Round 12 Football Preview with Scoop

Fresh off the bye, our Senior Football teams have everything to play for as the races to finals action heats up.

he equation for Matty White’s Pride is simple - keep winning.

However, the former Richmond and Port Adelaide speedster would be well aware that scenario is easier said than done given Redan have beaten Melton and stretched the reigning premiers Darley over recent weeks.

Sunbury are always a tough assignment to overcome, at home especially, but Redan coach Marc Greig can take some positives knowing the hosts will be without reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan (arm) and VFL forward pair Jake Sutton and Daniel Johnston (unlikely) due to their recent form at the penultimate level.

Sure, Redan lose Cooper Craig-Peters back to Footscray VFL but that was always a given, based on his level of consistency at the higher level for some time now.

The hosts will be buoyed with the inclusion of Riley Miller while Ben Cameron and Dean Muir will be touch and go at the selection table.

Despite a number of outs for Sunbury pretty much since Round 2, the buy-in from the in experienced soldiers has been really encouraging amid the frustration.

Cody Bramble and Blake Walker look like they should never miss again at senior level unless injured, while the addition of Jordyn Gillard (Montmorency/Coburg VFL) has been a bonus following his six-goal performance in Round 11.

Redan’s three-win season suggests a successful road trip, to Sunbury in particular, will be a bridge too far but try telling that to an exuberant young group who hold no fear.

They too, have had their frustrations with injury and unavailability but are building on their competitiveness and compliance under Greig in his first year.

The capabilities of the visitors are untapped given their age profile but expect the likes of Rory Gunsser, Brodie Pope, Lachlan Bond, Harry Lawson and Ollie Pittard to challenge their more favoured opposition as they have done others over recent weeks.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Bloods would love a copy and paste version of their previous meet with the Lakers when the two sides go head-to-head at MacPherson Park.

Some 13 goalkickers did the damage for the Bloods in Round 2, arguably their best team performance offensively for the season.

But Troy Scoble’s ‘Bloodahood’ will have to get used to a period without Harry Hanley, who has been named the bests on nine of 11 occasions, and Max Scoble who have embarked on an overseas trip joining a handful of players from other clubs opting for some Northern hemisphere sun.

Great for the adventurers, untimely for clubs. Denver Grainger-Barass (North Ballarat), Lachlan Walker (Melton), Adam Azzopardi (Darley), Jarrod White (Darley) and Brock Landt (Sunbury) are five names off the top to head overseas in the current season.

Scoble will have to play the waiting game for another week with a host of soldiers not due for a return until the Sunbury game.

Footscray VFL listed talent Billy Crofts won’t play as he returns off the Doggies’ bye to the higher level. Only Jack Walker at this stage is in consideration for a return from injury.

For all the editorial and attention shared on the misfortunes of injury, the Lakers can’t take a trick.

Tom Zampatti, Jake Lohman, Bailey Ryan, Angus Gove, Will Fordham, Kaian Constable and Sam Haywood are all done for the season!

Harvey Hicks is still 2-3 weeks away while experienced pair Joel O’Connell and Timmy Collins are in serious doubt following their Round 11 clash with Sunbury.

It’s a horror show on the casualty front for Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown but they welcome back Paddy Corbett and Josh Canny after some time out with injury.

Given the two sides will have up to 20 players sidelined it is what is left that counts on game day and dictates the nature of the script in the aftermath.

Looking forward to the opening half in particular - Melton rank #1 and #3 for first and second quarters respectively while the Lakers four individual quarter wins this season have come in the opening half - split 2 and 2.

The Bloods will do enough to win comfortably, just how long it takes to shake the resistance of the Lakers led by Alfred Jarnestrom, Corey Rich and Lewis Antonac will be reflected on the scoreboard.

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Scoop's tip: Melton

The Roosters welcome back a host of key staples for their clash against the Cobras who arrive without top end, hamstrung pair Jake Owen and Wil Lalor.

Sam Glover, Jamie Quick, Declyn McGuigan, Isaac Carey and Harvey Lewis all return for Clint Proctor’s dash toward finals.

While a handful of Roosters remain sidelined, one cannot underestimate the relief for Proctor having negotiated the last month with as many as 10 soldiers out, yet still found a way to bank recent wins against Darley and Sebastopol - both at Mars Stadium.

