors for the winners confirmed the Bloods were stretched finding the line.

Lachie Watkins, Jordy Kight and Luke Heaney took the honours ahead of running machines Jack Walker and Kyle Borg.

In form dangerous forward duo Braedyn Kight (four goals) and Ryan Carter (three goals) did the damage in front of the uprights.

For North Ballarat, it's a no frills, hardworking ethos under Macartney that sees them right in the business end conversation already with a host of impact and experienced players still to return.

Plenty of upside for the Roosters to derive from their opening two games.

Ryan Polkinghorne was named best for the losing side while Brock Leonard and Isaac Carey continued their impressive start to the season. Ned Nash finished with a team high three goals.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 39 disposals, 11 marks, 11 rebound 50s

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 31 disposals, 12 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 12 inside 50s, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"(It) was a terrific contest, one we really enjoyed. North's contest method is elite and challenged us in all phases of the game. We led all game, were able to capitilise in offence but the game was an arm wrestle and we stayed in front to the end. Two quality teams challenging each other from start to finish - a really enjoyable day.” 

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Great game of footy. Melton's energy to move the ball and attack the game provided good learnings for us. Loved our fight and willingness to keep playing. Another really good day for our club. Looking forward already to next week on a big reunion day. Our club has a rich history, and we are hoping to play our part continuing that."

Visiting Redan responded to the midweek hype surrounding the Panthers with a convincing 53-point win.

Experienced quartet Sam Darley (best), Jeff Garlett (two goals), Brendan Kantilla (two goals) and Harley Bernell (two goals) made cameo appearances for Melton South, creating a spike of interest in a game otherwise deemed a foregone conclusion.

The Lions won all four quarters as experienced campaigner Lachie George rose to the challenge to be named best afield ahead of Jacob Short and youngsters Sam Broadbent, Zac Mortlock and Rory Gunsser.

Bustling forwards Grant Bell and Brandon Green proved the focal points inside 50 sharing the honours with a bag of five goals each.

Cameos aside for the Panthers, organic trio Jarrod Bibby, Rhys Lee and Cody Chapman featured prominently, thriving in the surrounds provided with the injection (albeit a one off) of top end talent.

Former Western Bulldog and GWS product Sam Darley was the pick of the crop, still in his prime at 30 years old.

The Panthers venture to Eastern Oval this week, a ground that hasn't been kind to them in recent seasons albeit on the scoreboard.

Redan are at home to Sebastopol, with the Burra keen to bounce back after two big losses.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Sam Darley (Melton South) - 53 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan) - 31 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Rhys Lee (Melton South) - 23 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 10 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Super day for the club with the reserves winning and the Under 19's having their first win in 1785 days. (Our) senior group were very competitive and kicking nine goals was a plus. Again, poor execution and turnover hurt us and eliminated any chance of winning. Loved our effort."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Again some good signs. Our young boys had the opportunity to play against some top end players which was a good experience and showed they can mix it with the best, So much to improve on and a great challenge again coming this week. Enjoying our mix of youth and experience."

The Kangaroos booted six goals to one in the second half to run away 47-point winners over a disappointing Sebastopol under lights at Eastern Oval.

From a speculative standpoint the nature of the result says more about the Burra’s struggles than Joe Carmody's first win in charge. 

For the second week in a row Tony Lockyer's Sebastopol has been opened up in the second half. Sure, they won’t be the first team to be on the wrong end of a Melton audit (14 goals to three second half last week) but the six goals to one second half witnessed against the Kangas in trying conditions does prick at least one ear for concern.

Experienced Kangas Jackson Merrett and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus were named best for the winners while Bryson McDougall, Strahan Robinson and newcomer Luke Tebble finished the only multiple scorers in a match where goals came at a premium.

Ever consistent Lachie Cassidy, ruckman Reece MacNally and Lockyer never gave up the fight for the visitors who will look to review and regroup quickly ahead of an important clash with Redan at City Oval.

The outcome surely confirms any early concerns on the Burra’s form or silence the doubters for another week.

East Pont are at home to Melton South.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 38 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 11 rebound 50s

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 29 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Boys responded well (after the Round 1 loss) as we knew they would. We had 22 contributors who all executed their role. (It) was a very contested game against a quality opposition so to come away with the points was pleasing. The test will be for the young players to find consistency and play well again next week."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"A solid game, very even throughout the contest in the night conditions. (We) had some great patches where we were on top but just couldn't convert our ball to the scoreboard. East Point were able to convert and kicked away late which didn't reflect the overall game. Much better performance from the boys. Look forward to next week as we continue to build with the young group."

