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BFNL Review - Round 16, 2023


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



  • North Ballarat

    10.13.73

  • def.

  • Sunbury

    8.13.61


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Ballarat

    13.5.83

  • def.

  • Redan

    9.10.64


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Darley

    33.23.221

  • def.

  • Melton South

    1.3.9


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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Bacchus Marsh

    19.19.133

  • def. by

  • Lake Wendouree

    6.5.41


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    15.11.101

  • def. by

  • Sebastopol

    15.20.110


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 16, 2024


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


  • East Point

    19.11.125

  • def.

  • North Ballarat

    10.5.65


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robinson's impressive afternoon ended with four goals.

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

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

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

For North Ballarat, there were encouraging signs in defeat.

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Sebastopol

    9.10.64

  • def. by

  • Ballarat

    14.15.99


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

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

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

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

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

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

Essentially 18 scoring shots to seven.

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

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

Connection is a season long wish for any coach.

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Bacchus Marsh

    7.8.50

  • def. by

  • Melton

    27.14.176


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Redan

    17.9.111

  • def.

  • Melton South

    13.9.87


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Darley

    19.7.121

  • def.

  • Sunbury

    8.8.56


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

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

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

Inevitably questions would be answered.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 17, 2023


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



  • Sunbury

    11.13.79

  • def. by

  • Bacchus Marsh

    4.8.32


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Redan

    34.14.218

  • def.

  • Melton South

    4.7.31


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Lake Wendouree

    3.5.23

  • def. by

  • East Point

    22.13.145


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Darley

    10.10.70

  • def.

  • Melton

    7.7.49


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Sebastopol

    25.25.175

  • def.

  • Ballarat

    3.6.24


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 17, 2024


Saturday saw a clean sweep of wins for our away sides as we head towards the final home and away round of the season.



  • Bacchus Marsh

    11.11.77

  • def. by

  • Darley

    15.11.101


Darley simply did enough to hold off the resistance of crosstown rival Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park on the weekend.

The win locks in a prized third place finish for Dan Jordan's men despite a Round 18 meeting with ladder leaders Melton still to come.

While the once highly anticipated showdown is essentially a 'dead rubber' there's a host of narratives on the table for both camps to explore. More later.

The Devils went into the local derby as warm favourites and were made to work hard for their win as the reigning premiers found it difficult to shrug off the young Cobras.

Darley Captain Brett Bewley (three goals) stood up in the big moments to deny the Cobras while Brady Wright made a safe return to finish best on ground honours and equal, game high four goals.

Billy Myers proved a handful posing as another aerial threat alongside Wright.

The three were arguably the difference in the game.

The Devils led at every change winning three and a half quarters but credit to the Cobras who stayed within touch from start to finish.

Cobras’ midfield quartet Luke Goetz, Tyson Shea, Jake McCreery and Josh Huxtable waltzed out of stoppage far too often for the Devils liking, highlighting the absence of compliant clearance king Luther Baker.

Jake Owen provided the aerial target forward for the hosts to match Wright's four goal return while Isaac Nixon looked dangerous with his two majors that could easily have been more.

The Cobras surprised and impressed Devils onlookers, not to mention their own legion of fans with back-to-back goals on more than one occasion, often coast-to-coast ball movement with the aid of separation and predictability to one another - a feature not seen for a while at Cobra land.

For the Devils they ticked the box with an all-important win in the context of their season but clearly on exposed form, they remain a work in progress if they're to match it with the heavy weights at the business end.

The Cobras get some clarity around a potential bright future. The addition of some important top end and targeted role players in the coming off season could see the rise of the Cobras back to finals sooner rather than later.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 32 disposals, 13 score involvements, 12 clearances

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh) - 21 disposals, 12 marks, 11 score involvements

Andrew Azzopardi (Darley) - 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 10 score involvements 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Very proud of the lads today in a good four quarter game where they kept taking the game on. I felt we played positive footy and showed our brand stands up. Darley made the most of turnovers and stepped up when needed."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Sure, happy with the win - Bacchus Marsh came to play and took the game up to us for the most part. We were able to do enough in key moments to hold them out. There were plenty of learnings to draw from the game, highlighting clear areas we need to work on. Credit to Bacchus Marsh, they hung in and made us work hard for an important win given the context of our season."


  • Lake Wendouree

    8.4.52

  • def. by

  • Melton

    30.12.192


The Bloods made it ten wins on the trot with a dominant display over the Lakers at CE Brown Reserve.

It was the ninth occasion the Bloods had registered a score in excess of 100 points and their sixth win of 100 or more for the season.

Extraordinary numbers really.

Troy Scoble's flag fancies have been relentless, their edge over bottom five sides compelling.

In the eight games played against Sebastopol, Redan, Bacchus Marsh (twice), the Lakers (twice) and Melton South (twice) the average winning margin is 20 goals.

Only Bacchus Marsh (once) and Redan have managed to keep the margin under 117 points!

Dangerous Bloods’ quartet Braedyn Kight (six goals), Ryan Carter (six), Liam Carter (five) and Jordy Kight (three) combined for 20 of their goals to rattle the Lakers who really didn't know where to look next.

Bloods’ small forward Ryan Davis (three goals) made a safe return in the absence of speedster Kyle Borg.

Midfielder Jaycob Hickey, a model of consistency, made it a ninth appearance in the best players from his 14 games ahead of Conrad Farrugia, Lachie Phillips, the Carter brothers and Braedan Kight.

For the Lakers, big man Tom Zampatti continued his encouraging season with another quality performance to be named best in front of usual suspects Joel O'Connell, Angus Gove and x-factor forward Bayley Thompson who took his tally to 34 with another three goals (comp rank #8).

The Bloods should welcome the tune up against the Devils in Round 18 as Saturday marks 35 days since their last hit out against any side in the top six.

As for the Lakers, a meeting with Redan gives Rohan Brown one final opportunity to put their learnings and progress into action. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Liam Carter (Melton) - 24 disposals, 18 score involvements, 15 marks

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 37 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 86 hitouts, 20 disposals, 8 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Melton were very good and used the ball far more efficiently moving forward and gave their forwards great looks at it. I thought for periods of the game we played some good footy even though the margin doesn't recognise that. We let ourselves down and gave opposition goals through fundamental error. Great to give three debutants experience against quality opposition including our U/17s Captain Rawdon Rogers who didn't look out of place. We are looking forward to next week celebrating Nathan Pring's 200th senior game, only the second player in Lakers history to achieve it."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"To go to Ballarat and get the win is always the goal no matter how we are to do it. We were pleased with our ability to run and create opportunities to score through the whole game. Our contest phase was strong too and our defence phase challenged by the Lakers who were really consistent at contest. Credit to Rohan and his group. We are proud of our group being challenged over the last two weeks away from home and a number of young players getting opportunities at senior level. We continue to get the list ready for another top three match up next week before the finals commence."


  • Sunbury

    7.8.50

  • def. by

  • East Point

    15.5.95


The Kangas were simply too strong for too long, overpowering a Lions’ outfit at the Clarke Oval on the BFNL ‘Match of the Day’.

In form Kanga Bryson McDougall finished the game with a game high five goals ahead of Jackson Merrett (three) who was important with his cameo drift forward getting under the guard of the Lions’ defence.

Matty White had his pride in the right frame of mind early as they took advantage of the Kangas adjustment to the big ground, opening up a deserved 14-point lead at quarter time.

The Lions matched the physicality of the Kangas and looked every bit dangerous with their ball movement and favourable inside 50 count.

But the response after the break from the visitors was emphatic, six unanswered goals to arrest momentum, obtaining a 20-point lead.

The 8.0-48 to 4.4-28 scoreline served as the barometer for opportunity made and lost.   

Not dissimilar to Melton, East Point are all on the same page with and without the ball.

While their enviable ball movement is something to behold, it's their set up behind play, without the ball, that is strangling opposition.

On countless occasions, Sunbury players (in possession) were left bereft of options as a wall of red, white, and blue stood tall in the distance.

Since Round 9, Kangas’ opposition have managed miserly returns of 25, 44, 24, 57, 24, 20, 65 and 50 points.

Come finals, experienced coaches Troy Scoble, Dan Jordan, Brendan McCartney, Chris Maple and White will have to find a way through or Joe Carmody's Kangas will march on their winning ways, already at 14 wins.

Jacob Brown and Merrett were named best for the winners ahead of a host contributors simply playing their role.

If you want to beat East Point, you have to beat them all - it's not about a select few anymore.

For Sunbury Brock Landt, Nathan Doyle and Josh Guthrie shouldered a lot of the responsibility between the arcs and made solid contributions. Leading forward Jake Sutton finished with three goals.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 30 disposals, 10 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 10 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Started the game well and came out after half time to hold well but the second and fourth quarters killed us. East Point turned it up when they needed to and proved why they're a top side."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Sunbury challenged us for most of the day. Young players stood up and complemented our more experienced players with their run and pressure. Always a hard place to win at, so really pleasing to get the points."


  • Melton South

    3.6.24

  • def. by

  • Ballarat

    20.22.142


Finals bound Ballarat extended their unbeaten run to six games with a big win over the Panthers at Melton Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

The margin could well have been greater if not for some wasted opportunities on goal by the visitors.

Harry Butler booted a game high four goals for the winners ahead of 10 other Swans to hit the scoreboard.

Paddy Simpson, Ben Wardly and GWV Rebels talent Sam McDonald chimed in with three goals, to round out the multiple contributors from the Swans.

Swans midfielder Lewis Rinaldi was named best afield ahead of Butler, ruckman Marcus Powling and fellow mid Paddy Simpson while Bailey Fraser and Rhys Perry rounded out a host of Swans players to have an impact in the percentage building win.

The Panthers started well with Jarrod Bibby, Jesse Muse and Ryder Rousch getting on the scoresheet early.

However, the Panthers were held goalless by the Swans after quarter time as the gears of the game started to grind on the home side.

Tenacious trio Cody Chapman, Broden Collins and Mitch Fino were named amongst the best as the regular contributors put in another mountain of workload for their beloved Panthers.

John Kovarik, Lachlan Peterson and Rhys Lee were also noted for their efforts.

The Swans will face the ultimate test ahead of finals as they host a formidable East Point outfit at Alfredton Recreation Reserve this Saturday.

Melton South will end their season with a trip to Marty Busch Reserve to face off against Sebastopol with the Burra fresh off the bye.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 38 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 19 clearances

Harry Butler (Ballarat) - 20 disposals, 14 score involvements, 8 marks

Broden Collins (Melton South) - 49 hit outs, 27 disposals, 20 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Got off to a pretty good start and lost (Darby) Schilder and (Jarrod) Bibby early. Ballarat were far superior regardless, scoring easily and shrinking the ground on us when we were in offence. They were wasteful in front of goal, otherwise the margin would have been much greater."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A pretty ordinary game of football today. We wasted a lot of opportunities on goal. Credit to Melton South, they brought a lot of pressure."