These results alone spell danger for the Cobras who have lost four of their last five games by an average of 57 points.

Unfortunately, in the absence of Owen in particular, who has missed three and a half of those four games, forward presence and ultimately scoring (averaging 43.5 points over the sample size) has been a genuine struggle for the Cobras.

North Ballarat has made Mars Stadium a fortress in 2026 having won their last five on the trot by an average of 55 points.

If the Cobras, under Dennis Armfield, can find a way to be within six goals given fair weather, it would be a decent effort given only Ballarat in Round 1 have been able to salute at the testing venue.

Hard to beat the Roosters from here on, as the once missing troops begin to circle - launching a more than capable assault on a valued top three position at the business end.

Armfield can wish for compliance from his relatively inexperienced group, a quarter-by-quarter effort in isolation to minimise the clear and present dangers.

Five teams have already left Mars Stadium empty handed, upstaged simply by an underrated, honest Roosters outfit on the day.

Mini wins will give Armfield something to take away in the likely event of a fifth loss in six games.

This tough, uncompromising comp can produce an upset. However, like many sides at the moment, I’m not sure the Cobras are healthy enough to upstage the rise of the Roosters on their home deck.

Jack Parente (foot) and Sam Griffiths (suspended) will also miss the trip for the visitors.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Expect this top of the table clash to resemble a war of attrition as the Burra host the Swans fresh off the break.

A bare 3.1% is all that separates these two in-form sides after 11 games in one of the toughest, more even competitions entertained within the BFNL for some years.

‘Healthy list’ has been the buzz phrase this season as each team deals with their fragilities from week to week.

In fairness, and credit to them, both Sebastopol (2nd) and Ballarat (1st) have enjoyed the best runs of any rivals on the health front and it’s with much anticipation we get to witness that firsthand on Saturday.

The Burra faithful will arrive in their droves and in full voice, playing their role as the unofficial 23rd man, urging their boys over the line with an opportunity to reclaim top spot on the ladder.

While the hosts will have to do it without their fearless leader and coach Tony Lockyer, there is some good news with the potential returns of Bailey Medwell, Lachie Cassidy and Gedd Hommelhoff.

The Swans are seemingly bulletproof at the moment. While I’m sure they’ve had their moments throughout the season on the injury front, their depth stocks are filling the void.

Unfortunately for Swans’ coach Ash Baker, progressive young defender Sam Batistella is unavailable but Bailey Fraser looks set for a timely return.

Wyatt Squires (foot) and Rhys Perry (ankle) will spend another week on the sidelines, given every chance to fully recover ahead of an exciting finals tilt for the bevy.

The availability of VFL pair Tristan Maple (Footscray) and Thomas Simpson (Werribee) will attract fair degrees of interest given their form at club level. Maple is flying having been named in the best on all five Ballarat appearances this season while Simpson has impressed landing the in the best on four of six occasions.

Speculation aside, there’s enough talent in the ‘certainties’ to play to validate a match up for the ages.

The Swans have as many as five former AFL players and two listed VFL talents while the Burra have a host of ex VFL talent and a trio of additions from highly respected GFL club St Joeys.

All have made their mark at some stage during the season, while there has been defining progress out of both camps with their organic growth.

A word on the scoring front, while Ballarat rank #1 for third and fourth quarters , they rank 8th for first quarters with only Redan and the Lakers below them.

The Burra must start well and get the nervous beginners in the Swans on the back foot early and capitalise on any ‘home ground’ momentum.

Oh, and one more, not so little thing for the Burra to sort out - Biggie!

Tough ask.

Settling on a winner here is essentially a throw at the stumps.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

Darley’s own dual Henderson Medallist and inspirational leader Brett Bewley will miss Saturday’s all-important run-home clash with East Point following news of a broken leg sustained before the bye.

The injury occurred during the second quarter of Darley’s Round 11 clash with Redan on June 27.

The dual Premiership captain played through the pain and discomfort to finish with 37 disposals and a crucial hand in the match winning goal.

His return is speculative at this time but the powers that be are eyeing the prospect of finals as ‘hopeful’.

The Devils’ skipper joins in form midfielder Joel Cadman (hamstring) and Billy Myers (finger) on the sidelines.

As a result, the equation ahead for the Devils (3rd) against the eighth placed Kangas just rose into the danger game status if it wasn’t already.

