Scoop' Reviews Round 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 5 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 6 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 7 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There's a bit to play out here.      

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Thank goodness for Tony Lockyer," Searle said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Round 8 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 8

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Full credit to Redan," Pritchard said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Queen's Birthday Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Here is Scoop's preview of the Big Freeze match between Bacchus Marsh and Sunbury this Queen's Birthday Weekend. 

There's plenty at stake when the Cobras host the Lions in their stand-alone Queen's Birthday Weekend encounter at Maddingley Park. For the winners, the four Premiership points will be enough. It will be mission accomplished. But the fallout for the losers looms much greater.

Defeat would see the Cobras slump to a fourth straight loss (third at home) and vulnerable at 3-5, whilst Sunbury can make up their own minds processing a 1-7 horror start. Either way, not good.

On a positive note, the Cobras have proven formidable opponents on their home deck regardless of ladder position and will ask questions of an unsettled Sunbury outfit fighting to keep their season alive. Lions coach Travis Hodgson needn't look too far for motivation, as he revisits the old haunt where he led Bacchus Marsh to a drought-breaking Premiership. 

The Cobras are using the timely nature of the match up to celebrate the sixth anniversary of their 2016 BFNL flag success with all 22 players expected to return for the formalities. I'm sure Hodgson will have done all of his homework ahead of the Cobras game to ensure his night can be celebrated twofold. However, it's not the opposition that is Hodgson's greatest concern at the moment. Forward of centre, the Lions are averaging just 62 points per game (#10 in the comp) - simply not enough to win games of footy and likely not enough against the, who admittedly rank not far above (Cobras' 68.3-point avg. returns ranks #9 in the comp).

Back on the firmer deck, you would expect Jake Owen, Aaron Willitts and Rex Hickman to post a score. Furthermore, the Cobras will be hoping to regain some of the soldiers who missed last week, namely Tom German, Nick Stuhldreier, Jack Williams, Jason Robinson, Max Eastmure and Daniel Velden. Any, if not some, will be a bonus.

I understand Sunbury will be hoping for a change of luck of their own at the selection table, but they're not the only club experiencing the inconveniences of a post-COVID footy landscape. 

Scoop' Reviews Round 9

Two of the four winners from Saturday's Senior Men's matches were able to overcome half-time deficits, while the other two fell agonisingly short. The expectation of a tight billing across the board did not disappoint with three of the four games decided by a goal or less. The even nature of the competition continues behind the competition's one exception, Melton.

Redan held off a barnstorming finish from North Ballarat to win by three points at City Oval. The result makes it a hat trick of wins for the Lions who are now just percentage outside of the top six.

The Lions won the opening three-quarters of the game to set up a 26-point lead at the final change before Brendan McCartney's men went to work, booting five goals to one in the last only to fall three points shy. While honours remain deservedly with the winners, North Ballarat's belated efforts were to be commended after losing Jarrod Curran (collarbone) and John O'Brien (heavy knock) for the second half.

Lions goal shark Isaac Grant finished with five goals to feature prominently while underrated wingman Pat Fitzgibbon provided some much-needed drive in a position where you can easily be exposed by North Ballarat. Lachie George was among the better players for the winners, buoyed by the return of Cooper Craig Peters from VFL duties.

For North Ballarat, the usual suspects nearly willed them over the line with significant contributions from Jack Riding (4 goals), Riley Polkinghorne, Cam McCallum, Simon McCartin, Brock Leonard and Ryan Hobbs.

Redan most certainly needed the points with Melton, East Point and Sebastopol to come over the next three weeks. North Ballarat will aim to bounce back over the coming fortnight against Melton South and Darley.

What the coaches said...

Jarrett Giampaolo (Redan): "Stressful win! We dominated play in the first half but were very wasteful and should have been up by a lot more and potentially had the game won. But North Ballarat were persistent and took the game on in the last quarter.  A few of their good players got off the leash but our boys were able to grind out the last five minutes and hang on."   

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat): "We were outworked in the first half. Redan were very good in the contest which consistently gave them first use of the ball. We responded well in the second half, down two important players. Our endeavour, competitiveness and desire were fantastic. Great game of footy, the better team won on the day."

Heath Pritchard's Melton South ended a 14-game losing streak in Ballarat dating back nearly five years when they hung on to defeat Lake Wendouree by six points. The Panthers, although ninth on the McDonald's Ballarat Senior Men's table are just one game and percentage outside the top six in what is shaping up to be an incredibly even competition.

When a 16-point half-time lead to the visitors became 24 points at the final change it was looking more like 'how far' for the Panthers, but Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers dug in for the fight, drawing level in the latter stages before a Daniel Vasjuta late goal sealed the game.

What was more encouraging for the Panthers in their third away win of the season was the make-up of the best players, with a few of the lesser-knowns standing up when it counted most. Sam Hurst, Daniel Vasjuta (3 goals), Jarrod Bibby and John Kovarik were influential in the win, while Will Thornton-Gielen's three-goal return also helped the cause.

The Panthers had seven goalkickers on the day, the Lakers just five as young Laker Rory O'Keefe (3 goals) led Geelong VFL-listed Scott Carlin and Nathan Pring who finished with two. Harrison Robertson and Brayden Helyar were considered the best players out of the losing camp along with O'Keefe. 

The Panthers will hope to improve on their 0-5 record at home this week when they face North Ballarat, who have lost three of their last four games.

The Lakers will prepare for a trip down the highway for a meeting with Darley who have lost their last two against finals contenders Ballarat and East Point.

What the coaches said...

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree): "Football is a hard game at the best of times, made harder when you give the opposition a head start. Credit to Melton South, they came to play and we took a quarter to get going, which was the difference in the end."

Heath Pritchard (Melton South): "Pleasing result at the end of the day following a number of changes. We were dominant in the first quarter and hit the scoreboard. A stalemate prevailed through the middle stages before the Lakers, to their credit, took the game on and started to score. Pleasing from our boys when Lakers drew level we found a way to get the ball forward and score late."

Ballarat arrested a 16-point half-time deficit to steal a one-point win at Alfredton Oval and move into outright second on the ladder ahead of their bye in Round 10.

Dangerous Swans forward Andrew Hooper (5 goals) capitalised on his side's momentum swing as their midfield and half-back lines hit their straps in the second half, creating enough opportunities to finish ahead of the ledger on the final siren. Rebound defender Nick Weightman continued his impressive season to be named best along with Hooper and youngsters Rhys Perry and Will Liston.

For the 'Burra Jed Hill finished with four goals and fearless leader Tony Lockyer three. Hill took the honours in a losing side, while Liam Stow and Dean Robertson battled manfully in the absence of first-choice ruckman Jack Richards. Bailey Veale and James Keeble continued their rich vein of form but it wasn't enough to deny the Swans in a nailbiter.

The Swans will savour the bye with a smile while it's back to the drawing board for the 'Burra as their four-game winning streak came to a dramatic end. Sebastopol is at home to Bacchus Marsh this Saturday.  

What the coaches said...

Joe Carmody (Ballarat): "Sebastopol's pressure was excellent throughout the game, restricting our ball movement. We were able to get on top at stoppages and rebound off half-back a bit better in the second half creating scoring opportunities for Andrew Hooper and Josh Gibson."

Michael Searl (Sebastopol): "Disappointing result when you've led for 95% of the day. We started really well but weren't as efficient as we would have liked. The inside 50 count was 18-4 at quarter time. Some crucial turnovers by foot in the last (quarter) also hurt us. We regroup and we go again, no point dwelling on it."

Kangas star forward Jordan Johnston proved the difference - booting nine goals to be clearly best on ground in their come-from-behind win over the Devils at Eastern Oval.

The visitors led by as much as 17 points midway thru the third term before the reigning Premiers booted 10 of the last 12 goals of the game to win going away.

'JJ' kept the Kangas in it with six of their first seven goals. Even the Darley faithful were left contemplating, what can you do? Jordy has 35 goals from his last seven games, firming well and truly into Henderson Medal calculations.