  • Redan

    9.7.61

  • def. by

  • North Ballarat

    12.15.87


North Ballarat won the battle of youth over coming Redan at City Oval by 26 points.

The Roosters found themselves under the pump early as the Lions piled on five unanswered goals in the first term before they awoke from their slumber.

To recover and add 12 goals to four for the remainder of the game is a credit to the progressive maturity shown by Brendan McCartney's young group.

Mid-season edition Joel Freeman had four goals from as many kicks at one stage before finishing with a match winning five goals in a low scoring affair.

The former Cobra has booted 18 goals from his last four games with three hauls of five and one game of three.

After a promising start that saw the Lions lead at the first change by 19 points, a recess was all the Roosters needed to kickstart their comeback.

The deficit took little time to reel in after the break as the Roosters arrested back the lead before gaining a handy 16-point lead at half time.

A fairly even second half transpired with a five-goals-to-four conclusion in favour of the Roosters as they extended their advantage to 26 at the final siren.

Josh Sparkman, Cam McCullum, Tom Bromley Lynch and Issac Carey carried the bulk of heavy lifting and supply to aid Freeman with an aerial contest inside 50.

Brayden Purchase also won the nod of approval to be named in the best.

Experienced 200+ gamer Simon McCartin appeared to be hampered with a hamstring issue and will be monitored ahead of a sudden death elimination final in a fortnights time.

For Redan, Coach Gary Learmonth identified Jacob Short, Rudie Forde, Lachie Bond (three goals), Grant Bell (four goals), Lachie George and Liam Farnswoth as the major contributors in a losing side.

The Lions have a chance to end their home and away season on a high with a trip to CE Brown Reserve to take on the Lakers.

North Ballarat have the bye.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat) - 60 hitouts, 17 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Rudie Forde (Redan) - 27 hitouts, 24 disposals, 17 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Was a good game of footy between two young sides with lots of players missing. There was lots to like across the day but unfortunately our consistency from contest to contest and skill execution wasn't good enough against a side that held structure for longer. Really proud of the way the boys have continued to dig in. We played our 24th U/19 player for the season so lots to work with and build on. Massive game against the Lakers to finish the season."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
“We were up and down during the game. Our fight after quarter time was great. Gave ourselves a chance to play decent footy with our stoppage and pressure work. It's been a big few months coping with plenty of obstacles. Good chance to train well and fine tune going into finals now."



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BFNL Review - Round 18, 2023


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


  • North Ballarat

    7.11.53

  • def. by

  • East Point

    8.14.62


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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


  • Darley

    20.4.124

  • def.

  • Sunbury

    11.13.79


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Sebastopol

    7.17.59

  • def. by

  • Redan

    12.7.79


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Bacchus Marsh

    12.10.82

  • def.

  • Ballarat

    12.8.80


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Lake Wendouree

    5.14.44

  • def. by

  • Melton

    14.9.99


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 18, 2024


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



  • Sunbury

    15.10.100

  • def.

  • Bacchus Marsh

    13.9.87


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Ballarat

    11.7.73

  • def.

  • East Point

    10.6.66


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Veteran Andrew Hooper chimed in with three invaluable goals.

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

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

Sam Cue and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus were next best.

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Melton

    10.14.74

  • def.

  • Darley

    9.5.59


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Lake Wendouree

    17.8.110

  • def.

  • Redan

    13.15.93


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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


  • Sebastopol

    12.24.96

  • def.

  • Melton South

    3.7.25


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 2, 2023


Round 2 saw finals aspirants flex their muscles and key contenders set themselves above the rest. Scoop takes us through all the key games from the weekend.



  • North Ballarat

    10.9.69

  • def.

  • Redan

    7.14.56


North Ballarat arrested an 11-point half time deficit to overrun a determined Redan at MARS Stadium. Coach Brendan McCartney has been bullish about the running capacity and pressure of his boys and would be a relieved man to survive the scare. In fact, it was just the second win for the club in eight games since last year’s Round 13 upset win over eventual premiers, Melton.   

Cam McCullum won the battle in the ruck to be arguably North Ballarat's best while the return impact of Riley Polkinghorne was immediate. Harry Loader builds from strength-to-strength across halfback while Jamie Quick was lively forward with two goals.

Redan forward Izaac Grant kicked four of the Lions seven goals to keep the visitors in the game up to three-quarter time before they were held scoreless in the final term by a more desperate North Ballarat in the clinches. Marquee Roosters’ recruit Stewart Crameri confirmed his 'more than a handful' status with three valuable goals.

For the Lions, experienced quintet Jacob Werts, Nic Barker, Patty Fitzgibbon, Jacob Short and Lachie George flew the flag with Grant but fell short, made to pay for skill errors, especially goalkicking. Redan's return of 7 goals and 14 behinds highlights their woes.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 80 hit outs, 9 clearances, 7 inside 50s

Riley Polkinghorn (North Ballarat): 21 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Izaac Grant (Redan): 25 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 marks

COACHES VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We're really pleased with how we continued to run, pressure and compete. Good experience for our young group to win in a tight game after a number of recent good losses."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"We had our opportunities across the day to win but made too many fundamental skill errors including missing gettable shots at goal. North (Ballarat) structured better around the ball (but despite more inside 50s) we were unable to capitalise on our weight of forward 50 entries."  


  • Ballarat

    15.14.104

  • def.

  • Lake Wendouree

    10.3.63


The Swans booted six goals to one in the last quarter to runaway 46-point winners over Lake Wendouree at Alfredton Oval, giving Chris Maple his first win as coach.

It was essentially a 'copy paste' version of the Swans best players as Paddy Simpson, Will Liston, Wyatt Squires, Matt Powling, Noah Drever and Angus Bade made it back-to-back solid performances. The reward this time however all the more sweet, four premiership points and a rendition of the Swans victory theme song.

Sharpshooter Andrew Hooper finished with four goals as the Swans again struggled to get bang for buck from their forward opportunities. The Swans managed to correct their errant ways in front of goal booting 6.1 in the final term to validate the separation on the scoreboard.

The Lakers were within 15 points at the final change but couldn't find a way back despite the efforts of Angus Gove, Jacob Coxall (two goals) and Joel O'Connell. Another 14-day break awaits the Lakers who have the bye this week. While not ideal, this scenario may be a timely one for the Lakers, a chance for the troops to recover fully ahead of a Round 4 return at home against Sunbury. Ballarat will face Redan.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 37 disposals, 12 clearances, 7 inside 50s

Bailey Van De Heuvel (Ballarat): 21 disposals, 12 marks, 7 intercept marks

Angus Grove (Lake Wendouree): 30 disposals, 4 intercept marks, 3 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"While consistent (with our output), unfortunately we didn't capitalise on our opportunities once again, but it was good for our young side to do well and get a win.”

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"We were far more competitive which was positive, unfortunately losing a number of soldiers saw the score blow out late and did not reflect the better effort from my boys. Re Ballarat - I can see what "Mapes" is trying to implement with his young group, some exciting times ahead for them."


  • East Point

    29.18.192

  • def.

  • Melton South

    6.8.44


East Point maintained its dominate recent record over Melton South, trouncing the young Panthers by 148 points at Eastern Oval.

A new look Kangas outfit gave debut coach Jackson Merrett the perfect start with 12 players hitting the scoreboard in an impressive display. The visitors were slow to start for the second week in a row conceding nine first quarter goals to trail by 54 points at the break and 79 points at the half.

Kangas forward Brad Whittaker finished with five goals in his return game after a lengthy lay-off with injury. Johnston pair Matthew and Jordy featured prominently for the Kangas while progressive youngster Isaac Hucker (four goals) was named best afield.

It's been a tough opening fortnight for new Panthers coach combo Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy, beaten soundly on the road by the Bloods (161 points) and now East Point (148 points). It won't be any easier next week when they host Sunbury.

There was some merit (no pun intended) in the Panthers season high six-goal final term but greater consistency across four quarters remains an ongoing challenge. Panthers’ captain Cody Chapman and youngster Jarrod Bibby were solid contributors again in a losing side.

Four unbeaten sides in the BFNL will become two next week after the Kangas (1-0) host Darley (2-0) and Sebastopol (1-0) head to Melton (2-0).    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 37 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point):35 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 9 inside 50s

Cassius White (Melton South): 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 5 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"I was really proud of the boy’s effort for four quarters. The buy-in from all 22 players to implement all the aspects of the game we have worked on over the off-season really came out today."

Jason Hamilton / Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"Very tough day, East Point are a very skillful team and well drilled. We played two quarters (well) and got blown away in the other (two quarters). Full credit to East Point, I think they'll be right up there this year."


  • Bacchus Marsh

    6.8.44

  • def. by

  • Darley

    13.17.95


A wasteful Darley did enough to make it a 2-0 start to their season downing cross town rival Bacchus Marsh by 50 points.

Despite winning every quarter, Devils fans were left scratching their heads at the final siren wondering how their form stacks up against the more fancied and unbeaten rivals in Melton, Sebastopol and East Point.

A six-goal-to-two opening quarter helped set up the Devils’ win after a moving Anzac ceremony had anticipation levels on high alert. After young Cobra Josh Huxtable snapped truly to kickstart proceedings, the Devils responded in style with six unanswered goals, clearly their best period of the game.

Debutant Devils ruckman Lucas Impey impressed, nullifying Cobras big man Luke Goetz after his 67 hit-out game in Round 1. The 19-year-old capped his dream start in the Black and White in fine style with an unlikely crumbing goal in the first term.

Reigning Henderson Medallist Brett Bewley finished with a game high three goals and was often the 'go to man’, restoring polish for the Devils. While it was a 'choppy' display of the basic fundamentals for the most part, both coaches opted the glass half full approach in the aftermath.

Cobras’ coach Jason Williams, buoyed with the injection of sprightly youth was bullish acknowledging their effort and contribution while Devils coach Dan Jordan was seemingly pleased going 2-0, taking nothing for granted.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 34 disposals, 10 marks, 6 tackles

Mace Cousins (Darley) 28 disposals, 11 one-percenters, 9 marks

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh): 24 disposals, 12 clearances, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Super happy with our young players, we must have had 10 players aged under 20 who tried all day and at times played a really exciting brand (of football)."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Happy with the consistent effort across the board, credit to Bacchus Marsh and the pressure they applied. It’s always good to get a win in the local derby."