Two glaring stats in favour of Dan Jordan’s backs-to-the-wall army is they’re on a 16-0 winning run at home dating back to the final’s series of 2024 and, East Point have not won at Darley Park since 2014.

This match, despite their separation on the ladder is a flip of the coin encounter given the Kangas only outs are Jesse Cairns (hamstring) and Sam Cue (leg) also noting Jackson Merrett’s departure from the club earlier this season.

Jordan will have been the first to process and plan for a match without Bewley, Myers and Joel Cadman despite the unfortunate rareness of the occasion.

The two-time premiership coach is not one to look in the rear vision mirror to contemplate what lays ahead, rather channel his energies into the ‘what haves’ as the Devils hope for some respite in the form of potential returns via Will Johnson, Jayven Tanner and Harley Inglis.

On the flipside outgoing Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody will arrive full of confidence despite just one win at the venue as a player and coach over his long journey in the BFNL.

The Kangas have lost their last three games but were within touch of all Sunbury, Sebastopol and Melton.

The momentum of the Kangas’ rebuild, while not evident in the win/loss column, and the knowledge of being in their last meet against the Devils up until time on in the last quarter should hold them in good stead.

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Liam Canny, Jacob Brown and Joe Dodd have maintained their form and will ask questions of their opposing leader equivalents Luther Baker, Nick Hind, Matthew Brett, Lachie George and Zane Le Huray to stand up.

The wounded Devils have been brave over the last month (3-0), but what say of them now given the current landscape without Brett Bewley, Billy Myers and Joel Cadman?

What was once a mandatory Darley selection has been reduced merely to a postcode decision.

Scoop’s tip: Darley 

Round 12 Football Preview with Scoop

There will be plenty of intrigue for an upset when it comes to the Back in Play Wellness Round this weekend, with the top half of the BFNL Senior Football ladder facing off against the bottom half.

The Devils will look to consolidate their top three credentials when they head across town to meet the Cobras at Maddingley Park.

Dan Jordan’s army have had the wood over their local rivals having won the last eight meetings and 43 of the 58 encounters head-to-head since Darley entered the BFNL in 1997.

Saturday’s local derby will look a shade different on recent meets given the absence of (in particular) Cobra big guns Jake Owen (hamstring) and Wil Lalor (hamstring)and Devils star duo Brett Bewley (leg) and Billy Myers (thumb).

Given the current landscape, the assignment for Dennis Armfield’s quiver looks another tough one to say the least given the Cobras have lost five of their last six games by an average of 59.4 points.

Some consideration for the Cobras it must be said given their tough draw with games against Ballarat (twice), Sebastopol, Melton and North Ballarat.

The task of posting a big enough score in isolation looms the Cobras’ greatest challenge having averaged just 43 points per game in the five losses.

Cobras’ big man Luke Goetz will start a warm favourite in the ruck to provide his ground level midfielders in Tyson Shea and Jamie Fulton first use but denying a match hardened, highly rated ground ball rotation led by Devils’ trio Nick Hind, Lachie George and Luther Baker will ensure the clearance battle is well earned.

The Cobras will welcome the return of up to five players for the hit out, names including Josh Huxtable (Williamstown VFL), James McDaid (Western Jets), Sam Griffiths (suspension), Jack Parente (foot) and Angus Morgan (quad).

Those ins and the much-publicised absence of Bewley and Myers provides a timely confidence boost for a group currently reeling in seventh place after spending a majority of the early season entrenched inside the top six.

The Cobras at their best would challenge the Devils who are not shy on a collective of young stocks either.

When depth is exposed, inconsistency more often follows.

Can the Cobras get under the skin of the Devils and hit the scoreboard early? It will require a buy-in capable of covering the ground, winning their own ball and executing inside 50.

On the flipside the Devils will look to start well, embedding the Cobras’ vulnerabilities over the last six weeks.

A solid start from the visitors could open this game up early given the Cobras rank ninth (3-9) for second quarters with only the Lakers in their tracks.

When we look at the two teams side-by-side, it’s the Devils who hold the class edge to suggest they can overwhelm a young Cobras combination still trying to find their feet at the level.

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Scoop’s tip: Darley

The Bloods (5th) will start warm favourites against the Lions (6th) at MacPherson Park despite just one game and percentage separating the two sides on the BFNL ladder.

