Round 1 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Round One stands alone as arguably the most anticipated weekend of the home and away season to rival the hype similar to a final.

The upside, the point of difference for all clubs is a clean slate, the chance of a new beginning. Improvement, consolidation, redemption are variables often sort after by clubs heading in, but given the unprecedented footy landscaspe of recent times, let me quote dual BFNL Premiership East Point Coach Jake Bridges who laconically parted with these words of wisdom above any KPI predictions - "How good is it - footy's back, we should be grateful just to be playing."

He's right - I get that, we're all rapt. But now it's game on. Good luck to your team and be sure to enjoy your local footy...we're on our way'.

This match is arguably the most intriguing of round one. While there's been plenty of hype around the projected improvement of Ballarat in 'the off', they must overcome a few damning stats if they're to get the job done. For one, the Swans have just the one win from their last nine in the 'East'. Two - despite three wins (all at home) over the Cobras in their last five meetings, the two losses (away) have been convincing to say the least, both 106 points. And three - Bacchus Marsh are a different proposition at home. Despite finishing outside the top six in their last two seasons, nine of the Cobras last 11 wins have come on Maddingley Park.

Swans Coach Joe Carmody will be hoping for a repeat of round one last season when his young team ran the Cobras off their legs, exposing them on the spread to win by 26 points. Weather permitting, 12 or 13 goals should be enough to win this game and both have the arsenal forward to get it done. How former AFL star Josh Gibson can marshall the troops will play a crucial role containing familiar Cobras duo Jake Owen and Aaron Willetts. On the flipside, 300 gamer Daniel Veldon is the firming favorite for the match up on dangerous Swans forward Andrew Hooper. Ezpect Swans newcomer Aiden Domic to join Sam James, Daniel Kennedy and Marcus Powling in the midfield to test a proven Cobras combo led by Daniel Burton, Nick Stuhldrier and Tom German who finished 1,2,3 in the clubs 2021 B&F.

Wide smiles for a job well done awaits the winner and the comforts that come with a 1-0 start of a new season. Contemplation and a scratch of the head will be all that's left for the losers to consume from a game both clubs thought they could win.

The Melton Derby returns to it's usual round one slot as the Panthers aim to upset their more fancied rival in front of a bumper home crowd. While the Bloods have featured prominently at the business end in more recent times, it will account for little today as Pritchards Panthers chase their first Derby win since 2017.

Last years season opener was a fiercely contested affair before Aaron Tymms' Bloods kicked away to win comfortably. In fairness to the Panthers they did lose two players (injury) in the opening minutes and finished without anyone on the bench. Today provides Pritchard's men with another shot at bragging rights. Let's not forget the Panthers beat all bar Melton in the 'East' last season, so don't expect Tymms miss the brief getting it done. The Bloods are very even across the ground, 'bat deep', and are recognised by rival coaches as one of the more organised teams going around. Expect Jack Walker, the Carter brothers, X factor forward Braeden Kight and a returning Mark Orr to play a huge hand in the Bloods chances, while the progression of Bailey Mawson and Jacob Hickey is exciting for the club.

Panthers leading forward Dylan Conway is a star, often takes the number 1,2 and sometimes third defender - all at once! While substantial gain in the ruck is likely for the Panthers with the arrival of Dylan Jones, look for the younger brigade (Jake Thornton-Gielen, Riley Theo, Cody Chapman, Mitch Fino etc) to start impacting games. Until then, Conway remains the obvious threat if there's to be any changing of the guard.

Sunbury will head to Mars Stadium minus a handful of players off their best 22 today to take on MaCartney's Minor Premiers of 2021. While the Lions are expected to contend again this year, I see today as a 'throw at the stumps' game for Coach Travis Hodgson and his Pride.

City again have had a solid preparation - surely their appetite for winning a 'full season' flag is primed as MaCartney tries to keep a lid on things. Expect City to start well and extend their run of first quarter wins to 11 (last year 10-0), setting up the perfect start of the new season. Sunbury will go hard early, Hodgson will be well aware of City's early dominance and will stress the importance of being in the game at the first break. Easier said than done. City train as they play and are fortunate to be a part of the MaCartney model.

If Josh Chatfield (Footscray VFL), Riley Polkinghorne (Geelong VFL) and Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL) are available for City, Sunbury's slim chances of victory will diminish even further. I'm tipping City on 'spec' to remain the yardstick of the competition and ask of Sunbury fans to be patient - you won't truly hit your straps until May.

Mounting a case for Darley to record their first win for Premiership points in 959 days was a much tougher ask a month ago. The 'Burra, desperate to feature at the business end as they did in 2019 will be hopeful of a correction on their recent pre season form.

At home, the 'Burra were beaten soundly by classy GFL outfit St Joeys (12 goals) and Ballarat (10 goals). Today looms the perfect opportunity to kickstart their season off on the right foot and employ lessons learned. The 'Burra should be hard to beat on any deck this year, let alone at home and will be keen to put this game to bed early. But their visitors today, Darley will have plans of their own.

Looking forward to seeing the adjustment of former Fremantle Docker Brett Bewley and Williamstown key forward NIck Rodda back to the level. New Devils Coach Dan Jordan said there were no guarantees on performance of any player returning from an elite program. But it's not a bad start! Reigning Henderson medalist Lachie Cassidy and returning Greater Western Rebel talent Jack Banbury will cause the Devils a few headaches of their own and loom the beneficiaries at ground level of a clear size advantage in the ruck. 'Burras fearless leader Tony Lockyer (hand) is unlikely to play.

Good Friday marks the stand alone meeting between Lake Wendouree and Redan. Very little separates these two heading in, a judgement made not solely on pre season form. The last four meetings are split 2-2 and finding a winner from the outside is purely on spec.

Both sides enjoyed encouraging performances in the lead up against quality opposition - South Warrnambool (Lakers lost by 3-4 goals) and South Bendigo (Redan won by 10 goals). The Lakers didnt do themselves any favours kicking 11 straight behinds before registering a major. On that note, the Lakers have had their struggles in the forward half lacking a genuine aerial target. Recent history suggests the Lakers are not short on inside 50 entries so it will be up to new coach Jack Fitzpatrick and his support crew to resolve change. The Lakers did beat Minor Premiers North Ballarat City last year, and were the only team to do so but they were loaded with (become) AFL draftees, a future star ruckman, the Lohmann brothers and fearless leader Ashley Simpson. All have since left the club bar Simpson (inj) who is almost certain to miss.

If Nick Rippon plays and teams up with the return of Scotty Carlin, the Lakers have to be some hope on their home deck but weight of expectation is with Redan. Lions coach Jarrett Giampaolo has spoken of the positive vibe around the club following an injection of youth over the Summer. While the Lions lost a wealth of experience, the reinforcements are said to be exciting, quick and prepared to take the game on. That may well be enough.

Scoop' Reviews Round 1

Round One proved to be a big weekend of footy and Scoop has all the insights into the season opener of the BFNL Senior competition.

Bacchus Marsh led at every change to hold off a wasteful Ballarat to win a thriller by two points at Maddingley Park. Cobras playing coach Tom German was prolific winning his own ball and squaring away a number of stoppages against a Swans midfield who struggled to get the game on their terms.

Jake Owen was the dominant forward of the afternoon proving a thorn in the Swans side with his exceptional work rate, contested marking and kicking for goal. Newcomers Jason Robinson and Jack Williams impressed for the winners across half back and rarely missed a target on the rebound, unlike their highly touted opponents who struggled to execute in the breezy conditions.

The Swans were left to ponder could’ve, would’ve, should’ve easy goals and hit-up targets that were squandered, for the most part. Nic Weightman had midfield numbers out of defence and tried his heart out, while Andrew Hooper looked dangerous forward. Swans boom midfield recruit Aiden Domic is a beast and will be better for the run. The Swans kept coming but have only themselves to blame for coming up short. Full credit to the Cobras, they're a different egg at home. Of their last twelve wins, ten have been on Maddingley Park.

Darley has ended a 959-day winning drought for BFNL Premiership points with a morale-boosting six-point win on the road against finals fancy Sebastopol.

While the number was an exaggerated representation of what was essentially a 12-game losing streak dating back to August 2019, new Devils coach Dan Jordan conceded his boys needed to ‘learn how to win again’, and that they did.

The Devils kicked with the aid of a four-goal breeze in the opening term to lead by 30, keeping the 'Burra scoreless in the process to have them on the back foot from the outset. The 'Burras have been carrying the tag of 'favourites’ but that was compromised this round with the late omission of reigning Henderson Medallist Lachie Cassidy (hamstring) and the first half exit of Luke Kiel.

For the winners, Joel Cadman and Brett Bewley booted two goals each, while younger brigade Mace Cousins and Jack Bewley featured in the best players along with usual suspects Shane Page and Luther Baker.

For the 'Burra, Hugo Papst was their most consistent contributor across the ground. Opportunistic forward Michael Powell finished with a game high four goals.

Melton retain the bragging rights for another day after a resounding 80-point win over cross-town rival Melton South. The Bloods won every quarter to post the highest score of the round so far, leaving coach Aaron Tymms nothing short of satisfied with their efforts on Saturday night. Utility Ryan Carter (5 goals, 7 behinds) posed the greatest threat forward, while Lachlan Phillips did the job in defence keeping star Panther Dylan Conway to one goal.

There was plenty to like about the Bloods’ work on the spread, Blake Souter especially was lauded in the post-match as 'best on' in the eyes of many.

The Panthers lost key mid Shaun Wyatt (knee) early and offered their greatest resistance from the 10-minute mark of the third until the 20-minute mark of the final term, but either side of that it was essentially a demolition job.

The return of Mark Orr gives the Bloods plenty of upside, while experienced campaigner Brett McIntyre performed admirably in the ruck to provide Tymms with added flexibility options moving forward.

Despite leading at quarter time and outscoring the Minor Premiers in the third term six goals to three behinds, Sunbury were unable to contain a very dangerous North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

The theory around Sunbury throwing everything at Brendan McCartney's men in the opening stanza came to fruition when they kicked to the scoreboard end with the aid of a four goal wind, ending North Ballarat's 10-0 run of first quarter wins. But an eight-point lead just wasn't enough. In fact, only three goals of the 23 kicked for the game were recorded against the breeze.

Jamie Quick (four goals) and Thomas Hotchin's (three goals) returns around goal were matched by the Lions’ Leigh Brennan and midfielder Daniel Toman.

North Ballarat Captain Simon McCartin was a standout for the winners while a notable 'footy smart' Jack Riding continues to thrive.

For Sunbury, there were encouraging signs despite inferior shots on goal (15 to 28) and a 28-point margin at the final siren.

On paper, the Lions look far from the finished product but the scary thought for contemplation as we exit week one in review, neither is North Ballarat!

Last time they met - (Round 7, 2021): Redan 89 defeated Lake Wendouree 49

Good Friday marks the stand alone meeting between Lake Wendouree and Redan. Very little separates these two heading in, a judgement made not solely on pre-season form.

The last four meetings are split 2-2 and finding a winner from the outside is purely on spec. Both sides enjoyed encouraging performances in the lead up against quality opposition - South Warrnambool (Lakers lost by 3-4 goals) and South Bendigo (Redan won by 10 goals). The Lakers didn’t do themselves any favours kicking 11 straight behinds before registering a major. On that note, the Lakers have had their struggles in the forward half lacking a genuine aerial target.

Recent history suggests the Lakers are not short on inside 50 entries so it will be up to new coach Jack Fitzpatrick and his support crew to resolve change. The Lakers did beat Minor Premiers North Ballarat City last year and were the only team to do so, but they were loaded with to-become AFL draftees, a future star ruckman, the Lohmann brothers and fearless leader Ashley Simpson. All have since left the club bar Simpson (inj) who is almost certain to miss.

If Nick Rippon plays and teams up with the return of Scotty Carlin, the Lakers have to be some hope on their home deck, but weight of expectation is with Redan.

Lions coach Jarrett Giampaolo has spoken of the positive vibe around the club following an injection of youth over the summer. While the Lions have lost a wealth of experience, the reinforcements are said to be exciting, quick and prepared to take the game on. That may well be enough.

Scoop previews Round Ten

Ballarat (sixth, played nine – won four and lost five)finds themselves in week two of a season-defining block of six when they meet Sebastopol (fifth, played eight – won four and lost four). Why Ballarat?

Well, between round nine and fourteen the Swans draw reads like this – round nine - Melton (away) loss, round 10 - Sebastopol (away), round 11 - bye (no points), round 12 - Melton South (away), round 13 - BYE (no points) and round 14 - East Point (away) - essentially four away games, split with two non-rewarding byes. The Swans hierarchy would be reasonably pleased with their effort in Melton last week, but honourable losses in an even season are not enough, according to coach Joe Carmody.

And this Saturday looms as good as chance as any for the Swans to steal the points as doubts creep into the 'Burras camp about their standing amid a logjam of teams fighting for a finals spot. Unfortunately for Michael Searl's Sebastopol, injuries have not been kind to them, and expect (ahead of selection) a handful will miss again. While there was ample coverage on who missed for the Cobras last week in their win over the 'Burra, it must be said the 'Burras were Tony Lockyer, Luke Kiel, Michael Powell, Chase Dummett, Jack Bambury, James Richards, Jack McNab, and Jai Harvey shy of fielding arguably their best 22.     

While injury plays a role every year and varies the fortunes and expectations of many teams in the process, it is often the group that can park their misgivings with belief intact, that gets the job done.

Saturday's result will be a true reflection of that.

Melton (second, played eight – won six and lost two)take on the potentially under-rated Lake Wendouree (eighth, played eight – won four and lost four)in what looms as another grinding day at the office for both teams.

While the Bloods may have the edge on the Lakers on the 'star front', there is no disputing the evenness of the visitor’s line-up, they are more than capable of causing an upset on any given day. Take round three for example, far from overwhelmed, the underdog Lakers took it to North Ballarat City to inflict their one and only loss of 2021. Furthermore, the Lakers team includes four Greater Western Victoria Rebels (GWV Rebels) who were available to complete the mission. Ironically, the GWV Rebels have this weekend off, whether they will be selected looms as another turn in an intriguing game from the outside.

The Lakers defence led by Brendan Helyar and Josh Bibby will have huge roles come gameday, containing the Carter brothers (Ryan and Liam). Also, just who the Lakers send to pocket dynamos Braeden Kight and Kevin Klixx is another unenviable task for coach Dale Power and his men to overcome. If there is to be an upset on Saturday, expect a defensive grind from the Lakers. They will have denied the Bloods forwards if they are to finish ahead of the ledger. Power will take a spread of goalkickers, whatever it takes to get the unlikely job done.

While there's been plenty to like about the competitive revival of Melton South (10th, played eight – won three and lost five) in 2021, the prospect of East Point (fourth, played eight – won four and lost four)today is a worry. Despite winning three games and finishing just one point shy of fourth, the Panthers have problems conceding too many goals in quick time. To put in perspective, Melton South has averaged 98-points against per game, three more than the winless Darley. And 'it's really three of their last four games that highlights my concern. The Darley game aside (round seven), each of Lake Wendouree (round six - 16.16), Ballarat (round eight - 19.13), and North Ballarat City (round nine - 20.12) recorded heavy 'shot on goal' numbers - 32 each if you do not mind (competition average 21-shots on goal per game). Of the 55-goals conceded, 35 have come in the second half!  A leaky back half, that often begins with an ailing midfield won't cut it today against reigning dual Premiers East Point ranks #2 for offence, with only ladder leaders North Ballarat City ahead of them.

We have seen the Panthers take it up to most sides, especially in the first half, and getting the Kangas who look to be building to something resembling more like their best 22 will be a huge test. Little wins leading in for Melton South today, namely the availability of key stars (both sides) for one and a BFNL (0-8) run off the bye for the visiting Kangas to deal with, does give them a glimmer of hope.

Unpredictable Redan (seventh, played eight – won four and lost four)must beat Darley (11th, played eight, won zero and lost eight)today with some degree of conviction if they are to stake their claim for a finals berth in 2021. The Lions sit just outside 'six' on percentage at the moment, but the 14% disparity reads as good as another game. Win, and win well, has to be Jarrett Giampaolo's mission today, anything less is a failure. Why? Well, outside a repeat meeting with the Devils at Darley Park (round 12), Redan are also 'away' to East Point (round 11) and North Ballarat City (round 14) raising questions around likely Premiership points and percentage. The Lions, of course, get nothing from their bye in round 13. So 'the dig in' journey for Redan begins today - even Darley has shown they can match it with teams in patches having been within nine-points of their opponents at half-time on four occasions (Melton, Ballarat, Sebastopol, and Lakers).

