At The Bar

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INSIDER: Congrats on your 100-goal season, an amazing effort - tell us about how you felt when it went through?

KIM BESSELL:Plenty of relief to be honest, I was more nervous than usual before the game. Over the moon and proud of the achievement.

INSIDER: How did you celebrate post-match given it was a Sunday?

KB:Went and supported the juniors before a few drinks at the pub!

INSIDER: Do you know of any other women to kick 100 goals anywhere in any comp?

KB:Not to my knowledge, but I’m sure there is.

INSIDER: The Devils are travelling along nicely and look to have closed the gap on benchmark Redan. What are you guys better at this year than last?

KB:Playing together as a team, bouncing off one another’s strengths, awesome recruits.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect your coach Brett Faulkhead to write first on the white board?  

KB:Get everyone involved.

INSIDER: Who has had the most influence on your footy career?

KB:My parents and boyfriend!

INSIDER: Most goals you have kicked in a game during your senior career?

KB:13!

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club?

KB:Chloe Oughtred

INSIDER: Most courageous player at the Devils?

KB:Bella Phillips

INSIDER; Most skilful player at the Devils?

KBTrinity Skenderis and Lilli Condon

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

KB:Cricket

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

KB:Maddy Lister

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

KB:Tamara Henry

INSIDER: Who (besides yourself) would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

KB:Alyssa Humphries

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 20m?

KB:Tamara Henry

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to play on away from Darley Park?

KB:City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

KB: Kiera Moran

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

KB:Curried sausages

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

KB:Madeline Clarke

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

KB:I wear the same socks, jocks, and drink a can of Red Bull

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

KB:My boyfriend, Mark!

INSIDER: Favorite AFLW club and player?

KB:Collingwood, Chloe Molloy

INSIDER: Redan this week qualifying final - rate your confidence levels...

KB:We proved our best is good enough, so we've got confidence in that...

At The Bar

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INSIDER: The Devils are travelling along nicely and look to have closed the gap on benchmark Redan. Is that a fair observation?

Lilli Condon:Yes definitely, next time we have to be a real chance.

INSIDER: You finished within a point of the Lions a couple of weeks ago - how did the girls process the loss?

LC:While we weren't expecting to win there was disappointment. Plenty of positives and learnings from the game.

INSIDER: Tell us about your new coach Brett Faulkhead and what he has brought to the group?

LC:Back to basics approach with good connection and understanding. Nice guy with new ideas.

INSIDER: Name the #1 non-negotiable we would expect Brett to write first on the white board?  

LC:A stats reference for the day to improve on.

INSIDER: Who is the most underrated player at the club?

LC: Bella Phillips

INSIDER: What other sport could you play at a high level if there were no footy?

LC:Netball or Basketball

INSIDER: In a freakish sense, which player at the club can do things on-field that others can't?

LC:Maddie Lister

INSIDER: Who at the club has the most upside from a junior perspective?

LC:Chloe Oughtred

INSIDER: Who at Darley would you like kicking for goal after the siren to win you a game of footy?

LC:Kim Bessell

INSIDER: Who is the quickest in the team over 30m?

LC: Katie McAloom

INSIDER: What is your favorite ground to play on away from Darley Park?

LC:City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

LC: Lorissa Edwards

INSIDER: Describe your experience at the GWV Rebels in 5 words or less?

LC: Awesome people, amazing experience

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

LC:Pasta

INSIDER: What tv series would you recommend for us this coming Winter?

LC:Yellowstone

INSIDER: Who from the playing group would most likely win a million dollars on a quiz show?

LC: Maddy Clarke

INSIDER: Do any of the girls have annoying habits or superstitions they repeat before matches?

LC:Emmerson Hitch (DJ set)!

INSIDER: Who is your number one footy critic?

LC:Mum, even though she doesn't know much!

INSIDER: Favorite AFL/W club and player?

LC:St Kilda, Georgia Patrikios

INSIDER: Can any team beat Redan (outside of Darley)?

LC:Hmmm, maybe not!

At The Bar

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INSIDER: You arrived at Darley in 2021 - who from the club was responsible for essentially finding you?

Matthew Brett:Travis Minns, pre covid. He maintained contact through 2020, built rapport and the rest is history.

INSIDER: What is your actual role at the club Matty?

MB:Assistant Coach - Backs

INSIDER: It was great news for Devils’ fans to hear you were sticking around after a winless 2021 - the club must be growing on you?

MB:Definitely, Darley has a terrific community feel about the place, country environment, similar to back home / playing for a town that's meaningful.

INSIDER: Head coach Dan Jordan is an interesting character - what have you learned from him in your role as 'line' coach?