  • Sunbury

    10.5.65

  • def. by

  • Melton

    13.7.85


Reigning premiers Melton reaffirmed their competition 'benchmark' status with a 20-point win on the road over an honest Sunbury. The Lions were left lamenting a disappointing second quarter, outscored six goals, with five unanswered, to two, surrendering a seven-point advantage in the process.

Bloods elite running duo Jordy Kight and Jack Walker lapped up the wide expanses of the BFNL's biggest ground to feature prominently in vote calculations. Youngsters Harrison Hanley and Adrian Monitto provided the additional run on a day where goals came at a premium.

Key Bloods forward Ryan Carter booted three goals while Ryan Davis (two goals) was busy at ground level. Another eight individual Bloods players hit the scoreboard.

For Sunbury, new addition Bryce Caldone was named best for his all-round performance, capped by his team high three goals. Returning Essendon VFL listed forward Jake Sutton finished with two majors.

Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson has had the early footy audit and will gain some confidence knowing they're not far away from the reigning premiers who are expected to close again in 2023. Away trips to Lake Wendouree and Melton South should equate to wins and a build on what Hodgson thinks can work when it counts most.

For Aaron Tymms, there is no doubt there would be some relief for him getting through and landing the 'W', passing their first real acid test of the season and fragmenting some of the 'spruik' around a determined Lions outfit.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Pretty good performance for three and a half quarters of footy. We had a 15 minute period before half-time where we went away from what works for us. Melton stamped us with five unanswered goals and that was the difference. We should be better for it."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"We got some good footy forward of stoppage at the back end of the second quarter and kicked quick goals which really was the difference in the game."



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BFNL Review - Round 2, 2024


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



  • North Ballarat

    5.11.41

  • def.

  • Darley

    5.8.38


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Ballarat

    13.12.90

  • def.

  • Redan

    13.9.87


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Sunbury

    26.8.164

  • def.

  • Melton South

    3.2.20


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Lake Wendouree

    11.9.75

  • def. by

  • Bacchus Marsh

    11.16.82


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Sebastopol

    6.8.44

  • def. by

  • Melton

    25.13.163


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 3, 2023


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



  • Melton

    11.12.78

  • def.

  • Sebastopol

    9.7.61


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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Redan

    14.11.95

  • def.

  • Ballarat

    9.10.64


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    9.7.61

  • def. by

  • Darley

    14.16.100


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

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

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

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

Liam Canny and Matty Johnston were named their best.

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Melton South

    6.3.39

  • def. by

  • Sunbury

    25.21.171


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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Bacchus Marsh

    7.11.53

  • def. by

  • North Ballarat

    18.13.121


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 3, 2024


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



  • Ballarat

    13.12.90

  • def.

  • Lake Wendouree

    2.10.22


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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Darley

    12.9.81

  • def.

  • Bacchus Marsh

    10.9.69


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES VERDICT

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

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


  • Melton

    12.15.87

  • def.

  • North Ballarat

    12.9.81


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Melton South

    9.11.65

  • def. by

  • Redan

    17.16.118


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    10.16.76

  • def.

  • Sebastopol

    3.11.29


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

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

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

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

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

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

East Pont are at home to Melton South.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 4, 2023


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



  • North Ballarat

    7.11.53

  • def. by

  • Melton

    11.7.73


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Ballarat

    11.6.72

  • def. by

  • East Point

    18.10.118


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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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


  • Redan

    13.9.87

  • def.

  • Bacchus Marsh

    12.11.83


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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


  • Lake Wendouree

    7.4.46

  • def. by

  • Sunbury

    26.14.170


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

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

Usual suspects Harrison Minton-Connell, Tyson Lever, Mitch Lewis, Josh Guthrie featured amongst the better players yet again while youngster Jack Newitt and newcomer Josiah Garisto found some nice touch ahead of ‘bigger fish-to-fry’ opposition in the coming weeks.

The Lakers brought some measurable heat early but the longer the game went, the gulf between the two sides became more apparent.

Both sides will look forward to Round 5 for different reasons. A healthy Lions list will relish their opportunity to meet fellow finals aspirant Darley while the Lakers are on the road and would be buoyant about the chance to end an 18-game losing streak against winless Melton South.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 38 disposals, 12 tackles, 12 score involvements 

Jack Newitt (Sunbury): 32 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

Shuan Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 40 hit outs, 10 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree);"For a half we were quite competitive and it was Sunbury's class that had them ahead. We couldn't sustain the effort and they took full advantage. They're a good side!"

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury);"Lakers pressure was super for a half. We had a class advantage and scored heavily as the game opened up. Pleasing road trip."


  • Sebastopol

    27.13.175

  • def.

  • Melton South

    4.4.28


Dangerous forward Toby Hutt booted 10 goals in the Burras’ demolition job over the struggling Panthers at Marty Busch Reserve.

While the match result for many was deemed inevitable heading in, the extent of the damage and separation on the scoreboard was unknown. But the Burra allayed any fears of not cashing in on a whopping percentage boost opportunity with a 10-goal opening term.

Accuracy on goal was a major plus for the Burra with 21.9 on the scoreboard at three quarter time.

Toby Hutt took field honours with his double figure haul while Bailey Medwell, Tony Lockyer and Riley O'Keefe continued their recent run of good form.

While there wasn't much to write about for the Panthers, coach Jason Hamilton credited the leadership of Cody Chapman, Jack Morrissey and youngster Jarrod Bibby under trying circumstances.

The Panthers have had a horror draw to start 2023 with Melton, East Point, Sunbury and Sebastopol. A meeting with Lake Wendouree in Round 5 should bring some relief despite the likelihood of facing a fifth straight loss.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol):10 goals, 13 marks, 28 disposals

Bailey Midwell (Sebastopol):34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 35 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol); "Solid hit-out. We had a couple of things we wanted to work on and executed them reasonably well. Pleased getting some continuity into players who have been out for long periods. Melton South had some good patches when they were able to get numbers around the contest." 

Jason Hamilton (Melton South);"Burras just way too good. They're a very organised team and skillful. Again, we played great for about 40 minutes, but the Burra had control over the rest of the game."



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BFNL Review - Round 4, 2024


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


  • North Ballarat

    21.17.143

  • def.

  • Lake Wendouree

    7.5.47


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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Ballarat

    8.7.55

  • def. by

  • Darley

    18.11.119


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Redan

    13.13.91

  • def.

  • Sebastopol

    11.14.80


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    26.25.181

  • def.

  • Melton South

    1.1.7


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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES' VERDICT

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

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


  • Bacchus Marsh

    8.13.61

  • def. by

  • Sunbury

    17.12.114


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 5, 2023


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



  • Sunbury

    7.12.54

  • def. by

  • Darley

    17.8.110


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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


  • Ballarat

    6.3.39

  • def. by

  • Sebastopol

    12.15.87


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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Stats unavailable

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    13.17.95

  • def.

  • North Ballarat

    11.9.75


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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT:

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

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


  • Melton South

    8.12.60

  • def. by

  • Lake Wendouree

    24.18.162


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Redan

    9.11.65

  • def. by

  • Melton

    20.12.132


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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 5, 2024


Big margin victories were the tale of the round with statement wins and form boosters enjoyed across the league on Saturday by a number of clubs.



  • Sebastopol

    7.7.49

  • def. by

  • Bacchus Marsh

    17.19.121


The Cobras made it two wins from as many outings in Ballarat with a morale-boosting 72-point win over a disappointing Sebastopol.

After an even first half, the Cobras put together their most complete quarter of the season under new coach Dennis Armfield with seven unanswered goals to set up a match winning 48-point lead at the final change.

Just how the Cobras would go about finishing off their good work in foreign territory and a seemingly unassailable lead became the narrative for Armfield and his staff to implore.

And they weren't about to be let down. A young Cobras outfit full of momentum added a further 4.5 in the final term outscoring the Burra 2.3 to run out comfortable winners.

Isaac Nixon's best on ground performance yielded a game high four goals ahead of experienced campaigners Jake Owen and Armfield who each finished with three.

Usual suspects Jake McCreery and Luke Goetz featured prominently again while live wire Ethan McKercher continued to impress with his clean ball use and explosive pace.

Burra’s quintet Jed Hill, Ryan Noether, Sam Wilkinson, Tony Lockyer and Bailey Medwell were praised for their efforts in arguably the club’s worst loss of the season that nestles them in the bottom three on the back of four consecutive losses.

There seems no end in sight for the Burras run outs next week when they travel to Mars Stadium to front North Ballarat on the rebound. The Cobras will prepare for a fill-up at home against the winless Panthers.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 31 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 52 hit outs, 19 disposals, 10 score involvements

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"A competitive first half with the game in the balance at half time. (Our) third quarter was extremely poor, gave the ball away too easily and efforts to stop the Marsh were lackluster. (We) simply did not execute what we set out to do for each other. Credit to Dennis and the Marsh, they played some great team footy. Backs against the walls for us, but we won't give up. Still plenty of season to go."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Really positive four quarter performance built off pressure and effort. We came with a willingness to put our teammates first and a drive to compete. Sebastopol were really strong at uncontested marks in the first half, and we had to change the way we played to take this away and force (them to go) long."


  • Sunbury

    17.9.111

  • def.

  • North Ballarat

    3.12.30


League improvers Sunbury have firmed into potential flag conversation following an 81-point routing of North Ballarat at the Clarke Oval.

A very well organised Lions outfit under new coach Matt White stunned the crowd, even their most loyal and faithful, booting nine unanswered goals in the third term to extend a 22-point half time lead to 77 at the final change - game over.

Dangerous Lions’ forward combo Jake Sutton (five goals) and Mitch McLean (five goals) hit the scoreboard to share honours on the goal front, while promising young ruckman Fraser Ampulski was best afield ahead of a host of major contributors including Lachlan Urbon, Ben Eales and Mitch Lewis and McLean.

Popular young Lion Thomas Werner took his opportunity with both hands to feature in BOG discussions following a well-earned recall after a bout in the twos.

For North Ballarat, nothing really went right at all despite the consistent efforts of inform duo Isaac Carey and Joshua Sparkman, Nelson Troon, Riley Polkinghorne, Harry Loader and Hugh Trigg.

The Roosters chances were rendered slim at best ahead of the opening bounce in the absence of Jamie Quick, Mal White, Liam Deering, Tom Bromley-Lynch, Jarrod Curran and Stewart Crameri.

Credit to North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney for making little excuse in the aftermath for a less than ideal preparation.

Matthew White's Lions remain unbeaten with a healthy list and have another opportunity to frank their current form when they host Darley (4-1) who remain shy of a four quarter best performance since their season opener against East Point. Should be a belter.