The Devils will use today as another opportunity to secure their first win of the season and potentially upset the Lions in the process. Also, getting more games into the younger brigade has been the order of the season for the winless Darley as they inevitably draw one week closer to getting it right. Containing Lions midfield heavyweights Lachie George and Daniel Bond and the work rate and influence of Cooper Craig-Peters will go a long way towards denying their forwards an opportunity to hit the scoreboard. However, it is easier said than done.   

Expect a low-scoring affair today as the winter chill sets in when Sunbury (ninth, played eight – won three and lost five)meets Bacchus Marsh (third, played eight – won five and lost three).

These two sides rank in the bottom three for points scored, while defensively both rate in the top-five with a slight leaning to Bacchus Marsh. The Cobras will welcome back a few today who missed last week’s six-point win over Sebastopol including key forward targets Jake and Jayden Owen. Tipping Sunbury's line-up on a whim ahead of selection is near impossible in what shapes as a mini final for them. It has been a frustrating year to date for the Lions, unable to field its best side on paper due to availability, injury, and covid (travel) restrictions. What would surprise many in such an even competition is that Sunbury has not featured in the 'six' since round two. The next five weeks will define their season, albeit their finals chances anyway, with four home games and a bye to negotiate.

After two close wins at home, the Cobras cannot afford to rest on their laurels either with no guarantees of securing any premiership points in their next five weeks with Sunbury (away), Melton (home), North Ballarat City (home), the bye and Lakers (away). I am not sure these two sides have looked that far ahead and fair enough, because it really is all about today, especially for Sunbury they remain a game and a considerable percentage (20%) shy of sixth. The Cobras have been terrific inside the contest for the most part of 2021, it's whether the Lions can match them first, and reap rewards on the spread.

Spoiler alert! Sunbury has averaged just 54-points per game since round one, which is a worry.

North Ballarat - Bye

Scoop' Reviews Round 10

Darley was the only team to win at home in Round Ten of the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s. After a scare, at the top of the table, Melton and East Point steadied to claim the points, while the Cobras joined three other teams on five wins after downing Sebastopol. North Ballarat resembled more of their best with a commanding win over Melton South.

The Devils recorded their first four-quarter win of the season with a comprehensive 106-point demolition job over the Lakers.

Spearhead forward Nick Rodda finished with nine goals to move on top of the League goalkicking table. Dan Jordan could have named as many as 15 young Devils players in the best before settling on Joel Cadman, Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt, Jack Bewley, Mitch Ward and, of course, Rodda. A 34-point quarter-time lead for the Devils became 64 at the half and 93 at the final change before 106 at the game’s end.

For the Lakers, there was some resistance from Geelong VFL-listed player Scott Carlin and experienced campaigner Nathan Pring, but the day in essence was all about the Black and White and a much-needed percentage boost that may well play a part come to the business end of the season.

Darley meets North Ballarat on Saturday as both sides aim for a second win against top-six opposition - the two teams are currently locked together on five wins, separated by a mere 0.1%. The Lakers will need to show more on the road when they meet Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

What the coaches said…

JORDAN (DARLEY):Our boys responded well around the contest. We had a good spread of contributors today.

FITZPATRICK (LAKERS):The way Darley used the ball was as good as any side we've played this year. Unfortunately, we couldn't put enough pressure on them, and they were able to cut through us like a hot knife through butter.

North Ballarat kicked 16 goals to three after quarter-time, earning the plaudits of both coaches on their way to an 83-point win on the road. The Panthers led at the first break but were no match for the intensity and pressure of the 2021 Minor Premiers.

Dangerous North Ballarat mobile forward Jack Riding was on fire booting six goals to claim best on-ground honours ahead of Collingwood VFL listed utility Sam Glover. The experienced 'big and small' duo of Cam McCallum and Tim Spiers made significant contributions for the winners alongside the Loader boys, Harry and Fletcher. While it's back to the drawing board for Heath Pritchard’s Panthers, Brendan McCartney's boys looked primed for a Match of the Round meeting with Darley at Mars Stadium.

Pritchard must be scratching his head, frustrated with his club's 0-6 home record heading into their bye in Round 11. One positive to be drawn for the losing side is the run of good form from trio John Kovarik, and youngsters Jarrod Bibby and Riley Theo. Panthers captain Shaun Wyatt and progressive type Mitch Fino were sound on an otherwise disappointing day for the navy blue and white.   

What the coaches said…

PRITCHARD (MELTON SOUTH):They beat us at the contest. We pride ourselves on our pressure and work rate and today North Ballarat looked back to their best.

McCARTNEY (NORTH BALLARAT):Team effort against really good opposition. Our pressure game was back and they played for each other. A good day’s work.

The travelling Cobras kept finals aspirants Sebastopol to just six goals on their way to a morale-boosting 22-point win. The Cobras led at every change, joining three other teams on five wins to keep their Top Six chances alive. Once again Cobras captain Jake Owen played the role of General down back in the absence of key defenders Jack Williams and Jason Robinson. In-form Cobras duo Ryley Stuhldrier and newcomer Sam Crea made it back-to-back solid performances to feature among the better players while small forward Tyler Huynh (three goals) pinched his second haul of multiple goals this year.

At the final change and against the breeze, questions would be asked of the Cobras' defence and their ability to hold out a 12-point advantage. The Cobras passed the test with flying colours, aided by the first use of the ball thanks to Daniel Burton in the ruck. Tyson Shea was prominent in game 251 - conditions suiting the in and under veteran down to the ground.

For the losing side, Jack Bambury, Tony Lockyer and Hugo Papst gave their all but a disappointing six-goal return was never going to be enough.

The 'Burra face an ejection from the Top Six when they meet undefeated Melton on Saturday. Seventh-placed Bacchus Marsh can move as high as fifth if they can get a win over Lake Wendouree on home soil. The Lakers have lost their last eight games on the trot.

What the coaches said…

SEARL (SEBASTOPOL): They were cleaner and brought a high level of intensity in the first quarter. We arm-wrestled the game back in our favour through the middle stages but were outworked again in the last. We have to regroup and go again.

GERMAN (BACCHUS MARSH):We moved the ball really well at times and structured up well, which forced errors on their behalf. Our defence held up well in the last quarter against the wind.

In the end, it was the six goals to one scored in the third term by the undefeated Bloods that was enough to warrant a ten-point margin at the final siren.

The plucky Lions were more than competitive for the most part, and coach Jarrett Giampaolo cited the third-quarter collapse as potentially the difference between a win or a loss. Whilst buoyed by the effort, a disappointed Giampaolo said the players are done with ‘honourable losses’.

Redan led the flag favourites by six points at the main break but couldn't maintain their 'better for longer' intensity of play. Bloods coach Aaron Tymms dismissed any suggestion his boys were laboured by the 21-day break. For the winners, Jacob Hickey (three goals), Blake Souter, Harrison Hanley (three goals) and Lachlan Walker were named best, while the Carter brothers Ryan and Liam were held to two goals apiece.

Seasoned Lions Lachie George, Daniel Bond and Liam Hoy featured among the better players in a losing side while goal shark Isaac Grant and experienced forward Grant Bell finished with two goals. The Lions face another footy audit on Saturday when they meet East Point at Eastern Oval. 

What the coaches said…

GIAMAPAOLO (REDAN):A valiant effort, but at some point, we need to turn those into wins. I was really proud of the effort and endeavour for the most part, but we just lost composure for five-minute patches, especially in the third quarter against the breeze. You can't let a good side like Melton dictate the game like that. Our young group will take plenty out of it but they're hungry for a win, not just close losses.

TYMMS (MELTON):We certainly didn't play our best football but full credit to Redan, they were very good. They brought the heat and used the ball really well. I liked their game.

Second-placed East Point managed to overcome a spirited Sunbury with a come-from-behind 13-point win at the weekend.

The Lions led at every change but couldn't hold on when it mattered most - the final siren. Coach Travis Hodgson had his boys ready to play early as they opened up a 29-point quarter-time lead. Essendon VFL listed Lions forward Jake Sutton starred with eight goals and very nearly landed the upset of the round.

At the other end, Kangas leading goalkicker Jordy Johnston had his first human day on the footy field for some weeks, held to one goal and four behinds by Willy Wright with aerial support from Tyson Lever. Despite the loss, it was just the second time the Lions have finished with more than 68 points for the year.

So, who led the charge for the reigning dual Premiers as they march back from obscurity? Try the highly talented midfield trio of Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Matty Johnston and Jackson Merrett, alongside returning duo Dallas Martin and Aiden Nestor. Bryson McDougall (three goals) and Jack Jeffrey (two goals) hit the scoreboard. Sunbury will be hoping for a similar start against Ballarat on Saturday who return off the bye. 

What the coaches said…

HODGSON (SUNBURY):A pretty good performance. Unfortunately, our inability to capitalise on a good half-time lead means we go home without the 4 points again. Was pleasing that we were able to respond from our worst performance [in Round Nine] with our best [in Round Ten].

BRIDGES (EAST POINT):We stayed in the game for long enough, went to work and executed when we needed to... a great response after half-time.

Scoop reviews Round Ten 

(Studio announcer): "Ladies and gentlemen it's the 'Ottavi' Show with your host... Joel Ottavi!"

Well, that's how the script would have opened if we knew East Point (26.10-166) star forward Joel Ottavi was about to kick 17 goals off his own boot to trounce Melton South (13.4-82) at Melton Recreation Reserve on the weekend.  Not since 1999 when Darley's David Barnes booted 19 against Daylesford or the mid-2000s of East Point's Dan Jordan have, we been privileged to goal returns in the high teens.

According to Kangas coach Jake Bridges, Ottavi's achievement was just reward for hard work over the last few months.

"(Joel) marked well and kicked straight on the back of a lot of unselfishness from his teammates who helped create the space with their run."

Ottavi played ruck-forward for the first half and traditional full-forward in the second.

Matty Johnston continued his stellar season with Mickitja Rottumah-Onus to be named in the best for the winners while Panther’s spearhead Dylan Conway finished with four goals. Shaun Wyatt returned to the side to join Isaac Conway and Jake Thornton-Gielen (five goals) in the best for the home side, but the day belonged to the Kangas and in particular their number 32.

The reigning dual Premiers led at every change to dismantle the Panthers including 14-second half goals in a refreshing display of accurate goalkicking from both sides - 39.14 collectively.

Frustrated Sunbury (11.10-76) coach Travis Hodgson and his men made it three wins from their last four matches, downing Bacchus Marsh (9.9-63) by 13-points at the Clarke Oval on Saturday.

Hodgson's pride has suffered the brunt of an unsettling 2021 more so than most with unavailability, re: location, travel restrictions, VFL/AFL selection, and of course injury. Even Saturday's must-win game against the Cobras was not without its inconvenience. Latest edition Jake Sutton was 'pinched' by Essendon VFL on Friday at short notice while Josh Guthrie continues to make up the numbers for the Sydney Swans VFL given their entire list are unable to travel due to the current lockdown situation in NSW. Even ruckman David Kovasevic is a week-to-week proposition while reigning Henderson Medallist Alik Magin remains stuck on the Gold Coast preparing for a belated return.

But there's no discounting the effort of the existing crop who were able to get the job done on Saturday, kicking six goals to three after half-time to secure the points. The Lion's message heading in was clear, their execution precise. Avoiding the Cobras spine, namely Daniel Burton, Jake Owen, and Ryan Bartlett held the key. As a result, the Lions were able to exploit the Cobras on the spread, kicking their third-highest score of the season. The Cobras task to convert a five-point lead at half-time was made difficult losing Tom German (groin), Billy Griffiths (hamstring), Kane White (hamstring), and Ryan Bartlett (head knock) leaving an empty bench for the entire last quarter and a bit. Sunbury's Wade Derkson (ankle) and Mick Edwards (concussion) will miss their round 11 meeting against the Lakers.

Redan (9.18-72) did enough to secure the points against a youthful Darley (7.13-55) at City Oval.

The Lion's win sees them return to the top six at the expense of Sebastopol, but how long that will last is another question. Redan could argue that missed opportunity in front of goal flattered the Devils and the final margin. Lachie George (2.5) played the entire game deep forward and provided a dangerous target with Tom Lamb (1.6) but were serial offenders in the make-up of the Lion's miserly 1.9 return in the second half. Given the nature of such inaccuracy, there were moments for the winless Devils to reel in the 23-point deficit, but they had their own case of the 'yips' (2.9 second half). Four set shots early in the last quarter, directly in front, no further than 40 metres out resulted in behinds to let the Lions off the hook. Those misses and a spread of clangers worthy of an earlier time slot over the journey had its consequences - a ninth straight loss.

Redan's Cooper Craig-Peters, Daniel Bond, Pat Fitzgibbon, and Cooper Atchison had the most influence on the game between the arcs while Devils defensive trio Matthew Brett, Darren Leonard, and Shane Page were enormous under pressure, leading an otherwise inexperienced back half. It does not get any easier for these two teams on Saturday when the Lions are away to East Point and the Devils host ladder leaders North Ballarat City.  

Ballarat (13.7-85) moved to fourth on the BFNL table ahead of their bye in round 11 with a confidence-building 18-point win over Sebastopol (9.13-67).

The first quarter essentially decided the game as the Swans got off to a flyer with a seven-goal to two burst to stun the 'Burras faithful at Marty Busch Reserve.

Dynamic forward Andrew Hooper booted two of his six goals in the opening term to help set up the first-quarter advantage. The siren to end the opening stanza could not have come quick enough for 'Burras coach Mick Searl desperate for a reset. Credit to the 'Burras, their response ahead of half time was immediate with a six-goal to three-term to reduce the margin to 23-points. While Sebastopol did go onto win the second half - 3.10 to 3.5, the goals had disappeared, and the damage was already done. 

The Swans spread of impact players continues to grow - it was Grant Baldwin's turn to be named best, ahead of a host of other players who were informed. For the depleted 'Burras, Lachlan Cassidy returned to head their list of contributors, along with usual suspects Bailey Medwell and James Keeble.   

The Swans will remain with five wins and five losses come Saturday 5pm given their bye but will likely hang onto a place in the top six. Injury-laden Sebastopol host Melton South who are winless in Ballarat from their last 14 attempts. Ironically it was the 'Burras who were the Panther's last highway success, round three, 2017. 

Melton (14.13-97) were systematic in their four-quarter win over Lake Wendouree (6.5-41) at MacPherson Park.

The Bloods won all four quarters with consistent returns of four goals, four goals, two goals, and four goals while the struggling Lakers made little impression managing just one, two, one, and two (goals). 

Lakers coach Dale Power had the unenviable task of prioritizing up to four matchups in the Bloods forward half, namely the Carter brothers Ryan and Liam, Captain Braedyn Kight, and the dangerous Kevin Klixx.

The four targets combined for nine of the Bloods fourteen goals, but it was Klixx (four goals) who proved the most difficult to contain, named best on ground. Jack Walker has had arguably his most consistent season to join Klixx and ruckman Ben Archard who is warming with fitness and form just at the right time for coach Aaron Tymms.

The Lakers did not throw the towel in by any stretch at the weekend despite not winning a quarter and kept the inform Bloods to just six second-half goals despite the convincing nature of the win. Timmy Collins, Nick Rippon (two goals), and Angus Gove led the charge to be named in the best for the visitors, but all honours lay clearly with the winners.

It feels from the outside, the once even make-up of the BFNL in 2021 is narrowing down to three A-Grade teams to beat - Melton, of course, North Ballarat City, and East Point. The remaining 'door knockers' I foresee, have the job ahead.

Scoop previews Round Eleven

Round 11 marks the final group of matches that will see everyone having played each other once. The ladder momentarily will be a true reflection of where your team is at with three weeks of the home and away season still remaining (concludes round 14). 

Unfortunately due to COVID restrictions, there will be no crowds allowed at any round 11 BFNL matches. Please follow the website and Facebook page for directions and access to media platforms including LIVE radio coverage / broadcasting times and audio / visual streaming. 

Be sure to check it out. 