Kangas midfielders Mickijta Rotumah-Onus and Matty Johnston won the midfield battle on the back of some tireless work from Joel Van Meel in the ruck, giving 'JJ' and youngster Jack Jeffrey (3 goals) the supply needed to post a winning score.

Devils forward Nick Rodda (5 goals) looked threatening all afternoon while  Mace Cousins' rebound out of defence was pivotal in setting the league improvers up with an early advantage.

What the coaches said...

Jake Bridges (East Point): "Plenty of evidence of living our trademarks today! Great team effort and response from the group."

Dan Jordan (Darley): "Spirited effort against a quality side. Great learnings on playing four-quarter football for our young side. We were in it for a long way, full credit to East Point."       

North Ballarat City assumes the flag favourites tag after their win in the top of the table clash with Melton at the weekend but BEWARE the belated arrival of reigning dual Premiers East Point, whose star-studded line-up surged them into third place with a win and major percentage boost.

Scoop brings you the Round Eight Rundown.

East Point (17.15-117)dominated bottom side Darley (4.5-29)to win by 88 points in an ominous four-quarter display at Eastern Oval.

While the win was considered by most to be a formality given the Devils 0-6 record heading in, it's the mounting list of top-end talent at the disposal of Kangas coach Jake Bridges that has put the wider competition on notice.

Bridges is keeping a lid on things, holding his cards close to his chest, but there is no hiding the quality of personnel that can play a significant role in September if he can keep them together.

We saw the debut of former Collingwood Premiership ruckman Darren Jolly, and the return of Joel Ottavi (Williamstown VFL) and Jordy Johnston (Geelong VFL) for their second game in three weeks. Jesse Baird also returned to the line-up, while Jake McQueen's comeback from injury took another step forward with back-to-back games under his belt. The Kangas win was comprehensive across every quarter. Matty Johnston was named best afield among a host of candidates while Brad Whittaker finished with five goals.

Devils joint captains, Shane Page and Darren Leonard, were solid in defence with Matthew Brett. If not for the trio, the damage could easily have been more.    

Hats off to ladder leaders North Ballarat City (11.5-71)in more ways than one following their impressive 20-point win over Melton (7.9-51)at Mars Stadium.

It wasn't all about win/loss for the high-flying City who presented Melton Coach Aaron Tymms with a $3000 contribution towards the ongoing recovery of popular Bloods midfielder Dyson Stevens.

"City were all class at the weekend," a humbled Tymms said.

"Not only did they get us impressively fair and square on-field, but their efforts post-match, providing a beer and a bite for the players along with their overwhelming donation for Dyson was also something pretty special."

On-field, City had Melton on the back foot early, booting four goals to just three behinds in the first term before extending their lead to 27 at the main break.

The Bloods were first up after 35 days and their assignment against a well-drilled City proved too much, despite fighting back to within three points at the final change. City's Riley Polkinghorne continued his stellar season while the return of Jye Lockett proved a handful.

Lockett, still an under-19 player, is a beast of a kid who spent time through the midfield, giving coach McCartney yet another welcoming headache on the midfield make-up come finals time. The Bloods Lachlan Walker (wing/mid) was well up to the City's pace and pressure in a fierce game of repeat stoppage and tackling to be considered best in a losing side.

Sebastopol (10.14-74)gave home fans the opportunity to rejoice in song at the newly opened Marty Busch Reserve after a 9-point win over an inaccurate Redan (8.17-65)on Saturday.

The 'Burras win seemed a foregone conclusion at the last change with a match-winning advantage of 26 points that included three individual quarter wins. However, the visitors made a charge but couldn't convert in the last quarter as they peppered the goals for a costly 3.8, with their faithful left to contemplate what could've been. Their seventh place on the table is a reflection on their goal efficiency (rank #8 @ 46%).

The 'Burras lost Michael Powell and Luke Kiel to hamstrings, while inside-mid Daniel Widgery and a host of defenders featured in the best players. James Keeble and youngster Jed Hill booted three goals each for the winners while Isaac Grant matched their returns for the losing Redan.

The Lions Daniel Bond and Keenan Waterbury are piecing together their best run of form for the season and will play a vital role if they're to bounce back to the winners list this week against Sunbury at City Oval.

For Michael Searl's Sebastopol, every win is significant in this challenging season - simply bank the points and move on. Job done.

Bacchus Marsh (10.7-67)hung on to defeat Lake Wendouree (8.15-63)in a thriller at Maddingley Park.

Cobras big men Jake Owen (five goals) and Daniel Burton were clearly the difference between the two, as the home side did enough to cling to sixth place despite being headed twice in the final term.

In fairness, the scoreboard dictated the nail-biting nature of the game, overshadowing an otherwise plain game of footy that ramped up when the whips were finally cracking. For the most part, Burton's dominance was Groundhog Day in the ruck, leaving the Lakers mids with little choice other than to react to his work alone. Jake Owen's five goals (straight) was a deserving reward for the captain's unquestionable work rate, setting the example to his support crew of Billy Griffiths (two goals) and Kane Dickson (one goal) who were lively.

The Lakers lack of composure forward proved their undoing, given the margin, but playing catch-up footy all day can mount its own pressures. It didn't get any better for the Lakers on the injury front, losing Lachlan Pfeiffer (knee) and Mitch Phillips (hamstring). On a positive note, however, is the potential of young wingman Scott Blake, whose lightning leg speed troubled the Cobras. His run and carry and growing confidence was evident with his willingness to take the game on. Blake headed an even spread of contributors, but in loss, the Lakers would be the first to concede that they were short on a standout.

Ballarat's (19.13-127)75-point thrashing of Melton South (8.4-52)was soured by a potential hamstring strain to marquee recruit Josh Gibson who was unsighted after leaving the field in the first quarter.

However, there are clearly more strings to the Swans bow as the former Hawthorn champion deals with his own frailties. The build-up was all about who would stop Panthers' gun forward Dylan Conway (two goals), but someone forgot to forward the memo to Melton South on the dangers of 2019 leading goalkicker Andrew Hooper who finished with seven goals. While the former Western Bulldog and Werribee forward managed just one goal in his return against East Point in Round Seven, Swans coach Joe Carmody told 'The Presser' on Wednesday night his contribution was significant in the club’s five-point win in a low scoring affair.

For Heath Pritchard's Panthers, well, you've got to feel for him. His club remains winless from their last 14 trips to Ballarat (last winning in Round 3 2017 v Sebastopol) but what is more concerning is the nature of their losses. While the Panthers have struggled badly pre-2021, this season's results up the highway are proving just as worrisome. Two highway trips this year for a 67-point loss to the Lakers in Round Six and now a 75-point drubbing at the hands of the Swans. It really is head-scratching stuff for the Panthers, who have shown enough in their three wins to date.

While it's back to the drawing board for Melton South, it's onwards and upwards for dark horse Ballarat, who moved into fifth place with a 14% gain to now be on the heels of Sebastopol and East Point.

In closing the brief, full credit to Luke Wynd who played on Conway, repaying the faith shown in him by the coaching group.

It's tough, it's hard, and it's almost impossible to predict - the McDonald's Ballarat FNL competition for Season 2021 just keeps on delivering.

Scoop previews Round Five

Head-to-head since 2018: Melton 2 - East Point 4

Expect a battle of attrition between these two highly-rated clubs, with the depth of both lists on display with injury to key personnel.

The Bloods will be Dyson Stevens, Ben Archard, Lachie Watkins, Matt Denham and Luke Heaney shy of their best 22 and will also be without their number two ruckman, Ashden Crone.

The Kangas casualty list, meanwhile, continues to grow by the week. There was no Baird, no McQueen, no Bilney, no Lovig, no Hayes, and no Quick in last week’s 31-point loss to Bacchus Marsh, and there must be doubts on Martin, Lukich and Brown after they limped off at various stages against the Cobras.    

Kangas coach Jake Bridges is a proud man, grateful to be even playing the game in this post-COVID existence and will accept no excuses, whatever the result on Saturday.

Let it be known East Point will be the roughest chance in any game since 2018. Can Aaron Tymms' Bloods win this game, the one they're supposed to win at home against the undermanned champs?

They'll need to be good.