A four-point thriller at City Oval caught the eyes over the weekend, while a couple of contenders found themselves on the end of a percentage boost. Scoop reviews all the action from Round 4.

Competition benchmark Melton came from behind at half-time for the second successive week to remain unbeaten after a hard fought 20-point win over North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

Talented Bloods’ forward Liam Carter proved the difference with a game high four goals to arrest momentum away from the home side who led by 15 points at the main break.

So often in recent times have the Bloods asserted their authority in the third term of matches. In this instance it was North Ballarat who wore the brunt, conceding four unanswered goals as the Bloods took the lead and never looked back.

Kudos went to consistent Bloods midfielder Jack Walker and utility bigman Brett McIntyre, whose importance to the structural make-up of the side can be undersold.

Familiar North Ballarat ball winners Simon McCartin and Riley Polkinghorne featured prominently while progressive youngster Joshua Sparkman continues to answer the call across half back in his first genuine season at senior level.

With goals at a premium, Jamie Quick was North's only multiple goal scorer.

Coach Brendan McCartney remained upbeat in the aftermath despite the loss while Aaron Tymms was seemingly content to be in the winner’s circle, with an inkling the Bloods are travelling shy of their best despite an enviable 4-0 start to the season.

Marquee North Ballarat signing, Stewart Crameri, left the field with what appears to be an ongoing groin complaint placing him doubt for Saturday's game against East Point.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton):33 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions.

Adrian Monitto (Melton):28 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, 10 contested possessions.

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat): 39 disposals, 12 clearances, 11 inside 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat): "We did a lot right against a really good footy club. Our pressure and work rate put us in the game. Lots of learning from today and plenty to look forward to."

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "Another great response from the lads after half-time. Pleasing to grind out the win while not at our best. Credit to North, they didn't allow us to play our normal brand."

A nine-goal second term by a rampant Kangas outfit put this game to bed early, as Jackson Merrett's boys raced away to a 58-point lead at the main break.

Jordy Johnston (two goals) was named best afield ahead of brother Matthew, Bryce McDougall, Joel Van Meel, Jordy Taylor and young gun Alex Molan.

Ballarat, while disappointed, can draw some positives having outscored the Kangas in the second half as Chris Maple's young group continue with hard learnings on the job. Clearly, as reiterated by Maple post-match, the gap between the Swans’ best and worst is a red flag for concern and remains firmly on the agenda to minimise as the season progresses.

Swans’ sharpshooter Andrew Hooper finished with an equal game high four goals along with Kangas forward Brad Whittaker while experienced duo Marcus Powling and Keegan Mellington never gave up the fight.

It’s set to be a cracking fixture coming up for these two sides, as the Kangas and the Swans host North Ballarat and Sebastopol respectively.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 42 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 33 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Tom Mooney (Ballarat): 29 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 tackles  

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Chris Maple (Ballarat);"We outscored East for three quarters of the game. Unfortunately, our second quarter was really poor conceding nine goals. We need to reduce the difference between our best and worst (footy), a common trait of young teams."

Jackson Merrett (East Point);"It was really pleasing to see us take another step forward. Our ability to pressure the opposition provided us with some good opportunities going forward."

Pre-match favorites Redan survived an almighty scare from a spirited Bacchus Marsh to hold on and win by four points at City Oval.

The final siren couldn't come quick enough for Gary Learmonth's Lions as momentum swung entirely with the visitors. The Cobras were left lamenting missed opportunities in front of goal, in what was their best quarter for the season to date.

But the Cobras’ 4.6 return to the Lions' 0.3 wasn't enough to reel in the 31-point deficit at the final change.    

Lions’ youngster Marty Boyer starred with five goals showing off his forward craft and footy smarts in a true breakout game by definition. Encouragingly, Boyer was one of 12 players to feature in the game still eligible for Under 19 selection with Redan fielding four and Bacchus Marsh, eight.

Experienced Lions defensive duo Jacob Short and Nick Barker were a constant thorn in the Cobras’ efforts, and more often the beneficiaries of some poor Cobra entries inside 50.

For three quarters, Redan answered every challenge thrown at them, denying the Cobras back-to-back goals for the most part, maintaining an arm’s length advantage at every change in 'no excuse' conditions for football.

Lions’ quartet Will Madden, Lachie George, Isaac Grant and Pat Fitzgibbon were the best of the rest for the winners. The Cobras witnessed Jake Owen's best game for the new season while co-captain Jack Parente was staunch, playing above his years across half back. Jake McCreery was never far away from the action and kept the Cobras in it around stoppage while Ethan McKercher was lively at ground level.