MB:The importance of building connection / relationships with people.

INSIDER: You did your knee against Melton last year - tell us about that - the pain, the frustration, the rehab.

MB:The pain 7/10, the frustration was being unable to be an example with my own actions (on-field), the rehab requires some serious diligence/discipline to return on time.

INSIDER: You have East Point on the road this week, tough ask - how are the confidence levels? They ran over the top of you at Eastern Oval last year, they will be hard to beat again i'm sure.

MB:They're a quality side. Will be a good test for us – it will be more accurate gage after three rounds for where we're truly at.

INSIDER: Is Brett Bewley's preparation as full on as it's rumoured to be? Tell us about your footy relationship with Brett.

MB:"Preps" as good as anyone i've known, Brett certainly loves his footy. We have a solid footy relationship, sharing a common goal wanting ultimate success for the club. As for rumour, I've heard he even sleeps with a footy!

INSIDER: Favorite ground to play on outside of Darley Park?

MB: City Oval

INSIDER: Who is your toughest footy critic?

MB:Outside of myself, probably my Dad.

INSIDER: Which young Darley player has shown you to have the most upside?

MB:Mace Cousins and Bailey Young. Both terrific young men that work hard.

INSIDER: Who is the quickest at the club over 20m?

MB:Jake 'Choccy barrel" Ancrum!

INSIDER: Who is your favorite footy person at the club?

MB:Digger Edwards....always good for a cheap laugh!

INSIDER: If you had to cook for the whole club what would be your signature dish of approval?

MB:Veggie butter chicken with rice

INSIDER: Who at the club thinks they're funnier than they really are?

MB:Mitch Ward

INSIDER: Favorite AFL club and player?

MB:Carlton, Tom Stewart.

Please find below important information for supporters and attendees to be aware of for this Sunday’s Ballarat Toyota Junior Grand Final Day at MARS Stadium.

General Information

• MARS Stadium – Creswick Road, Wendouree VIC
• Sunday 11^th September 2022
• The Ballarat Toyota Junior Grand Finals will be an Alcohol-Free event.

Match Schedule

Admission Fees

Junior Grand Final 2022

Adults - $12

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $26

Age Pensioner - $7

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Footy Record – $4 (Special Edition)

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

Gates

Gates open at 6:45am

Grand Final Filming

All matches will be filmed. Matches will be available for purchase following the Grand Finals and further information will be provided around this in the coming weeks.

Live Scores

All matches will be live scored on the day for those that are unable to attend the match. Scores can be accessed through specific competitions on the BFNL public results pages here:

Football - https://bit.ly/3Q4H8gg

Netball - https://bit.ly/3KPteh6

Entry & Parking Information

Please see details and map below for assistance with entry & parking requirements this Sunday.

Entry to MARS Stadium:

• Gate 1 – Located on Creswick Road.
• Gate 2 - Beech Avenue – Located at Northern Oval 2 behind MARS Stadium. This entry is encouraged for those attending the Netball.

NO DOGS are permitted within the precinct this weekend.

Parking is available at the following locations:

General Parking:

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

Disabled Parking:

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

Darley star playmaker Brett Bewley made it back-to-back Henderson Medals on Monday night with a four vote win over close teammate, Luther Baker. 

The 28 year old polled in ten of his 15 games to finish on 27 votes, two shy of his 29 vote winning haul in 2022.

The former Darley junior and Fremantle Docker took the lead after round 14 to hold off Baker, who polled in 10 of his 13 games.

Baker’s profound influence (competition rank #3 for centre clearance average) was highlighted by the fact the Devils' two home and away losses came during a period of absence from the 29-year-old as he nursed a hamstring strain.

But all honours are with Bewley, what an impact the humble role model has had since his return to the Devils in 2022.

The damaging left footer recorded a staggering eight best on grounds to win graciously in front of an approving stacked room at Melton’s TabCorp Park.

Bewley averaged a tick over 38 disposals a game to attract the eye and attention of umpires and record a historic win on a significant night for the Devils
ahead of their biggest day of the season on Saturday at City Oval.

Success on Grand Final day was seemingly all on Bewley’s mind upon receiving his second Henderson Medal.

After acknowledging his immediate family and influencers the focus shifted to Saturday’s decider against North Ballarat.

“We’re really looking forward to Saturday, let’s hope we can add another medal,” Bewley said.

North Ballarat midfielder Riley Polkinghorne, who averaged 30 disposals per game in 2023, finished the count in third place on 19 votes.