Tymms’ young men will need to withstand the physicality for a fifth consecutive week to get the job done. With such a young group, the Bloods are due for that below-par performance but will be hoping to put it on hold for another week, at least.

The Bloods focus today will be putting their opposition away early, denying the Kangas a sniff after they looked heavy in the legs and lame after quarter-time last week.

Melton doesn't look heavy in the legs at all, in fact, their leg speed is arguably their greatest asset. Expect Kevin Klix to return and pair up with Braedan Kight and the Carter brothers forward to take it to the Kangas defence, who were beaten last week despite giving their all.

Matty Johnston, Joe Dodd and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus will need a day out for the Kangas to provide enough opportunity forward to post a winning score. One positive for the Kangas is the likely return of Aden Nestor who was Best on Ground in the Twos last week.

Head-to-head since 2018: Lake Wendouree 1 - Sebastopol 2

2021 flag fancies Sebastopol are on the road again to Lake Wendouree, who will be hopeful of drawing square with 2 wins from 4 matches since 2018 – and they will have to do it without James Richards (ruck) and James Keeble (forward) unless they've made miracle recoveries from hamstring strains.

In fairness the 'Burra has been in both of their losses, for the most part, falling agonisingly short against Melton by just 1 point before being opened up in the final term against North Ballarat who ran away 32-point winners.

This weekend is the perfect opportunity to correct a two-game losing streak – if two games can be called a streak - but it won't be easy.

Lake Wendouree have been lively in their opening three games, with close wins over Ballarat (by 5 points in Rd 4) and North Ballarat (by 7-points in Rd 3). Even their Round Two loss against the reigning champs East Point (47-points) had the tell-tale signs early, these Lakers have something to offer.

There's no doubting they're buoyed by the inclusion of four talented Ballarat Rebels, while the pathway comp is temporarily on hold. Furthermore, Ashley Simpson and boom signing Nick Rippon will ask questions of a deep 'Burras midfield eager to return to the winner's list.

'Burras coach Mick Searle has said his sides' primary focus was to be better performed away from home in 2021, given they don't play on Marty Busch Reserve until Round Seven.

For Dale Power's Lake Wendouree, another footy audit awaits. They will need 10+ goals on Saturday to win, a feat only achieved in 8 of their last 29 games. A score of 75, weather permitting, will prove enough here to land the points.

Head-to-head since 2018: Bacchus Marsh 1 - Redan 1

Redan will need to contain Bacchus Marsh forward duo Aaron Willets (12 goals from 4 games) and Jake Owen (11 goals from 4 games) to give themselves every chance to go 3-1 come 5 pm Saturday.

While the Lions themselves rank #1 in the competition in attack it's their miserly #10th ranked defensive returns that spark some concern. Given the Cobras rank just #9 in attack despite two wins, the data puts even more onus on the return of Owen and Willets, who have combined for 23 of the Cobras 39 goals - or 59 per cent.

The Lions are a completely different proposition when key midfield duo Orren Stephenson and Lachie George are both in the team. For the record, Redan is 9 wins from 12 games when the two are together (4-4 without), averaging a four-goal win (93-69) in the process.

'The Big O', who hasn't played a game in 2021, would be a huge into combat star Cobras ruckman Daniel Burton, who is flying. At ground level, the midfield battle will be crucial - first use out of the middle will give the respective forwards every opportunity to impact.

For the Lions, everywhere you look, there are goalkicking options forward. Dean Chester, Izaac Grant, Grant Bell, Lachie McLean (if he plays) will test most BFNL defences. Bacchus Marsh could well be their next victim.

Weather permitting, converting on the scoreboard - given the evenly matched midfields - will tell the story of the day.

Can the Cobras go back-to-back season-best performances and get the job done in Ballarat? It will be a tough ask, as many have fallen short up and down the highway since 2018. In 94 Home & Away games involving East/West travel, only 25 have gone home successful (26%). The Cobras East/West travel record is: Played 10, Won 2, Lost 8 - the jury rests.

Head-to-head since 2018: Ballarat 0 - Darley 3

Both sides will be happy their fixtures have returned to the normal daylight schedule when they meet at Alfredton Oval on Saturday afternoon. Ballarat (played 4, won 1, lost 3) will enter the game as favourites on their home deck, despite a run of three straight losses.

It's difficult to match up the two sides’ form, given one has spent the opening month in the east side of the comp, and the other in the west.

On the Swans front, although comfortably beaten by Redan by 54 points in Round Three, they have finished within a kick of Lake Wendouree (lost by 5 points) and North Ballarat City (2 points) and could easily be sitting second on the league table at 3-1, but instead have only tomorrow’s opponents Darley (sitting 11th) below them.

The Devils have been in all three games early but have fallen away for the remainder with losses to Sunbury (by 29 points), Bacchus Marsh (by 56 points) and Melton (by 34 points).

Darley will miss a large contingent of their more experienced group again as they opt for an injection of games into their youth, following a similar path to Ballarat's 2019.

But for Swans coach Joe Carmody, he believes his group is ready to take the next step by winning games and pushing for finals. According to Carmody, his (once) boys are now men, 40-50 games in with a body type solid enough to match it with anyone.

It really is a must-win game for Ballarat, who will be keen to dent the young Devils’ confidence early or potentially face the music of a young band with their tails up.

A highly anticipated Josh Gibson Swans debut and the return of livewire forward Andrew Hooper will not be on the Devils wish list this week. Fingers crossed for them, that scenario is put on ice for another week.

Head-to-head since 2018: Sunbury 1 - North Ballarat 1

Lions coach Travis Hodgson would be wondering why the footy gods have been so unkind to him in the opening five weeks, as they face yet another team brimming with confidence off the back of a big win the week before.

Firstly, the loss to Melton in Round Two (beat Melton South in Rd1 by 69 points), East Point (beat Lakers Rd2 by 47 points) in a Round Three loss, Melton South (beat Bacchus Marsh in Rd3 by 30 points) in the Round Four loss, and now North Ballarat City (who beat Sebastopol in Rd4 by 32 points).

This match shapes as a real beauty, as McCartney's group travel to the wide-open spaces of the Clarke Oval to consolidate their position in the Top Six and arrest a horrible track record for the club in any games involving highway travel.

Since 2018, City has made eight highway trips for just one win and if they fail to turn up on Saturday, they will be made to pay by a Sunbury outfit keen to arrest a three-game losing streak and reassert its winning reputation at home in the process.

North Ballarat options for goal will be concerning for Sunbury in the lead-up - they're all tall, mobile athletic youngsters who've found some synergy forward, ranking #3 in attack and #2 for shots on goal. They will again create plenty of chances, you would think, while their pressure under McCartney will be made accountable. Sam Glover's inclusion (pending) from Collingwood VFL can only improve their chances.

This game is a line in the sand, pride in the jumper game for Sunbury who must respond at home in front of their fans and dispel any creeping doubts on where they sit in 2021.

While Sunbury's gains from its VFL affiliates, FIFO's and NAB stars will help the selection process in the short term, some weight has to be given on what effect it will have on continuity moving forward.

North Ballarat has claimed the top of the table with their big win, and with injuries having a serious impact across the league, teams with full lists are doing the damage on game day. Ballarat was the only team to win at home, while East Point, Sebastopol and Bacchus Marsh were dominant. While they haven't troubled the winner's lists, Darley's young talent is showing their class and Ryan Kemp kicked four for the Devils.

Scoop brings you the Round Five Rundown.

North Ballarat City (11.14-80) has moved to the top of the BFNL table after a 46-point win on the road over a listless Sunbury (4.10-34).

While Brendan McCartney aims to keep a lid on things (namely their ceiling) at City, it's Travis Hodgson's Lions that look in a world of hurt, languishing in tenth place with just one win from their opening five games. A Magin-less Sunbury took until the 14-minute mark of the third term to register its opening goal as City booted 10 goals to four after quarter-time to win comfortably.

City's Josh Chatfield continues to cause headaches forward with his versatility, booting four goals, while Jono O'Brien played his best game since his move from Springbank. Midfielder Riley Polkinghorne once again impressed for City, while young gun Luke Goater was named best for the Lions who were without a multiple goal scorer. It's difficult to fathom how Sunbury, with four walk-up-start interleague reps, have been so underwhelming.