Consider Saturday's meeting between Sunbury (eighth, played nine - won four and lost five) and Lake Wendouree (ninth, played nine - won four and lost five) and as the first of many unofficial Elimination Finals, as the BFNL's abbreviated home and away season returns ahead of it's intended conclusion on August 21 (round 14). Both sides will have a clear understanding of the impact this result will have on their respective seasons. The winner is likely to be percentage 'alone', shy of fourth, and still in the hunt - while the loser can wave goodbye to any finals aspirations.

Since the initial return from COVID in round 7, June 19, the Lakers have been on the road for all bar their round nine win over Darley. And their returns since (one win - three losses at 77%), resemble those of a side missing home. While Saturday marks the fourth 'away' game for the Lakers from their last five outings it is also the Lakers third highway trip in four rounds, adding further degrees of difficulty to the weekends' assignment. Since 2018, the Lakers have won just 2/10 games involving highway travel. Sunbury, on the other hand, has looked better since round seven with two wins from their last three games at 100% (for/against).

For the season whole, however, very little separates the two on the numbers. The Lakers rank #9 in attack, averaging 65-points per game, Sunbury 10th at 61-points per game. Both are in the bottom three for goalkicking accuracy, while an improving Sunbury's defence rank #4 (concede 68-points per game average) ahead of the Lakers ninth (78-points per game average).

Travis Hodgson's Lions will be looking to put this game to bed sooner rather than later, denying a desperate Lakers outfit any sniff of an unlikely finals berth.

The game will be on LIVE RADIO APPLE 98.5FM. 

The worry for the winless Darley (11th, played nine - won zero and lost nine)is how far North Ballarat City (first, played nine - won eight and lost one)has come this round?

The ladder leaders have averaged 100+ points per game over the last five weeks that include matches against the second, third, fourth, and fifth (at the time) sides on the ladder.

Strangely NBC, despite their meteoric rise in 2021, looks very similar to what they did in 2019. There will be very few surprises on the name front for the Devils to combat, rather a tsunami in progress. Up to 11 North Ballarat City players, would have played in their last meeting with Darley at Mars Stadium (round 16, 2019) where the Devils saluted by 21-points, while seven (then) Under 19s have since made the grade. Only Thomas Hotchin, Jonothan O'Brien, Ned Nash, and youngster Sam Artz loom the unfamiliar.

However, Darley will have only eight players of their own from that meeting, further highlighting their struggles of a winless 2021 campaign.

Devils defensive trio Matthew Brett, Shane Page, and Darren Leonard will sleep well tonight regardless of the result as the sharing nature of North Ballarat City's offensive weaponry takes its toll. North Ballarat City Coach, Brendan McCartney's new voice in 2021 has a degree of perfect timing about it given the club's growing depth of young talent. While Darley's young brigade are not as forward in age or development as their more seasoned opponents, another opportunity beckons.

Saturday looms a real 'pride in the jumper' game for the Devils at Darley Park who will be without its faithful entourage cheering them on from the sidelines. While keeping this game intact on the scoreboard will be tough for the home side, Devils coach Dan Roy is more likely to weigh his assessment on EFFORT alone, in the aftermath. NBC have waited 28 days between games given their bye in round 10. Needless to add, the Devils will want to start well!

Normally a 17-goal return from any player would sound alarm bells for any opposition ahead of an imminent meeting but somehow I think it's going to work in Redan's (sixth, played nine - won five and lost four)favour when they head to Eastern Oval on Saturday to meet East Point (third, played nine - won five and lost four).

The Kangas, Williamstown affiliate Joel Ottavi will be counting himself very stiff if he is unafforded a recall to the Seagulls VFL line-up after his 17.4 goal day out against the Panthers in round 10. Ottavi's even goal-kicking spread over the four quarters (five, four, four, and four) was the standout performance of the season, as he eyes a potential VFL return against Coburg on Sunday.

This weekend is a throw at the stumps for Jarrett Giampaolo's Redan. While an unlikely win is a bonus, a loss is not the be-all and end-all. Even in loss, the Lions remain in the finals equation, level with up to five other teams on five wins.

Expect Lachie George to go back into the midfield against East Point and mix it up with one of the competition's best combinations as he aims to ease the pressure (of entries) on their own back six. Isaac Grant (general soreness) is almost certain to return after missing the Lions 17-point win over Darley game in round 10, giving the Lions a mini boost forward as George returns to where he does his best work. 

The Kangas are flying, resembling more like their 2019 squad and better, as the weeks unfold. While they may have to do it without Ottavi, their reinforcements bat deeper than most, if not all rival teams. One surprising statistic these two teams will be aiming to improve on is their record against (current) top-six opposition in 2021. Both sides have just one win from four attempts.

Bacchus Marsh (fifth, played nine - won five and lost four)will be desperate to keep its unbeaten run of four 'home' games intact when they meet flag contenders Melton (second, played nine - won seven and lost two). 

Ladder leaders North Ballarat City are the only other team to match the Cobras record at 'home' in 2021. But it will take the Cobras very best to topple a well-organized, fast-paced, omnipotent Bloods outfit. We saw in round 10, the Cobra's lack of leg speed exposed on the bigger ground at Sunbury, so we will need some correction on that vulnerability. Simply denying the Bloods on the outside has been the focus of most teams in 2021 with mixed success. The Cobras have the inside game to match it with the Bloods, as they have proven already against Sebastopol and East Point. Whether they can execute again with key outs looms their toughest task. We have seen what this Bloods group can do on Maddingley Park given a game on their terms - it's not a pretty sight if you are a Cobra fan. 

Bloods forwards Braeden Kight, Kevin Klixx, and the Carter brothers will be a handful, just who can get off the leash against the Cobras BFNL (rank #3) defence is the big question. Containing all those big guns will go a long way to seeing them cause an unlikely upset, and avoiding a logjam of up to five teams on five wins in the process. 

Since the BFNL's initial return from COVID in round seven, the results-driven landscape hasn't been ideal for Sebastopol (seventh, played nine - won four and lost five) or Saturday's opponents Melton South (10th, played nine - won three and lost six). Round 11's meeting at Marty Busch will break the shackles for one team, considering both have lost their last two matches and three of their last four.

Since the newly renovated completion of Marty Busch Reserve, the 'Burras have yet to stamp any aura of authority. The Sebastopol at Sebastopol assignment does not intimidate sides as much as they would like, with just one win from three attempts. I'm fully aware injuries to key 'Burras players is not helping their cause but they are not alone here. Panthers coach Heath Pritchard is convinced he's had half a dozen 'walk-ups' missing most weeks for one reason or another. With all respect to Pritchard and his men, I think they just copped North Ballarat and East Point at their peak. Panthers gun midfielder Bradley Olsson (three games) has not played since May 1, round three - he's the man along with the Conway's (not related), Shaun Wyatt, and later Paul Curtis that can test these sides above them, especially in Ballarat. Olsson and Curtis remain the missing pieces between a side in the top six, and one that is not. While East Point downed Melton South comfortably on July 10 (round 10), Kangas sharpshooter Joel Ottavi was the first to concede the Panthers had quite a few 'really' good players. Food for thought anyway.

Mick Searle and his men, injuries or not, MUST find a way to win this weekend as results across the wider competition inadvertently impact the race to finals. The 'Burras close their home and away season with three games at home and sit perilously (at the present) outside the six, time to get cracking!

Also, in fact, Melton South's last win in Ballarat - round three, 2017 vs Sebastopol. The Panthers have lost all 14 trips since.

North Ballarat - Bye

Scoop reviews Round Eleven

We all welcomed footy back in front of no crowds on the weekend as the BFNL took another step on road to finals (scheduled for August 28 - week one). But there's more to play out over the coming three weeks with eight sides still a chance of making the final six. Here's how the return of BFNL action unfolded on Saturday.

Ladder leaders North Ballarat City (14.14-98)took their time to shrug off a spirited Darley (6.8-44)to win by 54-points on the weekend.

Despite winning all four quarters on the road, NBC Coach Brendan McCartney conceded his boys will be better for the run.

"It's been 28 days between hit-outs for us and at times we looked a little rusty but our intentions were good," McCartney said.

"These boys are very coachable, I see plenty of improvement to come."

NBC enhanced its reputation as an outfit that does not care who kicks the goals with another seven contributors on the weekend. Some credit must be given to an undermanned Darley keeping the high-flying City under 100-points - since round five, Melton has been the only other side to do so. 

City big man Callum McCallum (three goals) monstered the opposition in the ruck to share the 'best on ground' honours with Devils key defender Darren Leonard. Thomas Hotchin (three goals) proved a handful forward for the winners while Werribee / Devils affiliate Ryan Kemp (one goal) caught the eye of McCartney and his group with his leg speed and clean ball use. 

While City's Daniel Jones (calf) missed, X-factor forward Josh Chatfield (kidney) revealed a return in week one of the finals is on his radar. Any hope the Devils had of causing the upset of the season was dashed with the late withdrawals of Matthew Brett, Mitch Banner, and Brad Inglis.  

Bacchus Marsh (8.15-63)were left lamenting their inaccuracy in front of goal, going down to second-placed Melton (13.11-89)by 26-points at Maddingley Park.

To put in perspective, the Cobras were 0.5 at one stage early (2.8 half-time) to the Bloods 4.0 (8.3 half-time) which meant 'catch up' would be the order of play for the home side who now find themselves outside the top six for the first time since round one. The Cobras welcomed back Aaron Willitts (three goals and five behinds) to re-unite with Captain Jake Owen (three goals and three behinds) in what is one of the most dangerous 'combinations' forward of centre in the competition. 

The Bloods, however, have some potency of their own forward, a quartet of sorts if you don't mind. Ryan Carter (three goals), Braeden Kight (three goals). Liam Carter (two goals) and Kevin Klixx (one goal) all hit the scoreboard to post nine of the clubs 13-goals. Unfortunately for the Cobras they could manage just four separate goalkickers on the day (Melton eight), highlighting an avenue shortage on a result not entirely determined by inaccuracy.

Bloods youngster Bailey Mawson earned the praise of coach Aaron Tymms for his battle with (Jake) Owen to be named in the best along with ball magnet Jack Walker who continues his stellar season. Cobras star ruckman Daniel Burton again featured prominently while defender Lachie Christopher played his best game for the club with his distribution and job on dangerous Bloods forward, Kevin Klixx. 

Sebastopol (24.21-165)put away an out-of-sorts Melton South (8.5-53)to the tune of 112-points at Marty Busch Reserve.

This game was over at half-time as the 'Burra led the ailing Panthers by as much as 90-points.

While the 'Burras needed to find some touch and form quickly to remain in the finals race, it was their confidence levels above all else in need of a boost. And they managed to tick all three. Coach Mick Searl would be rapt his boys were able to hit the scoreboard - 45 scoring shots if you don't mind including 10 separate goalkickers in their season-high 24-goal return. If that was not enough, gun midfielder Lachie Cassidy was said to have had 50 disposals in a performance Panthers coach Heath Pritchard labelled as best on ground 'by the length of the straight'.

You have to have some sympathy for Melton South, the COVID interruptions have arguably affected them more so than any other club for many reasons. Given their metropolitan postcode for starters means zero training. Even the adjustments of their draw have been untimely. Players' plans to go away, cannot train, have to work, a mounting injury list all adds up to an uncomfortable time since the COVID disruption after round six. Since then the Panthers have conceded 98-goals (130-points average) in five matches. To make things worse, BFNL leading goalkicker Dylan Conway (calf) was kept goalless for the first time on the weekend and took no part in the second half. The Panthers showed some fight in the second half despite being outscored 10-goals to seven. 

The 'Burras welcomed back Luke Kiel with immediate results and will be counting on Riley O'Keefe to fill the void left by inspirational Captain Tony Lockyer (shoulder) who will miss the rest of the season.

Sunbury (13.17-95)have stormed back into the top six for the first time since the opening round with a 60-point win over Lake Wendouree (5.5-35)at the Clark Oval.

In what was billed an unofficial Elimination Final for the two sides, it was Sunbury's 10-goals to one second half that proved the overwhelming difference.

The Lakers kicked with the aid of a three / four-goal breeze in the opening term to set up a handy 17-point lead at the first change, boom recruit Nick Rippon leading the way with near double-figure stats including the opening goal to help spark the visitors.

The Lions drew within two points at half-time to set up an enthralling second half stanza that would inevitably seal one team's fate in season 2021. But it was all Sunbury after the main break, 10.8 to 1.0 tells the story of weight in possession and time spent in the forward half. The back-breaker for the Lakers was the Lions five goals to one in the third term against the breeze, virtually shutting the gate on any finals aspirations in the process.

Sunbury's Tyson Lever is in club best and fairest form at the moment and continued to impress while Jake Sutton (two goals)played his best game for the club mid/forward since his arrival from the SANFL mid-season. Under-rated forward Alec Goodsen (three goals) continues to get returns for a club not renowned for their forward options so far this season. Goodsen's handy haul takes him to equal eighth on the league goalkicking table with 18 from his 10 games.

The Lions meet ladder leaders North Ballarat City on Saturday with the result almost certain to impact their finals chances before a bye and Darley (at home) to come. 

Reigning dual Premiers East Point (19.17-131)continued their run of recent dominance with a comprehensive 79-point win over Redan (7.10-52)at Eastern Oval.

The Kangas looked in a class of their own for the most part winning all four quarters over a frustrated Redan who just could not seem to impact the scoreboard enough to trouble the top teams. In fairness to the Lions, East Point look to be an ominous assignment for any side going forward, especially with Joel Ottavi (six goals) and Jordy Johnston back from the VFL for the interim. As if 17-goals was not enough for Ottavi to be recalled for Williamstown's meeting with Coburg on Sunday - he and Redan have every right to consider him the 25-year-old a little unlucky.

East Point has arguably the most talent on paper, work rate come finals will determine their fate. North Ballarat City and Melton especially have the ability to outwork the Kangas as the finals loom even more mouth-watering by the week.

Against Redan it was the bigger-bodied Kangas that had the greatest impact. Jacob Brown, James Lukich, and the ever consistent Mickitja Rottumah-Onus all played a major role in the club's third successive 79+ point win and 100+ scoreline. Brad Whittaker (four goals) and Jack Ganley (four goals) provided the extra support for the Kangas on the goal front whilst Redan had six goalkickers make up their seven-goal return. One positive for the Lions was the return of popular bigman Orron Stephenson (two goals) who will have a role to play in the club's finals destiny with games against Ballarat and Lake Wendouree to come.

Scoop' Reviews Round 2

Round Two had it all... the early contenders flexed in some big wins, there was a one-point thriller in Bacchus Marsh and across the McDonald's Ballarat FNL clubs, players and fans honoured our ANZACs. 

The Cobras needed the last goal of the game to beat cross-town rival Darley to go 2-0 for the first time since 2016. Just single digits separated the two sides at every change as Bacchus Marsh led for the majority, before the Devils surged with back-to-back goals in the final term to lead by as much as 11 points with seven minutes remaining.

Cobras small forward, Tyler Huynh, became the unlikely hero snapping his match-winning fourth goal deep in time on to give Tom German's men the perfect start to the season. Cobra fans will be in for heart checks this week after nail biting two- and one-point wins in their opening two games.

Both coaches conceded the game could have gone either way and whoever was on the wrong side of the ledger would be left lamenting the how and why. Cobras Captain Jake Owen (3 goals) was again the star, the difference if you like. Huynh's four goals were a bonus and took the honours over the Devils’ small forward returns. Midfielders Nick Stuhldrier and Tom German worked hard all day for the winners in a real arm wrestle of sorts between the arcs.

For the Devils, new recruit Nick Rodda kicked five goals and will only get better in his adjustment from the VFL, while Andy Azzopardi (3 goals) provided some much-needed spark and run during some otherwise flat periods from the Back and White. Saturday's game marked the ninth consecutive Anzac Day (weekend) blockbuster between Darley and Bacchus Marsh and the second time a one-point margin has separated the two.

The 'Burras have responded from their disappointing loss to Darley, disposing of Top Four fancy East Point to the tune of 28 points at Eastern Oval. Their 17-goal return was the highest of any across the competition in Round Two and serves a polite reminder to opposition sides: the 'Burras’ best is very good.

To complement the nature of the win even further, it was the only four-quarter win of any team in Round Two. A 19-point advantage at the first change became 24 at the half, 26 at the third before 28 at the final siren.