North Ballarat are at home to struggling Sebastopol.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 23 disposals, 13 score involvements, 10 marks

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"
Really good four quarter performance. A midfield battle that we were able to get clear from in the second half and capitilise on."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Tough day for us today. Sunbury were very good in all areas of the game and were way too good. They showed us their class and competitiveness as a club. We didn't have our best week of preparation. Good learnings (for us) as a club and we move on."


  • Melton

    15.6.96

  • def.

  • Ballarat

    3.8.26


The powerful Bloods, under new coach Troy Scoble, flexed their muscles in the second and fourth quarters posting 11.5 to the Swans’ 1.1, validating a 70-point separation on the scoreboard at the final siren.

It was the second footy audit in as many weeks for Chris Maple's young Swans who fell 64 points of Darley in Round 4. Their bye in Round 6 rings timely.

Despite the Bloods’ humble 'work in progress' narrative, most would agree they are early flag favorites on exposed form.

They're very strong in all areas and blessed with depth, not dissimilar to Sunbury, with as many as 30 players on the list who could fill a role if/when required.

Versatile X-factor forward and Bloods’ captain Braedan Kight featured with another starring role finishing with seven goals to move five clear in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal. Kight has 25 goals to date from just four games. 

Jaycob Hickey, Jordyn Cotter, Lachlan Phillips, Billy Sullivan and Bailey Mawson earned support role nominations behind Kight to be named among the best players.

For the visitors, it was no surprise to see their top end talent brigade provide the greatest resistance.

Rhett Montgomery was named best once again for the Swans ahead of Lauchie Dalgleish, Marcus Powling and Callan Wellings. Youngsters Zach Maple and Rhys Perry also did enough to earn their name in print.

Melton faces East Point at MacPhersons Park on Saturday who head into the game with big wins over bottom three sides Sebastopol, Melton South and Lake Wendouree.

Will the confidence gained by the Kangas’ hattrick of wins prove enough to override their questionable form line and challenge the Bloods?

We shall see.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomerie (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 13 contested possessions

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 31 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Terrific contest, no side could get away from the other in the first 30 minutes. (The) contest was even and both defences strong. We were able to capitilise on turnover in the second quarter to gain some separation on the scoreboard. We were happy with our planning going into the game against a really talented team. (The) scoreboard did not reflect the competitiveness of the game. When you play top teams, you have to play well and we feel we will learn a lot from the game ahead of the challenge next week against form team East Point. We enjoy playing in the big games each week." 

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"We were really competitive for the majority of the game. Our second quarter let us down when we lost control in the contested side of the game and turnovers really hurt us. (Our) goalkicking was poor throughout the game. Credit to Melton, a big strong side who will be there come September." 


  • Darley

    19.11.125

  • def.

  • Redan

    8.11.59


An eight-goal blitz from the Devils in the opening term gave visiting Redan little to no hope repeating an upset result at Darley Park.

The Lions have proven the Devils’ 'bogie side' in recent times having won four of their previous five meetings but this game was all over at quarter time.

The Devils were at their best for a 24-minute period post the six-minute mark led by Harley Inglis (three goals), Brady Wright (two goals) and dominant midfield trio Brett Bewley, Luther Baker and Matt Denham.

The Lions showed some resistance in the second term to win the quarter before the Devils steadied after the main break to extend the lead to 66 points at the final siren.

Billy Myers booted five second half goals to finish with six ahead of Inglis who continued his solid start to the season with a bag of five.

Brett Bewley (three goals), Baker and Denham were the stars of the show despite the Myers, Inglis influence on goal.

Defenders Zane Lehuray and Matthew Brett were sound shutting down Marty Boyer (0 goals) and Grant Bell (two goals).

Lions next gen quartet Rory Gunsser, Zac Mortlock, Kye Jess and Riley Collins continue to show promise while Billy Douglas (ruck) and Lachie George toiled manfully around stoppage despite the unenviable task denying a rampant Devils midfield.

The Devils extend their winning streak at home to 11, usurping their previous average winning margin (62 points) for the period.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 50 disposals, 19 score involvements, 17 clearances

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 33 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 marks

Billy Myers (Darley) - 21 disposals, 14 score involvements, 15 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Solid performance, happy with the result. Again, we saw glimpses of our best but credit to Redan who kept coming at us. Still plenty more to work on as we continue to build into the season."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"We were caught out early by an organised and experienced outfit. For the middle part of the game, we gave good effort but turned the ball over far too often. Lots to learn from the opportunity to play against Bewley and Co."


  • Lake Wendouree

    8.6.54

  • def. by

  • East Point

    17.17.119


Joe Carmody's Kangaroos have slung themselves into fourth on the McDonald’s BFNL table with a resounding 65-point win on the road over the winless Lakers.

Despite winning all four quarters the Kangas were made to work their way back in front early before building on their advantage at every change.

Kangas’ duo Bryson McDougall and young gun Strahan Robinson shared game high returns in front of goal alongside Lakers talent Bailey Thompson, each of whom finished the day with four majors.

But it was the sheer overall dominance of the Kangas list that proved too much for the Lakers over the journey.

A four-point quarter time lead was raised incrementally at the breaks as the difference between the two sides was validated by the gulf in scoring shots - some 20 more registered by the winners.

Experienced Kangas’ Jordan Taylor (best), Joel Van Meel, Matthew Johnston (one goal), McDougall and Billy Jones provided most of the damage while progressive youngster and 2023 BFNL Interleague rep Liam Canny (one goal) did enough to be among Henderson Medal vote contention.

The two halves on the score front were essentially a copy paste version of one another as the Kangas near mirrored their advantage in each - 33 points at the main break, 65 at the final siren.

Lakers’ utility Bailey Thompson's four goals were a shining light in the Lakers loss as Joel O'Connell, Kye Anderson, Angus Gove and Tom Zampatti maintained their run of consistent form over recent weeks to feature in the best players. 

If there's any consolation for Rohan Brown's Lakers, they were on the end of the lowest losing margin out of a weekend of big results.

The Lakers are away to Redan at City Oval in Round 6 while the Kangas get their round six update on the road against yardstick Melton.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 33 disposals, 18 score involvements, 17 contested possessions

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 36 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Rinse and repeat for us today. Some of our footy was great, especially in the first quarter. It felt like the game was on our terms early. (Throughout the) middle quarters they took full advantage of our mistakes as our system fell down a bit. Small steps forward once again which is better than going back a couple. Hopefully we get a few players back next week."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(We) played in patches today. All credit to Lakers who really had a crack all day. We dominated forward 50 entries so eventually that translated to scoreboard pressure and the win."



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BFNL Review - Round 6, 2023


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

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

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



  • Melton

    15.12.102

  • def.

  • Bacchus Marsh

    1.9.15


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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Ballarat

    5.8.38

  • def. by

  • North Ballarat

    17.7.109


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    11.13.79

  • def. by

  • Redan

    14.8.92


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Melton South

    2.2.14

  • def. by

  • Darley

    33.17.215


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Sebastopol

    10.10.70

  • def.

  • Lake Wendouree

    1.9.15


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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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



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BFNL Review - Round 7, 2023


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

Scoop has all the updates from Saturday's action.


  • North Ballarat

    14.9.93

  • def.

  • Sebastopol

    10.3.63


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • East Point

    11.9.75

  • def. by

  • Melton

    12.11.83


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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


  • Lake Wendouree

    6.7.43

  • def. by

  • Darley

    17.13.115


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

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

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

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

Riley Macardi booted four goals for the winners in his best game for his new club behind a best-on-ground performance from midfielder Luther Baker, defender Zane LeHuray and former Williamstown VFL utility Billy Myers.

Joel O'Connell and Angus Bade continued their solid seasons for the one-win Lakers alongside Cody Helyar, Rory O'Keefe and big man Shane Finlayson. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 23 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Matthew Brent (Darley): 29 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 8 marks

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 52 hitouts, 35 disposals, 25 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"Today really puts things into perspective. I've never seen anything that bad on a footy field before - we just hope 'Ando' (Kyle Anderson) is ok. We need to wrap our arms around some pretty shaken up players. A big thanks to Darley and the help provided by their trainers."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Good to have another win on the road. Lakers cracked in and made us earn it. Good to identify a few areas we can work on moving forward. Our thoughts go out to Kyle Anderson and the Lakers following his injury."


  • Melton South

    4.8.32

  • def. by

  • Ballarat

    24.14.158


The Swans earned a major percentage boost and their second win of the season, downing bottom side Melton South at the weekend.

The embattled Panthers keep riding the punches, fighting against the odds despite a sixth straight loss of 100 points or more. What more can you say - the Panthers are in dire straits and forecasting a win for them at any stage this season is becoming even more remote from week to week.

Dangerous forward Andrew Hooper finished with a game high six goals to head a list of 13 Swans players to hit the scoreboard. Mitch Bishop was named best afield for the winners confirming the wrap on his potential and importance, voiced by Hooper on last week’s episode of 'The Presser'.

Lawson Prendergast, Will Liston, Marcus Powling, Noah Drever and Hopper provided the greatest headaches for the Panthers to feature prominently, aiding the 126-point margin.

Finding winners for the Panthers doesn’t always come easy but the return of big man Brodie Collins was encouraging while John Kovarik, Ayden Reilly and usual suspects Cody Chapman, Cassius White and Rhys Lee continue with ‘pride in the jumper’ efforts despite the difficult seven rounds to start their season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

William Liston (Ballarat): 32 disposals, 17 tackles, 10 score involvements

Keegan Mellington (Ballarat): 28 disposals, 11 clearances, 7 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South):32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"We had a lot of good ball movement today, but Ballarat were too good for us. We battled hard for most of the day - our best quarter was our last, which is a big positive. We also blooded some more youngsters which is good for the club moving forward."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"We played well for the first three quarters, to Melton South's credit they fought it out and were competitive in the last quarter."


  • Bacchus Marsh

    9.6.60

  • def. by

  • Sunbury

    14.17.101


The Lions kicked nine unanswered goals from late in the second term to the final change to shrug off a plucky Bacchus Marsh side who held a surprise four-point lead at the half.

The Cobras conceded the opening two goals of the game before kicking seven of the next nine goals to cling to a slender advantage at the main break.

But a seven-goal third term (7.6) from the visitors after a measured revving from coach Travis Hodgson put pay to any thoughts of an upset and with it, ending a nine year winning drought for the Lions at Maddingley Park.

Lions forward Jake Sutton (4.7) was the star forward of the afternoon and should have finished with eight or nine goals given the minimal degree of difficulty from his set shots, but it wasn't to be. 31 scoring shots on the whole for Sunbury over the Cobras 15 validated the final 41-point nature of the win.