Redan (1.12-18) was kept goalless after the opening minute of Saturday's 55-point loss to Bacchus Marsh (10.13-73) at City Oval.

To suggest the Lions were disappointing is an understatement, despite missing Liam Hoy (Achilles-season), Dean Chester (managed), Alex Harvey and Orren Stephenson (hamstring). Youngster Izaac Grant could not have timed his Darwin music festival trip (booked in the pre-season) any worse, adding to the Lions missing goal power, as the well-prepared Cobras outfit took to the highway, keen to arrest on a run of outs in Ballarat dating back to mid-2018.

Captain Jake Owen led from the front with five goals, while offsider Aaron Willets again hit the scoreboard with three. Playing coach Tom German was in everything and arguably the most influential midfielder from the ten-minute mark of the first term, while Logan Blundell's role on Lions star Lachie George was significant. Tyson Shea and Alex Porter were next best for the winners, while Zac Jenkins and Cooper Craig-Peters gave their all in an otherwise meek display from the Lions.

Sebastopol (16.10-106) resembled something more like their best with a complete four-quarter domination of Lake Wendouree (4.10-34) at the weekend.

The 'Burras put the game at Wendouree Reserve to bed early after booting six goals to one in the first term, while silencing the home crowd in the process. There would be no looking back for an ominous Sebastopol unit still finding their way (like many) in 2021, as they piled on a further 10 goals to three to monster the Lakers, who obviously struggled without their Ballarat Rebel talent.

'Burras tall timber Michael Powell (4 goals), Toby Hutt (2 goals) and the return of James Richards (named in best) proved more than a handful for a Lakers outfit who are never shy on effort. The assignment was just too much for the Lakers to overcome, despite the gallant efforts of Jacob Lohmann, Callum McKay and Nick Rippon, who continue their consistent run of form. New 'Burra editions Jed Hill (Ballarat) and Bailey Medwell (East Point) continue to impress and will have another opportunity on Saturday to show off their form when they meet bottom side Darley.

Melton (7.10-52) will be forgiven for their flat display against East Point (13.15-93) at MacPherson Park on the weekend.

Still reeling from the shock ongoing injury to star midfielder Dyson Stevens, the Bloods were unable to maintain their unbeaten intensity into the Round Five meet. While some sides have played each other only twice since the beginning of 2018, these two warriors have now met seven times for a 5-2 advantage to the Kangas.

The reigning dual Premiers welcomed back Aaron Hayes, Cam Lovig and Aiden Nestor into the line-up, as gun mids Matty Johnston (2 goals) and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus continue as a combo to be reckoned with along with Joseph Dodd (2 goals). East Point remains well-placed in fifth, just a game and percentage off new ladder leaders North Ballarat City. For the Bloods, their first loss in 2021 sees them fall to second, and away from the top of the table spotlight in the interim. And for now, I'm sure that suits Bloods coach Aaron Tymms just fine.

Ballarat (15.14-104) flew the flag to be the only home team to win at the weekend with a 32-point win over an undermanned Darley (11.6-72).

With a notable breeze playing a factor in the opening half, very little separated the two teams on the scoreboard at the main break (4 points). When the Devils restricted the Swans to just 3 goals in the third term, all looked set for a nailbiting finish. The youthful Devils reigned in the margin to as little as 13 points before the Swans rallied to boot the last three goals of the game to run out deserved winners.

Ballarat recruit Jake Dunne (2 goals) looked dangerous early in his first game for the club before a recurring hamstring injury sidelined the key forward for the second half. Tall timber Marcus Powling and Bailey Van Der Heuvel dwarfed the Devils who seem bereft of the substantial size to match it with most, if not all BFNL sides. Usual suspects Daniel Kennedy and Sam James featured among the better players, while a spread of eight goalkickers, including five players with multiple returns, proved too much for the winless Devils. Werribee VFL affiliate Ryan Kemp showed off his class with four goals for the Devils while youngsters Duncan Cadman, Dylan Beecham and Jack Bewley featured among the better players.

The evenness of the 2021 BFNL competition means almost any team can win on their day (or their night). Round Four has thrown up some intriguing challenges, youth versus experience and size, fast starters versus under-performing firepower, and who will be already in the mix for finals contention after just four rounds?

Scoop previews Round Four

Head-to-head since 2018: Bacchus Marsh 1 - East Point 1

It's hard to believe East Point hasn't played Bacchus Marsh on Maddingley Park since Round 14, 2016 - the year the Cobras won the flag.

The reigning dual premiers will be hopeful their sheer weight of talent forward will be too much for the Cobras defence. Needless to add, the Cobras midfield must bring their A-Game again this weekend to deny the mighty Kangas having the game on their terms, essentially inside forward 50.

This challenging task for the Cobras starts with Daniel Burton in the ruck and the work-in-progress connection with his midfield at ground level. How Nick Stuhldrieir, Tom German and Harry King benefit from Burton's influence will go a long way toward determining the result.

The concern for me is that the Cobras were pretty good last week against the Panthers and were still beaten. The problem for Tom German's men on their home deck will be coping with the depth of East Point across every line and the flexibility that allows Kangas coach Jake Bridges to play any one of his 22 in any position.

Cobra fans won't have seen the Ganley brothers, Aaron Hayes or James Lukich, but they'll know who they are come 5 pm Saturday, that's for sure. If there is an unlikely upset, Bacchus Marsh will need the self-belief for starters and significant contributions from right across the board - you can't beat East Point any other way.

Head-to-head since 2018: North Ballarat 1 - Sebastopol 1

Both sides were narrowly beaten in Round Three and will be eager to respond for their fans today at Mars Stadium.

To find a winner, we must first address the elephant in the room - can Brendan McCartney's youthful City withstand the physicality, height and experience of Sebastopol? I'm not so sure.

The 'Burras have shown already that they could be better than their runners-up 2019 side. So much so, I think last week's one-point loss to Melton will do them good. They will have a more accurate idea of the hunger levels now to go one better in 2021. The response this weekend will confirm that.

The 'Burras have an enviable spread of talent in all areas and finding a weakness for City to expose won't be easy. City's fortunes, similar to Bacchus Marsh’s, will rely on how deep they can go extracting contributions from each of their 22.

If City can break even with forward entries, you have to give them a chance, given the form and mobile nature of their youthful set-up. Josh Chatfield, Jai Lockett and Jacob Quick have all proven they can kick multiple goals.

Momentum and youth together are difficult to contain - they seem to run faster and jump higher as confidence grows. But, on the flipside, denied opportunity and loss of confidence can often disappoint - and that will be the focus of Searle in looking to contain McCartney’s men.

City's Cam McCullum, Daniel Jones, Jonathan O'Brien and Joey Symonds will have a job on Saturday minimising the influence of the bigger-bodied Sebastopol - their work inside the contest will be vital to City's chances.

Head-to-head since 2018: Melton South 0 - Sunbury 4

Strangely, Sunbury is the only team not to have gotten hold of Melton South during their lowly times of 2018 and 2019, despite winning all four encounters. Margins of 53, 21, 26 and 17 points pale by comparison to other sides’ margins over the Panthers and I’m tipping they won't have it all their own way again on the weekend.

In fact, it would not surprise me in the slightest if the Panthers won. But that outcome will depend on a few things. The Panthers will need most, if not all of their top-end list talent available and delivering to get the job done.

Sunbury is an enigmatic bunch. While their best is very good, the Lions have fallen short of executing a three-quarter performance let alone four-quarters in their opening rounds. But questions will be asked of the Panthers top-end as well, I assure you. How will they respond to like-for-like match ups and defend without the ball?

Dylan Conway, Bradley Olsson, Shaun Wyatt and Paul Curtis are super dangerous with the ball in hand and they get the job done. But their task will be made more difficult given the Lions top-end are primarily very good defensively.

For me, it's whether the Lions’ offensive weapons can expose the Panthers more efficiently. I place an emphasis on efficiency for the Lions because they have proven they can hit the scoreboard but have poor returns: 28 goals, 40 behinds at 41 per cent so far for a comp ranking of #10, despite ranking #5 for total number of shots.