2023 Henderson Medal Top 10 Leaderboard
1st Brett Bewley (Darley) - 27 votes
2nd Luther Baker (Darley) - 23 votes
3rd Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 19 votes
=4th Matthew Johnston (East Point), Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol) - 18 votes
=6th Jack Walker (Melton), Izaac Grant (Redan), Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 14 votes

Scoop was watching it all unfold as the 2022 Henderson & McLean Medal counts took place at North Ballarat Sports Club last night.

Darley Captain and star midfielder Brett Bewley has capped off a memorable return to the club where it all began with a stunning win in last night's Henderson Medal count held at the North Ballarat Social Club.

Bewley polled in 13 of 16 home and away games to finish on 29 votes, 13 clear of nearest rivals Jack Walker (Melton), Jordy Johnston (East Point) and Lachie George (Redan) who tied for second.

The former Fremantle Docker was considered the top pick to win the time-honoured event by many across the competition and didn't let the 'judges' down, recording seven best-on-ground performances on his way to a deserving runaway result. Bewley put the Medal beyond doubt having led by 10 votes with three rounds still remaining

Bewley thanked his partner Sarah, immediate family, the wider club and the playing group before acknowledging the influence of new coach Dan Jordan.

"DJ helped me fall in love with the game again by allowing me the license to play freely, more the way I want to play," said Bewley upon receiving his Medal.  

BFNL Chairman, Adrian Bettio (left) and awards MC, Wes Cusworth (right) toast the 2022 Henderson Medallist Brett Bewley and 2022 McLean Medallist Soli Ropati.

The 27-year-old said the decision to return to Darley after his delisting from Fremantle (AFL) in 2021 was made easier with a young family and with the Devils seemingly struggling without a win in 2021.

"I felt like I could bring something, at least give back to the club," Bewley said.

"(Nick Rodda) Rodd's and I are pretty good mates so I was able to help get him to come across," he added. 

"And once DJ had signed it was all pretty smooth sailing from there on, and that helped seal the deal."

The former Essendon Assistant Coach has already signed on for season 2023. 

Bewley attributed his individual success largely to his impeccable preparation.

Fellow teammates have been quoted saying Bewley prepares like no other - "super impressive".

Williamstown recruit Nick Rodda shared the Tony Lockett Medal honours in his debut season with the club finishing on 56 goals.

As we head into our fourth week of an enthralling BFLW senior women's season, lets have a look and how each of our clubs has started their year and what's on the horizon.

Darley

The reigning back-to-back premiers are yet to drop a game to start the season.

Opening round saw the Devils face off in a grand final rematch with rivals Redan, in a game that was full passion and tenacity where Darley came out 7 point victors.

In Rounds 1 and 2, the Devils took out comfortable wins over Lake Wendouree and East Point respectively. 

With plenty of team success, last week saw individual achievements claimed when club stalwart and loved teammate Kim Bessell booted her 300^th league goal.

The celebrating continues this weekend when they hoist their 2024 BFLW Senior Women’s Premiership Flag at Darley Park.

Can The Devils keep riding this winning wave or will an unexpected upset happen against the Redbacks this weekend?

Bacchus Marsh

The Marsh have started strong in season 2025 winning their first three games and holding opponents East Point, Carisbrook and Lakers to no score.

For this reason, remarkably, the Cobras still are yet to register a percentage on the ladder despite putting 316 points on the board themselves to begin the year.

This week will see the Cobras take on Redan in an evenly matched game one would think given both team's start to year.

The contest should put Bacchus Marsh in good stead for their following match after Easter against cross town rivals Darley.

Bacchus Marsh have also been celebrating milestones with Summer Marchewka chalking up her 100^th game of footy in Round 2, it’s worth noting that 98 of these games were played at Bacchus Marsh!

Redan

Redan have had a good start to 2025, following a good competitive game against Darley in opening round.

The Lions hit the front in the last quarter to only go down by 7 points in a hard-fought game.

Rounds 1 and 2 saw Redan claim good wins over East Point and Carisbrook, to get their season rolling.

This week they will take on Bacchus Marsh, in what should be an evenly matched contest with the winner set to take bragging rights on the ladder.

The Lions are also supporting the OnTrack foundation as part of this weekend's Wellness Round and accepting Donations throughout the week.

Redan have been a well oiled machine with plenty of experience on their side, watch out for the Maroon and Gold as the season progresses.

Lake Wendouree

The Lakers had a win over Carisbrook in Opening Round but have gone on to register two losses over the past fortnight.

This week they take on East Point which predicts to be a very even tussle between two fiercely competative sides.

Both clubs will be looking to get the win before heading into the Easter break and enjoying the long weekend with a W in their basket.