While the news of the James Frawley signing to East Point reverberated around BFNL clubs on Thursday night, the 'Burra welcomed back one of their favourites under the radar - the reigning Henderson Medallist, Lachie Cassidy, who was named best on ground in his return game from a hamstring complaint. Livewire forward James Keeble finished with four goals and Willy Lovett with three to lead a string of nine goal scorers for the winners despite the Kangas having ten of their own. Twenty-eight scoring shots to twenty-five gives every indication the match was fought evenly, especially after quarter time.

'Burras coach Mick Searle would be a relieved man squaring the win/loss ledger after Round Two and will take plenty of confidence from their recent wins over the 2018 and 2019 Premiers on Eastern Oval. Hugo Papst and Tony Lockyer also featured among the best while Kangas trio Jordy Johnson, Mitch Walsh and Joe Dodd were solid in defeat.

The Swans recorded an emphatic win over a youthful Panthers line-up whose wretched record in Ballarat continues. The visitors were kept goalless in the opening half, while the Swans went about their business to set up a dominant 63-point lead at the half before extending the difference at the final siren.

Midfielders Daniel Kennedy (3 goals) and Aiden Domic (3 goals) were the leading scorers among nine Swans players to hit the scoreboard. Andrew Hooper (2 goals), who booted seven goals in the corresponding fixture last year, left the ground in the second term with hamstring tightness, denying the sharpshooter his deja vu moment.

The Panthers, while disappointed with the result would be happy with the progress of youngsters Mitch Fino, Riley Theo, Rhys Lee and Cody Chapman, who are the future of the club. Dylan Conway split 50/50 game time mid/forward but was denied his usual impact given the sheer weight of the home side's possession. Swans defender Nick Weightman and ruckman Marcus Powling continued their run of good form to start the season.

A seven-goal to three opening quarter blitz from competition yardstick North Ballarat has set up a comfortable 61-point win at CE Brown Reserve. Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers were unable to contain the North forward pressure despite the speculative memo/warnings heading in. Easier said than done.

Young guns James Quick (5), Thomas Hotchin (4), Jack Riding (3) and Sam Artz (1) combined for 13 of North Ballarat's 17 goals - mission complete. Fitzpatrick's former mentor Brendan McCartney, in charge of North Ballarat was 'chuffed' his boys were able to apply pressure and make it hard for Lake Wendouree to move the ball.

"We were strong in the contest, a lot more like how we want to play," he said. North Ballarat Captain Simon McCartin continues to lead this group of impressive young talent with near another best on ground performance.

There's no doubting the Lakers will learn a lot from the weekend and, despite scoreboard separation, can take solace in denying North Ballarat a blowout on their own terms in the last quarter. A 68-point margin at three-quarter time was reduced to 61 at the final siren to suggest that while there may be a gulf in the depth department (at this early stage), the Lakers are not short on character.

The Bloods booted their highest score against the Lions in more than 15 years to win impressively by 39 points at MacPherson Park. The home side smashed the visitors on the scoreboard with a four-goal breeze in the opening term, booting 7.4 to 0.2 - game over!

Even if Lions Coach Travis Hodgson fancied a likely response in the second term, the 44-point deficit was always going to be a huge ask against genuine flag contenders on their home deck. If that wasn't a bridge too far, consider the Lions had managed more than five goals against the Bloods just twice from their last six meetings.

Bloods forward Ryan Carter (5 goals) proved a thorn in Sunbury's side all day to make it back-to-back bags for the #23. Mark Orr's return has been crucial following the exit of Ben Archard, while Lachie Watkins and Jordyn Cotter give opposition coaches another headache to overcome.

The similarities in the even nature of competition heavyweights Melton and North Ballarat are palpable. Their Round Six meeting on May 26 should be a belter.

For Sunbury, they're 0-2, and while they did get five players back for the Bloods game they still fell well short despite winning two quarters, the same as they did in their 28-point loss to North Ballarat in Round One.

Tyson Lever and Daniel Toman were among the Lions' best again and are likely to feature for the most part. North Ballarat (away), Melton (away) – no one had a tougher start than the Lions in '22. The draw opens up for them after their bye in Round Three... time to get cracking.

Round 3 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

The season is shaping up to be a ripper. Here's Scoop's preview of all the Round 3 action in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. 

The Swans kept the Roosters to their lowest score of the season last year despite falling agonisingly short. This game will give fans an indication of the improvement of the Swans after a loss on the road in Round One before bouncing back with authority last week.

I like the makeup of the Swans' defence and how they go about it, but the looming question is are they quick and agile enough to negate the 'North four' in Hotchin, Quick, Artz and Riding, who have combined for 21 of their clubs 30 goals in the opening two rounds.

At the other end, Andrew Hooper's influence will have a large say on the fortunes of the Swans kicking a big enough score. His absence in the second half of last week's win over Melton South places some doubt on him being 100%. Daniel Kennedy looks the likely match up for an in-form Simon McCartin, while Aiden Domic (I think) we'll find over time is a better outside player than in, despite his size suggesting otherwise. I could speculate on another half dozen potential matchups but when all said and done, the greatest challenge of all will be how effectively Swans coach Joe Carmody and his crew can shut down the system that is Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat.

While new Devils coach Dan Jordan isn't one to look back, surely star Panthers forward Dylan Conway's nine-goal return at their last meet will raise an eyebrow. It was an extraordinary scoreline as the Panthers had just two goalkickers on the day. Captain Shaun Wyatt booted the remaining five goals but is unlikely to feature due to a knee injury sustained in Round One. The Wyatt injury has forced Conway to spend more of his time through the midfield, offering some reprieve for the Devils around goal.

In fairness, the Devils will be a much different proposition than last year, led by new Captain Brett Bewley and exciting forward Nick Rodda, who booted five goals in last week’s two-point loss to Bacchus Marsh. Shane Page and Luther Baker are warming into their respective seasons while reigning Club Best and Fairest defender Matthew Brett is likely to get the unenviable first crack at Conway.

While the Panthers have been beaten soundly in their opening two games, the club can be encouraged by the contributions of young quartet Cody Chapman, Riley Theo, Mitch Fino and Rhys Lee. Former VFL ruckman Dylan Jones will have an experience edge in the ruck and will be hoping the Panthers’ mids are able to capitalise at ground level. No Ben Casley last week, his return (if) will only bolster the Panthers' chances providing another key set of hands forward of centre.

Win/loss may not be the be-all and end-all for Jordan over the infancy period at his new club and the same could be said for Panthers Coach Heath Pritchard. But you can guarantee, poker face or not, they'll be wanting the four points more than ever!

'Burras Coach Michael Searle will be hoping his boys can repeat the four-quarter triumph of their Round Two win over East Point. Reigning Henderson Medallist Lachie Cassidy returned without a hitch after a hamstring complaint and is likely to pose one of a number of headaches for Giampaolo's Redan in front of the 'Burra faithful.

To suggest the faithful are wanting a swing in the club’s fortunes on Marty Busch in recent times would be an understatement. Just two wins in seven hit outs at home since the renovation is not ideal.

Redan will need to do plenty right to secure the Premiership points away from their more fancied rivals. Isaac Grant, Jacob Werts and Grant Bell have shown they can hit the scoreboard, while an injection into the Lions midfield, namely Lachie George, Cooper Craig-Peters and newcomer Lachie Barnes can only help. George (illness) Craig-Peters (VFL) and Barnes (Stawell Gift) all missed Round One's disappointing loss to the Lakers.

Ruckman Nathan Dunstan will be better for the run and had every right to be gassed late in his first out but was a solid contributor. Pat Fitzgibbon's drive and Daniel Bond's inside work will also play a role in the Lions' fortunes. But the Lions' defence will need to curtail the 'Burra weaponry forward to get it done. James Keeble, Toby Hutt, Michael Powell and Jed Hill are all proven multiple goal scorers and handfuls on any given day. There's no reason why Saturday need be an exception to the rule.

Given the Cobras' 2-0 start to the season, fans needn't panic if they fall short this afternoon against one of the genuine flag contenders in Melton, albeit two rounds in. Plenty will need to go right for the Cobras on their home deck that holds no fears for the Bloods. In fact, Melton has been the only side to truly dominate the Cobras on Maddingley Park in recent times.

What will give Tom German's boys hope is their impressive record at home - 11 of the club's last 14 wins have been here (tick) and the confidence and character space the club is in after two wins must be sky high (tick). Their only real cause for concern is, well, Melton.

Rival coaches have indicated the Bloods "are the best team in it" - just how Aaron Tymms and his 'even lot' go about it rings similar to McCartney's North Ballarat on the system front… Shut down one, then another bobs up. Often you have to back in your own process for fear of being too defensive - you have to kick a score to win - and the Cobras, wherever they are on the ladder, have options forward. Jake Owen (flying), Aaron Willetts and Rex Hickman are three. But the Bloods have plenty - 11 goal scorers in Round One and 10 in Round Two against Sunbury. The Carter brothers and Brayden Kight are their main three with 17 of the Bloods' 37 goals in 2022 @ 46%.

The Cobras have started well in both games thus far and will need to do so again or this throw at the stumps game for them could well result in overthrows! The Bloods have outscored their opponents 12.6 to 1.5 in first quarters.

The pressure is on the Kangas to bounce back against the Lakers after a disappointing four-quarter loss to Sebastopol last week. The Kangas have shown they're not the best starters to a season given their recent successes, having dropped their Round One match last year as well.

But the Lakers are a different proposition than the 'Burra on the rebound. Jack Fitzpatrick's young Lakers will have learned a lot from their loss to North Ballarat last week, but we may not see the fruits of that education until later.

Glass half full Kangas Coach Jake Bridges would have taken the positives out of last week’s loss and identified areas of improvement that can be smoke screened in victory. While they did lose all four quarters against the 'Burra, there were only nine points separating the two sides for the final three quarters.

New Kangas recruits Jackson Merrett and James Frawley will be better for the run and look a few weeks away yet from reaching their maximum impact. The Johnson brothers, Mikitja Rotumah-Onus and Joe Dodd will test the Lakers midfield, despite posing little surprise to the likes of Jake Coxall and Timmy Collins of their capabilities. I guess the only surprise on the potential of their x-factor talents sits with the new Lakers coach. Fitzpatrick heads to Eastern Oval, leaving CE Brown Reserve for the first time. It might be an okay time to get the Kangas, early in their prep. Their best I expect won't be seen until deeper into the season. The Lakers will need to start well, they've shown over the small sample size they can match it late. Easier said than done.

Scoop' Reviews Round 3

How. Good. Was. It? So good! Round Three of the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's delivered some fascinating thrills and spills. Scoop reviews the weekend's action.

League improvers Ballarat have overhauled a 16-point deficit at half time to down legitimate flag contenders North Ballarat at Mars Stadium. It was nearly a carbon copy of the last time the two sides met in Round Four 2021 - but on that occasion, it was an inaccurate Swans who fell 2 points shy after trailing by 23 points at the half.

Full credit to Joe Carmody's, men who responded after half time kicking eight goals to three to raise an eyebrow across the wider competition, announcing their arrival. North Ballarat Coach Brendan McCartney was full of praise for the Swans in the aftermath, conceding they were, "outworked and outplayed."

The Swans keys, namely Nicholas Weightman, Aiden Domic, Marcus Powling and Daniel Kennedy continued their bright starts to the new season, while Keegan Mellington (3), Josh Gibson (2) and Tom Mooney (2) hit the scoreboard, filling the void in the absence of sharpshooter Andrew Hooper.

The 'North Four' Sam Artz (2), Jamie Quick (2), Jack Riding (2) and Thomas Hotchin (1) combined for seven of the Roosters' 11 goals, reaffirming their importance forward of centre, while Tom Bromley-Lynch and Clay Jenkins made solid contributions.

But all honours with the Swans. Carmody must be thrilled with his defence restricting their more fancied rivals on the whole to just three goals in the second half. The hierarchy of the other nine clubs could do a lot worse than eye off how the Swans got it done via the replay. 

Enigmatic Sebastopol were put to the sword by a spirited Redan to the tune of 45 points at Marty Busch Reserve. The 'Burra just can't get out of their own way at home over recent times losing six of their last eight games (inc. pre-season) since the club's completed renovations. I know it's purely coincidence, but you can't deny their concerns, particularly around consistency and injury.

On the other hand, Lions Coach Jarrett Giampaolo must be tickled pink with the response from his players following their season open loss to Lake Wendouree. Returning star midfielder Lachie George (5 goals) put on one of his all too familiar matchwinning performances to instigate a most impressive four quarter win, the only of its kind across Round Three. Newly incoming talls Jacob Werts and Nathan Dunstan were influential, while Declan Phillips looks on track for a solid season. Goal shark Isaac Grant (2 goals) made his usual scoreboard contribution, while the inclusion of Cooper Craig Peters and speedster Lachie Barnes only enhanced the Lions' chances.

Things went from bad to worse for the 'Burra when Lachie Cassidy and Jack Bambury went down. Only Chase Dummett, Bradley Veale and Benjamin Crone were named in the best players on a forgettable day for the Blue and Gold, especially when you consider the convincing nature of their win over East Point seven days prior. Hats off to Redan.

The 'Burra prepare for a Round Four crunch game with the Lakers as mounting doubt looms on the availability of Lachie Cassidy (hamstring), Jack Bambury (hamstring), James Keeble (hamstring), Riley O'Keefe (shoulder) and Jai Harvey (foot).

Redan host an in-form Ballarat Swans.

Darley gave new coach Dan Jordan his second win in three games, downing Melton South on the road by 33 points.

A nine goals to two second-half gave the undermanned Devils the separation on the scoreboard they were longing for. Devils marquee recruits Brett Bewley (BOG) and Nick Rodda (8 goals) were the stars of the show,  reminiscent of their Williamstown days as the two combined out of midfield and inside 50 on repeat occasions. The Panthers would have been giving themselves a real chance heading in against a Devils line-up without Shane Page, Darren Leonard, the Cadman brothers and Blake Colley. 

An even first quarter became a slender five-point advantage to the home side at the half, suggesting this game may go down to the wire. But the Devils kicked better for goal and made more of their opportunities according to Panthers coach Heath Pritchard. Despite the loss, Pritchard was really happy with their effort and, "the brand of football that we played," conceding Bewley and Rodda were the obvious difference.

Jake Ancrum played his best game in '22 for the Devils while Luther Baker and youngsters Bailey Young and Will Johnson featured prominently.

For the Panthers, Devils nemesis Dylan Conway booted five goals and was the beneficiary of a big effort support crew, led by Jake Thornton-Gielen and Dylan Jones.

Both sides have tough road trips ahead in Round Four. The Panthers meet a 0-2 Sunbury on the hunt while the Devils face the undefeated Bloods for a genuine 'month in' footy audit.

East Point was the only home side to win across the five BFNL games played at the weekend. And the 2018-2019 Premiers did it comfortably over the Lakers, bouncing back after their season-opening loss to Sebastopol.

The Kangas set up the win with five unanswered goals in the first term before extending a 28 point advantage at the half, to 59 at the final siren. Coach Jake Bridges would be delighted with the response of his proud group as the Kangas went about their business, sharing the footy to finish with eleven goalkickers on the day.

Youngster Isaac Hucker booted three while the x-factor, Jordy Johnston (2 goals) was named best afield, ahead of five teammates whose name or surname begins with the letter 'J'!  So, it only befitting that 'JJ' got the nod. Coincidences aside, there was plenty of merit (no pun) to be drawn from the Kangas win who did it without Brad Whittaker (ankle) and James Frawley. The confidence-boosting win for the Kangas is timely, to say the least, as they prepare for a mouth-watering showdown with flag fancy North Ballarat, on the rebound at Mars Stadium.

New Lakers Coach Jack Fitzpatrick will draw on his wealth of knowledge, and assess the pluses and the minuses ahead of their Round Four meeting against an unpredictable Sebastopol. While back-to-back losses are not ideal for the Lakers, it's fair to say their conquerors go alright!       

An old fashioned half-time spray from Bloods Coach Aaron Tymms had the desired effect as Melton 'did enough' to remain the only undefeated BFNL club, downing the Cobras by 28 points at Maddingley Park.

So, why the spray?

Put simply, Melton's use of the ball with the aid of a four-goal breeze in the opening term especially was poor and their revered 'system' a shadow of their own expectations. The Bloods found themselves on the back foot in the second term, leading by just two points (kicked only one goal) and were forced to quell the Cobras' inevitable momentum with the breeze. Despite trailing at half-time (11 points) and the damage minimised, the Bloods were starting to resemble a little more of their cohesive style.