Melton South, on the other hand, rank #3 for goal efficiency 36 goals, 27 points at 57 per cent, but #9 for total shots on goal.

The two scenarios that lay waiting in the aftermath are mouth-watering. Do the Panthers become worthy of finals discussion after four rounds, or does Sunbury make a statement?

Head-to-head since 2018: Ballarat 0 - Draw 1 - Lakers 2

Joe Carmody's Swans will be looking to improve vastly on their first-quarter returns that have yielded just 3 goals and 8 behinds from their opening three rounds (2.1, 0.5, 1.6). Hardly the best way to start against the Lakers, who have led both East Point and North Ballarat City at the main break in their two fixtures so far.

The evenness of the 2021 competition in its infancy stage implies there'll be little room for slow starts moving forward, especially when the weather is fine and the average winning score thus far sits at 90 points.

There was no sign of gun Swans forward Andrew Hooper last week, but reliance on too few will bring you unstuck more often than not. The most encouraging facet for the Lakers to draw on from their opening two games has been their willingness to hit the ground running against in-form opposition and I see no reason why we won't see a similar pattern unfold on Saturday.

The question is whether Ballarat can withstand a lively Lakers outfit coming into the game on the back of a rewarding 15-goal return? Lakers youngster Josh Rentsch will be asked to reproduce his Best on Ground Round Two heroics when he faces fellow up and comer Pat Glanford, or even Marcus Powling if the first match-up is dealt with.

Ballarat rank #9 for scoring (66-point average) and the Lakers #7 (74.5-point average) and I anticipate a similar scoreline on the weekend - weather permitting.

There's plenty at stake for either group come the final siren this week. One team will move to two wins and should be satisfied with their opening month, while the loser is left to contemplate in review how the winnable got away.

Head-to-head since 2018: Darley 0 - Melton 2

Even when the Devils were flying high early in 2018 and 2019, they were no match for the Bloods at their previous two meetings, beaten in near-identical fashion 57 - 87 and 57 - 86.

Unfortunately for Darley, I can't imagine them arresting the win-loss pattern at home under lights.

Aaron Tymms’ Melton has shown remarkable resilience in their opening three games to be 3-0, despite no luck early on the injury front.

Come Saturday, they're likely to be without their preferred starting midfield once again, namely Ben Archard, Dyson Stevens and Matt Denham. In fairness, the Devils have also suffered the loss of key personnel over the extended break and injury to experienced top-end players already in 2021.

The Devils will continue to inject more games into their youth as the season unfolds and will be hopeful that natural progression through games experience will see them influencing games sooner rather than later.

Ladder leaders Melton, on the other hand, are ahead of Darley with this scenario having blooded (no pun intended) much of their current crop already. The Bloods talent-laden 20- to 24-year-old age profile (with games into them) sees them ideally placed to contest for a flag in 2021.

Expect no upsets here - the Bloods will be happy just to bank the points injury-free, while the Devils cast an eye to the next generation.

A dominant win in a game made memorable for all the wrong reasons, the reigning premiers dismantled by some rising stars, a four-year drought broken, a dead-set thriller under lights, and the flag contenders were blitzed.

Scoop brings you the Round Four Rundown.

Melton (10.11-71)has shrugged off a winless Darley (5.7-37), booting five unanswered second-half goals to win by 34 points.

The result, however, was soured by the serious neck injury to star midfielder Dyson Stevens after he fell awkwardly late in the first term. There was a 55-minute delay in play as Stevens was attended to by paramedics before being taken away in an ambulance for immediate scans and potential surgery.

The Bloods were the first to settle after the re-start as captain Braedan Kight booted three of his four goals in as many minutes.

The Devils returned fire with goals to Ryan Kemp and Duncan Cadman to be with within a point at the main break. But thereafter, it was Melton, who controlled ball movement and clearance as the young Devil's structure fell away under the relentless pressure of a speedy and more seasoned Bloods outfit.

Kight, along with midfielders Billy Crofts and Jack Walker, were named best for the winners, while Jake Ancrum, Matthew Brett and Blake Colley continue their run of good form in the black and white.

For many, Bacchus Marsh's (13.9-87)31-point dismantling of reigning dual Premiers East Point (8.8-56)at Maddingley Park on Saturday was the upset of the round. But rest assured, this result was no fluke as the Cobras were forced to earn every bit of the win in easily their best performance of the season.

After conceding the opening three goals of the game, the Cobras response was emphatic turning a 12-point deficit at quarter-time into a 35-point match-winning lead at the final change.

East Point has been patchy so far in 2021, mixing their form with good halves and bad. In Saturday's case, it was the Kangas second and third quarters that proved their undoing, as Bacchus Marsh piled on 10 goals to 2 to set up the win.

Aaron Willetts (5 goals) and Jake Owen (4 goals) did the damage forward, while the 2018 Henderson Medallist Daniel Burton was Best on Ground.

It doesn't get any easier for East Point this Saturday either, with ongoing injury concerns ahead of a showdown meeting with ladder leaders Melton - with Jesse Baird, Jake McQueen, Clay Bilney, Aaron Hayes, Isaac Quick, Joel Maher, Dallas Martin, James Lukich and Jacob Brown all on the injury list.

Melton South (15.7-97)has secured back-to-back wins for the first time since Round 11/12, 2012, with a 23-point win over Sunbury (10.14-74).The win also ends a four-year drought for the Panthers against the Lions that dates back to Round 11, 2017.

The Panthers’ A-Grade talent returned to the fore, franking last week’s form in the process.

Dylan Conway (5 goals), Shaun Wyatt (2 goals) and young gun Paul Curtis (2 goals) kept the score ticking along and Sunbury at bay to lead at every change.

Sunbury did have opportunities forward again but are in a slump with their ability to convert. The Lions rank #8th in attack and #10th in goal efficiency, yet sit #4th for average number of shots per game on goal.

It can be a cruel game, and with little reward for effort can become exhausting. 2019 Henderson Medallist Alik Magin booted three for Sunbury and was considered the pick of the Lions pride.

For the Panthers, Conway and Billy Lloyd aside, junior products Cody Chapman and Jake Thornton-Gieling were named best.

While it's all smiles at Melton Rec Reserve at the moment you wouldn't think Sunbury's next win is too far away.

North Ballarat (12.14-86)has blitzed flag contenders Sebastopol (7.12-54)with a stunning 6.6 final term at Mars Stadium to win by 32 points.

North Ballarat City led at every change to get the job done over a 'Burras outfit that was found wanting with the game in the balance and who were without ruckman James Richards and dangerous forward James Keeble.

The two missed large parts of their Round Three loss to Melton as well with hamstring complaints and remain doubtful for Saturday’s meeting with fourth-placed Lake Wendouree.

Sebastopol sit in eighth place with just one win. City midfielder Riley Polkinghorne continues his stellar run of form with another Best on Ground, arguably his third in four games.

Experienced campaigners Ryan Hobbs, Simon McCartin, Joey Symonds and Cameron McCullum made significant contributions, while young forward Josh Chatfield jagged another multiple-goal return.

There's no doubting North Ballarat were buoyed by the inclusion of star Collingwood VFL-listed player Sam Glover. For the 'Burra, Michael Powell booted three goals, while Jack Bambury, Tony Lockyer and Bailey Medwell tried their hearts out.

Lake Wendouree (9.12-66)has moved into fourth place on the BFNL ladder with a thrilling five-point win over Ballarat (9.7-61)under lights at Alfredton Oval.

It came as no surprise that this Round Four battle would go down to the wire and they didn't let us down. In fact, the biggest margin of the game at any break happened to be at the final siren, advantage Lake Wendouree.

Goals came at a premium in the first half with just five kicked between the two sides before the second half opened up by comparison with thirteen. It was unfortunate for Joe Carmody's Swans, without goal shark Andrew Hooper and marquee signing Josh Gibson for another week.

The honourable losses are beginning to rack up for the Swans who, at their best, can match it with anyone. Recognition to Lachie Dawson for his three goals and captain Sam James who led the Swans to all but victory.