The Lakers will be keen for Captain Demi Thompson and small forward Chelsea Dew to bag a few this weekend to come away with the win.

East Point

Opening Round saw the Dragons debut 8 senior players as the new look side continues to grow together to start the year.

Whilst East Point are yet to win a game they are certainly starting to gel through the midfield with their aim now to get a stronger score on the board.

Their first win could come this week over the Lakers.

It will be a big day for the club as they celebrate its 'Live4life' round, with raffles and memrobillia being sold on the day for the charity.

Lauren Butler from the Collingwood AFLW team will also be in attendance for a post match function, so expect a big turnout down at Eastern Oval on Sunday! 

With plenty of fresh faces, it will be worth keeping an eye on the Dragons' devlopment, as each week will bring more confidence and moving into the back end of season could see East moving up the ladder.

Carisbrook

The Redbacks come into the competition this year with a young side that is full of spirit.

Last week saw captain and young gun Olivia Butler play her 100^th game of footy with a majority of these as a homegrown Carisbrook Redback.

What a wonderful achievement for someone at the age of only 20!

Whilst Carisbrook is yet to record a win, you would think this weekends game against Darley will be a tough assignment.

The Redbacks will be looking for strong team effort after Easter Break when they take on East Point.

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the fixture for the first week of the 2022 McDelivery BFL Women’s finals series.

The league is excited to have many of our BFLW clubs represented across the finals series, providing a wonderful experience for our clubs and players after missing out on finals over the last two seasons.

Admission prices will come into effect as of this weekend and are as follows:

Admission Prices

BFLW Finals 2022

Adults - $10

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25

Age Pensioner - $5

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Grounds Open

Note:Gates will open at 7.30am for all venues during Week One to Week Three.

Scheduled matches across all grades of football for Week One of the finals can be found below.

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the fixture for the second week of the 2022 Federation BFLWomen’s Finals Series.

It was great to see the finals kick off over the weekend with some fantastic games played across all four grades.

Admission prices will continue this weekend and are as follows:

Admission Prices:

BFLW Finals 2022

Adults - $10

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25

Age Pensioner - $5

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Grounds Open:

Note:Gates will open at 7.30 am for all venues during weeks one to three.

Scheduled matches across all grades of football for week two of the finals can be found below.

Finals Round 1 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

It's finally here, the 2022 Carlton Draught Finals Series begins this weekend.

Ignore the first meeting of these two sides when you're contemplating a tip for this Qualifying Final albeit at the Bloods' home ground, Macpherson Park. The Swans arrive near full strength with solid form having won nine of their last ten. Admittedly, six of the Swans' 12 wins have come by six points or less. You can go even further and realise ten of their season's wins have been by less than 18 points. On the other hand, the Bloods have genuinely been the bullies of the schoolyard, averaging near 108 points per game for the season and conceding a messily 55 points per game getting it done.

Bloods coach Aaron Tymms would have sensed early that a genuine opportunity presents itself. A real chance to claim the prized silverware that has eluded the club since 2005. Melton were unbeaten for 12 rounds before copping a timely reminder of their mortality by North Ballarat in Round 13 and again by a five-win season Sunbury in Round 16. I'm convinced their two-game season losses ahead of the finals will hold them in good stead. They're relatively free of injury and boast unrivalled depth. In a nutshell, cherry ripe, balanced, and without excuse.

Only Joe Carmody's Ballarat truly know how they will fare against the might of the Minor Premiers. Bailey Van de Heuvel is a massive in while the return to peak form of ruckman Marcus Powling after some time out with a hamstring will only enhance belief. Expect Aiden Domic (concussion) who missed last week to return. To put their Round 5 disaster meet into perspective, highlighting its current relevance you need only look at the team sheet. Only 12 Swans took part in last week's nail-biting win over Sebastopol (and loss to Melton). Tymms will be well aware and fully versed in the fact that despite the Bloods' superior season, the Swans' win/loss returns for the last ten weeks are marginally better.

But please Ballarat, on behalf of all Swans fans start well, similar to your last two weeks and spare the faithful heart palpitations for another week. Missing the start here against the Bloods can only mean trouble. The Bloods are 15-1 for leading in first quarters.

The Swans will be nervous, the group is seemingly bereft of finals experience bar Josh Gibson and Andrew Hooper. The two will play a crucial role in calming the mental anxieties that come with a big stage.   

I wish the Swans luck, they'll need every bit.