The Cobras slick moving new recruit, Jake Long, made his highly anticipated debut in red, yellow and black colors and will be better for the run. The Collingwood VFL listed product showed glimpses of class which looms exciting for Cobra fans.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 31 disposals, 9 clearances, 6 tackles

Marty Bower (Redan): 17 disposals, 11 marks, 8 score involvements

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 67 hitouts, 16 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Gary Learmonth (Redan);"We were lucky to hold on in the end. Credit to the Marsh they fought the game out for four quarters. We showed some good signs in the main for the first three quarters but turnovers under little or no pressure allowed the Marsh to stay close."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh);"Another step in the right direction today. Unfortunately, we let ourselves down in the first half and Redan put us to the sword. While happy with the improvement, we're disappointed to leave a result out there."

Sunbury kicked its second consecutive score of 170 plus to outclass a young Lakers team on CE Brown Reserve at the weekend. It was essentially a share feast of possession for the Lions who went to work after half time to set up the 124-point win.

The Lions had 11 goalkickers, highlighting the 'share' nature of the performance. Forward pair Cody Brand (five goals) and Jake Sutton (three goals) led the charge while Corey Mobilio (three goals) took advantage of any crumb to hit the deck.

Usual suspects Harrison Minton-Connell, Tyson Lever, Mitch Lewis, Josh Guthrie featured amongst the better players yet again while youngster Jack Newitt and newcomer Josiah Garisto found some nice touch ahead of ‘bigger fish-to-fry’ opposition in the coming weeks.

The Lakers brought some measurable heat early but the longer the game went, the gulf between the two sides became more apparent.

Both sides will look forward to Round 5 for different reasons. A healthy Lions list will relish their opportunity to meet fellow finals aspirant Darley while the Lakers are on the road and would be buoyant about the chance to end an 18-game losing streak against winless Melton South.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 38 disposals, 12 tackles, 12 score involvements 

Jack Newitt (Sunbury): 32 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

Shuan Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 40 hit outs, 10 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree);"For a half we were quite competitive and it was Sunbury's class that had them ahead. We couldn't sustain the effort and they took full advantage. They're a good side!"

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury);"Lakers pressure was super for a half. We had a class advantage and scored heavily as the game opened up. Pleasing road trip."

Dangerous forward Toby Hutt booted 10 goals in the Burras’ demolition job over the struggling Panthers at Marty Busch Reserve.

While the match result for many was deemed inevitable heading in, the extent of the damage and separation on the scoreboard was unknown. But the Burra allayed any fears of not cashing in on a whopping percentage boost opportunity with a 10-goal opening term.

Accuracy on goal was a major plus for the Burra with 21.9 on the scoreboard at three quarter time.

Toby Hutt took field honours with his double figure haul while Bailey Medwell, Tony Lockyer and Riley O'Keefe continued their recent run of good form.

While there wasn't much to write about for the Panthers, coach Jason Hamilton credited the leadership of Cody Chapman, Jack Morrissey and youngster Jarrod Bibby under trying circumstances.

The Panthers have had a horror draw to start 2023 with Melton, East Point, Sunbury and Sebastopol. A meeting with Lake Wendouree in Round 5 should bring some relief despite the likelihood of facing a fifth straight loss.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol):10 goals, 13 marks, 28 disposals

Bailey Midwell (Sebastopol):34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 35 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol); "Solid hit-out. We had a couple of things we wanted to work on and executed them reasonably well. Pleased getting some continuity into players who have been out for long periods. Melton South had some good patches when they were able to get numbers around the contest." 

Jason Hamilton (Melton South);"Burras just way too good. They're a very organised team and skillful. Again, we played great for about 40 minutes, but the Burra had control over the rest of the game."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Stats unavailable

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES VERDICT

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

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

Big margin victories were the tale of the round with statement wins and form boosters enjoyed across the league on Saturday by a number of clubs.

The Cobras made it two wins from as many outings in Ballarat with a morale-boosting 72-point win over a disappointing Sebastopol.

After an even first half, the Cobras put together their most complete quarter of the season under new coach Dennis Armfield with seven unanswered goals to set up a match winning 48-point lead at the final change.

Just how the Cobras would go about finishing off their good work in foreign territory and a seemingly unassailable lead became the narrative for Armfield and his staff to implore.

And they weren't about to be let down. A young Cobras outfit full of momentum added a further 4.5 in the final term outscoring the Burra 2.3 to run out comfortable winners.

Isaac Nixon's best on ground performance yielded a game high four goals ahead of experienced campaigners Jake Owen and Armfield who each finished with three.