Dale Power's Lakers must be buzzing with back-to-back wins. Lane Buckwell stood up for the Lakers with a best-on, while Scott Blake, Timothy Collins, Ash Simpson, Nick Rippon and Jacob Lohmann ensured they found the line.

With the Lakers’ top-end in some real form at the moment, they should hold no fears for Sebastopol on Saturday, in what looms to be a fair, five-week footy audit for both clubs.

Round 9 in the McDonald's Ballarat FNL is the only round in 2021 with ALL five games requiring highway travel.

When measuring overall away highway performance - what is real is that winning up or down the highway is as difficult as ever.

The numbers are extraordinary.

There have been 108 games from the beginning of 2018 to now involving teams travelling down the highway, i.e., east travelling west or west travelling east.

Away teams have been successful just 30 times from those 108 games at a win rate of 27.77%. Across 2021 to date, 6 wins out of 19 away highway trips is a win rate of 31.58%.

Given the Round 9 matchups, travelling teams have as good a chance as any to close the gap.­­

Scoop previews Round Nine

Since 2018 Head-to-Head: Bacchus Marsh 2 - Sebastopol 2

The Cobras (sitting 6^th, played 7 won 4 lost 3)will have to do it without captain Jake Owen and his wedding guests, virtually handing the travelling 'Burras (sitting 4^th, played 7 won 4 lost 3)the favourites tag despite their unbeaten record at home this year.

While the visitors are likely to miss Michael Powell and Luke Kiel (hamstrings), they've got the perfect opportunity to take full advantage of a Cobras forward line missing 58% of its 2021 goal power - namely Owen and Aaron Willetts. They have combined for 39 of the club's 67 goals this season.

When you consider Sebastopol rank #3 for avg. points scored per game at 84, versus the Marsh #8 with a 68-point average, it's not rocket science to assume this game, given the absentees, will be an uphill battle for the Cobras. Jake's brother, and a new edition in 2021 for the Cobras, 195cm Jaidyn would have assumed the #1 forward role, but wedding party duties will see him miss as well.

Just how will the Cobras contain the 'Burras offensive weapons to returns less than their own is the challenge. Nevertheless, it's an opportunity for someone at Cobra land to take this opportunity in what would be a memorable victory. Furthermore, the Cobras boast a reputable league ranking of #3 in defence, conceding just 65 points on average per game. Similar returns are a must in this one to consolidate their position in the Top Six come 5 pm. 

Since 2018 Head-to-Head: Redan 2 - Sunbury 1

Can Sunbury (sitting 8^th, played 7 won 3 lost 4)defy a 0-7 run for BFNL teams off the bye against a Redanoutfit (sitting 7^th, played 7 won 3 lost 4)aiming to stay in touch of the Top Six?

It won't be easy. You can add the highway trip into the degree of difficulty, but Travis Hodgson's Lions should hold no fears, having made a successful visit to Sebastopol just a fortnight ago.

Hodgson will be aware of the numbers against, I assure you, whether the players know (or even care) is another thing. Numbers provide some truth but aren't everything. Nonetheless, while Sunbury did salute as underdogs against the 'Burra, they'll be that again.

The Redan Lions, as I've said before, are enigmatic by definition. The gap between their best and worst remains an ongoing battle for Giampaolo and his men. It's hard to believe that only Darley has won fewer quarters than Redan (11out of 28 at 39%) in 2021 - that is a concern.

Sure, Redan's winning chances again rely significantly on the output of key-mid Lachie George, but it looks like more help has arrived. The form of Daniel Bond, Keenan Waterbury and Cooper Craig-Peters in recent weeks has been encouraging, while opportunistic forward Isaac Grant is back hitting the scoreboard.

Sunbury's top-end is dangerous and never far from taking the game away against any opposition. However, just their impact alone, not to mention their availability, will tell its own win/loss story in the aftermath.

Since 2018 Head-to-Head: Melton 2 - Ballarat 1

For all of Melton's (sitting 2^nd, played 7 won 5 lost 2)half-season good work, the reality is they're just one game ahead of four teams on 16 points, and Saturday's challenger on the road happens to be one of them - Ballarat (sitting 5^th, played 8 won 4 lost 4).

The Bloods have been impressive, don't get me wrong, particularly with their ability to get results despite a tough run with injury to key players. However, how they bounce back second-up off a 35-day break and energy-sapping loss to North Ballarat City remains to be seen. While the Bloods hit the front momentarily in their 20-point loss last week, they did lose three quarters where they could manage just 2.8 in total.

Hitting the scoreboard for the Bloods on a welcomed return to MacPherson Park will be high on the agenda, and boy, they have the cattle to do so.

Braedan Kight (16 goals), Liam Carter (15) and Ryan Carter (14) make up three of the league's top seven scorers. That's not including an inaccurate Kevin Klix (10 in 5 games & sitting 17^th on the goal kicking ladder) with 20-odd behinds to his name.

Bloods coach Aaron Tymms will be hopeful that Swans defender Josh Gibson (hamstring, precautionary) is rested and league improver Bailey Van de Heuvel is required at Footscray VFL. The two have already played a part in the Swans revival in 2021.

Andrew Hooper looks the apparent danger forward to lead the upset campaign for the Swans on the back of seven goals last week. Who knows, maybe a second threat has already emerged in key target Jake Dunne.  

Since 2018 Head-to-Head: Lakers 0 - Darley 3

While a game and percentage are all that separates third from tenth, this game for Lake Wendouree (sitting 9^th, played 7 won 3 lost 4)against Darley (sitting 11th played 7 won 0 lost 7)at C.E Brown Reserve could easily be a mini final for them.

There are eight teams (outside of North Ballarat City and Melton) vying for the remaining four spots. Do the math - eight doesn't go into four.

The Lakers in ninth place is not necessarily a true reflection of where they're at, given they rank #4 in the competition for quarters won. Lachlan Pfeiffer (knee) and Mitch Phillips (hamstring) will miss for the Lakers. Still, they will welcome back preferred ruckman Callum Harte after youngster Kye Edwards had the unenviable task last week of tackling former Henderson Medallist, Cobra's Daniel Burton.

The road for Darley in 2021 has been a long one, and this weekend's second of three consecutive highway trips to Ballarat doesn't make it any easier. On a positive note for the Devils, they did welcome back former BFNL captain Shane Page last week, who was named best in the heavy loss to East Point.

Lakers fans should remember the Page name, given his clutch mark and match-winning goal late to steal the points last time the two sides met at C.E Brown Reserve.

It's essentially another throw at the stumps for Darley, eager to post their first 'W' of the season. Surely the Lakers won't cough this one up; otherwise, they can wave goodbye to finals this far out. 

Since 2018 Head-to-Head: Melton South 2 – North Ballarat 2

Strangely, Melton South's (sitting 10^th, played 7 won 3 lost 4)record against North Ballarat City (sitting 1^st, played 8 won 7 lost 1)is their best against any side dating back to 2018. Yes, the Panthers have won their last two at home against this year's ladder leaders, and I'm sure there's a few in City's line-up that played a part.

Melton South have shown in 2021 that they're a different proposition at home with wins over Bacchus Marsh and Sunbury and falling agonisingly shy of Redan by in Round Two. What the Panthers do have is the BFNL's leading goalkicker and former Port Melbourne star Dylan Conway, who has kicked 35% of their total goals.

What is more encouraging for the home team is their efficiency on goal ranking #1 in the comp. They'll need Conway more than ever and to have their accurate kicking boots on again if they're to trouble City, who have this match to get through before their well-deserved bye set down for Round 10.

City's only hiccup in the season so far came against the Lakers in Round Three (loss by 7 points), but new coach Brendan McCartney is adamant they're far from the finished product, more a work in progress. That assessment alone sounds ominous for the broader competition.

How Pritchard's Panthers contain City's multiple avenues to goal will be his greatest challenge. McCartney told 'The Presser' last Wednesday night he leads a very unselfish group who don't care who kicks the goals. The buy-in at City is palpable. For the Panthers, getting beaten today isn't the be-all and end-all; they'll be assessed on effort, which will legitimise a response from last week's disappointing 75-point loss to Ballarat.  