By the numbers in 2022: Melton 1 - Ballarat 0

Melton                                         

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses) 

Record against top six teams: W6 L1   

Offence team rating (comp): 1st (107.8 avg) 

Defence team rating (comp): 1st (55.1 avg) 

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (56) 

Hendo chance: Lachie Watkins (in best 10/15) 

Will Liston (in best 12/16)

Ballarat

Finished 2nd: (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against top six teams: W5 L3

Offence team rating (comp): 8th (72.4 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 4th (64.1 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (35)

Hendo chance: Will Liston (in best 12/16)

I'm not sure who had either of these teams bowing out in week one of the finals but it will happen.

Finding a winner, like many involving top six games this year has been difficult. But what Sebastopol have over North Ballarat are two wins already this year. I know North Ballarat Coach Brendan McCartney has said what has happened before stands for very little in the new season but the confidence the Burras drive from those two outings should give them confidence. Unfortunately for North Ballarat they have lost four of their last five home and away games and won't have the luxury of getting the job done on Mars Stadium, the venue they play so well. Six of the club's eighth-season wins this year were at home (North Ballarat 2-6 on the road).

Sebastopol coach Michael Searl, while fully respectful, has no reason to fear North Ballarat. The Burras' best is certainly good enough to edge out McCartney's boys but it's going to take that - their best to get it done.

Containing dangerous North Ballarat forward trio Jamie Quick (39 goals), Jack Riding (35) and Josh Chatfield (11 in six games) looms the Burras' greatest challenge. You don't have to be Einstein to work out the likely match-ups, but it's nice knowing you have the cattle to minimise their influence.

Expect Burras mids Lachie Cassidy, Daniel Widgery and Chase Dummett to match the physicality early of North Ballarat who are the immediate beneficiaries of Cam McCallum's dominance in the ruck. Just how many hits to advantage in the direction of Riley Polkinghorne, Tim Spiers and Brock Leonard will tell its own story at the game's end. The defence of North Ballarat has been a pillar of strength for the most part but they did cough up their highest individual (quarter) score against the Devils last week. And when you consider the plentiful options forward of centre for the Burras, you can safely assume they're more than capable of posting a winning score.

Both sides will have benefitted from further learnings during the week on the back of their Round 18 losses.  There won't be much in this, just who settles the quickest and can execute on the fundamentals especially early will be hard to catch.

By the numbers in 2022: Sebastopol 2 - North Ballarat 0

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses) 

Record against top six teams: W4 L4   

Offence team rating (comp): 6th (74.2 avg)         

Defence team rating (comp): 3rd (63.5 avg) 

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (29) 

Hendo chance: Tony Lockyer (in best 11/16)                                   

North Ballarat

Finished: 6th (8 wins, 8 losses)

Record against top six teams: W3 L7

Offence team rating (comp): 4th (82.4 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 2nd (63.4 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Jamie Quick (39)

Hendo chance: Jack Riding (in best 8/15)         

Both teams will be well versed in each other's strengths and weaknesses given this will be their third meeting in 10 weeks. If they weren't rivals already, I'm near certain one is building as these east vs west combatants face off in another highly anticipated showdown. The two sides share four of the last five (completed) BFNL Premierships and the reality tells us, that one of these club's seasons is coming to an end. But on the flip side, what a way to progress. In Darley's case, under new Coach Dan Jordan (a former East Point star) - getting the result would be a monumental achievement for the club after a winless 2021. For East Point, to be riding high near the top with an interrupted three-peat still well and truly alive is a credit to the Kangas. Footy post covid has proven a difficult landscape to negotiate but we've made it, especially these two, albeit separate journeys. So hats off to Kangas coach Jake Bridges and the Devils' Dan Jordan for leading their respective sides back to the business end. And we won't be shy on talent for this version of the Elimination Final I guarantee you. Expect a massive crowd for this stand-alone BFNL final as all and sundry flock to the stands for their piece of the action.

Both sides finished with 10 wins separated by just .87% and share a win apiece from their two hit-outs thus far. It's only fair the winner progresses in a game that looms as the ideal decider.

The fourth-placed Devils boast top-end talent Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt, Nick Rodda, Matthew Brett and the experience of Darren Leonard, Shane Page and Luther Baker. Throw some of their progressive youth into the mix with nothing to fear, and Darley has a genuine chance of winning in Ballarat.

Not to be outdone, the fifth-placed Kangas top end has proven more than capable. Jordy Johnston, Matty Johnston, Mickitja Rotumah Onus, Jackson Merrett, Joe Dodd and Jacob Brown are just a half dozen players that can decide the game given a sniff on their terms. The depth goes beyond that for the Kangas, a line-up laden with been-there-done-that Premiership players. Can they over-awe a less experienced Devils coming to terms with a return to finals?