Credit to the Cobras denying the Bloods the game on their own terms as Tom German's men were more direct by foot with the breeze, but couldn't get true bang for buck on their entries despite a half time advantage.

The Bloods hit the gas in the third term with seven unanswered goals with Ryan Carter (3) and Braeden Kight (2) the focal points. With Cobras playing coach Tom German potentially hamstrung on the sidelines, the Bloods midfield led by Jack Walker went to another level, despite the efforts of Daniel Burton, Harrison King and Nick Stuhldrier. New Cobra Rex Hickman (2 goals) was lively forward but the Bloods' sheer weight of evenness across their 22 players was significant.

Round 4 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Some enthralling matchups and the promise of some barometer results make for an enticing weekend ahead. Here's Scoop's preview of all the Round 4 action in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. 

Round Four marks the second consecutive week of zero games involving highway travel, and what a belter this one is shaping up to be. It's a bit strange, given recent times, that one of these teams will have had two losses this early in the season. North Ballarat Coach Brendan McCartney made the point pre-season that, ‘It's going to be a very even season, which is terrific for the competition’.

I couldn't agree more. Well, where do you start picking away at this game with just the small sample size of three rounds in? I guess the broader picture speaks highly enough of these two sides, who have sustained periods of excellence - East Point 2018, 2019 flags and North Ballarat Minor Premiers 2021. While both sides are coached well, it will test even McCartney and Jake Bridges' skillset to get over the line today.

Despite the loss last week, North Ballarat remains deserved favourites heading in. The 'underdog' tag won't be what Bridges and the Kangas are used to - how they go about it will be enthralling. Any footy purest would concede this match-up to be one of the marquee games of the year.

Can the x-factor talent of East Point get it done against the even spread of North Ballarat? It was good to see the Kangas bounce back with confidence after a disappointing loss to Sebastopol, but the Roosters loom a different prospect altogether. McCartney will have pinpointed the reason for their loss and be confident there will be a correction from his players. We'll have a better idea at the end of the game whether seven days was enough for that message to sink in. Can't wait!  

Come 5 pm Saturday, one of these teams will be winless at the bottom of the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder. Sunbury has had two tough road trips (and a bye last week) from North Ballarat to Melton and wouldn't be the only team to come home empty-handed against those teams. 'Home' may be the operative word of the day for the Lions as the match looms as the perfect opportunity to kickstart their season. The planning that Heath Pritchard’s Melton South would have put into their more fancied opposition would have been a head-scratcher, given Sunbury has been arguably the most unsettled line-up at Thursday night selection.

VFL affiliate availability, health protocols, and injury are three reasons to justify the nature of the 29 players used already. But what isn't lacking at Sunbury is depth – they just need to settle on a cohesive group that can play together over a period and get the job done. That is what they're after. The Panthers will need to be smart with their ball use on the big ground and avoid the rebound of Tyson Lever in particular.

His distribution is crucial for Sunbury, as he is the primary feeder to the pacy Lions on the spread. Sure, the Panthers have some leg speed of their own, but I'm not convinced their 'bottom half' can match it with the Lions. Gun forward Dylan Conway will warrant his usual and deserved attention (tipping James Cree gets the gig) while the Panthers' biggest concern is likely the running ability of Daniel Toman - another 50 possession game would not surprise.

Both sides are coming off confidence-building wins on two different fronts after Round Three. How that unfolds will set the scene for compelling viewing. Can Jarret Giampaolo's Lions repeat their four-quarter performance against one of the spruik teams for '22? Can Joe Carmody's Swans reproduce the effort and execution that wore down 'the system' of North Ballarat?

Just who can return from the clouds the quickest and hit the scoreboard is sure to make it difficult for whoever isn’t in front. It's ironic that Ballarat faces Redan this round, the same opposition they faced after coming so close to North Ballarat last year.

What eventuated after the Swans realised they could match it with the best? They were brought back to earth with a 54-point loss against the Lions at City Oval. Both sides have their weapons, and their new additions over the offseason are beginning to have an impact. This won't be an easy game for either side nor will it be treated as such. Given it's only Round Four, the result is likely to tell us more about each club’s on-field headspace than who potentially is the real deal.    

The undefeated Bloods are set to host an improved Devils line-up in front of an (expected) bumper crowd. Both sides will look a little different than at their last meeting (Rd 4, 2021). Expect the Bloods to have at least seven changes to the Devils’ 12. Two of those 12 ins for the visitors include marquee signings Brett Bewley (Fremantle AFL) and Nick Rodda (Williamstown). Both have played significant roles in the Devils' fortunes so far, with Bewley featuring in the best players each week and Rodda brimming with confidence on the back of five- and eight-goal hauls.

But the Devils will need every bit of their influence if they're to upset a well-drilled, system-based Bloods. The ladder leaders are a tough match up with an even spread of aerial, speed, and ground ball ability - the yardstick essentially so far. Ryan Carter is flying as a mobile key option forward for the Bloods. Carter averages 10 shots on goal per game, while Captain Braeden Kight looks as dangerous as ever, averaging two goals a game in 2022.

The two have combined for near 40 per cent of the Bloods' total goals this year (19/49). While these two are renowned finishers, it's fair to say they are the beneficiaries of a body of work. It often starts with the rebound off half-back and the work rate of the midfield led by reigning club Best and Fairest Jack Walker. A 'month in' footy audit awaits the Devils, who are likely to be bolstered by the return of Shane Page, Darren Leonard and the Cadman brothers.

Jack Fitzpatrick's Lake Wendouree couldn't wish for a better time to meet a vulnerable Sebastopol, who has been cruelled by injury. Lachie Cassidy, Jack Bambury, James Keeble (all hamstrings), Riley O'Keefe (shoulder) and Jai Harvey (foot) are all doubtful pending a miracle recovery leaving the door ajar for the Lakers to get their second win of the season.

But Fitzpatrick, given his time in the game, will be wary of the wounded, and the 2019 Grand Finalists on the rebound. The Burra have already shown they're dangerous off a loss, beating East Point in Round
Two. But how many injuries to top end players at this level is too many? Surely half a dozen is pushing it.

The Lakers need only resemble something of their opening round win against Redan to be a real chance. But with no bonafide superstars, they will need a collective buy-in from nearly all 22 players to get it done.

The Burra, regardless of who takes the field, will have genuine options. Up forward through the midfield, and not to mention arguably the best halfback in the comp in Tony Lockyer. So, I expect an even contest from two young teams. The fortunes of youthful teams at this level can have contrasting results. When youth are up and about, they're hard to stop, but when denied the game on their own terms, the minimal impact can be often contagious.

There's more to play out here - both sides will fancy their chances.   

Scoop' Reviews Round 4

There was plenty to talk about as Round Four of the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's wrapped up. Scoop reviews the weekend's action.

For such a low scoring affair, it's hard to believe the Swans kicked the last two goals of the game after the 25-minute mark of the last quarter to claim a hard-fought win at City Oval.

The Lions left it all on the park, leading an inaccurate and goalless Swans at the main break by 15 points (3.3 v 0.6) but ultimately couldn't hold off their spirited opponents and the Swans’ overwhelming will to win. While there was a slight breeze to the Pleasant Street end, it was far from match-defining. The low scoring affair was, for the most part, reflective of the defensive grind, becoming a game destined to be decided by a handful of clutch moments.

According to Swans coach Joe Carmody, Redan deserved their lead at half time, having been on top around the contest. It wasn't until the second half that his boys could produce a swing in momentum and he named the big-bodied duo of Nick Swain and Josh Gibson as being instrumental in turning the fortunes of the match in favour of the Swans.

For Redan, Isaac Grant (2 goals) was the only multiple goal scorer on a cold day where majors came at a premium. Declan Phillips and Jacob Werts featured among the best players once again, but unfortunately for Jarrett Giampaolo's Lions the result is bound for the 'honourable loss' file. They will be happy with their effort but disappointed they couldn't find the line against a quality Ballarat side. The Lions will have another chance at home this week when they meet Bacchus Marsh in another even BFNL matchup. 

Backs to the wall Sebastopol proved too much for a young Lakers outfit to the tune of 48 points at the weekend. Despite missing eight of arguably the club’s twelve best players, the 'Burras did coach Michael Searl proud, who had every reason to be nervous heading in.

Chase Dummett (3 goals) and James Keeble (3 goals) were the standouts and made the slippery conditions look dry with their clean ball handling and execution. Searl lauded these two players, highlighting their two-way running in particular to match their returns on the scoreboard for levels of importance. 

Not to be outdone, the 'Burras defence was very solid maintaining their shape, creating turnover and conceding just nine scoring shots in the process (a Round 4 low across the competition).

The Lakers, without Scott Carlin, struggled for the most part but were well serviced by Lane Buckwell and experienced trio Nathan Pring, and Joel and Lachlan O'Connell. Jack Fitzpatrick's men will soak up the bye this week after their 1-3 start to the season, while Sebastopol's focus moves to North Ballarat with a clear aim to back up their Round Four efforts.

Despite both sides looking for their first win heading in, the Panthers’ performance would have turned a few heads in BFNL circles to suggest this was a genuine upset. I know Melton South beat Sunbury at their previous meeting in 2021 by 23-points, but many thought a repeat outcome, this time on Clarke Oval would be too big of an ask.

Panthers coach Heath Pritchard said he "was rapt with the effort and our pressure with a lot of blokes out”. Lions Coach Travis Hodgson, while clearly disappointed with the loss, credibly gave the Panthers their dues. "They brought good pressure, were the better side on the day and deserved to win," he said.  

The Panthers led at every change despite a miserly 0.4 start kicking with the breeze. Scoreboard pressure would come later with the breeze in the third term where the Panthers added six goals to one to set up a match-winning 35-point lead at the final change. Youngster Jarrod Bibby was best for the winners, along with Dylan Jones and Cody Chapman, who continued their solid patch of good form. Leading forward Dylan Conway kicked two goals.

For Sunbury, James Cree, Harrison Minton-Connell and Pat Scanlon were recognised for their efforts in a losing side as Leigh Brennan (2 goals) and Blake Graham (2 goals) snagged multiple goals for the third time in as many games.

North Ballarat bounced back to the winner's list with a reassuring win over the Kangas at Mars Stadium. It promised to be a tantalising matchup, and, for the most part, didn't disappoint. VFL affiliates Sam Glover (4 goals) and Josh Chatfield returned for North Ballarat to bolster their stocks, while East Point was without marquee recruit Jackson Merrett after a late withdrawal.

According to Brendan McCartney, this was a seven-day response from his boys, saying they were better this week at the contest, defending and hunting the ball. North Ballarat was rewarded for their straight kicking for goal, leading by two points at the half 6.0 to 5.4 before extending in the third and fourth quarters adding 6.8 to the Kangas 2.6.

Sam Glover was the difference between the two sides, adding cream to the already daunting prospect that is North Ballarat. Experienced defender Ryan Hobbs was solid all day, while the Loader boys, Harry and Fletcher, had their best games for the season.

For the Kangas, Thomas Brown battled manfully in the ruck to keep his side in the game for three quarters to be named best in a losing side. Usual suspects Matty and Jordy Johnston, Joe Dodd and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus were never far from the action.

A spirited Darley was no match for a more seasoned, undefeated Melton at Macpherson Park. The game from the outside reeked of a five-goal Bloods win - either side of that was always going to tell us more about the Devils' progress off a winless 2021.
The match itself, in trying conditions, was a hard watch for the footy purest. Conditions were blustery but made look calm on occasions by the Bloods, whose ball movement from defence to forward - particularly into the breeze - was a defining feature. The Bloods’ run and carry between the arcs was noted by both coaches post-match, with Devils coach Dan Jordan conceding "that's how we want to play."

In fairness to the Devils, the Bloods (2018 Grand Finalists) have been at it for four years, honing their craft, and their style and are one of the most respected teams in the comp. Jack Walker, Kyle Borg and Jacob Hickey had a heap of the footy and were instrumental in driving the Bloods’ repeatedly into attack. Their accountability with and without the ball is as good as any in the comp. Bloods forwards Ryan Carter (2 goals) and Liam Carter (1 goal) looked like they were going to tear the game apart and credit to the young Devils' defence that their influence was tempered.

Darley's loss was compounded by a first-quarter knee injury to Matthew Brett, who is likely to spend an extended period on the sidelines. Ball magnet Brett Bewley was Darley's best player.

Looking ahead, Darley faces Sunbury, while the Ballarat v Melton clash at Alfredton Oval looms as the headline act for Round 5.

Round 5 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Here's Scoop's preview of all the Round 5 action in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. 

While we're just four rounds in, it's fair to say we can look at the BFNL ladder and acknowledge this weekend's encounter to be every bit a top of the table clash. It's hard to assess/compare the form lines heading in given the Swans' only loss came in round one on the road to Bacchus Marsh and the Bloods remain undefeated.

But who have the Bloods beaten? Well, everyone in the 'East'. Melton South 10th, Sunbury 11th, Bacchus Marsh 6th and Darley 5th. I'm pretty sure the Bloods' greatest challenges await them in the 'West' and especially on the road. This will be a true test for the Bloods, up against a Swans outfit who have proven they can come from behind if they have to (trailed North Ballarat 16, Redan 15 last two weeks).

It's not an ideal pattern for Joe Carmody's men but the belief among their group must be sky high (trailed halftime 3 out 4 games, 2022). So, I'm expecting Aaron Tymms' Melton will have had a close look at the Swans and identified a chink in their armour. The Swans spread well, have leg speed, their defenders are accountable, good size, mobile, and their mids, dangerous.

Ironically, the similarities with the Bloods are palpable. Powling will be an obvious loss in the ruck for the Swans. It's hard to tip a winner here - the Bloods in their 4th or 5th year on the up vs the Swans in just their second. That may prove to be enough in this justly touted Match of the Round. 

Darley host Sunbury in a must-win game for the visitors as they aim for a correction on a disappointing loss to Melton South a week ago.

The Lions 'keepings off' style will endeavour to wear down the Devils, similar to what we saw last year when the two sides met.

Midfielder Daniel Toman must have had 50 possessions and Tyson Lever 40 off halfback. But how the young Devils go about denying the Lions their high possession game on their terms, will make for an interesting watch. Leigh Brennan (10 goals) and Blake Graham (7 goals) will hope to continue on their returns on the goal front, to give the Lions every chance to post a winning score. 

On the flip side, the Devils' chances of winning have been hampered by the loss of key defender Matthew Brett (knee) and talented Footscray VFL listed player Bailey Young (concussion). Again, the reliance and impact of Brett Bewley and Nick Rodda will be magnified as the Devils strive for their first home win of the season.

On the surface, it's not a be-all, end-all result for Dan Jordan's men today, but rather another piece added to the puzzle of a much longer journey the club has bought into. Wins will no doubt be celebrated, and lessons learned from loss.

Today will be no exception. The Devils' young back six will be tested again today in the absence of Brett. Can they stand up is the question? A chop out in the midfield from the wingers will only help their cause. 

The travelling Cobras have had 14 days to plan their 'highway' trip to face Redan and should be confident, based on last year's meeting alone. The Cobras dominated the Lions then, keeping the home side to just two goals.

Daniel Burton, Nick Stuhldrier and Tom German lead a challenging midfield group while Captain Jake Owen, Aaron Willetts and Rex Hickman have proven a capable combo already in '22, with wins over Ballarat and Darley.

Add newcomer defenders Jack Williams and Jason Robinson into the mix, and the visitors have to be in with a genuine chance. Put In a nutshell, just getting the ball to Owen forward looms as the obvious plan bearing the greatest upside for the Cobras.

Redan's fortunes start in the middle with Lachie George and Cooper Craig-Peters at the feet of in-form ruckman Nathan Dunstan. Declan Phillips adds further size at the coalface while the outside run of the Atchison boys has been encouraging. Isaac Grant (didn't play last meet '21), Grant Bell, Lachie McLean and newcomer Jacob Werts are providing options forward to varying degrees.

The best of Redan is very good so denying the Lions' momentum that begins at the centre bounce, will be paramount for the Cobras who will be well up for a scrappy arm-wrestle, especially around stoppage.

That type of game will suit the Cobras, reminiscent of their opening three rounds against Ballarat, Darley, and Melton. I guess it's which Redan turns up, given their home ground advantage will have a huge say in determining the result.