The difficulty associated with highway travel was put to the test in a gruelling Round Nine BFNL fixture that saw just one team successful (out of five) on the road. The 'coming off the bye' curse claimed another victim too on the weekend, stretching the season’s winless run for teams to eight.

Scoop brings you the Round Nine rundown

Ladder leaders North Ballarat City (20.12-132)will finally put their feet up this weekend following an 81-point demolition job on Melton South (7.9-51).

Since their only loss in Round Three to the Lakers, City has won six straight, averaging over 100-points per game while conceding a miserly 55-points per game in the process at 184%. Their impressive run into the bye included wins over the league’s current second, third, fourth and fifth-placed teams. It's fair to say the competition is officially on notice.

Melton South had their moments testing City, trailing by just eight points at the main break but were left lamenting some golden opportunities. That was all that was needed to kick City into gear after half-time with a match-winning seven-goal blitz in 11-minutes to rattle the home side, who were without irreplaceable players Bradley Olsson and Shaun Wyatt.

City booted 15 goals to three after half-time to best tell the story on the scoreboard. While the Panthers did welcome Port Melbourne affiliates Anthony Anastasio (Panthers best on ground) and Isaac Conway into the line-up for their first games with the club this year, the City assignment proved all too much to conquer. McCartney's men, minus Josh Chatfield (kidney) with a potentially season-ending injury, had 11 goalkickers in an ominous display.

Sources out of Saturday's game suggest the Panthers are too Dylan Conway focused and need a greater spread of contributors hitting the scoreboard. The BFNL's leading goalkicker more often has two defenders to beat week in, week out, given his exceptional talents.

City's Harry Loader, Riley Polkinghorne and Callum McCullum were named best for the winners.

Bacchus Marsh (8.7-55)won the battle of attrition against Sebastopol (7.7-49)to move to third on the BFNL table after a six-point win at Maddingley Park.

Try these absentees for the Cobras, no Jake Owen, Jayden Owen, Aaron Willets, Harry King, Alex Porter, Kane Dickson and Kane White, and for the 'Burras, no Tony Lockyer, Luke Kiel, James Richards, Michael Powell, Chase Dummett, Jai Harvey, Jack Bambury and Jack McNabb.

Full credit to the Cobras, they were without 70 per cent of their goal scorers and were able to get the job done against flag fancies Sebastopol. While it's difficult to pass judgement on sides seven or eight shy of their best on paper, the flag dream for the 'Burra suffered a hit on the weekend, more so than the Marsh.

The test on the weekend was always going to be a grind, a battle of the Cobras 'inside' strength between the 'Burras spread on the 'outside'.

Sebastopol had the majority of the ball for the first quarter and a half, but thereafter Tom German's men tightened the screws and were able to get the game back into a preferred arm-wrestle of sorts.

'Burras ball magnet Lachlan Cassidy would have slept well Saturday night as the Cobras kept up their relentless pressure, denying him his usual passage out of stoppage with ferocious tackling.

Cobras Playing Coach German played his best game for the club, while three made their senior debuts. For the 'Burras, Ryan O'Keefe was 'Lockyer' like across half-back, terrific in just his second game this year. He can play.

Despite a comfortable 34-point win over bottom side Darley (6.5-41), Lake Wendouree (11.9-75)moved just one place up the BFNL ladder to eighth, merely percentage shy of fourth.

The Lakers led at every change to withstand the Devils that challenged to be within nine points at the main break. Three unanswered goals for the Lakers in the third term essentially put the game to bed in trying conditions on a typical Ballarat winters day.

In what Lakers coach Dale Power described as a 'hard watch' given the repeat stoppage nature of the game it wasn't until the winners were able to get some clear room out of the congestion that they were able to shake off the winless Devils who produced another three debutants on the weekend, taking their season tally of players used to a league-high, 42.

In typical Laker’s style, an even spread of contributors without any real standouts was able to get the job done largely on their own terms.

Defenders from both sides featured prominently in the best players, highlighting a difficult day for forwards. Just what influence Box Hill affiliated Lakers signing Fergus Greene could have had on that group remains unknown, given his excellent form in the VFL. Greene kicked six goals on the weekend in the VFL to become the Hawks leading goalkicker in 2021 with 25.

Second-placed Melton (7.9-51)held off an Andrew Hooper inspired Ballarat (6.8-44)to win by seven points in a low scoring affair at MacPherson Park.

Ten of the 13 goals in the game were kicked to the city end as both sides aimed to maximise their opportunity with the aid of a two to three-goal breeze.

It's rare at this level you see a game played essentially in one half of the ground. Those fans perched with what they thought to be a bird’s eye view of the game at the other end before the opening bounce had every reason to be felt hard done by given the weight of possession away from them.

Hooper's five-goal haul on a difficult day for forwards across the region almost stole it for the Swans, but the Bloods two-goal return in the last quarter against the pattern into the breeze proved the telling factor.

Bloods ruckman Ben Archard is warming into his delayed start to the season to be named the best for the winners, while youngster Bailey Mawson and Jordyn Cotter's contributions were significant.

The Swans on the other hand were minus Josh Gibson and inform big man Bailey Van de Heuvel but made a firm case to suggest their best is worthy of a prized finals berth in 2021. Mitch Martin, Daniel Kennedy and Nick Weightman were influential, while Luke Wynd finished on the right side of another daunting matchup. 

Redan (5.8-38)deservedly saluted against Sunbury (2.5-17)in an old-fashioned arm wrestle at City Oval. Kicking against what seemed a two-to-three goal breeze in the final term, the Redan Lions were able to deny Sunbury any momentum on the goal front, holding out the visitors for the opening 10-12 minutes before eventually breaking their spirits with three unanswered goals to stretch the lead to a game-high 21-points at the final siren.

Keenan Waterbury and Daniel Bond did the damage again for Redan, their bigger bodies were well suited to the wintery conditions while the work rate of Cooper Craig-Peters and his mounting disposal count is difficult to contain on any day.

There were just seven goals in entirety kicked for the game in a real battle of the defences. Sunbury's Tyson Lever was arguably best on ground in a losing side, while Luke Goater and running machine Daniel Toman provided plenty of drive into a forward line with questions marks remaining over its ability to kick a winning score. To clarify, only Alec Goodson (12) and midfielder Daniel Toman (six goals) have kicked more than four goals for the season.

For Redan, consolidation is a non-negotiable ahead of their Round 10 home meeting with Darley, a prized spot in the top six awaits them.

Season 2021 of the McDonald's Ballarat Football Netball League kicked off on the weekend, and Scoop takes us through the winners and losers from the Round 1 BFNL action.

A Brendan McCartney-led North Ballarat (13.15-93) defeated a Stephenson-less Redan (11.9.75) by 18 points to kickstart City’s 2021 season in winning style. But it wasn't without a scare late in the game, as Redan reeled in a 16-point half-time deficit to level the scores before City steadied the ship with three unanswered goals to secure a well-earned victory.

The most encouraging thing for both sides moving forward would be the impact of their younger players, suggesting growth and influence on games has arrived earlier than expected. Josh Chatfield was named best afield for the winners, while Harry Loader and Jamie Quick hit the scoreboard with three majors each. For Redan, despite the loss, the returns from their youth were similar, as Cooper Atchison and Cooper Craig-Peters (two goals) were named amongst the best, while newcomer Izaac Grant also finished with three goals.

Sebastopol (13.14-92) came from the clouds to beat reigning dual premiers East Point (11.8-74) by 18 points, ending a run of seven straight losses against the Kangas in the process. It wasn't the ideal start for 'Burras new coach Mick Searle, who was staring down the barrel at a season-opening loss after trailing by 29 points at half-time. But an 11 goal to four second half would see the 'Burras stun the mighty Kangas without stars Jacob Brown, Jake McQueen and Jordy Johnston. James Keeble (three goals) was named best afield, while Toby Thoolen replacement Jack Richards who was influential in his first game in the ruck. For East Point, new additions Harry (named best) and Jack Ganley look like they'll have a role to play in the three-peat mission, while usual suspects Matty Johnston and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus made sound returns.