I think we'll know the answer as early as halftime. The Devils will be up against it mentally and physically but if granted liberty to become the best version of themselves, a spot in the remaining four and week two of the finals awaits.

By the numbers in 2022: Darley 1 - East Point 1 

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against top six teams:  W4 L4

Offence team rating (comp): 3rd (83.8 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 6th (75.3 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (56)

Hendo chance: Brett Bewley (in best 11/16)

East Point

Finished: 4th 5th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against top six teams: W4 L6

Offence team rating (comp): 2nd (90.8 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 9th (82.3 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Jordy Johnston (51)

Hendo chance: Jordy Johnston (in best 9/16)

Finals Week 2 Preview with 'Scoop'

For Melton and Sebastopol, it's one win and they're into the 2022 Carlton Draught Senior Men's Grand Final. One loss to either Ballarat or Darley, and the season is over.

Both teams will know they've played a game of footy come 5pm Saturday - win, lose or draw, that's for sure. Given their healthy rivalry over more recent times, and levels of mutual respect, don't count on either party leaving any stone unturned, as a prized spot in the 2022 BFNL Grand Final is up for grabs.

Michael Searl's Sebastopol has been looking forward to another crack at the flag favourites for some time, a genuine footy audit if you will, and a chance to atone for a disappointing 41-point loss in Round 11. We didn't see the real Sebastopol that day, in fact, the Burras didn't win a single quarter. But when you add James Keeble, Luke Kiel, Bailey Medwell, Chase Dummett, James Richards, Jai Harvey, Jordan Crone and Grady Snowden into the Burras Second Semi-Final line-up (all missed Rd11) you start mounting a case. Furthermore, the Burras have lost just once since that Round 11 defeat. Yep, 6/7 including wins over East Point and North Ballarat (twice) is a solid form line.

But words of advice for the hunters - turn up to play from the get-go or cop the wrath of a feverish Bloods outfit going about their business. Aaron Timms' boys have some serious numbers of their own behind them.  The Bloods are 15-2 for first quarters in 2022 and +175 for third quarter points differential (212-37) over the last five weeks including an intimidating 14-goal haul against East Point. Scary stuff.

I think Tymms is fully aware his Bloods hold the aces and it’s they who need containing with winners on every line. Just who and where to start bringing down the Bloods is a task only two teams in 17 tries have had success. Michael Searl is an intelligent footy person and is likely to spend most of his time matching up Ryan (57 goals) and Liam Carter (36) and X-factor Bloods Captain Braedan Kight (40). They loom the clear and present dangers denying the Burras a passage to that one day in September.

The Burras will sweat on the availability of inspirational leader Tony Lockyer (ankle) who will be given until game-day to get right. Lockyer left the ground early in the second quarter of last week's Elimination Final win over North Ballarat and did not return.

Bloods big man Mark Orr will be put through his paces too this week after missing week one of the finals. There's no doubting a few niggles exist for both sides this far into a first full season since 2019.

While I won't be tipping against the Bloods on their home deck, I am wary the Burras' best is good enough to give it a shake.

A Grand Final berth awaits the winner while a spot in next week's Preliminary Final against the winner of Ballarat and Darley.       

Head-to-head in 2022: Melton 1 - Sebastopol 0

Melton                                                                               

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W4 L0             

Offence team rating (top 4): 1st (106.6 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4): 1st (55.6 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Jack Walker

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W0 L4

Offence team rating (top 4): 3rd (72.4 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4): 2nd (63.1 avg)

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (31)

Best in first final (Week 1): Lachlan Cassidy

Before we explore the 'nitty gritty" of this highly anticipated, season-on-the-line Semi-Final, it's fair we congratulate Joe Carmody and Dan Jordan for guiding their respective sides back to the business end.

I'm not sure how much can be derived from their first and only meeting at Darley Park back in Round 7 but it was the Swans who had the measure of the Devils. The final margin was as close as the Devils got late in the game, enough to warrant the Swans as the clear favourites despite their already superior, win/loss season. The Swans led from go-to-woe that day, by 19,17 and 30 at the breaks before 18 at the final siren. The Devils (9.19) did have seven more scoring shots than the Swans (14.7) but Carmody's men were far more convincing with their ball movement and ability to hit the scoreboard. Anyway, enough of May 28th... that was 99 days ago.

The Swans have won eight of ten games since, the Devils 7/10 including their last four on the trot.