The Cobras were good early, just their inability to sustain meaningful effort and skill execution became their biggest challenge. Credit to them however, bouncing back to win the last quarter after an old-fashioned towelling in the third. Cobras own Spencer Jenks (one goal) became yet another to debutant for the rebuilding club.     

Jake Egan, Josiah Garisto, Jake Sutton and Mitch Lewis were best on for the winners while Jake McReery, Tyson Shea, Jake Owen (three goals) and Jack Parente never gave up the fight for the home side.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury): 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 marks

Jake Sutton (Sunbury): 16 disposals, 7 marks, 4 goals

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 24 disposals, 11 marks, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Again another week trending in the right direction. A really good first half but our (lack of) depth really hurt us again."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"We were pretty average defending in the first half and credit to the Marsh, they played some good footy. We won contested ball and got it to the outside in the third to set up the win."



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BFNL Review - Round 7, 2024


Round 7 saw a number of defining wins around the grounds as teams continued their fine form while others recorded a much needed bounce back.



  • North Ballarat

    16.13.109

  • def.

  • Redan

    9.10.64


North Ballarat continues their climb up the BFNL ladder with a 45-point win over Redan at Mars Stadium.

This game was put to bed early with a dominant eight goals to one opening half from the hosts, which saw the lead blow out to 46 points at the main break.

Progressive young forward Hugh Trigg put the writing on the wall last week that a breakout game at the level was near.

We didn't have to wait long for that to come to fruition as Trigg starred at the weekend with five goals and a best on ground performance.

Collingwood VFL listed Sam Glover (three goals) proved a handful to contain for the young Lions while leading forwards Jamie Quick (two goals) and Ned Nash (one goal) were made to fight hard for any advantage.

Midfield trio Riley Polkinghorne, Brock Leonard and Elliott Lamb featured prominently yet again in a copy paste performance of last week.

Nelson Troon (two goals) continued his upward trajectory giving every indication he's going to be a good player for a long time in North Ballarat colours.

For Redan, there were really two options for them at halftime given the 46-point deficit.

Show some fight or roll over.

Well, the response to Gary Learmonth's messaging after the main break was encouraging as the Lions dug in for the fight, gaining some confidence knowing they won the second half, albeit by a point.

Grant Bell (four goals) extended his run of multiple goals in games to nine to aid the rally in the second half.

While Bell, Jacob Short and Lachie George never gave up leading the response, it was youthful trio Khy Jess, ruck Rudie Forde and Under 17 debutant Bailey McKay (two goals) who caught the eye to finish among the best.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 14 marks, 9 score involvements

Lachlan George (Redan) - 27 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"We set the game up in the first half with some organised defending and ground positioning. Not our best in the second half but really pleasing to see our boys regroup and get back to our style of footy late in the game. Like all clubs, each week there were lots of learnings. We are making good progress and will keep looking to get better every day."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"So proud of the group today. Our first half was disappointing with too many skill errors costing us. Our second half was super - the boys were physical and showed a glimpse of what they can do against a very well organised team. Looking forward to a two-week break and getting some boys back. The club has played 18 boys Under 19 in the senior team in the opening seven rounds. Lots of improvement to come."


  • Darley

    5.6.36

  • def. by

  • Melton

    16.8.104


Melton returned to the winners list in emphatic style with a dominant 68-point win over a lacklustre Darley.

X-factor Bloods’ forward and captain, Braedan Kight, starred with seven goals, four of those coming in the first quarter, as the visitors stunned the reigning premiers with six unanswered goals.

The Bloods were airborne early, their work rate, pressure and disposal efficiency a feature, panels ahead of the Devils, who suffered their biggest loss under Dan Jordan since Round 11, 2022 (69 points v North Ballarat).

The well organised Bloods’ defence had midfield numbers on the back of their relentless work rate and will to assist teammates creating the outnumber and overlap in transition.

Poor Devils’ entries aided the Bloods’ intercept and turnover cause on a disappointing day for the black and white who were held goalless in three quarters in front of a big crowd.

All of the Devils’ five goals came in the second term, reducing the margin to 23 points at the main break. But either side of the Devils 'push' was an old school thrashing as the Bloods piled on 13.8 to 0.6 - and all on Darley Park, ending an 11-game winning streak for Jordan's men dating back to Round 10, 2023 (v Redan).

The result told us more of the gulf between the two sides after seven rounds. The Bloods (W5L1) are on track and play a solid, trusting brand of footy giving every indication they're a team on a mission - the buy-in is palpable.

Darley (W4L3) may have just become the unofficial fifth seed in the title race behind Sunbury, Melton, East Point and North Ballarat.

Leaving too much for too few is not sustainable even with the best player in the competition.

While Brett Bewley's numbers won't surprise, he was denied his usual time and space. Also, the once tedious conversation regarding Darley's slim title chances without a bona fide ruckman were confirmed.

All honours with Melton, special mentions to host of impactful Bloods in no particular order - Braedan Kight, Jono O'Brien, Riley Walker, Adrian Monitto, Jordy Cotter, Jaycob Hickey and Lachlan Walker.

The Bloods host Lake Wendouree in Round 8 while the Devils will endeavour to regroup quickly ahead of a road trip to Sebastopol.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 30 disposals, 12 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Billy Myers (Darley) - 24 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

Riley Walker (Melton) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Disappointing day for us. We were outplayed in all facets of the game. Full credit to Melton, they're a very good side. Clearly, we've a lot of work to do."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really pleased with a four-quarter performance based on effort against absolute quality. We learned from last week’s performance and were able to execute our attack phase more efficiently. Darley are such a strong contest team so to compete in that area was important for us to get territory and try to play a forward half game. Darley is so well coached and disciplined, today gave us some confidence in what we are trying to build."


  • East Point

    17.19.121

  • def.

  • Ballarat

    8.5.53


The Kangas made it five wins on the trot under new coach Joe Carmody to move into third place on the BFNL ladder.

Talented brother pairing Jordy Johnston (six goals) and Matthew Johnston (three goals) dominated the young Swans, who managed to stay in the game up until half time as East Point took a 17-point lead at the main break.

But an 11 goals to four second half in favour of East Point highlighted the difference between the two sides the further the game went.

The Swans were again made to pay full toll for their frustrating number of turnovers.

Bryson McDougall booted five goals for the winners to feature prominently alongside the Johnston's while the season build of Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Billy Jones continues in the right direction. Geordy Slater was the pick of the promising 'next gen' stocks out of Eastern Oval.

Veteran sharpshooter Andrew Hooper booted three of the Swans eight goals with limited opportunities.

Chris Maple's young group missed star rebound defender Rhett Montgomery who has departed for the SANFL.

Lauchie Dalgleish, Callan Wellings and Will Liston were required to pick up the slack and attempt to give the Swans a pulse, but in the end the Kangas were simply too strong.

The Kangas get their biggest challenge since Round 1 when they host ladder leaders Sunbury this Saturday.

Ballarat are at home looking to end a three-game losing streak when they face Melton South.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 45 disposals, 19 score involvements, 15 clearances

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 22 disposals, 15 score involvements, 10 marks

Lauchlan Dalgleish (Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(It) was a tight first half. Ballarat challenged us to defend. We won more contested ball in the third quarter and was able to capitilise up forward with greater territory. Another pleasing result with 22 contributors."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"After a reasonable start we kept ourselves in the game until half time. Our turnovers throughout the day were costly, and our inability to match East Point in the territory side of the game hurt us. Our levels of consistency of individuals and the team need to improve to match it against the top teams."


  • Melton South

    4.10.34

  • def. by

  • Sebastopol

    15.17.107


Sebastopol ended a five-game losing streak with a comfortable 73-point win on the road over winless Melton South.

The Burra certainly came to play, on a mission to eradicate their ways of recent weeks with a dominant opening term that saw the visitors earn a match winning 40-point lead.

While the Panthers showed some resistance in the second term to keep the Burra in check the was no denying Tony Lockyer's men a four-quarter winning performance.

The margin extended from 49 points at half time, 57 at the final break before 73 at the end of play.

The Burra had eight goalkickers contribute to their 15 goal scoreline led by James McDonald and Daniel Widgery who finished with three.

Defender Riley O'Keefe made a sound return from injury to be named best ahead of Luke Kiel (two goals), Adam Forbes (two goals), McDonald and Widgery.

For the Panthers Jarrod Bibby got the nod of approval from coach Travis Hodgson to be named best and not for the first time.

Again, goals came at a premium for the struggling club with Mitch Fino (two goals) their only multiple goal scorer.

Ex-AFL talent Tom Phillips (Melton South debut) and Jeff Garlett (2nd gamer) provided a major boost to the Panthers’ stocks but it wasn't enough to buck the run of outs for the struggling club.

Jayden Welch, Lachie Pritchard, Ryder Rousch and Fino made up the balance of players named in the best for the hosts.

The Panthers are away to Ballarat in Round e8 while the Burra host enigmatic Darley who are battling to find their best after back-to-back losses.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 39 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 rebound 50s

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 20 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Tom Phillips (Melton South) - 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"(it) was a relatively even contest after quarter time. Full credit to Sebastopol, when the game was there to be set up early they were proactive and aggressive. (It) was disappointing that we took 20 minutes to get going considering they had a tough start to the season. Pleasing to have 44 inside 50s and we could've had substantially more than 14 scoring shots if the last kick inside 50 had been executed better."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Very pleased with our first quarter especially which set up the day. Twenty-two contributors with some boys coming into the side playing their role perfectly. Credit to Melton South who never gave up and kept coming at us for four quarters. Look forward to the challenge vs Darley next week."


  • Lake Wendouree

    5.4.34

  • def. by

  • Sunbury

    25.12.162


Sunbury continued on their merry way with a 128-point demolition job on the road over Lake Wendouree.

The Lions led at every change after a lightning start to the game with a seven-goals-to-one opening quarter blitz.

From there it was a matter of how far the Lions, as Matty White's unbeaten outfit showed little mercy piling on a further 18 goals to four to see their greatest advantage at the final siren.

It was more than a solid days work for the Lions despite every expectations on them winning the game.

The Lions running ability proved once again too overwhelming for their opposition, providing countless opportunities for in form Lions’ duo Jake Sutton (six goals) and Mitch McLean (five goals) to strut their stuff inside 50.

Again, the Lions were efficient hitting the scoreboard. Not once this year have the Lions ended the day with more behinds than goals.

Check out these returns - 15.9, 26.8, 17.12, 17.9, 10.10 and 25.12 (near 65% - comp average 52%)- truly remarkable and clearly the number one ranked team in the competition for conversion.