I was prepared to preface a change in the narrative around an injury-ravaged 'Burra and temper their chances moving forward. But that will have to be put on hold for another week after the 'Burra recorded the highest score (87) of the round, including most shots on goal (27) while conceding the lowest score (39) and the fewest amount of scoring shots (9) in the process.

Credit must go to coach Michael Searl and the belief he has in the group, matched only by the buy-in counter-response from the players. "Beware the wounded animal" was a text response made by a high profile BFNL person on hearing the unfortunate injury scenario facing the 'Burra. Got that right!

But a well-drilled, organised North Ballarat, is a completely different prospect to Jack Fitzpatrick's young Lakers. The 'Burra clearly in the infancy of a rebuild type scenario - a learning phase of sorts given the age profile of the list. Brendan McCartney's men were feverish last week and hunted the ball more like the Minor Premiers of 2021 following a hiccup loss to Ballarat in round three.

Unfortunately for the 'Burra, meeting North Ballarat is rarely convenient - untimely at best. But what the new look 'Burra will get this week in front of their home crowd is an opportunity to back up their spirited winning performance against one of the yardsticks of the competition. That's all the 'Burra faithful can ask for.

The Panthers, fresh off a confidence-building win on the road against Sunbury return home for a meeting with x-factor outfit that is East Point. Who could forget Joel Ottavi's 17 goal haul at the corresponding fixture last year that attracted headlines across the entire AFL landscape.

Melton South coach Heath Pritchard will breathe a little easier ahead of the match knowing Ottavi is no longer with the Kangas. This looms a real 'throw at the stumps' game, a chance to measure their improvement over the last fortnight against one of the proven heavyweights of the competition.

While it's expected the Panthers will be minus a few soldiers off their best 22, a repeat of last week's pressure that unravelled the Sunbury Lions would be high on Pritchard's wishlist. Ruckman Dylan Jones is playing some good footy and the support crew at ground level have been the welcoming beneficiaries.

Curbing the Kangas star-powered midfield is the unenviable task of any opposition coach. The Johnston brothers, Joe Dodd, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus will be familiar eyesores for the Panthers midfield, let alone newcomer Thomas Brown and the likely return of marquee signings Jackson Merrett and James Frawley.

Seeing Clay Bilney back amongst the action is a major boost for Kangas fans eager to improve on their 1-2 start to the season. Just how long the Panthers withstand the offence of the Kangas is an unknown. At least the scoreboard updates will tell us part of the story.

Scoop' Reviews Round 5

While an undefeated Melton goes from strength to strength at the top of the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's ladder, only percentage separates 2nd from 6th. Bacchus Marsh (6th), East Point (7th), Redan (8th), Lake Wendouree (9th) and Sunbury (11th) all have a game in hand having had the bye.

Round 5's highly anticipated top of the table clash between Melton and Ballarat ended in a fizzer as the Swans became the Bloods’ fifth victim - and Covid's first of the 2022 season - going down by 95 points.

Without taking anything away from Melton, the Swans' chances were reduced to slim at best after they were decimated at the selection table, losing up to 12 players due to health protocols (predominately), injury and unavailability. Just to name some of the missing Swans, consider getting the job done without Josh Gibson, Bailey Van Der Heuvel, Angus Bade, Daniel Kennedy, Andrew Hooper, Keegan Mellington, Will Garner and Marcus Powling.

According to Swans coach Joe Carmody, up to 10 of the absentees will be available for selection in next week's important trip to Eastern Oval.

In positive news, Melton continued on their merry way, undefeated on top of the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder. Liam Carter (2 goals) was clearly best on ground, while Jack Walker, Braeden Kight (3 goals) and a returning Brett McIntyre were significant in what Bloods coach Aaron Tymms described as "a very professional effort with 22 contributors”. Leading goalkicker Ryan Carter finished with 4.4. Whilst undermanned, Carmody conceded, "Melton were very good and would be hard to beat anyway." Full respect.

Melton are at home this Saturday for a meeting with North Ballarat who will be on the rebound. Should be a cracker!

The Devils booted six unanswered goals midway through the second half to reel in a 20-point Lions lead and hang on in a thriller. The result was considered an eight-point game for these two sides, eyeing off a slim chance of creeping into the final six at the business end of the season.

While Darley pinched their third win under new Coach Dan Jordan, it's back to the drawing board for Travis Hodgson's Sunbury, who are languishing at 0-4 at the bottom of the table.

Devils’ midfielder Brett Bewley was in a class of his own and undeniably the most influential player on the ground. Chatting to Hodgson in the aftermath, he went on the record saying, "Bewley was the difference."

Sunbury had every reason to be confident heading in, buoyed by the inclusions of three VFL affiliated players in Cooper Anderson (Essendon), Jake Sutton (Essendon) and Mitch Lewis (Port Melbourne). Anderson (2 goals) threatened to take the game away from Darley with his vertical leap forward, but could only cling to a handful of marks from double-figure attempts. Sutton was the most dangerous forward on the ground but his high natured accumulation saw him too far from goal to impact the scoreboard. Lewis was handy on a wing first-up off a four-week hamstring.

For the winners, Shane Page was terrific and youngsters Mitch Ward and Ayden Tanner were important. Nick Rodda's task was made difficult with errant supply for the most part before finishing with two goals, including five shots on goal in the last quarter. Dylan Landt (Essendon VFL affiliate) had his first hit-out in Darley colours against his old club and was instrumental with 30-odd disposals, 95 per cent of them by foot.

The Cobras set up a crucial 10-point win on the road against the Lions with a seven goals to two opening half. The 32-point advantage proved a bridge too far for Jarret Giampaolo's men who fell short for the second week in a row on their home deck.

Harry King was named best for the winners along with former Henderson Medalist Daniel Burton. Off-season arrivals Michael Culliver, Jack Williams and Rex Hickman are stringing together an important stretch of good form with each having an impact in all three of the Cobras’ wins in  2022. Jake Owen (2 goals) remains the number one assignment for opposition clubs to contain. The popular leader's contribution was significant in yet another tight finish. Cobras forward Aaron Willetts did not play.

While Redan midfield gun Lachie George (3 goals) was important, they clearly missed the drive and distribution of Cooper Craig-Peters. The Lions are clearly a different proposition with him in. The club, while wanting only the best for him, will sweat on the Footscray VFL affiliate's availability ahead of their clash with Darley, a Lions' third home game in a row.

Redan sharpshooter Isaac Grant was named among the better players despite a goalless return, while Cooper Atchison’s and Declan Phillips’ run of good form continues.

While the scoreboard tells a story of a Lions charge in the second half, the Cobras did themselves little favours with an inaccurate 2.8, but they had done enough when it counted to secure the Premiership points.

X-factor outfit East Point won the shoot-out at Melton Rec Reserve, downing Heath Pritchard's spirited Panthers by 39 points. The entertaining 37-goal game surpassed the rest of the round five matches (21, 19, 17, 10) comfortably, reminiscent of their 2021 clash that yielded 39 goals. But this edition did not resemble East Point’s one-sided 84 point win in ‘21  by any stretch, in fact, the underdog Panthers were in this game up to their necks but they just couldn't contain Kangas star forward Jordy Johnston, who finished with 8 match-winning goals.

According to Pritchard, the Panthers had their chances but their inability to generate scoreboard pressure despite ample opportunity deserted them. Costly turnovers would play a role too but that is to be expected with such a young group. To put the scoreboard pressure into perspective, the Panthers’ 6.11 to the Kangas' 9.5 first half validates Pritchard’s frustrations.

The Panthers kicked the opening two goals of the third term to draw level but missed a chance to ahead with a third opportunity. The talented Kangas were always going to have their fair share of momentum, their accurate 22 goal return and 33 scoring shots will attest to that.

Pritchard said Matty Johnston, Liam Canny and Thomas Brown provided his boys with the greatest headaches. In form Panthers’ quartet Shaun Wyatt, Dylan Jones, Cody Chapman and Jake Thornton-Gielen featured among the best once again while Pritchard praised the efforts of John Kovarik for his negating role on dangerous left foot midfielder Joe Dodd.

Kangas coach Jake Bridges will be happy banking the points that see them sitting at 2-2 with a game in hand on Melton (1st), North Ballarat (2nd), Ballarat (4th) and Darley (5th) above them.

The emphatic nature of the 'Burras 35-point upset win over the Roosters would have surprised a few, including some of their own at the weekend. Still missing arguably 6 or 7 of their best 12, the backs to the wall 'Burra kept the '21 Minor Premiers goalless for three quarters (0.9) to stun those who were watching what transpired. It was 36 to no score at quarter time - unbelievable!

Tony Lockyer was 'outstanding' for the winners while James Keeble's four goals in a game that yielded just 10, on the whole, were priceless. Chase Dummett and Ben Trew were important while 17-year old Tommy Mitchell 'showed plenty'.

According to Roosters coach Brendan McCartney, "Sebastopol were very good in all areas of the game," conceding that his boys "didn't play their best". According to Macca, with more work, "we will keep getting better."   

'Burras coach Michael Searl was obviously up and about on the back of his club’s first home win of the season. "It was a terrific performance from our entire group," he said. Searl was especially impressed with the nature of the win, the way his boys denied his more fancied rivals the game on their terms.

"We completely strangled their movement and forced them down the line," he said. "Our pressure was relentless."

Nobody could deny the 'Burra a reason to celebrate after an indifferent start to a year soured by injuries to key players. North Ballarat had a couple of outs their own. Two of the 'North Four' Thomas Hotchin and Jamie Quick missed, while VFL affiliates Sam Glover and Josh Chatfield were unavailable.

Sebastopol will savour the bye this week, while North Ballarat get another timely footy audit' against Melton ahead of their bye in round seven.     

Round 6 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Here's Scoop's preview of all the Round 6 action in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. 

League heavyweights Melton and North Ballarat get their own genuine 'footy audit' this weekend - against each other. There's no denying the mutual respect in both camps, but from the outside, it's Melton who looks to have the edge. Aaron Tymms' Bloods are an even lot with no real superstars. They are death by a thousand cuts, a bit like Brendan McCartney's boys but the Bloods have proven the yardstick tag over the small sample size.

We found out last week what a different prospect the Roosters are without Thomas Hotchin and Jamie Quick darting around in the front half causing mayhem. Sam Glover and Josh Chatfield's availability is subject to VFL selection. No such headaches for the Bloods with only Billy Crofts at the VFL. But Melton has a few 'Crofts' types of their own - good two-way runners that carry the ball and take the game on.

The Bloods also have the Carter brothers key forward and x-factor sharpshooter Braedan Kight. All are a nightmare to contain, not to mention the midfield run of Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey, and Lachlan Watkins, with Kyle Borg on a wing and Jordyn Cotter off half-back. Their ability to go coast to coast out of defence has earned the praise of all five of their victims to date.

The match will be a test for Maccas boys, he'll be so looking forward to the challenge on the road. The Roosters on the rebound is not the ideal scenario for Tymmsy's Bloods either - he'll be all over keeping a lid on things. Wrapping up the brief, I'm happy with the 'footy audit' call - I doubt those at the helm would disagree.

Whatever the result tomorrow it will be a first for one of these clubs in season 2022. Redan will have won their first home game in three attempts on the bounce, or an improving Darley will snare back-to-back wins for the first time under new Coach Dan Jordan.

Lions Coach Jarrett Giampaolo will be hoping for a correction on last week's opening half that saw them trailing Bacchus Marsh by 32 points. Similarly, Darley by no means can hang their hat on their first-half returns, having trailed in four of their five games this year.     

The midfield battle sees former Williamstown duo Lachie George and Brett Bewley (both captains) go head-to-head with both having a significant impact for their respective clubs in '22. George's (nine goals in three games) contribution has included returns of multiple goals and can be a handful resting deep forward with his footy smarts against (often) lesser experienced defenders.

Bewley's damage will come between the arcs. While the Lions have just the one win (against Sebastopol) they do have options forward to get the job done. Lead up Lions forwards (along with George) Isaac Grant and Grant Bell loom as the Devils' greatest concerns, while Nick Rodda is the obvious hurdle for Giampaolo's men to contain. The numbers suggest a tight game.

Despite the exit of some seven or eight senior players in the offseason, the small sample size indicates Bacchus Marsh is a better team than last year. While they weren't world-beaters by any stretch, they've added some real quality. All of whom are having an impact validating the Cobras' 3-1 start to the season. Furthermore, with two wins on the road already, Tom German's Bacchus Marsh is an even tougher assignment at home.

Experienced defenders Jack Williams and Jason Robinson (AKA Batman and Robinson) are the new rebound force and will punish any Melton South forward entries executed without thought. Usual suspects German, Daniel Burton, Harry King alongside newcomers Michael Culliver and Max Eastmure, are sure to give the Cobras' offensive weaponry every chance to kick a winning score. Heath Pritchards Panthers are on the improve with spirits high despite a 39 point 'shoot-out' loss to league heavyweights East Point.

The perennial underdogs booted over 100 points against the Kangas and will back themselves in on the road to test the Cobras. Dylan Conway is a star - a bona fide match-winner - while the Panthers' midfield combo of Dylan Jones, Shaun Wyatt, Cody Chapman, and Jake Thornton-Gielen, will ensure the Cobras that this game won't be easy.

How the Panthers begin, and their effectiveness on the scoreboard in the opening half especially, is certain to carry weight on today's outcome. It should be a highly contested game - both sides will be up for a scrap.  

Tomorrow is D-Day for the winless Sunbury - they just have to get it done or face an 0-5 start and stall any thoughts for an ambitious finals campaign. While the Lions will be fully aware of what's at stake, Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick will be sensing a golden opportunity to take down the expected improvers while they're on their knees.

The Lions had arguably their best team last week but fell short of old rivals Darley. But they showed enough to suggest their win/loss ratio, will improve sooner rather than later. I think it's back to the fundamentals for Sunbury, get it in forward and give yourselves every option to score. Despite the weight of recent possession, they're not getting bang for their buck even though the ball is often in the right hands.

Travis Hodgson's boys face a young but speedy Lakers outfit and have the perfect opportunity to exploit the visitors on the wide expanses of Clarke Oval. Just who the Lions get back from injury and the availability of their VFL affiliates in Cooper Anderson, Jake Sutton and Mitch Lewis - all of whom featured last week, is another story.

Even though the Lions are 0-4, their best is good enough. Just get the elusive first win and be on your way, similar to 2021 when they started 1-4 before finishing sixth for 5-5. It all starts on Saturday and it's the Lakers who stand in their way fresh off the bye but their highway travel record (West/East) over recent times (2-9) is enough to brand the home side with the clear favourites tag.

Expect Ballarat to have up to 10 inclusions (from last week) for the showdown against East Point. The Swans' 95-point loss at home to ladder leaders Melton told its own story, albeit an unfortunate one due to injury and unavailability. It's difficult to fathom that a loss on the road for the Swans could equate to a fall outside of the top six.   

Early days, I know, but given their improvement, it speaks volumes of a very even BFNL competition. The Swans aside, Jake Bridges' East Point will be fully aware of the importance of tomorrow's game. A win will see them stay with the pack of five teams above them separated only by percentage. Look for Joe Carmody's Swans to put time into x-factor Kangas forward Jordy Johnston, buoyed with confidence after an eight-goal haul last week against Melton South. But the difficulty with channelling your 'chips in' against East Point is that it can allow someone else off the chain.

The impact of Matty Johnston, Joe Dodd, Jackson Merrett and Thomas Brown could be the difference. Carmody will have the cattle back, but there are no guarantees they will get it done. There's enough speed among the Swans group, they're a reliable defence with like-for-like options to ask questions of East Point's two way running. The 2018 & 2019 Premiers average 85 points against (comp rank #9) from their four games to date.

Scoop' Reviews Round 6

The Bloods firm as flag favourites, Darley jumped into second on the ladder, the Panthers just hung on, East Point's season continues to build, and Sunbury claimed their first win for season 2022.

The Bloods (if they weren't already) will carry the 'flag favourites’ tag for the remainder of the 2022 season following their 68-point demolition job over North Ballarat. Dynamic forward duo Ryan Carter (5 goals) and Braedyn Kight (4 goals) proved an afternoon nightmare for the Roosters who were outscored sixteen goals to five after quarter time. In-form support crew Brett McIntyre and Blake Souter were again at the forefront in a game Bloods coach Aaron Tymms labelled a "great game to watch”. Both coaches agreed the relentless Bloods pressure was the difference.

