Plenty of x-factor, some serious coaching talent and a mid-ranking draw mean a successful 2021 season is firmly in North Ballarat’s hands. Scoop will continue to serve up the pros and cons of the fixture for every BFNL club each day this week.

North Ballarat

Draw rating points: 101
2021 draw ranking: #5

PROS:Don't leave Ballarat until ROUND FIVE (v. Sunbury)

- Play just THREE of the 2019 top six against Redan, Sebastopol and East Point

- Play the last THREE games at HOME before the Round 18 bye, which is ideal finals prep (if in contention)

CONS:

- Play 2019 Grand Finalists East Point and Sebastopol TWICE

- FOUR highway trips EAST will be a test given their recent record

- FOUR AWAY games in FIVE weeks from Round 10 to Round 14, including THREE highway trips EAST (Darley in Round 10, Melton South in Round 11 and Bacchus Marsh in Round 14)

Comment:Despite meetings with East Point, Sebastopol and Redan twice, North Ballarat have an even 2021 draw to work with. Needless to say, they must improve on their away record down the highway with just ONE win from EIGHT trips across 2018 and 2019. With Brendan McCartney at the helm, a crop of thriving young kids and some of their x-factor players returning from injury North Ballarat’s 2021 outlook is difficult to predict, leaving destiny in their own hands.

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

North Ballarat are set for a new era under new coach Clint Proctor, and there is plenty to be excited about for the Roosters.

SCOOP: Clint, welcome into the BFNL coaching ranks, tell us about your recent time in footy and how you managed to land the job at North Ballarat?

CLINT PROCTOR: Most recently the Box Hill VFL senior coach in 2022. I have had two years away from the game to concentrate on my young family. I'm originally from Gippsland and have always had a love for regional footy. My work has taken me to the Ballarat region and by opportunity the North Ballarat position just sprung up. They're a great club, and I’m looking forward to what lays ahead for all involved. 

S: No doubt you've done your due diligence over your short time in the role - where do you think North Ballarat are at?

CP: Young list post some retirements. To be honest, given my short time in the role I’m not entirely sure where we're at but I’m confident our brand of footy will stand up. There are a lot of moving parts in the program with VFL affiliated players but it's exciting to see them all get exposure at the level.

S: Former coach Brendan McCartney had an emphasis on a contested brand of footy - "step in when it's your time to go". What style of footy can we expect to see from North Ballarat this year?

CP: We won't be moving away from that. We'll endeavour to remain tough with an eye toward adding some different avenues to score and ultimately stay in as many games as we can.

S: The club has had a tough run with injuries to key players of late - can you update us on those on how they're travelling?

CP: Jamie Quick (foot- modified program), Riley Polkinghorne (shoulder surgery - modified program), Harry Loader (foot - modified program). Ryan Hobbs (soft tissue has retired) and Joey Symonds (concussion also retired).

S: The club won six of its nine games at home last year - is wanting a similar win-loss record this year out of a relatively young group too much to ask?

CP: It's difficult to put a ceiling on our program, there are so many moving parts. For example, VFL affiliated available talent and injury. However, we can work hard to make sure it's difficult for any team when they enter Mars Stadium.

S: What do you know about the competition - rival clubs/opposition players etc?

CP: Tough competition with some serious top end talent fresh out of the AFL and VFL programs.

S: Winning 'away' is always tough for a young group - last year just wins over Melton South, Bacchus Marsh, Redan and a draw against Ballarat. How do you go about channelling energy to get results away from home?

CP: That's an interesting angle. However, if we play the way we want to play we will be in enough games to win anywhere. I'm confident our brand will hold up pending execution and availability.

S: Macca gave Riley Polkinghorne, Josh Sparkman, Hugh Trigg and Malachi White an opportunity with Port Melbourne over the Summer. How's their progress, are we likely to see them in North Ballarat colours this year?

CP: Well they've all signed with Port Melbourne but remain affiliated with us, and have stayed connected with our group. So, if/when available at club level they're sure to be better players for their experience at VFL level and will surely play a significant role for us.