The reward speaks for itself. The Lions are flying, unbeaten in all six of their games. 

Lions’ utility Jacob Bygate did his selection credentials no harm with a best on ground performance ahead of purple patch defenders Nathan Wood, Dean Muir and Jack Newitt.

McLean was rightly lauded for his returns while Josh Guthrie was the pick of the Lions’ mids who enjoyed a day out.

For the Lakers, the tale of the tape was all too familiar as staple contributors Angus Gove, Joel O'Connell, Will Clark, Tom Zampatti, Kyle Anderson and Nathan Pring were made to shoulder more than their fair share of the load.

It doesn't get any easier for the Lakers next week on the road to Melton while Sunbury endure it's second trip to Ballarat in as many weeks to meet East Point who are on a five game winning streak of their own.

Looking forward to that one! 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 52 disposals, 90% disposal efficiency, 19 score involvements

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 28 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Outclassed by a very sharp side who were much cleaner and played a very good style of footy. Again, we cracked in and our effort was there but Sunbury were far too good today."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Another really good win. (I) knew we would have to come out strong against the Lakers. They have been starting games really well so it was nice to get off to a good start and finish the game strong."



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BFNL Review - Round 8, 2024


The top of the BFNL Senior Football ladder could barely get any tighter after Round 8 produced inaugural defeats, big wins and steadying victories.



  • East Point

    16.6.102

  • def.

  • Sunbury

    12.10.82


East Point made it five wins in a row toppling undefeated Sunbury by 20 points in a cracker of a game at Eastern Oval.

This finals like see-sawing affair had everything. All the traits that make the game of Aussie Rules so unique and a staple in our everyday lives were on show in front of a large crowd unsure which team could outlast the other.

The Kangas booted the opening four goals of the game, the Lions the next five, before a response from the Kangas saw them score another four unanswered.

There was really not much in it for the most part as the Lions arrested a 24-point deficit early to regain the lead before the Kangas steadied late to lead by four points at half time.

All the big guns came out to play and didn't let the show down.

All had their moments of brilliance and unique impact on the game.

The Kangas’ efficiency on goal in the second half was arguably the difference in the game as Joe Carmody's crew added 10.2 to the Lions 7.4. You could also argue that the Lions last three goals of the game flattered the scoreline. But I’m in the 'nothing between them' camp.

The Lions, somewhat shy of their best 22, missing Mitch Lewis, Jake Egan, Nathan Doyle all injured and Ben Cameron to VFL duties with Coburg lost no admirers.

On the flipside, the result confirms East Point's status as the real deal after their win on the road over Melton.

Matty Johnston (three goals) starred for the winners while ever reliable forward Bryson McDougall got the job done forward with a game high five goals.

X-factor talent Jordy Johnston (three goals) bobbed up when the Kangas needed it most including a miracle goal from the boundary line.

There were many good players in this game for both sides as the 'Match of the Round' billing lived up to all expectations.

Lions forward pairing Mitch McLean (four goals) and Jake Sutton (three goals) looked dangerous all day and provided a target combining for seven goals.

Tyson Lever was stoic with his familiar intercept mark game while the run and carry out of defence from Dean Muir and Jack Hannett continued to threaten.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 42 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 17 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 19 disposals, 9 tackles, 9 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 20 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Quality game of footy. We were able to withstand Sunbury's pressure which was high quality. We were able to capitilise on our forward entries in the second half. (We) defended well to limit their dangerous forwards."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"We were beaten by a class outfit. Ten goals, two behinds for them in the second half doesn't help when they kick that straight. So we'll rest and review and go again after the bye."


  • Ballarat

    22.17.149

  • def.

  • Melton South

    2.8.20


Ballarat returned inside the top six following a big win over Melton South at Alfredton Oval.

The Swans opened up their shoulders after quarter time piling on 19 goals to one, highlighting the gulf between the two sides. In fairness, the Panthers were undermanned, missing seven players from their Round 7 loss to Sebastopol.

Given the landscape that saw the visiting Panthers have no less than seven under 19 representatives it was more a matter of how far for the Swans on their own deck given the touring party's lack of experience and season form.

The win was emphatic for Chris Maple's group after building on a hard fought 14-point lead at quarter time.

The game opened up as the Swans put their foot down extending the margin to 48 at the half, 88 at the three-quarter mark before 128 at the final siren. Convincing to say the least.

As many as half of the Swans hit the scoreboard led by Zak Rinaldi (four goals), Andrew Hooper and Tom Mooney, who both finished with three apiece.

Amid the rout, Tristan Maple, Zak Rinaldi, Callan Wellings, Will Liston, Paddy Simpson and Keegan Mellington received the Swans’ hierarchy nod of approval to finish in the best players.

While it was another tough day at the office for Travis Hodgson's group, one could not deny the contributions of Panthers’ organic bunch Cody Chapman, John Kovarick, Broden Collins, Lachie Pritchard, Mitch Fino and Jesse Geddes.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 42 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 marks

Callan Wellings (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 13 tackles, 11 clearances

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 28 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Our boys were pretty consistent in all phases throughout the game. Credit to Melton South, they continued to front up for the fight every contest."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
We went in with a pretty undermanned side and I thought we defended pretty well in the first quarter, and it kept us in the contest. Ballarat had good shape and balance around stoppage and once they got outside of us, they really got hold of us.


  • Melton

    23.9.147

  • def.

  • Lake Wendouree

    4.6.30


Melton returned to the top of the table with a big win over Lake Wendouree at MacPherson Park.

Braedan Kight was the star once again with seven goals, moving to 41 for the season, 10 clear of his nearest rival Jake Sutton (Sunbury) in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

Troy Scoble's men were super-efficient converting 23 of their 32 shots on goal, to leave visiting coach Rohan Brown scratching his head at the extent of the final margin.

That's very much like the Bloods - blink and you'll miss it!

One minute the Bloods are mopping up in defence, before Braedan Kight is having a shot on goal the next. Clinical. 

A thirty-point lead at quarter time grew to 52 at the half, 82 at the final change before 117 points separated the two sides at game’s end. 

Versatile Bloods quintet Lachlan Walker (two goals), Brodie Sullivan, Lachie Watkins (two goals), Jack Walker (one goal) and Lachlan Phillips were recognised for their support roles aiding Kight's star of the show performance.

Credit to the Lakers for their competitiveness during the game for long periods.

Unlike the Bloods, the Lakers struggled to score and cost them dearly in the wash-up. 

Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti was stoic in the ruck, while in form trio Lincoln Koliba, Angus Gove and Joel O'Connell enjoyed their fair share of ball.

Bailey Thompson booted two goals, taking his season tally to 16 - impressive given his side hasn't won a game. The wiry, run and carry forward is responsible for near 30% of the Lakers season goals (16/54).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 38 disposals, 11 score involvements, 11 marks

Jack Walker (Melton) - 41 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 39 hitouts, 10 contested possessions, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Good competitive game going into the bye. We were a bit inconsistent in all phases today. Our defence was strong and we were able to implement our defensive system. However, full credit to the Lakers, their contest phase was very competitive and challenged us today.Our attack phase was ok at times - we lacked a bit of synergy going forward but overall going into the bye to get through the last four weeks W3L1 gives us a platform to now build into the season. Like all weeks, plenty to learn and improve on, and we welcome that."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"(I) thought we were well and truly in the game - just the end of chains we would give the ball back to Melton and them being slick and cleaner, would capitilise. Effort and pressure was season high for us today. I walked away a bit bemused that the score ended up being the margin it was. Melton are very good and will be there at the end. Looking forward to the break."


  • Bacchus Marsh

    9.6.60

  • def. by

  • North Ballarat

    11.13.79


North Ballarat banked an all-important four points on the road to deny Bacchus Marsh at the weekend.

Despite leading at every change Brendan McCartney's men were made to work hard for their reward as very little separated the two sides at the breaks with the margin sitting at 6, 1, 12 and 19 respectively.

The Cobras made a couple of 'runs' at the visitors who led comfortably before Dennis Armfield's group swung into action.

The hosts enjoyed some time in front in the third term but were unable to sustain the levels of consistency and efficiency required to overcome a team like North Ballarat who pride themselves on the 'contest'.

Three late goals to North Ballarat in the third quarter restored the visitors the lead and with it, a healthy momentum push into the final stanza. Game over.

The Roosters essentially shut up shop, denying the Cobras another sniff holding them goalless, an anti-climax of sorts to a game that was entertaining for three quarters.

The Loader brothers Harry (one goal) and Fletcher were named best for the winners ahead of Will Quinlan (four goals), Malachi White and Ned Nash who did the job again for the Roosters in the absence of Jamie Quick, finishing with four goals.

Nash has been a real find forward for the Roosters this year in a real masterstroke by McCartney and his staff. The former defender now has 17 goals (comp rank #7) to his name.

For the Cobras, there were varying opinions on the make-up of their major contributors.

The coaching group, however, settled with Jake McCreery (two goals), Ashton Craig, Ethan McKercher, Jacob Pawlowicz, Luke Goetz and Simon Lafranchi.

Jake Owen was their leading goalscorer finishing with three.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 26 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat) - 41 hitouts, 12 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"We had our chances....North were able to wrestle back momentum and out worked us. We let in three, third quarter, red time goals which hindered our momentum. Credit to North who were able to squeeze us and force us long and create a contest. Good battle all day which North won at the end of the day."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Really proud of our players today against a club having a crack and developing quickly. Good day for what we are about as a club. Under pressure we were organised and super competitive. Another good step forward in our development."


  • Sebastopol

    7.8.50

  • def. by

  • Darley

    10.9.69


A more fancied Darley outfit were forced to dig deep on the road to hold off a gallant Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve.

The Devils led by eight points at three quarter time and were kicking into the breeze for the last quarter, asking questions of Dan Jordan's group, who have been struggling to find their best.

But, as good teams often do, the Devils found away, not for a moment taking the result for granted as Jordan praised the efforts of an undermanned Burra outfit in the aftermath.

Devils’ key defender Matthew Brett was named best on ground ahead of the Cadman brothers Joel and Duncan, Brady Wright and midfielders Adam Azzopardi and Matt Denham.

On a day where goals came at a premium, it was Wright and Wil Johnson (three goals each) that proved the difference on the scoreboard.

For the Burra, selfless leader Tony Locker (one goal) was lauded for his effort on Brett Bewley ahead of an experienced group of contributors who went down despite ‘pride in the jumper' performances - namely Luke Kiel (two goals), Bailey Medwell, Ryan Noether, Daniel Widgery and Ryan Birthesel.