Usual suspects Jake McCreery and Luke Goetz featured prominently again while live wire Ethan McKercher continued to impress with his clean ball use and explosive pace.

Burra’s quintet Jed Hill, Ryan Noether, Sam Wilkinson, Tony Lockyer and Bailey Medwell were praised for their efforts in arguably the club’s worst loss of the season that nestles them in the bottom three on the back of four consecutive losses.

There seems no end in sight for the Burras run outs next week when they travel to Mars Stadium to front North Ballarat on the rebound. The Cobras will prepare for a fill-up at home against the winless Panthers.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 31 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 52 hit outs, 19 disposals, 10 score involvements

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"A competitive first half with the game in the balance at half time. (Our) third quarter was extremely poor, gave the ball away too easily and efforts to stop the Marsh were lackluster. (We) simply did not execute what we set out to do for each other. Credit to Dennis and the Marsh, they played some great team footy. Backs against the walls for us, but we won't give up. Still plenty of season to go."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Really positive four quarter performance built off pressure and effort. We came with a willingness to put our teammates first and a drive to compete. Sebastopol were really strong at uncontested marks in the first half, and we had to change the way we played to take this away and force (them to go) long."

League improvers Sunbury have firmed into potential flag conversation following an 81-point routing of North Ballarat at the Clarke Oval.

A very well organised Lions outfit under new coach Matt White stunned the crowd, even their most loyal and faithful, booting nine unanswered goals in the third term to extend a 22-point half time lead to 77 at the final change - game over.

Dangerous Lions’ forward combo Jake Sutton (five goals) and Mitch McLean (five goals) hit the scoreboard to share honours on the goal front, while promising young ruckman Fraser Ampulski was best afield ahead of a host of major contributors including Lachlan Urbon, Ben Eales and Mitch Lewis and McLean.

Popular young Lion Thomas Werner took his opportunity with both hands to feature in BOG discussions following a well-earned recall after a bout in the twos.

For North Ballarat, nothing really went right at all despite the consistent efforts of inform duo Isaac Carey and Joshua Sparkman, Nelson Troon, Riley Polkinghorne, Harry Loader and Hugh Trigg.

The Roosters chances were rendered slim at best ahead of the opening bounce in the absence of Jamie Quick, Mal White, Liam Deering, Tom Bromley-Lynch, Jarrod Curran and Stewart Crameri.

Credit to North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney for making little excuse in the aftermath for a less than ideal preparation.

Matthew White's Lions remain unbeaten with a healthy list and have another opportunity to frank their current form when they host Darley (4-1) who remain shy of a four quarter best performance since their season opener against East Point. Should be a belter.

North Ballarat are at home to struggling Sebastopol.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 23 disposals, 13 score involvements, 10 marks

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really good four quarter performance. A midfield battle that we were able to get clear from in the second half and capitilise on."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Tough day for us today. Sunbury were very good in all areas of the game and were way too good. They showed us their class and competitiveness as a club. We didn't have our best week of preparation. Good learnings (for us) as a club and we move on."

The powerful Bloods, under new coach Troy Scoble, flexed their muscles in the second and fourth quarters posting 11.5 to the Swans’ 1.1, validating a 70-point separation on the scoreboard at the final siren.

It was the second footy audit in as many weeks for Chris Maple's young Swans who fell 64 points of Darley in Round 4. Their bye in Round 6 rings timely.

Despite the Bloods’ humble 'work in progress' narrative, most would agree they are early flag favorites on exposed form.

They're very strong in all areas and blessed with depth, not dissimilar to Sunbury, with as many as 30 players on the list who could fill a role if/when required.

Versatile X-factor forward and Bloods’ captain Braedan Kight featured with another starring role finishing with seven goals to move five clear in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal. Kight has 25 goals to date from just four games. 

Jaycob Hickey, Jordyn Cotter, Lachlan Phillips, Billy Sullivan and Bailey Mawson earned support role nominations behind Kight to be named among the best players.

For the visitors, it was no surprise to see their top end talent brigade provide the greatest resistance.

Rhett Montgomery was named best once again for the Swans ahead of Lauchie Dalgleish, Marcus Powling and Callan Wellings. Youngsters Zach Maple and Rhys Perry also did enough to earn their name in print.

Melton faces East Point at MacPhersons Park on Saturday who head into the game with big wins over bottom three sides Sebastopol, Melton South and Lake Wendouree.

Will the confidence gained by the Kangas’ hattrick of wins prove enough to override their questionable form line and challenge the Bloods?