Troy Scoble’s group are chasing a third win at home in as many weeks, looking to widen the gap on Sunbury who have struggled to reach the heights of last season despite a standout win over Sebastopol on May 9th (Round 5).

Unfortunately for Matty White’s Pride their five-win season to date has been below par with as many as 42 players having don the jumper over a frustrating 2026.

The reality of the win/loss front tells us Sunbury have beaten only one team above them (Sebastopol) all year and have yet to string together back-to-back wins.

While the Bloods are in a similar boat with just one win over teams above them (Darley), it’s worth noting Scoble’s group has won seven of their last 10 meetings with the Lions including an 83-point demolition job at Clarke Oval 12 weeks ago on Anzac Day.

The fact that Sunbury has not won at MacPherson Park since 2017 confirms the balance of favour with the hosts.

There’s been much speculation and interest around the ‘mid table’ seasons of these two sides as both coaches (like most in the BFNL this year) deal with the fragilities and demands of todays footy.

Injury, work, travel, VFL, weddings, concussion and relocation have all had a say in the weekly shenanigans at both clubs as they strive to recapture the consistency of previous campaigns.

For what it’s worth, the Bloods have proven gettable at home (3-3) and will look vulnerable in areas again on Saturday but I’m not sure Sunbury’s visiting party will pack enough punch to deny Scoble’s ‘Bloodahood’ an all-important seventh win of the season with tough assignments against Ballarat, North Ballarat and Darley to follow.

While Scoble would be the first to concede his boys won’t start favourites in any of those three games moving forward, he will be conscious of the clear and present dangers of the Lions who are likely (again) to be without key trio Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL), Daniel Johnston (Coburg VFL) and Jake Egan (arm) for another week.

There is some positive news on the selection front however with the likely recall of Lions ruckman Joel Muir to senior level and the much-anticipated return of Brock Landt (overseas) and Zach Stevens (arm) via the reserves.

The Bloods welcome back Ryan Carter (work) and Brodie Sullivan (wing).

Scoop’s tip: Melton

The Kangas will need little motivation getting up for this clash when they host the Roosters at Eastern Oval.

Outgoing coach Joe Carmody was the first to concede his young group were “embarrassed” with their Round 3 showing at Mars Stadium despite the infancy into a rebuild.

Kangas’ swingman Jacob Brown missed the 98-point drubbing with a hamstring strain and could do little but watch on from the sidelines, craving for an opportunity to restore the faith.

Brown gets his chance on Saturday but the prospects of turning the tables remain slim.

X-factor Kangas’ forward Jarrod Joyce was injured early in the game and he too will embrace the challenge for atonement.

The Roosters are on the rise and are expected to feature prominently at the business end as coach Clint Proctor continues to build on his ideal of their best 22.

That task alone is not as easy as first thought given the organic growth at the Roosters in the absence of more familiar names with proven talent.

Jamie Quick and Elliott Lamb will return while veteran Simon McCartin is set miss with a quad complaint.

Unfortunately, the Kangas lose Tom Brown (hand) and Alex Molan (hamstring tightness) but welcome back underrated midfielder Jesse Cairns (hamstring).

Expect the Roosters to be challenged early, getting the game on their own terms given the Kangas proud combination at the source.

However, if the Kangas midfield are off their tucker in any way, the Roosters will pounce and cause havoc on the spread with their trademark compliance and work rate.

Naming just some of the Roosters’ firepower would be an injustice to the rest given the load has been relatively shared over their nine-win season.

North Ballarat should win this game and win well, staking their claim as a top three candidate.

The Kangas rank no higher than eighth for win/loss in any quarter and could be found wanting late if the Roosters can get their running game going.

It’s been a challenging period for the competitive Kangas over recent weeks having lost their last three games and Saturday’s task while at home doesn’t look any easier.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Expect Redan to provide enough resistance to elevate this meeting into an old school ‘danger game’ for ladder leaders Sebastopol.

The cliche will come as no surprise to the Burra hierarchy given the evidence on display from the Lions over recent weeks that has included wins over Melton, Sunbury and within a goal of reigning premiers Darley.

Sure, the Lions were smashed off the park back in Round 3 but they were missing some handy stock.

Lachlan Bond, Brodie Pope, Zac Mortlock, Jake Connolly, Will Madden and Jacob Werts are just some of the names to miss - all have featured prominently in the recent rise of Redan.