Despite losing their third game in four weeks it wasn't all bad for the Roosters according to Coach Brendan McCartney. "We aren't playing our best footy, but we showed some glimpses today," he said.

The Roosters - recently considered a 'soldier out, soldier in' outfit - appear shaky, and look far from the daunting prospect of 2021 without Josh Chatfield (Footscray VFL), Thomas Hotchin (ACL), Elliott Lamb (foot) and Jack Riding (general soreness). While Maccas boys are perceived to be an even bunch that bat deep, clearly the absence of a select few has been significant.

The efforts of Brock Leonard and Tom Bromley-Lynch were recognised in defeat, but this day simply belonged to the Bloods. The frightening reality for the rest of the competition is the Bloods are expected to improve in the second half of the season. Hard to beat.        

Melton South hung on to beat a fast-finishing Bacchus Marsh in a thriller at Maddingley Park. The Panthers led by 29 points at the final change before the Cobras kicked the last five goals of the game. Scoreboard aside, given the nature of what transpired, a Cobras win would have been daylight robbery.

The Panthers by and large deserved the points and exposed the Cobras with their dare, spread and leg speed to lead at every change, despite the absence of star forward Dylan Conway (illness). Will Thornton-Gielen (5 goals) assumed the responsibility hitting the scoreboard in the absence of Conway and was the beneficiary of impressive contributions from Shaun Wyatt, Jake Thornton-Gielen, Cody Chapman, Mitch Fino and Billy Lloyd. Brody Sullivan's two first-half goals were quality amid periods of an old-fashioned scrap.

The Panthers are to be commended for taking on the game, denying the Cobras the game on their own terms despite the ongoing presence of dangerous trio Jake Owen (3 goals), Rex Hickman (4 goals) and Daniel Burton.

It's ironic, that four of the last five Panthers wins (over the last two seasons) have been against Sunbury (twice) and Bacchus Marsh (twice). Getting it done further west remains the Panthers' Achilles heel (0-15) since 2018. The Cobras face back-to-back highway trips to East Point and North Ballarat. Interesting...

Jake Bridges' East Point are warming into their season nicely with a 32-point win over Ballarat at the weekend. The Kangas won 3.5 quarters and were never really threatened following a 10-goals to six first half and handy 22-point lead. Jordy Johnston (6 goals) and Bryce MacDougall (4 goals) did the offensive damage and proved the difference in the end. Coalface Kangas Matty Johnston and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus won the midfield field battle providing weight of supply forward, aiding the Kangas to a third score over 100 points in their last four games. For the record, JJ has booted 16 goals for the period.

Coach Jake Bridges was fully aware of his cliche response in the aftermath but thought they were the right words to best sum up the performance. "It was a great team effort," he said.

For Joe Carmody's Swans, buoyed by the return of livewire forward Andrew Hooper (4 goals) conceded they were, "outplayed in the contest, especially at the stoppage.” According to Carmody, "East's midfielders were totally dominant.”

Improving Swans youngster Will Liston and newcomer Aiden Domic along with Hooper gave their all but the Kangas were simply too strong. Expect the Swans to rally next week, second up after illness and injury that decimated the side ahead of their 95-point round five loss to Melton. Will be better for the run.

Surprise packets Darley won their third 'away' game in four attempts under new Coach Dan Jordan to move into second place on the BFNL ladder. The Devils humbled a disappointing Lions outfit who proved their own worst enemy yet again with poor shooting for goal and turnovers in general play.

Despite a 19-point advantage at the half, Jordan conceded his young Devils could easily have been three or four goals down if not for inaccuracy on the part of the Lions.

Jordan said the Lions were pretty good for the most part and was proud of the overall effort of his boys.

"I could easily have found room for 13 or 14 players in our best," he said. "But we still have a lot to learn and face another tough game against Ballarat this week."

While marquee Devils forward Nick Rodda (5 goals) was prominent, the light shone more on the progress of a few youngsters, namely Brady Wright (4 goals), Andy Azzopardi (best) and 16-year-old debutant Mitch Gardiner (2 goals) who might just have kicked the club’s goal of the year. Luther Baker was the Devils’ best mid, while captain Brett Bewley was selfless under a heavy tag.

Redan coach Jarrett Giampaolo's disappointment was palpable in the aftermath. "Another frustrating game - we're unable to maintain consistency in games at the moment," he said.  

Isaac Grant, Jacob Short and Declan Phillips headed the Lions list of best players. 

There were contrasting emotions in both camps following Sunbury's 41-point win over Lake Wendouree at Clarke Oval. A relieved Lions coach Travis Hodgson complimented the efforts of his midfield group and his rebounding defence, denying key Lakers forward, Box Hill affiliate and leading VFL goalkicker Fergus Greene (3 goals) maximum impact.

"It was good to build on last week’s solid performance," Hodgson said. "Our focus is to continue to improve from week to week."

On the flipside, Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick didn't hold back with his damningly honest appraisal of his club’s performance.

"If we continue to not compete for four quarters we will continue to get beaten by bigger margins," he said. According to Fitzpatrick, the Lakers did not take advantage of the inclusion of Greene who is a star at VFL level.

"Fergus was good off limited supply," he said. "Clearly a class above and it's a shame we couldn't utilise him more."

Sunbury surpassed their previous high score of 2022 (68) comfortably with 30 shots on goal to bring up the tonne.

Harry Minton-Connell, Corey Mobilio (3 goals), Tom Werner and Haydn Ross were named best for the winners while Bayley Thompson, Thomas Hunt and Rory O'Keefe could keep their heads up for their contribution in loss. The game was all over at quarter-time - Sunbury led 50-15. Night, night.

Round 7 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Here's Scoop's preview of all the Round 7 action in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. 

The improving Devils host Ballarat in what looks like the match of the round. Even the numbers endorse the billing. The similarities between the two clubs, six rounds in, suggest we could be in for a close one.

Both sides have been slow starters, winning just one opening term for the year but sharing a strong finish with 5/6 fourth-quarter wins. Again, both average 73 points against per game (comp avg #3 and #4 defensively) and match in the front half averaging 23 shots on goal per game.

If not for Ballarat's inefficiency in front of goal (comp rank #11), they could be higher than their 6th place on the ladder suggests (Darley’s in 2nd). But that's where we pull it up - the ladder can be misleading as to where you are six rounds in. In fairness to the Swans, illness, injury, and unavailability proved to be the catalyst behind the club's disappointing 95-point loss to Melton, while the Devils are yet to play North Ballarat and East Point, two heavyweights of this year's competition.

So, this match looms as a genuine test for both sides. Can the young Devils hold off a bigger-bodied (to the eye) maturing Swans outfit touted as a flag contender? I'm sure the Devils will be all-in ahead of their bye in round eight, a much-deserved break. Getting it done at home won't be easy in the absence of Matty Brett and Darren Leonard (doubtful) - however, belief in the group is on the rise. Their loss can be squared away if you like, given the Swans will be without Marcus Powling (hamstring) and Bailey Van De Heuvel (VFL more likely).

Ballarat will hold no fears despite having one win in their last 10 games involving highway travel (comp rank #10). They are a different side now, enhancing organic growth not dissimilar to Melton - but aren't quite there yet. A win today will add weight to validating the Swans' progress and help release that monkey off their back in the 'East'. For Darley, the thought of a 5-2 start into the bye will have surpassed all expectations. It will be a huge game.

One good thing about heading up the highway for a meeting with league heavyweights East Point is that it gives you an extra 40 minutes in the car to theorise on how to best contain in-form x-factor forward Jordy Johnston. Johnston has bags of eight and six-goal returns in his last two weeks. Call it coincidence, call it what you like but the winning margin for the Kangas in their last two successes has near equated to the contribution of JJ's boot alone. Say no more - Cobras consider it memo 101!

The potent Kangas front half has registered 100+ points in three of their last four games and any resemblance on that tomorrow will likely tell us the Cobras have come up short. On the flip side, if the visitors can contain the highly potent Kangas, they will give themselves a chance. For all of East Point's ability to hit the scoreboard (98.8 points per game comp rank #2), they can be a leaky vessel of their own at times, conceding 84 points per game on average (comp rank #9 in defence). The Cobras' Jake Owen (13 goals - 3,3,2,2,3) and Rex Hickman (9 goals - 0,2,2,1,4) will need multiples in the 4-5 range to pinch this result if the visitors are to be denied a repeat stoppage, low scoring affair.

The midfield battle rings alarm bells for the Cobras as well. I'm not sure they have the group to match or contain Matty Johnston, Joe Dodd, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and marquee signing Jackson Merrett. Ruckman Thomas Brown will be an awkward matchup for Daniel Burton with his vertical leap alone.

The scoreboard will go a long way in telling us who got off the hook. 

Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick will be looking for a spirited response from his boys when they host ladder leaders Melton. An upset win at home against the undefeated Bloods appears unlikely as Lakers fans brace for a fifth straight loss in what is shaping as a tough season for the club. It's how they minimise the damage on the back of a lacklustre performance against Sunbury that has my interest. In fairness, the Lakers are young, relatively inexperienced, and clearly three or four quality players shy of genuinely matching the better sides.

This weekend looms as the perfect example. The Bloods are a well-drilled group, entering their fifth season on the bounce in Premiership contention and have taken no prisoners so far in 2022. They have beaten Melton South (80pts), Sunbury (40pts), Bacchus Marsh (28pts), Darley (30pts), Ballarat (95pts) and North Ballarat (68pts). I know Fitzpatrick will do everything he can to upset the Bloods' run but getting within seven goals will be a task in itself.

Bloods leading forward Ryan Carter (23 goals) has proven a handful all season with multiple returns in all six games (5,4,3,2,4,5), averaging 9-10 shots on goal each week. Braeden Kight (3,1,0,2,3,5) has 14 goals in '22, kept goalless only by Bacchus Marsh, and is capable of going big again.

Externally it appears to be a case of how far in favour of the Bloods, so with tempered expectations on their winning chances, we ask the Lakers simply to have a crack.

Sebastopol returns after the bye for their first hitout away from Ballarat this season when they meet a confidence-building Melton South who've won two of their last three games.

The 'Burra will hope the pattern off the bye in '22 (LWLWL) continues for another week because they're going to be made to earn the four points. It's old news that the visitors have had their fair share of bad luck with injuries to quality players but their most recent win over North Ballarat in round five would have refuelled any self-doubts among the group.

The Panthers have some weapons of their own. Midfielder and captain Shaun Wyatt is a gun, his distribution and ability to keep his feet in traffic are impressive. Young Mitch Fino is the next generation Wyatt, sharing very similar traits while the form of Dylan Jones, Cody Chapman, the Thornton-Gielen brothers and the likely return of Dylan Conway, must give them a shot.

How Panthers coach Heath Pritchard can get his boys up again this week to bring the pressure will be his greatest challenge because, without it, they're a shadow of their best. They brought the pressure against Sunbury (tick) and got it done again against Bacchus Marsh last week. Good sides stand up to the challenge that is out there.

The 'Burra - despite their horror run with injury - bat pretty deep and have proven they can kick a winning score and, more importantly, deliver the pressure that was significant in their 35 point win over North Ballarat. Tony Lockyer and James Keeble are flying and loom as the Panthers' greatest threat in winning their first home game in '22, but more importantly a third win in four weeks.      

There's a bit to play out here.      

Ironically Sunbury is 1-4, the same as they were in 2021. Surely it's a wry smile at best out of the Lions camp who would be disappointed with their start to the season. They have the perfect opportunity to make it back-to-back wins when they host Redan, still reeling from three successive losses at home. Redan coach Jarrett Giampaolo had every reason to vent his frustration citing poor ball use and inaccurate kicking for goal as major factors in his club's three-game losing streak.   

For what it's worth, Redan has had the edge over Sunbury in their last two hit-outs by 21 and 20 points, but this weekend brings a change in the narrative being played at Clarke Oval. It flips the likely outcome on its head - I've no doubt that under the pump Sunbury start as favourites. Travis Hodgson's Lions must win at least two of their next three games against Redan, Sebastopol and Bacchus Marsh to keep their finals hopes alive.

Needless to suggest that finals will be the furthest thing from these two coaches' minds as they go head to head. Both are desperate for their second win of the season. The year will be made harder for the loser.

While Sunbury isn't the force they once were at home with just four wins from their last seven games at Clarke Oval, I'm firm in the belief some learnings out of the Melton South and Darley losses will hold them in good stead. Hodgson's boys had 30 shots on goal last week to get the job done against the Lakers. But how that stacks up against Giampaolo's Redan, time will tell.

Should be a good stoppage game, both sides are good in close - who gets the first crack on the outside and uses the ball more effectively wins. Simple. 

Scoop' Reviews Round 7

The trend of winning away from home continued at the weekend, with another four wins for the away teams. Of the 35 games completed so far 20 have been won by the away team.

For the three seasons prior to 2022, hitting the highway to play came with an average of one win from every four games. In 2022, that ratio has switched dramatically to 10 wins from 14 highway matches for the away teams.

Projected to be improvers this year, Sunbury’s season is on a knife's edge after a 13-point home loss to Redan on Saturday.

Despite leading at every change, Sunbury was unable to hold off the visitors who overcame a 14-point deficit at three-quarter time by adding five goals to one in a barnstorming finish.

The Atchison boys shared ground honours, while underrated wingman Pat Fitzgibbon thrived on the big ground that is Clarke Oval.

Sunbury coach Travis Hodgson conceded it was a game of missed opportunity from his group.

"We played reasonably well and mostly controlled it for two and a half quarters, had numerous chances to kick away halfway through the third and didn't take them," he said.

Harry Power, Haydn Ross and Jayden Eales were acknowledged for their efforts in a losing side that simply came up short.

"Redan clearly outplayed us in the last quarter," Hodgson said.

The nature of the come from behind win for the visitors will be a major confidence booster for the group, according to Redan coach Jarrett Giampaolo 

"I'm absolutely stoked for the boys after a great fightback in the second half," he said.

"(We) showed plenty of character, never gave in and deserved the win for the effort they put in."

Two road trip challenges await these clubs in round eight and neither will be easy by any stretch. Sunbury head to Sebastopol to take on the Burras who have won three in a row, while Redan meets an improving Melton South. 

The Swans got it done on the road, bringing their best when it mattered most to hold off an inaccurate Devils by 18 points. The win was thoroughly deserved and a just reward for the Swans’ superior work rate and ability to outnumber the Devils at the contest, especially in defence. Devils key forward Nick Rodda (3.7) often had two or three to beat in the air yet somehow the Swans were able to win the ball at ground level.

Swans mid Aiden Domic was damaging with his outside run, Nick Weightman was influential with his drive off half-back and captain Sam James was important with his work around stoppage. Coach Joe Carmody praised his boys post-match and welcomed the return to the winners’ list.

"Our ball movement was very good, and our pressure and tackling were at a high standard," he said. 

For the Devils, Duncan Cadman and Shane Page battled like warriors, while Brett Bewley, despite much attention, is clearly a class above. Coach Dan Jordan is not one to explore the could’ve, would’ve, should’ve despite a run of eight consecutive behinds from midway through the second quarter until late in the third.

"Sure, we didn't take our chances, but there's plenty more we'll learn from the game," he said.

"We're a young group, seven rounds in and tracking in the right direction."

While the round eight bye is timely for the Devils, their next hit out isn't until June 18, when they embark on a road trip to East Point. The challenge for the returning young list will be to hit the ground running given the club has won just one first quarter in 2022.      

The Kangas stormed back into second place on the BFNL ladder with a convincing 47-point win over the Cobras at Eastern Oval. The (still) reigning back-to-back Premiers put the game to bed early, opening up a 27-point lead at the first change.

Jordy Johnston (5 goals) was the star of the show yet again, taking his tally to 21 goals from his last five games, while marquee recruit Jackson Merrett was named best afield. Midfielders Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Joe Dodd won more than their fair share of the ball through the midfield to aid the supply to Johnston, Bryce McDougall (2 goals) and impressive young talent Jack Jeffrey (2 goals).

Kangas coach Jake Bridges said it was, “a four-quarter effort with plenty of evidence around our trademarks and opportunities for growth."

Cobras forward Aaron Willetts (4 goals) returned from a hip complaint, confirming his importance to the lineup to be named among the best with newcomer Sam Crea and defender Simon LaFranchi. Dangerous forward Jake Owen finished with two goals and continued with his terrific run of consistency.