PLAYER INS:

J. Morris (Box Hill) L. Simpson (former junior returning from layoff), T. Madigan (Colts), T. Bates (Maryborough), T. Ford (Waubra), S. Economou (South Africa - development player 6’9”), D. Kenny (former junior returning from South Barwon), R. Luke (Beaufort)

PLAYER OUTS:

S. Glover (West Preston), R. Hobbs (retired), J. Symonds (retired).

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

J. Sparkman (Port Melbourne), R. Polkinghorne (Port Melbourne), M. White (Port Melbourne), H. Trigg (Port Melbourne), J. Riding (Werribee)

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 15- vs Bell Pak (home)
March 22- vs Ballarat (home)
March 29 -vs Sandhurst (away)

IMPROVERS TIP: (OUTSIDE OF NORTH BALLARAT)

CP: Tough ask first season! - Bacchus Marsh

FLAG TIP: (OUTSIDE OF NORTH BALLARAT)

CP: Darley

There is just seventeen days to go until the start of the 2021 McDonald's Ballarat FNL season and Scoop is rolling out club-by-club predictions for the season ahead. We start with a look at recent cellar-dwellers, Melton South, where there is an air of optimism on the back of some quality acquisitions.

Melton South

EXPECT Melton South to test any side that doesn't turn up to play in 2020, after the perennial wooden spooner of recent times (2016, 2018, 2019) secured the prized signatures of two bona fide A-Graders in the off-season(s).

The acquisition of former Port Melbourne forward Dylan Conway and ex-Footscray VFL player Bradley Olsson has given coach Heath Pritchard and the Panthers army something to look forward to.

"We're rapt to have these guys at the club full-time in 2021," Pritchard said.

"None of this part-time business.

"This crew, along with Shaun Wyatt (Bairnsdale, Williamstown, Footscray VFL), Billy Lloyd (Port Melbourne VFL/St Kevins), Daniel Walker (Melton), Michael Callus (Melton Central), and Aaron Clarke (Coburg VFL) will provide the structure we've been lacking," he said.

Conway (forward) at 29 years-old and Olsson (6’3 mid) at 25 years-old, are two proven pickups that would rival any clubs in the off-season. Add the aforementioned Williamstown and Footscray VFL prodigy Shaun Wyatt (mid-forward), Billy Lloyd (mid/forward), Melton Bloods Daniel Walker (6’1 utility), Michael Callus (2^nd in the 2019 B&F, small pressure forward) and young gun Aaron Clarke (key forward) to the Panthers mix and you would be a fool to deny them natural improvement.

The new signings have prompted a welcoming spark on the training track, with numbers pushing 40 at times this far out.

"The (new) boys’ presence around the place has been first class, they haven't missed a beat," Pritchard said.

"There's no ceiling on the follow-on effect it will have on the young blokes we've gotten games into over the last couple of years."

Despite the Panthers losing 2019 B&F and former Carlton defender Paul Bower (WAFL) and former VFL listed player Lachlan Watkins (Melton), arguably their biggest loss will be star midfielder Shannen Lange who has penned his intentions of a return to Sale for work. Lange finished equal fourth in the 2019 VFL equivalent of the Brownlow Medal, the J.J Liston Trophy, while with Port Melbourne.

There's no doubting Pritchard's Panthers will be much more competitive in 2021. The 43-year-old coach, who enters his second full season in charge, was at his diplomatic best in response to any thoughts of a spike up the ladder.

"We'll welcome our challenges at the selection table that's for sure," he said.

"Everyone will be earning their spot.

"After all, we're not here to make up the numbers.”

We shall watch this space with interest.

*Afilliated players: Ryan Pendlebury (Werribee VFL), Anthony Anastasio (Port Melbourne VFL), Isaac Conway (Port Melbourne VFL), Eli Templeton (Port Melbourne VFL), Aaron Clarke (Coburg VFL), Riley Theo (Western Jets).

Pritchard's Tips

Scoop' Reviews the Queen's Birthday Match

It was a huge day at Maddingley Park and there was a lot more than just a belting on-field performance by Bacchus Marsh on display. The Cobras brought Big Freeze 8 to the McDonald's Ballarat FNL in great style and celebrated their 2016 Premiership reunion and Tyson Shea's 250th game.

The Cobras are knocking on the door of the top six following their comprehensive 51-point win over Sunbury in Saturday's standalone Queens Birthday match at Maddingley Park.

A large crowd made the trip in support of the MND cause to witness the pre-game slide fundraiser led by former Western Bulldog champion and local favourite Doug Hawkins. The Cobra crew do a fantastic job in the football community raising money and awareness, earmarking the Queen’s Birthday weekend as their own on the BFNL calendar and drawing the interest of national TV networks Seven and Nine, who covered the event on their news platforms.

On the field, the Cobras put this game to bed early with six unanswered goals in the second quarter to set up a match-winning 47-point lead. For the record, their 10.4-64 score line at the main break was their best return (of any half) this season. And they did it all (on the scoreboard) without inspirational Captain Jake Owen, who has found himself in defence over the last two games in the absence of Jack Williams and Jason Robinson who remain side-lined with injury. Owen was still considered BOG by many in his rebounding role with double figure marks, proving the catalyst in transition, while denying the visitors any impact on the scoreboard.