Key tall Taj Bond is also expected to make his belated return since he sustained a broken foot in the Interleague game against the Hampden League.

I’m not suggesting Redan will win this game by any stretch, just reiterating their more fancied rivals will be made to work harder for it while their leader Tony Lockyer for one, is sidelined for another week.

Jeff Buckley and Gedd Hommelhoff will face fitness tests to earn the green light.

There’s plenty to like about what’s going on at the Burra.

Just the ways they have managed to finish off games in a flurry has been impressive.

In fact, Sebastopol rank #1 not only on the BFNL table but also for last quarters in isolation (W10 L2).

Memo for Redan coach Marc Greig who has a W2 L10 record for last quarters - beware the Burra blitz!

Sebastopol are flying and have played the least number of players (33) of any club this season, which is a testament to their health, preparation and token ounce of luck.

Team balance is an enviable force at the Burra with seemingly the right mix of talls, smalls, bigger bodies, experience, youth and talent to beat any side on their day.

While it comes as no surprise I’m leaning firmly with the Burra camp involving anything around a tip, but you can take it to the bank rival clubs will be hoping Redan can find a way causing one of the upsets of the season.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Lakers play host to Ballarat under newly appointed interim coach Jake Lohmann.

The former Werribee VFL listed talent and Lakers junior would take the 19 shots on goal they had at their first meet in a heartbeat but given the exponential growth of the Swans, a repeat scenario appears unlikely.

Ash Baker’s bevy are rebounding off a 31-point loss to Sebastopol and will look to work on a few things reserved for the inner sanctum.

Unfortunately for Lohmann, his debut at the helm is leaning every bit toward a baptism of fire over a celebration in song despite little or no expectations.

Mini wins will be the order of the day for Lohmann, a fresh voice to varying degrees on a group that’s been bereft of any continuity having as many as 43 players used in the first 12 rounds.

Expect the Swans to bounce, the tall timber, especially on a predicted fine day, that should play into their hands as the hosts struggle for any bona fide (aerial) match ups.

With fine weather predicted I fear for the Lakers inabilities to trouble the Swans who boast an ominous spread, as good as any in the competition.

Of those mini wins suggested for Lohmann, keeping the Swans Biggie Nyuon under eight goals would just about warrant a tick given the Lakers have lost their last 30 games on the trot.

For the record, Biggie is Europe bound in the coming days for a whirlwind holiday that will see the current Tony Lockett Medal leader miss up to three matches in the run home to finals.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

Round 14 Football Preview with Scoop

Seasons may well be defined when our senior football teams run out on Saturday for the Round 14 action with vital ladder positions on offer.

The Cobras will sweat on the availability of four crucial players if there to be a chance toppling a revived Sunbury at Clarke Oval on Saturday.

Captain Jack Parente (foot) is a 50/50 chance while Josh Huxtable, Zach Dalli and James McDaid await VFL and Coates League call ups.

Sunbury are in a similar boat with the potential inclusion of VFL talent Harry Minton-Connell back from a hamstring strain and the highly anticipated return of cornerstone mid Jake Egan (arm).

Despite the likely boost for the hosts, forward VFL listed pair Jake Sutton and Daniel Johnston will be unavailable. However, Joel Muir and Nathan Wood look set for a return from muscle soreness after missing the Lions’ nine-point win over Melton last week.

There’s plenty at stake in the BFNL’s Match of the Round in the ‘East’ given the sixth placed Lions sit just one game and 14% ahead of the Cobras in seventh.

When you compare the run home of the two sides a lot will be riding on Saturday’s result.

There’s no let up for Matty White’s Pride with Bacchus Marsh (H), Sebastopol (A), North Ballarat (H), East Point (A) and Ballarat (H) to negotiate before any theorising of the ‘f’ word.

White would love a two game and percentage buffer over the Cobras given their run home looks considerably easier on paper with meetings against Sunbury (A), Redan (A), East Point (H), Sebastopol (H) and Lake Wendouree (A).

Let’s not discount Melton either and their vulnerabilities in fifth, level on six wins with Sunbury. The undermanned Bloods won’t be taking anything for granted either with the toughest run home of any with Ballarat (A), North Ballarat (H), Darley (A), Redan (H) and Sebastopol (A) still to come.