Ballarat (9.12-66) has momentarily silenced the spruik on Bacchus Marsh (5.10-40) with a resounding 26-point win under the lights at Alfredton Oval. Swans marquee signing Josh Gibson (general soreness) was a notable absentee heading in after all the hype surrounding the former Hawthorn great’s return to football.

This didn't seem to affect a determined Swans outfit, who booted six goals to one to run out comfortable winners. It was as though one team was fresh and dangerous on the spread, while the other struggled in concrete boots. Swans coach Joe Carmody would be thrilled with his team's first-up win, naming Marcus Powling as Best on Ground, while hard nuts Lachie Dawson and captain Sam James were prolific at ground level. Ever-consistent Daniel Burton was named best for the Cobras. In some encouraging news for Bacchus Marsh, newcomers Ryan Bartlett and Jayden Owen showed enough to warrant the attention of any opposition side moving forward.

Sunbury (14.15-99) proved too good on the road for Darley (11.4.70) with a solid 29-point win under the new lights at the weekend. A monster crowd saw a tight tussle early with just one point separating the two teams at quarter-time before the Lions’ class came to the fore. Sunbury dominated Darley through the middle stages, booting 8.10 to 1.3 to lead by 50 at the final change. Lions new recruits Josh Guthrie, Daniel Toman and Tyson Lever had nearly 100 possessions between them and, with Mitch Conn and Dylan Featon never too far from the action, Sunbury truly dominated between the arcs to record an all-important away win. Darley's Mathew Brett was clearly best for the losing side. If not for the Werribee affiliate, the 29-point margin could easily have been more.

Melton (16.17.113) did what they had to do and put this cross-town stoush against Melton South (6.8-44) to bed by half-time before going on to win by 69 points. The Carter boys, Ryan (five goals) and Liam (three goals), booted eight between them to give the competition an early sighter as to how the Bloods forward line will look. Bloods newcomer Kevin Klix (three goals) was named amongst the best to put a smile on the face of a curious coaching group hoping to overcome the loss of Shaun Campbell and Connor Griffiths. While soundly beaten, the Panthers would be pleased with the form of new additions Bradley Olsson and Shaun Wyatt who worked tirelessly. Dylan Conway was the only multiple goal scorer for the Panthers, finishing with three. I wouldn't say it’s alarm bells just yet for Pritchard's Panthers - Melton just may be the real deal.

Things are flying at Redan, including a quite spectacular mullet, after a big win. A long-awaited debut was just the start of a huge match for the Swans. And North Ballarat's dominance was more than a flex moment, it was brutal. It is percentage only separating 3rd from 10th as senior footy returned to the McDonald's Ballarat FNL.

Scoop brings you the Round Seven Rundown.

Ballarat (9.16-70)have come from behind to beat reigning dual premiers East Point (9.11-65)in a thriller at Alfredton Oval on Saturday.

What a way to celebrate the long-awaited debut of marquee signing Josh Gibson (played half-back and 90 per cent game time) and the return of inspirational deep forward Andrew Hooper (1 goal).

Swans hype aside, if I'd said to you the Kangas would win 2.5 quarters, their line-up would boast 15 premiership players, plus notable newbies James Lukich, the Ganley brothers and Aaron Hayes, mounting a case for Ballarat would have been difficult. But just how fit the Kangas are at the top end is another question given their run with injury.

The Swans task was made even more difficult with the return of Kangas gun Jordy Johnston from Geelong VFL. Oh please, what a win Ballarat – it was just a shame a crowd of only a thousand could have been there to see it.

Improving Swans big man Bailey Van De Heuvel took a number of contested marks and booted three crucial goals in a low scoring win, while Daniel Kennedy, Nick Weightman and Luke Wynd's contributions were significant. Kangas’ Jake McQueen finished with two goals in his first game back from hand surgery, while the Johnston brothers did their usual thing, but on this occasion, it wasn't enough.

Good to see Gibson sneak into the best on debut - tipping he might get a game next week vs Melton South. Gibson to Conway? I'd like to see that!

Enigmatic Redan (13.11-89)gave frustrated home fans the response they needed, toppling Lake Wendouree (7.7-49)at City Oval on Saturday. Just what had been up with Redan’s disappointing losses in Rounds 5 and 6 was the million-dollar question given they're not shy on talent. The 28-day break has obviously served them well, unlike reliable 2021 starters Lake Wendouree, who couldn't get out of their own way early.

This game was over at quarter-time, with the Lions recording the best opening quarter of the round, posting 7.2-44 to just 3 behinds. Catch-up footy on a cold winter’s day in Ballarat is never easy, especially when you’re seven goals in arrears. Lions star mid Lachie George (4 goals) continues to deliver at home or away, while youngster Cooper Craig-Peters, who was named best afield, continues on his way to 100 senior games in record time.

Bigger bodied Lions Daniel Bond and Keenan Waterbury answered the challenge of Redan fans to get down to work and both featured prominently. What to say of the Lakers? Well, if it's any consolation, they did outscore Redan over the final three quarters, albeit by a solitary point. But the damage was done. Lakers Timothy Collins (2 goals), consistent type Brendan Helyar, and Joshua Bibby can hold their heads up after being named in the best players.

Sunbury (9.12-66)led at every change down the highway to beat the more fancied Sebastopol (8.9-57)at Marty Busch Reserve, spoiling the party for 'Burras fans who had not witnessed a senior game at home for 665 days (Rd18 on August 24, 2019). 

The Lions started well to lead by 18 points at the first change, which again confirms the importance of starting well in Ballarat’s winter. While the lead was reduced to just five points at the main break, Sunbury did win the second half as well to deservedly walk away with four highly sought-after Premiership points. Ruckman David Kovacevic was named best afield for the Lions, who recorded just their third win in Ballarat from their last ten trips.

With goals at a premium, full credit to Sunbury who were able to contain the league's #1 scoring team (before Rd7) to just 8 goals for the game. Sebastopol was forewarned of the impact running machine Daniel Toman could have heading in on last Wednesday night’s edition of 'The Presser' but it made little difference. Toman was terrific, as were youngsters Corey Mobilio and Riley Miller. Tyson Lever continued to influence with his timeless composure and distribution.

Melton South (13.12-90)won for the first time in ten years at Darley Park after downing the winless Devils (9.8-62)by 28 points.

Panthers spearhead Dylan Conway (9 goals 4 behinds) was the star of the show and marked almost everything that came his way. There was nothing stopping the former Port Melbourne forward after his remarkable five-goal opening term that helped set up a match-winning 29-point lead at the first change. Strangely, Panthers mid Shaun Wyatt (4 goals) was their only other player to register a major. Jake Thornton-Gielen and the Callus brothers' run and carry proved too much for a Darley outfit struggling for key personnel.

On the flipside, games into the Devils’ developing youth will see benefits further down the track. Devils forward Joel Cadman continues with his run of solid form, while the Inglis brothers showed no signs of giving up. Mitch Banner (3 goals) was the leading scorer for the Devils, taking his season tally to a club-high 9. But deserved honours to the Panthers, who rightfully belong among the log jam of eight teams sitting on three wins.

North Ballarat City (19.14-130)returned to the top of the table, dismantling Bacchus Marsh (8.11-59)at Mars Stadium on Sunday. City booted 13 goals to four in the second half to extend an 11-point advantage at the main break to 71-points at the games’ end.

Monster-sized City mid Jonathan O'Brien (2 goals) dominated for the most part and became more influential as the game went on. Furthermore, City had an 11-goal spread of goalkickers to make up for an inaccurate Sam Glover (2.5) and Josh Chatfield (1.4 from seven attempts). If they brought their goal-kicking boots the margin could easily have been more. For the Cobras, Tom German's four-quarter effort earned him best player honours for the losing side, while Jake Owen (3 goals) and Kane Dickson (3 goals) kept them in it up until half-time.

Thomas Hotchin and youngster James Quick led the scoring for the winners with three goals each.

That's a snap of Round Seven complete - how good is it to see footy back!