We shall see.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomerie (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 13 contested possessions

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 31 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Terrific contest, no side could get away from the other in the first 30 minutes. (The) contest was even and both defences strong. We were able to capitilise on turnover in the second quarter to gain some separation on the scoreboard. We were happy with our planning going into the game against a really talented team. (The) scoreboard did not reflect the competitiveness of the game. When you play top teams, you have to play well and we feel we will learn a lot from the game ahead of the challenge next week against form team East Point. We enjoy playing in the big games each week." 

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"We were really competitive for the majority of the game. Our second quarter let us down when we lost control in the contested side of the game and turnovers really hurt us. (Our) goalkicking was poor throughout the game. Credit to Melton, a big strong side who will be there come September." 

An eight-goal blitz from the Devils in the opening term gave visiting Redan little to no hope repeating an upset result at Darley Park.

The Lions have proven the Devils’ 'bogie side' in recent times having won four of their previous five meetings but this game was all over at quarter time.

The Devils were at their best for a 24-minute period post the six-minute mark led by Harley Inglis (three goals), Brady Wright (two goals) and dominant midfield trio Brett Bewley, Luther Baker and Matt Denham.

The Lions showed some resistance in the second term to win the quarter before the Devils steadied after the main break to extend the lead to 66 points at the final siren.

Billy Myers booted five second half goals to finish with six ahead of Inglis who continued his solid start to the season with a bag of five.

Brett Bewley (three goals), Baker and Denham were the stars of the show despite the Myers, Inglis influence on goal.

Defenders Zane Lehuray and Matthew Brett were sound shutting down Marty Boyer (0 goals) and Grant Bell (two goals).

Lions next gen quartet Rory Gunsser, Zac Mortlock, Kye Jess and Riley Collins continue to show promise while Billy Douglas (ruck) and Lachie George toiled manfully around stoppage despite the unenviable task denying a rampant Devils midfield.

The Devils extend their winning streak at home to 11, usurping their previous average winning margin (62 points) for the period.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 50 disposals, 19 score involvements, 17 clearances

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 33 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 marks

Billy Myers (Darley) - 21 disposals, 14 score involvements, 15 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Solid performance, happy with the result. Again, we saw glimpses of our best but credit to Redan who kept coming at us. Still plenty more to work on as we continue to build into the season."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"We were caught out early by an organised and experienced outfit. For the middle part of the game, we gave good effort but turned the ball over far too often. Lots to learn from the opportunity to play against Bewley and Co."

Joe Carmody's Kangaroos have slung themselves into fourth on the McDonald’s BFNL table with a resounding 65-point win on the road over the winless Lakers.

Despite winning all four quarters the Kangas were made to work their way back in front early before building on their advantage at every change.

Kangas’ duo Bryson McDougall and young gun Strahan Robinson shared game high returns in front of goal alongside Lakers talent Bailey Thompson, each of whom finished the day with four majors.

But it was the sheer overall dominance of the Kangas list that proved too much for the Lakers over the journey.

A four-point quarter time lead was raised incrementally at the breaks as the difference between the two sides was validated by the gulf in scoring shots - some 20 more registered by the winners.

Experienced Kangas’ Jordan Taylor (best), Joel Van Meel, Matthew Johnston (one goal), McDougall and Billy Jones provided most of the damage while progressive youngster and 2023 BFNL Interleague rep Liam Canny (one goal) did enough to be among Henderson Medal vote contention.

The two halves on the score front were essentially a copy paste version of one another as the Kangas near mirrored their advantage in each - 33 points at the main break, 65 at the final siren.

Lakers’ utility Bailey Thompson's four goals were a shining light in the Lakers loss as Joel O'Connell, Kye Anderson, Angus Gove and Tom Zampatti maintained their run of consistent form over recent weeks to feature in the best players. 

If there's any consolation for Rohan Brown's Lakers, they were on the end of the lowest losing margin out of a weekend of big results.

The Lakers are away to Redan at City Oval in Round 6 while the Kangas get their round six update on the road against yardstick Melton.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 33 disposals, 18 score involvements, 17 contested possessions

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 36 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Rinse and repeat for us today. Some of our footy was great, especially in the first quarter. It felt like the game was on our terms early. (Throughout the) middle quarters they took full advantage of our mistakes as our system fell down a bit. Small steps forward once again which is better than going back a couple. Hopefully we get a few players back next week."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(We) played in patches today. All credit to Lakers who really had a crack all day. We dominated forward 50 entries so eventually that translated to scoreboard pressure and the win."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tough match ups await these two sides in Round 7.

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

Scoop has all the updates from Saturday's action.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Show some fight or roll over.

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looking forward to that one! 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop reviews all the action from last round.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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