Cobras ruckman Daniel Burton (2 goals) was back to his Henderson Medal-winning form, dominating at hit-outs and around the ground. Forwards Aaron Willetts and youngster Joel Freeman were rewarded for playing in front, making the most of their opportunities to finish with four goals. Cobra midfielders Harry King, Tom German, Max Eastmure and Jack Parente looked energised in a milestone game response to club legend Tyson Shea's 250th game. Shea too was typically in an under, adrenaline still riding high having run through (carefully!) a dedicated banner with his two children ahead of the opening bounce.

For Sunbury, they look a world away from what their ability suggests on paper, but the future looks bright as they get more games into Cody Bramble, Jake Egan, Jack Newitt, Lachie Urbon and Mitch McLean. Ball magnet and Lions captain Daniel Toman missed a second successive game, which didn’t help the visitors cause, but Harrison Minton-Connell stood up in his absence to be their best player. The Lions struggles continue forward with just the six goals, and all singles despite the inclusion of Essendon VFL listed targets Jake Sutton and Cooper Anderson.

In closing, it was clearly the Cobras’ best team effort of the year with notable contributions from near all 22 players. For Sunbury however, it may well have been their worst.   

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

Redan

Draw rating points: 94
2021 draw ranking: #1

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

- DO NOT leave Ballarat after round 14

- Play FOUR of BOTTOM FIVE sides from 2019 TWICE

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

CONS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PLAYER INS:

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

PLAYER OUTS:

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

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

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

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 22 -vs Drysdale (home)

March 29 -vs Eaglehawk (home)

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF REDAN):

GL: Sebastopol

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF REDAN):

GL: Darley

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

Redan

Scoop’s 2021 prediction: 3rd - 5th

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

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

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

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

“We're ready to go." 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Giampaolo's Tips

The board of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL provides the following update on all competitions considering today’s announcement from the state government. 

As of 11:59pm tonight (Monday), regional Victoria will return to the settings in place prior to the current lockdown. That is, community football and netball will be played with several protocols to be followed. 

WESTERN BULLDOGS UNDER 9’s 

The Western Bulldogs Under 9’s will continue to be placed on hold until such time as restrictions allow for suitable crowds to attend given a large number of players and their parent/carer concentrated at one venue. 

BFLWomens 

The McDelivery BFLW competition will resume from this weekend with games as fixtured to take place on Sunday 15thAugust 2021. 

The variation to a full return is that games featuring metro-based clubs (Melton Centrals and Melton) will not proceed. The result of those games will see points shared and no percentage applied. 

This will conclude the home & away season for BFLW and see finals commence as of the 21stAugust 2021 over three weeks. 

BFNL JUNIORS 

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL junior competitions will resume this weekend from the games as fixtured to take place on Sunday 15thAugust 2021. As with BFLW, this will conclude the home & away season for juniors in 2021. 

The Ballarat Toyota BFNL Juniors Finals Series will commence from Saturday 21stAugust 2021, with the format of finals to be confirmed. 

BFNL SENIORS 

Whilst it is encouraging that regional-based competition can resume from this weekend, the Ballarat FNL is in the unique position of having senior clubs across both metro and regional communities. As a result, BFNL senior competition can only return when the settings for metro and regional communities are consistent. 

Given the above, and the likelihood that many clubs will be impacted by the potential of metro-based players not being able to compete in a regional competition, the BFNL Seniors will not proceed this weekend. 

The senior round 13 will be cancelled and no results given. 

The league will await the next advice from the government to determine the status of the final home & away round on Saturday 21stAugust and the Carlton Draught Finals series due to commence from Saturday 28thAugust 2021. 

The pathway ahead for the coming week is based upon advice that is known at this point in time. 

The league is committed to ensuring the 2021 season can be concluded in the fairest manner for all clubs and supporters and appreciate the willingness of all stakeholders to be flexible as we work through the current protocols. 

END RELEASE 

Scoop' Reviews the Round 1 Good Friday Match

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

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

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

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

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

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

*Photo courtesy: Lake Wendouree FNC

Round 1 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop previews Round Ten

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Ballarat - Bye

Scoop' Reviews Round 10

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said…

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said…

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said…

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said…

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the coaches said…

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

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

Scoop reviews Round Ten 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop previews Round Eleven

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

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

Be sure to check it out. 

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

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

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

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

The game will be on LIVE RADIO APPLE 98.5FM. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Ballarat - Bye

Scoop reviews Round Eleven

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 3 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redan host an in-form Ballarat Swans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, why the spray?

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

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

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

Round 4 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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