Sunbury will be hard to beat at Clarke Oval as per the norm but the Cobras, despite the absence of Jake Owen and Wil Lalor (season), should be strengthened on the back of a tough six week period that has included match ups against the current top five teams in the BFNL.

Dennis Armfield’s quiver should hold no fears for the Lions given the success at their last meet that included the likes of Sutton, Egan and Johnston.

And strangely, I think the bigger ground at Clarke Oval will suit the Cobras’ game style better than Maddingley Park.

The Cobras should thrive in the wide-open spaces at Sunbury with enough leg speed on the outside to match the Lions run and carry between the arcs.

The obvious concern for the Cobras is their connection forward, and finding their way around inform intercept defender Tyson Lever.

A defensive, forward match up to minimise the rebound of the Lions’ captain would not be the dumbest idea for the Armfield camp to consider given their vulnerabilities without Owen and mounting evidence of wasted entries and opportunities over recent weeks.

We will know a lot more about these two sides come 5pm Saturday and what it means to be in the mix for a finals berth.

Let’s hope the match is not decided on (missing) personnel alone and both clubs get their way at selection.

Weighing up a tip at the time of preview, there were too many unknown variables at the Cobras to be opting against the Lions at home.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Swans (2nd - 10-3) enter the home straight towards finals one game shy of ladder leaders Sebastopol when they host Melton (5th - 6-7) at Alfredton Oval.

Despite a flawless run for Ash Baker’s bevy (8-0) against teams outside the top four, Melton have proven more than capable on their day.

In fact, the 2024 premiers under Troy Scoble will welcome the absence of Biggie Nyuon (overseas), Luke Dunstan (hamstring), Andrew Hooper (calf), Lewis Rinaldi (general soreness), Tristan Maple (Footscray VFL) and Thomas Simpson (Werribee VFL - rested despite having the bye). Meanwhile, Riley Constable, Wyatt Squires and Rhys Perry are on track for a return over the coming weeks.

Fortunately for the Swans sake at least they’re blessed with enviable depth that will see the return of Alex Keath, Bailey Fraser, Sam Batistella, Tyson Richard and Tom Mooney to fill the void.

Given the notable outs at the Swans, you would think the pendulum would swing some degrees towards the Bloods camp, but they can’t take a trick themselves.

Core premiership names Harry Handley, Adrian Monitto, Ryan Carter, Jordy Kight, Max Scoble, Oscar Greenshields, Billy Crofts (Footscray VFL) are all sidelined, while Lachie Watkins is done for the year, reducing the likelihood of success on the road this week to very slim.

Highway trips on the whole haven’t been kind to the Bloods’ campaign in 2026 with losses to North Ballarat, Redan and East Point with just the one success in the ‘west’ (Lake Wendouree) to speak of in the Bloods four visits to date.

A couple of positives Scoble can take into Saturday is knowing the Swans have named arguably their most depleted line up of the season and the fact the Bloods are the number one ranked team in the competition for first quarters (9-3-1) and may surprise the Swans (7-6) who remain a work in progress in the starting space, ranked fifth.

Don’t get too excited Bloods fans, thereafter, is when the bevy really hit their straps, ranked second for second (Melton #3) and fourth quarters (Melton #5) and lead the competition (10-3) on percentage in the third (Melton #6).

Count on a genuine challenge from the Bloods in the opening half before the Swans (weather permitting) get their chance to exploit on the outside - it’s what they do so well compliant to their trusted system under Ash Baker.

Sure, there’s no Biggie among a host of the missing bevy, but their depth and team ethos alone, suggests the collective will pick up the slack, enough to record an all-important 11th win of the season.

Ballarat’s home record is compelling with five wins from six games by an average winning margin of 49 points.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The Roosters look to extend their winning run at home to six when they host the improving Lions at Mars Stadium.

Coach Clint Proctor would be extremely proud of where his Roosters are at (4th - 10-3) having endured a difficult run on the injury and availability front.

Wins over Darley and Sebastopol with their backs to the wall have been season defining, keeping the door ajar for an all-important top three finish.

The Roosters’ run home is challenging with three trips to the ‘East’ despite only one meeting with top four opposition (Darley).

Redan (H), Melton (A), Sunbury (A), Lake Wendouree (H), Darley (A) is a solid build to finals for Proctor’s progressive group.