Both sides will welcome not only this weekend off, but their upcoming byes in Round 9 (Darley) and round 11 (Sebastopol). A chance to regroup and replenish ahead of a season defining conclusion.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Ben Hutt (Sebastopol) - 34 disposals, 12 tackles, 10 marks

Joel Cadman (Darley) - 31 disposals, 14 contested posessions, 13 marks

Adam Azzopardi (Darley) - 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 12 pressure acts

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Extremely proud of the boys today. A great contest against a quality side played in great spirit. Darley took their chances going forward in the second half and we missed a few that could have impacted the result. Credit to them getting it done after a couple of losses. Looking forward to a week off after a big eight game stretch."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Proud of our boys today. Credit to Sebastopol, they really came to play and challenged us in all areas. The Burra will test a few sides above them on the way home for sure. Our boys showed some 'ticker' into the breeze in the last quarter to get the points."



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BFNL Review - Round 9, 2023


There were a number of big results in Round 9 that proved there is still plenty to unfold as we head into the second half of the season.

Scoop reviews all the major talking points from last round.



  • North Ballarat

    12.13.85

  • def.

  • Darley

    3.10.28


A dominant seven-goal performance from Roosters’ forward Jamie Quick led Brendan McCartney's men to a comprehensive 57-point win over ladder leaders Darley.

The four-quarter win sees North Ballarat just percentage shy of third placed Sebastopol and a game clear of Sunbury in fifth.

Despite a drop of some 50 percent from their first loss of the season, the Devils remain on top of the McDonald's BFNL table, albeit with less certainty than a week ago.

For the winners, usual suspects Riley Polkinghorne and ruckman Callum McCullum were significant contributors, creating the drive forward enabling the likes of Quick to 'get off the hook' with repeat forward 50 opportunities.

Polkinghorne has now been named in the bests from all eight of his appearances this year.

Tom Bromley-Lynch and Fletcher Loader had arguably their best games of the season while progressive young defender Joshua Sparkman is living up to the promise McCartney has spoken of him.

Saturday's win extended McCartney's imposing record at home to 15-3, proving the force the Roosters are when at MARS Stadium.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan made no excuses in the aftermath, but it was clear, they were undermanned. Injury, ill-health, and unavailability has crept into the Devils quality stocks, with Saturday's loss confirming their level of importance.

Danger games await the Black and White in coming weeks against Redan and Sebastopol. Brett Bewley and Shane Page were clearly the Devils best two players.   

North Ballarat will travel away to CE Brown Reserve to take on Lake Wendouree.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 57 hitouts, 12 contested possessions, 6 clearances

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat): 43 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Brett Bewley (Darley): 40 disposals, 29 contested possessions, 17 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We did a good job with the difficult parts of the game today. Our contest, pressure and defending was very good. (We) took our chances when the game opened up. Darley undermanned pre and during the game. They're a very good club."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"(We were) outplayed around the contest and how to enter the ball into forward 50 in windy conditions. Great to come away with plenty to work on. Full credit to North Ballarat and the pressure they applied all day in a four-quarter effort."


  • Ballarat

    12.16.88

  • def.

  • Sunbury

    9.8.62


Ballarat caused arguably the biggest upset of the season date, downing finals aspirant Sunbury by 26 points.

The nature of the Swans’ win was something to behold given they trailed by four goals to one at quarter time. The fact they ended with 28 scoring shots to 17 gives every indication they won 'going away' to give coach Chris Maple his most satisfying win in charge of the young group.

Sure, the Swans best players needed to stand up, and the response was overwhelming.

Will Liston, Paddy Simpson (back from a shoulder injury), the Drever boys, Noah and Jake, along with Marcus Powling and Tyler Constable not only had the Swans within four points at half time but carried the momentum, shutting out their more fancied rivals.

Alfredton Oval doesn't usually lend itself to big scores in June, but the Swans would rapt with their return. Andrew Hooper, Rhys Perry, Jake Drever and Paddy Simpson all hit the scoreboard with two goals apiece. Lions pair Jake Sutton and Leigh Brennan also kicked two.

But what to make of Sunbury? "Disappointing performance..." was how coach Travis Hodgson summed up the loss.

It's back to the drawing board for the fifth placed Lions with a focus on work rate and physicality around the ball on the radar. Mitch Trimboli was a shining light for the Lions despite the loss, while defenders Patrick Scanlon and Josiah Garisto did their best to quell the hungry Swans.

A loss for Sunbury this week against Sebastopol could see them cling to a spot inside the top six, solely on percentage. Ballarat is away to Melton, who had the week off with the bye.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Will Liston (Ballarat): 36 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 24 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 6 tackles

Cody Brand (Sunbury): 30 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "We played all phases of the game far better. Our ability to withstand Sunbury's pressure in the last quarter showed some maturity. A pleasing result for our young group."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing performance. Decision making was poor and execution not much better. Ballarat deserved to win, congratulations to Chris and his young side - they were better for longer."


  • Redan

    9.3.57

  • def. by

  • Sebastopol

    9.8.62


Sebastopol hung on in a close one to deny popular Lion Jarret Giampaolo the perfect ending in his milestone 250th game.

After losing Tony Lockyer (cork) early the visitors were on the back foot despite kicking the opening four goals of the game.

The plucky Lions refused to give in all day and flew home with three late goals to give the flag contenders an almighty scare. It was interesting to note the Burra thought they controlled the game for the most part despite winning only the first quarter.

Crucial Burras’ duo, Lachie Cassidy and James Keeble, returned with immediate impact while Chase Dummett's interrupted season resembled some more welcomed continuity.

Toby Hutt was named best on ground for the winners in one of those low scoring Wintery battles on City Oval.

For the Lions, ruckman Nathan Dunstan led the challenge and was supported at ground level by Daniel Bond and Izaac Grant who played through an achilles complaint that had him in some doubt for the game.

Youngster Harry Lawson gave his all to be recognised while Tom Lamb and Giampaolo fought it out to the final siren.

While they fell agonisingly short, Redan should hold no fears on the road facing Darley having got it done there last year, just as the Devils were seemingly on the up and finals bound.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 68 hitouts, 16 disposals, 7 score involvements

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol):34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan):25 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 10 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel / Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Was a hard-fought gutsy win after losing a quality player in the first minute. (We) felt we had control of the game for the majority. Redan kicked three late goals to get within a kick. Plenty of young talent at Redan."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Really proud of the effort today. We gave up four goals at the start which ultimately cost us. Was a great day for the club honouring great Jarret Gimpaolo's 250th game."


  • Bacchus Marsh

    19.18.132

  • def.

  • Melton South

    5.4.34


Bacchus Marsh overcame a slow start to run away with a comfortable 98-point win over Melton South.

Despite a one-win season heading in, the Cobras started warm favorites and asserted their authority on the game in the second half booting 14 goals to one giving new season coach Jason Williams his first taste of back-to-back wins.

The home side was made to work hard for any early ascendancy after the Panthers led at the first change, their only quarter win of the season.

The Cobras, led by Jake Owen (4 goals) and Joel Freeman (5 goals), arrested the game onto something more resembling their own terms. The Cobras kicked eight goals to one in the third term earning some belated separation on the scoreboard.

The Cobras key forward targets were the welcoming beneficiaries of the work rate shown by Tyson Shea, Josh Huxtable and Alex Porter. The further the game went, the further the Cobras went ahead. Evidently, the final margin was the greatest of the game.

Despite a ninth consecutive loss, the Panthers weren't shy on effort, doing their best against the challenges that come with little or no depth. Riley Theo, Cody Chapman, Mitch Fino, Ayden Reilly and Rhys Lee kept the Cobras honest ensuring they were made to work for the premiership points.

The Cobras host East Point this weekend while the Panthers will savour the bye.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 64 hitouts, 18 disposals, 11 score involvements

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 23 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 15 marks

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 30 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Unfortunately we didn't apply ourselves well early but credit to our guys and our leaders, they came out mentally ready after half time. We produced a very good third quarter and responded well to end with 10 different goalkickers. Very exciting to see our young talent on display again."

Jason Hoy (Melton South):"Tale of two halves. (We) won the inside ball in the first, Bacchus Marsh opened us up in the second. A lot of positives to take out of the first half. Credit to Bacchus Marsh for lifting the intensity in the second half. They had a good spread of young guns who beat us with their leg speed."


  • East Point

    14.20.104

  • def.

  • Lake Wendouree

    8.11.59


The Kangas simply did what they had to do, seeing off a 'clean slate' Lakers outfit under new coach Tim Shearer.

So often with the appointment of a new coach mid-season, we see a spike in performance and the Lakers certainly did bring the heat in the opening term to be level with 2018, 2019 premiers.

Kangas coach Jackson Merrett was wary of the likely surge in effort, especially early and was grounded at quarter time in his response.

The home side was able to absorb the Lakers’ heat in the opening stanza before kicking away in the second term to lead by 25 points at half time and 50 points at the final change.

There's your game, job done. Credit to the Lakers for winning the last quarter but the nature of footy tells me the Kangas cue had returned to the rack.

Jordy Johnston was named best on ground yet again for the winners for his exploits through the midfield alone.

The once x-factor star forward has featured in the best in seven games out of eight, and strangely just seven goals next his name.

Credit goes to Merrett and Johnston for further evolve an already great game. Clearly it is working for them, given his midfield returns.

Mitch Walsh, Patrick Hannaford, Joel Van Meel and Bryce McDougall played the support role behind Johnston ensuring the convincing nature of the win, with all important percentage thrown in.

For the Lakers, season newcomers Michael Foster (returned) and Tom Zampatti enjoyed their best games while Rory O'Keefe, Cody Helyar, Brayden Helyar and Nathan Pring fought for their team mates and new voice, Tim Shearer.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 15 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 35 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 marks

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree):35 disposals, 18 rebound 50s, 82% disposal efficency 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackon Merrett (East Point): "We expected the Lakers to come out early and apply great pressure. They certainly did that! It was pleasing that we were able to absorb that pressure, and when the game opened up, we owned it on the outside."

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"We were pleased with our commitment to how we wanted to play. Some execution errors and positional mistakes hurt on the scoreboard, but our pressure was good all day. We ran out of legs late but overall we felt the positives outweighed the negatives."



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BFNL Review - Round 9, 2024


Strong wins were the order for the day when it came to the Round 9 action across the Ballarat Football Netball League.



  • North Ballarat

    16.11.107

  • def.

  • Ballarat

    3.7.25


North Ballarat continues to progress under the radar with a convincing win over Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

The win moves Brendan McCartney's men into fourth place on the BFNL table ahead of their mouthwatering Round 10 meeting with East Point.