Darley will have their fingers crossed on the availability of star Captain Brett Bewley (calf) who missed last week's Elimination Final win over East Point. For the Swans Josh Gibson (hamstring), Angus Bade and Rhys Perry are their only injury concerns. Both sides will look remarkably different from their earlier meeting with up to seven new faces (each) likely to feature. The Swans add big guns Marcus Powling and Bailey Van de Heuvel while Jake Dunne, Inji Fyffe, Austin McPherson, Grant Baldwin and Jesse Nicholls make up the extra five. Darley's seven include Dylan Landt, Trent Angwin, Matthew Brett, Darren Leonard, Zane Lehuray, Blake Colley and Ayden Tanner.  Handy inclusions for both teams. But the gain for the Devils has been the return of seasoned defenders Brett and Leonard who have helped sure up the once very young back six. The two were instrumental in restricting noted high-scorers East Point (comp rank #2) to 47 and 57 at their last two encounters.

If Bewley doesn't play, the Devils' midfield will be up against it, taking on an in-form Swans combination. Marcus Powling, Will Liston, Sam James and Lachie Dawson have been super of late featuring as the better players every week. Van de Heuvel has become the X-factor for the Swans with his versatility. Can play at either end, has a big frame, is strong overhead and has an excellent left foot kick. Regardless of the result, the Footscray VFL affiliate will have an influence. The same can be said for dangerous forwards Nick Rodda and Andrew Hooper, both integral trump cards that can win a game off their own boot. The Swans Jake Dunne, along with Gibson provide an extra target forward and will likely stretch the Devils' defence.

Let's hope the game is bereft of could've, would've, should've status in the aftermath given what we know to be certain. One of Ballarat or Darley is heading into a Preliminary Final  - a monumental achievement.

Head-to-Head in 2022 - Ballarat 1 - Darley 0

Ballarat                                                                         

Finished 2nd (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W3 L2

Offence team rating (top 4); 4th (71.9 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4); 3rd (68.9 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (38)

Best in first final (Week 1): Will Liston

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W1 L2

Offence team rating (top 4): 2nd (81.6 avg)

Defence team rating (top 4): 4th (73.6 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Bailey Young         

Scoop Reviews Finals Week 2

Melton has punched in their ticket to the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Grand Final after a dominant win over Sebastopol. As for Ballarat, they just managed to escape a rampaging Darley.

Minor Premiers Melton remains the team to beat for this year's title after storming into the Grand Final with a win over Sebastopol.

Aaron Tymms' boys booted 12 of the last 13 goals of the game to win convincingly. His calm address at quarter-time proved significant given the Burras, with the aid of a four-goal breeze, led by 26 points. With alarm bells ringing of an unlikely upset, Tymms simply absorbed the moment.

While it took the Bloods nine and a half minutes into the second quarter to post their first major through key forward Ryan Carter (3 goals), five more unanswered would follow, including one after the half-time siren to give the Bloods a 12-point lead.

When the Burras had been outscored three goals to one with the breeze in the third term, it felt for the on-looker as though the game was just playing for time. There was a sense of inevitability about the likely conclusion.

The crowd, seeking an upset, were silenced as the Bloods faithful buckled up for another 30 minutes of grinding football. While the Bloods managed just 3.4 with the breeze in the final term, the visiting Burras were held scoreless. So, for all the promise and speculation of the Burras closing the gap on a 41-point loss to the Bloods in Round 11, the margin was increased to 43 at the weekend with the visitors returning the same score (6.7) as their first hit-out.     

For the winners, Riley Walker (defence), Brett Mcintyre (ruck) and Kyle Borg (wing & 2 goals) were terrific, the barometer if you like. Liam Carter (3 goals), Lachlan Hickey (1 goal) and Jack Walker (1 goal) threatened forward of centre for the most part in difficult breezy conditions.

Unfortunately for the Burras, there was no Tony Lockyer (ankle) or late-out Hugo Papst (illness) which didn't help their chances heading in, but kudos to Lachlan Cassidy (mid), Riley O'Keefe (defence), Jack Richards (Ruck) and Connor O'Shea who flew the flag and took it up to their more fancied rival for the most part but couldn't get it done. In fairness, only two teams in 18 attempts have this season.

The next attempt to overcome the Bloods will be on the BFNL's biggest stage, the 2022 Carlton Draught Grand Final.

Sebastopol meets Ballarat in Saturday's Preliminary Final at Mars Stadium.  

What the coaches said...

Aaron Tymms (Melton): Sebastopol presented a really tough challenge all day but I thought we withstood the barrage and remained patient once they were in front of the scoreboard. Our boys stood up to the adversity and were able to get reward for effort after quarter time to build the ascendancy and get the win.

Michael Searl (Sebastopol): They were simply a class above. Their ball movement was more efficient. Their work rate to outnumber (us) was superior. (I was) pleased with our start to put the first five goals on but weren't able to be as effective in the next three. (A) good learning opportunity and still grateful for another crack at it next week.