Coach Tom German conceded his boys were made to work hard for their goals while a skilful East Point took their opportunities. The Cobras sit just outside the top six on percentage and face North Ballarat at Mars Stadium on Saturday. Good luck.

Sebastopol kicked the last five goals of the game to secure the points against a spirited Melton South at the weekend.

Star utility and Burra captain Tony Lockyer (3 goals) were the catalysts behind the tough win after the visitors were ahead in the last quarter.

Panthers coach Heath Pritchard was full of praise for Lockyer in the aftermath.

"Tony was the best on ground by the length of the straight, simply outstanding," he said.

Pritchard went on to express the pride in his own group who again were crippled with illness to key players including their general and captain, Shaun Wyatt. While the Panthers struggled to get their best 22 on the park, Pritchard made no excuses, remaining positive on the trajectory of the club’s improvement over the last month.

"We are getting better every week and believe in what we're doing," he said. "More wins are around the corner."

Burras’ coach Michael Searle was clearly relieved with the win after an almighty scare.

"We knew it was a danger game for us," he said. "They applied good pressure and took risks that we struggled to defend against."

While Michael Powell (5 goals), Jed Hill (4 goals) and Bailey Veale (2 goals) featured prominently for the winners there was no disputing the most influential player on the ground.

"Thank goodness for Tony Lockyer," Searle said.

The Panthers showed plenty of dash to reel in a 34-point halftime deficit before their run ended. Dylan Jones, Cody Chapman, Jacob Thornton-Gielen maintained their recent good form while Dylan Conway booted four goals in his return. 

Undefeated Melton showed no signs of mercy at the weekend cruising in a systematic fashion to an 81-point win over Lake Wendouree.

The Bloods booted five goals in every quarter, refusing to take their foot off the gas.

Progressive half-forward Luke Heaney (5 goals), along with Liam Carter (4 goals) took the honours on the scoreboard while regular duo Ryan Carter and Braeden Kight took a back seat settling three goals each of their own.

Bloods midfielder Jaycob Hickey is starting to give teammate Jack Walker a run for club Best and Fairest with another best on ground performance ahead of those who did the damage in front of goal. Kyle Borg, Lachie Watkins and Lachlan Walker shared good numbers of their own to feature in yet another four-quarter Bloods blitz.

Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick found some positives in his young group’s performance but was under no illusions about the difference between the two sides.

"The scoreboard might not reflect it, but the competitiveness was far better than last week," he said.

"That said, we got a lesson in using the footy - schoolboy errors hurt us, but to Melton's credit their ball use was exceptional."

Another tough assignment awaits the Lakers this week when they face Ballarat at Alfredton Oval. Melton's week culminates with a top of the table clash at home with East Point. We look forward to that one!

Round 8 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Here's Scoop's preview of all the Round 8 action in the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp. 

Given the overall evenness of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL this season and the fight for a top-six spot warming up, the focus is on Ballarat to go on with their highway win over Darley last week and put the Lakers to the sword. Swans coach Joe Carmody will want this game put to bed early despite this area of the game being the most concerning having just won three of their opening half 12 quarters for the season. 

While the Swans average 72.7 pts per game (comp rank #6th) an asterisk can be put on their disappointing three-goal return against Melton due to unfortunate circumstances. I did write in the season preview that if Jack Fitzpatrick could steer his young Lakers into finals, they should give him a ten-year contract. The results so far and a tough draw give no reasons to temper expectations.

The O'Connell boys, Jacob Coxall and Timmy Collins have been required to carry the heavy load, a big ask given the depth of rival teams. Ballarat is certainly no exception to the theory. The Swans mids without Marcus Powling are still dangerous at the coal face while their rebounding defenders have been vital in all the club's four wins.  

I know the Lakers prevailed at their last meet here in 2021 but the Swans will find comfort knowing Kai Lohmann (Brisbane AFL), Sam Butler (Hawthorn AFL), Nick Rippon, Ash Simpson, Scott Blake, Josh Bibby and Jacob Lohmann won't be there this time around.

Sure, Melton is undefeated and remains the hunted in 2022, but it shouldn't be difficult for Bloods coach Aaron Tymms to find the necessary motivation to be 'all chips in' ahead of their two-week break.

A 41-point loss at their last meet here in 2021 and the flag steal of 2018 when the Bloods looked on track for their first Premiership since 2005 would still ring true. As many as 15 Bloods' who played in that two-point Grand Final loss to the Kangas will feature tomorrow.

How we'd love a top of the table shoot-out between these two top sides given Melton (113 pts per game) and East Point (101.5 pts per game) boast the most potent combinations forward of centre.

But it's the nature of the Bloods' defence (#1, 52.7pts avg AGST) that has the measure of a leaky Kangas back six (#8, 81.2pts avg AGST) confirming a distinct point of difference between the two. For the Bloods, the memo is clear - contain Kanga’s star forward Jordy Johnston, who has 21 goals from his last five games, and you're on your way despite the commendable support roles in recent weeks from Bryce McDougall and youngster Jack Jeffrey.

The assignment for visiting Kanga’s coach Jack Bridges is not as easy, having to find a way to contain the Carter brothers, Braedan Kight and Luke Heaney. Much will depend on how the Kanga's midfield led by Matty Johnston, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd and marquee signing Jackson Merrett, go about winning their own ball and their will to lend assistance down back when required.

Bloods mids Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey, Lachie Watkins and wingman Kyle Borg are the comp leaders for their two way running and will ask questions of a highly talented Kanga's outfit. I'm expecting a typical cold Winter's Day in Melton and far from the shoot out the numbers would suggest, rather a game decided by opportunities taken. Tipping a 12-13 goal score will be enough to claim the Premiership points. 

The Panthers will give themselves an almighty chance of claiming their third win of the season when they face the Lions at Melton Rec Reserve.

Any resemblance of the form that saw them within touch of Darley, East Point, and Sebastopol, let alone their two wins on the road over Sunbury and Bacchus Marsh, should provide enough confidence for Heath Pritchard and his staff to eye off a win. Yet for all of the Panthers' improvement, they're running out of 'home' games. Getting it done this weekend will be their fifth attempt in the opening eight rounds (0-4).

Star Panthers forward Dylan Conway is back while the inclusion of captain Shaun Wyatt from illness will be crucial. The Panthers have a growing bunch of in-form contributors at the moment, which must be pleasing for Pritchard who is yet to assemble arguably his best 22 at all this season. Dylan Jones, Cody Chapman, the Thornton-Gielen boys, and Mitch Fino are just a few of the troops having a significant impact on the Panthers' competitive returns.

Nonetheless, a winning culture is what the Panthers ultimately crave, like any club and will have to overcome Redan who is full of beans and belief after their highway win over Sunbury last weekend. The Lions will take comfort knowing their best form has been on the road this season after three misses on the trot at home - a bit like Melton South really.

Just who gets the points tomorrow is a 50/50 proposition - the winners will be made to work hard. Who can produce the desired work rate and respond most effectively to the anticipated high pressure will tell the story on the scoreboard. Hopefully, both teams can enjoy some better luck at the selection table this week - it will only enhance what is already shaping as a cracking affair.  

This round marks the fifth game for the Cobras against top-six opposition in their opening seven games. Their task will not be made any easier down the highway against a North Ballarat outfit desperate to return to the winners' list after dropping three of their last four games. Touted early doors as potential flag favourites, Brendan McCartney's North boys have endured a tough month but should be the beneficiaries of a round 7 opportunity to reset (bye).

While both sides forward of centre average in the low seventies for average points scored per game, it's North's defence (72.8 pts avg AGST comp rank #4) who have held stronger than the Cobras (84.8 pts avg AGST comp rank #9) throughout 2022. And they will need to again, for the Cobras' strengths lay forward in Jake Owen, Aaron Willetts and Rex Hickman.

While North will need to get the matchups right to contain the dangerous trio, the game as it so often is will be largely attributed to the midfield battle. Can the likes of Daniel Burton, Nick Stuhldreier and Tom German match it with Cam McCullum, Jonathan O'Brien and Simon McCartin - it should be an intriguing battle. Naturally, the inside 50s stat will tell us a lot from the outside of who had the upper hand.

North has proven a lesser threat without Thomas Hotchin (ACL) and miss Elliott Lamb (foot) more than he gets credit for, but they do bat a little deeper than their travelling opposition today and should be winning. The Cobras will have their moments. How effective they are at turning those into scores remains their greatest challenge.    

I'm more than happy to stand corrected on the record stating Sebastopol has not beaten Sunbury for as long as gameday stats go back (2009). To say Sunbury has been the 'Burras bogey team would be an understatement. Tomorrow's match, however, looms another opportunity to put an end to this unenviable term of events.

Despite winning half of their quarters in 2022, the Lions have just one win from their opening six games but will give themselves a chance psyching out a 'Burras outfit aiming to stay in the top three calculations.

For all of Sunbury's disappointment thus far, their numbers for and against are by no means horrible. Their ability to convert another two-quarter win higher than their opponents could easily equate to a win and see them just a game off seventh. But easier said than done.

Sebastopol will be well aware of their dismal record against Sunbury and will be hopeful of stretching their unbeaten run to four games. While the 'Burras Tony Lockyer and James Keeble loom the obvious dangers for the visitors, the Lions' connection within their own group may well be greater. The Lions aren't short on talent, and blokes who can possess the footy too. This suggests the game can go down to the wire.

The 'Burra pose as a blueprint for the Lions, having been similarly unable to get their best 22 on the park, and have been decimated with injury. While Mick Searle's boys lob on the back of a hattrick of wins, it's still a good time for Travis Hodgson's Lions to get them before some of their top-end soldiers return. If Marty Busch Reserve was a take-away shop, Travis Hodgson's order for his players would be simple..."One buy-in please!"  There's one catch, however - this order takes 100 minutes to complete.

Scoop' Reviews Round 8

The first Saturday in June '22 will be remembered for two things across the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's comp - the emphatic arrival of winter and the day Melton firmed as red hot flag favourites.

With both sides missing key personnel, it was North Ballarat who returned to the winners' list with a comfortable 27-point win at Mars Stadium. After scores were level at quarter time, Brendan McCartney's men booted the next six goals of the game to put the contest beyond doubt in trying conditions, moving ahead on the win/loss ledger and back into fourth place on the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder.

Trying conditions may be the understatement of the year given all of nature's elements were in evidence as winter announced its arrival in Ballarat. The lights of Mars Stadium had little effect on improving the spectacle, but without them, it would have been near impossible to watch. 

Cobras coach Tom German, while disappointed the in loss, commended his players for their effort. "We had quite a few out but the guys battled hard all day," he said. "We just didn't get the reward for our effort in the first quarter especially."

McCartney endorsed the sentiments of German in the post-match. "An undermanned Bacchus Marsh did a mighty job as a club," he said. "[On our own performance] we worked harder this week and resembled much more of how we want to be."

For the winners, Jack Riding (1 goal), Ned Nash and Jamie Quick (2 goals) were the cleanest ball users in the conditions, while Jake Owen (defence), Alex Porter and Ryley Stuhldreier never gave up the fight for the Cobras.       

Ballarat survived a spirited challenge from a young Lakers outfit to win by 13 points at Alfredton Oval. The degree of difficulty to execute amid the elements, let alone determined opposition, was not missed by either coach in the aftermath.

Victorious Swans coach Joe Carmody was just happy to walk away with the points after trailing at three-quarter time.

"We didn't really adjust to the wet, windy, cold conditions," he said. "[We were] lucky to get the win in the end."

The Swans kicked the only three goals in the last quarter to arrest an eight-point deficit to avoid the upset of the round.

Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick - clearly a character of the game - continues to deliver his matter-of-fact match summations.

"You couldn't even call it footy on what was a truly atrocious day," he said. "Both teams deserve credit for slugging it out in simply awful conditions."     

Nick Swain, Carter Prendergast and Sam James were named best afield for the winners while Lachlan O'Connell, Lachlan Fitzgerald and youngster Cooper James tried their hearts out for Fitzpatrick.

Undefeated Melton confirmed their flag favourites tag with a 41-point win over (then) second-placed East Point at Macpherson Park.

Aaron Tymms' Bloods made it tough for the visitors from the outset with the aid of the breeze to lead 30-0 at the first change. The Kangas responded (as we all thought they would) to be within seven points at the half, but a nine-goal to two third term from the ladder leaders quickly dispelled any thoughts of an upset.

Coach Tymms was proud of his boys in what was clearly a danger for the club.

"It was a very well-rounded performance from the entire group," he said. "We will enjoy a few weeks off now." The Bloods' next game is not until June 25, an away meeting with Redan.

For Bridges' boys, it's not doom and gloom by any stretch, but rather a timely footy audit nearing halfway against the benchmark of the competition. Kangas’ star forward Jordy Johnston booted five goals, extending his tally to 26 from his last six games. Midfielder Matty Johnston won his fair share of the footy, while Dallas Martin and Aden Nestor's seasons continue to gain momentum. 

For the winners, league-leading forward Ryan Carter (5 goals) and brother Liam (3 goals) proved a formidable combination once again in the Bloods’ front half, while running machine/ball magnet Jack Walker was named best on ground for a third time this season. Youngsters Adrian Monitto and Kyle Borg were lively contributors for the Bloods to feature amongst the best players, along with inside mid Lachie Watkins.

League improvers Melton South were unable to sustain their brand of pressure over the last month, succumbing to a more desperate Redan on the road to the tune of 44 points. The Lions led at every change, leaving a degree of inevitability about the result from a long way out. The visitors certainly came to play, riding high on the back of their away win over Sunbury last week, essentially banking the premiership points to stay within touch of the final six calculations.

Panthers coach Heath Pritchard conceded his boys were down and paid full credit to Redan in what was billed as a very winnable game for both sides heading in.

"Redan played well and brought a high intensity and work rate," he said.

"Losing Dylan Conway (concussion) in the first quarter, Jake Thornton-Gielen (shoulder) in the third and Billy Lloyd (ankle) at the start of the last didn't help, but the damage was already done."

"Full credit to Redan," Pritchard said.

The Panthers sit in ninth place with two wins and are nil from five at home this year.

The mood was in complete contrast to an upbeat Redan camp who sit just one game outside of the top six following their third away win of the season.

According to Lions coach Jarrett Giampaolo, the win was just reward for their superior work rate.

"It was a good win, we controlled the game for the most part," he said.

"Our boys applied relentless pressure and tackled really well and our young players stood up in the contest."

The Lions veterans did most of the damage on the scoreboard as Lachie George (4 goals), Grant Bell (3 goals) and Liam Hoy (3 goals) combined for 10 goals. George was named best along with Isaac Grant, while Panthers trio Rhys Lee, Cody Chapman and Matthew Notman earned the plaudits, albeit in defeat, from their coach. 

Sebastopol has finally put an end to arguably the longest run of outs amongst any of the McDonald’s Ballarat FNL clubs to hold off a desperate Sunbury at Marty Busch Reserve on Saturday.

The horrible conditions witnessed across the Ballarat region over the weekend were reflected in the low rate of scoring. The visiting Lions found themselves in the game yet again winning their customary two quarters to lead at half-time by 7 points. But their inability to hit the scoreboard in the second half proved their undoing, managing just three behinds for the half as opposed to the 'Burras 3.8.

It's well known that Sunbury has struggled to field their best 22 this year but could not use it as an excuse given the casualty list the 'Burra have had to endure in their opening seven games.

Sebastopol coach Michael Searl confirmed his boys were made to work extremely hard for the win.

"Sunbury outworked us and were winning plenty of the football in the first half," he said.

"We were able to turn it around in the second (half) with some one-on-one football.

"Our effort, tackling pressure and competitiveness was huge."

Despite the misfortunes for the 'Burra on the injury front, the club has managed four wins on the trot to sit second on the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s ladder with a clear advantage over cross-town rival and next opponent Ballarat.

Sunbury coach Travis Hodgson kept a glass half full attitude despite the club's sixth loss of the season.

"Considering our large number of outs, I was proud of our boys’ effort," he said.

"It was a fiercely contested and even game for the most part and we're disappointed we couldn't turn it into four Premiership points.

According to Hodgson the Lions, "need to keep presenting and being in games until we break through again."

The 'Burras Grady Snowden, Tony Lockyer and Bailey Veale featured significantly while the Lions' Tyson Lever, Matthew Medcraft and Leigh Brennan were acknowledged for their efforts in defeat.