The Roosters’ young brigade continue to produce as Riley Polkinghorne (Best), Joshua Sparkman, Elliot Lamb, Hugh Trigg (three goals), Mal White and Fletcher Loader gave the visitors a headache for the most part, restricting the Swans to just three goals.

Just on the visitors, while clearly disappointed, it was their fourth attempt against top five opposition this season and again they've fallen well short.

Eighty-two points separated the Swans and the Roosters, 64 points the Swans and the Devils, 78 points the Swans and the Kangas and 70 points the Swans and the Bloods.

It's clearly a level above for Chris Maple's young group giving every indication they're another 12 months away from bucking the trend.

Such was the conviction of the Swans’ most recent defeat at the weekend, only two players featured in the best players - Angus Bade and Lachie Dalgleish.  

This game was still in the balance at half time despite the Swans having just two goals on the board.

The assignment for the Swans was always going to be a stretch after the main break reeling in a 26-point deficit but the ball was in their court to deliver a response worthy of an unofficial sixth seed given their four wins to date. But that didn't eventuate at all.

The Roosters kicked 10 goals to one after half time to run out deserved, comfortable winners.

Youngster Will Quinlan matched his four goal effort against the Cobras in Round 8 with a game high four goals, filling the void with aplomb in the absence of Jamie Quick (ankle).

Next week the Roosters host East Point in a battle of fourth versus third. Ballarat will welcome their Round 10 assignment when they host Sebastopol (W2 L7) in what looms a flip of the coin match up.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 marks

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 19 contsted possessions, 11 clearances

Marcus Powling (Ballarat) - 51 hit outs, 16 disposals, 14 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Our way of playing is coming along pretty well. The players are investing into the testing parts of the game as a group. Spirit and energy is strong and they are playing for one another. It's been super pleasing to see young players come into the team and develop in their positions."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"After a competitive start, it was a very disappointing day. North Ballarat pressed hard and created a lot off turnover. They won a territory game from stoppage far too easily. We will review and look forward to next week."


  • Lake Wendouree

    31.11.197

  • def.

  • Melton South

    2.11.23


While the result did not surprise, the Lakers certainly turned a few heads posting the second highest score of the season en route to a belated first win under new coach Rohan Brown.

The Lakers dominated the listless Panthers from the outset with seven unanswered goals while kicking with the breeze, setting the tone for the remainder of the afternoon.

As many as 13 Lakers players hit the scoreboard with damaging effect, especially in the second half registering 18.3 to the visitors’ 1.6 in a dazzling display.

Sure, the Panthers have struggled all year having not won a single quarter in their opening nine games but the way the spirited Lakers went about it resembled more of a side in top six contention.

Their efficiency levels by foot and their ability to create the overlap with their run and carry handball chains was a feature.

On that performance alone it's hard to believe it was just their first win of the season.

The Lakers had arguably the best dozen or so players on the ground, taking full advantage of the struggling Panthers who were hampered with the loss of key movers Tom Phillips (broken hand) and Jeff Garlett (hamstring). To add insult to injury, no pun intended - the Panthers were dealt no favours the longer the game went losing another three players resulting in 'no bench' for the most part of the second half.

Take nothing away from the Lakers, they were impressive, and well worth the watch.

Boom recruit Jaydo Wright arrived in the BFNL with five goals, matched only by teammate Bailey Thompson (five goals) who moved to sixth in the pecking order for the Tony Locket Medal.

Tom Zampatti, Timmy Collins, Angus Gove and Joel O'Connell essentially 'brought their own footy' amassing huge numbers between the arcs while the efforts of Kyle Anderson across half back topped off a huge day for the club.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 42 disposals, 10 score involvements, 10 rebound 50s

Jaydo Wright (Lake Wendouree) - 26 disposals, 20 score involvements, 14 contested possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 21 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"The club and players were rewarded today for the effort and the resilience they have shown since pre-season since last October. Absolutely rapt for them. Thought our attitude and attack on the footy early set the scene for the game. We go into the back half of the season with confidence that our brand and system will get us some more wins. Melton South down to no bench and injuries hurt them early."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"First 30 minutes were horrible. We were poor and the Lakers were outstanding and scored heavily wind assisted. Nothing went right for us from that point on unfortunately and we finished the game short of players."


  • Melton

    18.10.118

  • def.

  • Bacchus Marsh

    6.6.42


Melton continued their winning ways, outclassing visiting party Bacchus Marsh.

The Bloods’ complete four quarter winning performance was highlighted by another seven-goal return from co-captain Braedan Kight.

For the record it was the x-factor forward’s sixth bag of seven goals in eight games, extending his lead in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal to 12. Kight has 48 goals, averaging six per game and is in rare air.

The Tony Lockett Medal may not be the only accolade within his reach in 2024 having featured in the Bloods’ best players on six of eight occasions.

Kight's impact on games has been significant, unrivalled at least on the goal front while averaging 16 disposals per game.

Jack Walker continued his run of stellar games against the Cobras, his run and carry a feature again to be named best afield in front of a host of Bloods including Lachlan Walker, Lachlan Phillips, Lachlan Watkins and Ryan Davis (four goals).

The Bloods kicked the first five goals of the game before extending to a match winning 52-point advantage at the main break. Game Over.

Despite not winning a quarter the Cobras saw positive progress in next gen duo Joel Freeman (best) and Cody Gates, who weren't intimidated by the might of the Bloods.

Experienced quartet Tyson Shea, Jake McCreery, Jake Owen (two goals) and playing coach Dennis Armfield ensured the Cobras had their moments, denying the Bloods a contest entirely on their own terms despite being held to their lowest score of the season.

Next week's games carry their own weight of interest and expectation as the two sides prepare for like-for-like opponents having won the same number of games.

The Bloods are on the road to Sunbury (W7 L1) while the Cobras host Redan (W3 L5).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachie Watkins (Melton) - 32 disposals, 13 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Braedan Kight (Melton) - 23 disposals, 18 score involvements, 13 marks

Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 12 marks, 5 rebound 50s

COACHES VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"
Really well pleased with our response off the bye. We had to be competitive in the contest phase today, a strength of Bacchus Marsh. While we were patchy for periods, lots of the game was fairly even - the Marsh are a very talented young team. Overall, happy with our players application under duress with a couple of rotations down and our ability to make the most of our opportunities forward of the ball. We look forward to playing one of the best performed teams on their home ground in Round 10."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
(It) was a great learning against arguably the best. Got jumped, five goals down in the first 15 minutes and from there I thought it was an evenly fought game except for another ten-minute patch in the third quarter. They are well drilled, clean and hurt us big time on our mistakes. Tough game and proud of our lads to give it their all a couple of men down."


  • Redan

    3.7.25

  • def. by

  • East Point

    21.12.138


Joe Carmody's rampant Kangas made it seven wins on the trot, embarrassing a disappointing Lions outfit in front of their home fans at City Oval.

The visitors put their foot to the floor for the opening three quarters and had this game put to bed by half time with an unassailable 60-point lead.

The nature of the 12.5 to 2.5 scoreline highlighted the gulf between these two sides, especially when East are at their best.

The merciless Kangas went on to add a further 7.4 to just 0.1 in the third term consolidating their authority over the contest.

Redan's final score was the lowest recorded under Gary Learmonth, now in his second season.  

Kangas forwards Strahan Robinson and Bryson McDougall shared the honours in front of the sticks with a game high four goals ahead of seven others to hit the scoreboard.

Alex Molan (three goals) made a welcoming return from Essendon VFL duties to add to the firepower that clearly overwhelmed the Lions.

Jack Jeffrey (two goals) was named best afield ahead of a host of impacting Kangas - Joel Van Meel, The Johnston brothers, Jesse Cairns and Deng Lual to name a few.

There was little to smile about for the Lions in the aftermath, but it was encouraging to see star recruit Lachie Bond (two goals) make a safe debut after an ankle complaint delayed his gameday arrival in Redan colors.

Midfielder Khy Jess continued with his rich vein of form to be named in the best for a sixth time in eight games.

Cracking Round 10 match-ups await these two sides as the Lions head to Maddingley Park to face the Cobras - both have three season wins to date.

East Point are off to Mars Stadium to meet North Ballarat who have an imposing home record under Brendan McCartney having won 22/26 at the venue including 11 of their last 13 since the start of 2023.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 score involvements

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 score invovlements

Daniel Bond (Redan) - 22 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 6 intercept possessions 

COACHES VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"We were terrible. (We) put it behind us and focus on Bacchus Marsh next week."              

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"We had 22 contributors today. (We) defended really well and were able to capitilise with the high amount of forward 50 entries we created."


  • Sunbury

    13.10.88

  • def.

  • Sebastopol

    3.11.29


Sunbury remain level on points with Melton and East Point atop of the BFNL table after nine rounds. The trio have lost just one game, each averaging over 100 points (for) per game.

If it's any consolation for Sebastopol they did deny Matty White's Lions recording a fifth ton of the season despite a 59-point loss.

Strangely, the margin was the closest of any BFNL game at the weekend - make of that what you will.

After a relatively even start to the game, the Lions raised the bar after half time with an impressive defensive display restricting the visitors to just one goal while adding six majors of their own to earn the separation on the scoreboard.

Josh Guthrie was named best afield for the winners ahead of recalled Harry Power and recently promoted Murphy Boyd who answered the call from White. Dean Muir and Jordan Tentonello provided plenty of drive out of the Lions’ defence while spearhead Jake Sutton reaped the rewards of a favourable inside 50 count with five goals.

Offsider Mitch McLean continued his breakout season adding another two goals, taking his tally to 27 (comp rank #3).

For the travelling Burra, effort wasn't lost but their failings to convert opportunities in any event of scoring was palpable. Unfortunately for Tony Lockyer's men it was the third time this season his chargers were kept to under 30 points.

Usual suspects Tony Lockyer, Bailey Medwell, Luke Kiel (two goals), Ben Hutt, Riley O'Keefe and Ryan Birthisel featured prominently again to minimise the difference at the final siren.

The Burra remain in ninth place on the BFNL table with two wins.

Sunbury look threatening in second place ahead of their top of the table clash against Melton.

Sebastopol will consider themselves a live chance when they travel to Alfredton Oval to take on Ballarat (W4 L4).    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 45 disposals, 9 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 10 marks

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 10 score invovlements, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"
Really good defensive game. (We) held Sebastopol to a low score and low inside 50 count. We broke even in the midfield battle and came away on top which is great after a week off."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Credit to Sunbury who are quality side and always tough to beat at home. Very even contest especially in the first half. Unfortunate we didn't make the most of our chances, which could have changed the trajectory of the game. We regroup and look forward to Ballarat next week."



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