The Swans survived a barnstorming Devils finish to progress to the Preliminary Final for a meeting with Sebastopol.

The game looked shot to pieces when the Swans led the Devils a 'merry dance' by 43 points at half-time after six unanswered goals blew the game open. But the Devils had other ideas, launching an inspirational fightback as they piled on nine goals to two in the third term, stunning the Swans in the process, and reducing the lead to just three points at the final change.

Devils Coach Dan Jordan and his support crew nearly pulled off the masterstroke of the season as the willing Devils responded to a significant shuffling of the magnets.

The final stanza went goal for goal before the Devils hit the front by as much as 10 points, 20 minutes into the last quarter. But as the Swans have done so often this season, they showed the poise, resilience and character to arrest the deficit, before hanging on to win by one point.

Former Hawthorn champion Josh Gibson (five goals) was instrumental in the clutch moments for the Swans with three telling one-on-one marks in the goalsquare to assure the narrowest of margins and, with it, progress to the penultimate week of the season. And what a game it was, almost matched by the drama witnessed in the hours and minutes ahead of the opening bounce. 

Illness to valuable Devils trio Matthew Brett, Shane Page and Will Johnson proved a major blow for Jordan's camp before extraordinary scenes in the warm-up saw young defender Duncan Cadman withdrawn after a blindsided head collision with umpire Semmens who would also take no part.

The game itself lived up to the billing despite a dominant opening half from the bigger-bodied Swans.

The six-point advantage to the Swans at quarter-time felt like more and was confirmed in the second term as Joe Carmody's boys went to work. Marcus Powling, Sam James (2 goals), Aiden Domic (2 goals), and Lachie Dawson (2 goals) were influential in setting up the 43-point half-time lead while Gibson and Andrew Hooper (1 goal) looked threatening each time the ball went inside 50.

The weight of forward 50 Swans entries in the second term amounted to six goals, while the Devils could manage just one point.

Game over? Not quite.

Jordan moved Darren Leonard (3 goals) and Mace Cousins (2 goals) forward, Nick Rodda (1 goal) into the ruck and asked more of his top-end players to impact. Dylan Landt (3 goals) and Brett Bewley (1 goal) led the revival and found some aerial presence with Brady Wright (3 goals), Joel Cadman and Leonard.

While the Devils courageously fought back to hit the front, full credit must be given to the Swans who were able to respond. Another belter was witnessed in Week Two of the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Finals Series.

The Devils fell on the wrong side of a close one while the Swans hung on for their third win by one point and seventh win by seven points or less in 2022.

There's every indication we can expect a close one again on Saturday. Both Swans and Burras meetings this year have been decided by one and three points - in favour of Carmody's men.

For Jordan's exiting Devils, they lost no admirers and will bounce back in 2023. Their young group will be a pre-season older and hungry for another crack at the business end after an agonising sample in 2022.

What the coaches said...

Joe Carmody (Ballarat): It was a crazy game. In the first half, our contest and ball movement was very good. Darley dominated those areas in the third. The players responded well and kept at it in the last quarter to will ourselves over the line.

Dan Jordan (Darley): Probably the most bizarre preparation I've been involved in, losing four (players) to illness and then the incident in the warm-up. I couldn't be more proud of our boys and their effort. Full of courage and heart. Full credit to Ballarat. They are a very good side and all the best to Joe and his troops for the rest of their season.

Player nominations to trial for the McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball 22/23 Representative Teams are now open on the link below.

Applications close on the 10th of October 2022.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball Representative program is a great experience for our young netball talent. Nominations are now open to trial for the 2022/2023 representative teams.

All BFNL junior netballers who are keen to try out for our rep teams and who were born between 2006 and 2011 are encouraged to nominate via the online link below.

Dates for trials are yet to be finalised, however, trials will be held in  October/November 2022. 

This year we will have two 15 & Under Teams going to Association Champs. This gives more players an opportunity to be a part of this great program which will assist in developing skills.

BFNL Junior Netball 22/23 Representative Teams and Coaches

13 & Under – Coach: Leah Macdonald

Players born in 2010 and 2011

15 & Under – Coach: Meg Porter & Di McCormack (Championship Team) and Lisa Strudwick (Development Team)

Players born in 2008 and 2009

17 & Under –  Coach: Prue Douglass & Damien Mullane

Players born in 2006 and 2007

You must complete the online nomination form to participate in trials: https://forms.gle/7htXhRcYQhPFwxkh6

Applications for trials will close on the 10^th of October.