The former Box Hill mentor in his second year at the helm will welcome a rare, quiet night at the selection table this week with Rebels talent Michael Hughes (rested) the only likely change.

Oliver Potter is one player knocking on the door as a potential replacement with his recent bout of form.

Redan lose experienced pair Jordy Grant (broken leg) and Nic Barker (leg) for the clash just as the Lions were beginning to resemble the best version of their 22 under Marc Greig.

It’s not easy to put a finger on where Redan are at given their four-win season and encouraging recent efforts to be within a goal of Darley and eight points of Sebastopol.

They’re either one or two A-graders shy or another 12 months of development away taking the next step. To be safe, I’ll lean to a combination of the two.

Expect the Lions to be competitive again, that’s what they do, but doing enough to close out a game against top four opposition remains their greatest challenge.

The dangerous thing about the Roosters, home record aside, is they can play below their best and still find a way to win.

I guess that’s what the really good sides can do.

Redan could be missing up to five players from last week’s loss to Sebastopol come the start of play will be hopeful the Roosters are ‘off their tucker’.

Unfortunately for Greigy’s Pride, the Roosters form suggests that will be unlikely with five wins from their last six games and last five at Mars Stadium dating back to their season opener against Ballarat.

For the record Redan’s run home reads North Ballarat (A), Bacchus Matsh (H), Ballarat (A), Melton (A), East Point (H).

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Ladder leaders Sebastopol will start warm favourites to end Darley’s unbeaten run of 17 wins at home dating back to the 2024 semi finals.

A healthier list for starters is one major factor and the Burra’s superior 5-1 record against top five opposition (Darley 1-3) is another, to swing the weight of expectation in favour of the visitors.

Experienced leader Tony Lockyer returns for the Burra, while leading forward Joel Edwards (managed), in-form veteran Luke Kiel (managed), Jack Buckley (managed) and key defender Luke Phillips will miss.

Unfortunately, the Devils remain ‘grounded’ in the absence of Brett Bewley, Billy Myers, Joel Cadman, Adam Azzopardi and four-time premiership small forward Harley Inglis.

Try telling that to Devil’s coach Dan Jordan! The two-time premiership mentor will have wasted little or no time validating any external noise, rather hatching a plan with his ‘what haves’ to win surely his most satisfying of the season so far.

While the result is not the be all and all for the Devils, any thoughts of a top spot finish, in the event of loss, will be written off.

Given the four game and percentage advantage over Melton (fifth), the top four, which is as good as locked in, are jostling for an all-important top three finish.

Sebastopol, Ballarat and North Ballarat have already played each other twice adding pressure on the Devils to maintain their recent winning form with arguably the toughest run home - Sebastopol (H), Lake Wendouree (A), Melton (H), Ballarat (A) and North Ballarat (H)

Expect the old cliche, “one week at a time” to be rolled out for the conclusion of the home and away season by all teams as they fight to achieve their own goals.

Burra’s coach Tony Lockyer will be chomping at the bit ahead of Saturday and not taking anything for granted.

The x-factor utility has openly been on the record recognising the dangers of the Devils and will have done his due diligence ahead of one of the toughest trips on the BFNL calendar.

Devils’ stand-in captain Luther Baker, Nick Hind, Will Johnson, Matty Brett and Lachie George will lead the charge for home fans ensuring Lockyer’s 11-2 record is challenged, setting the scene for a potential upset.

However, I expect the weight of experience and proven depth at the Burra to be enough on this occasion to worry an undermanned version of the Devils out of it in a tight one.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Lakers timing to catch East Point on the hop couldn’t be worse given the midweek departure of Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody (personal reasons).

Expect the troop to deliver their former mentor a win worthy of elevation into the ‘comfortable’ basket in front of home fans at Eastern Oval.

As recent as last week we witnessed first-hand what impact the exit of a popular figure, namely Rohan Brown (Lakers) can have on a group.

Interim coach Jake Lohmann took over the reins from Brown, extracting as much character and effort he could muster against flag contenders Ballarat and held their own with dignity despite a 31st consecutive loss.

Guarantee in the Kangas case this week, led by a loyal band of assistant coaches for the interim, the playing group’s intent, effort and want to exceed internal KPIs will see a spike, validated by the numbers in the aftermath.

Kangas’ leaders Liam Canny, Jacob Brown, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Joe Dodd will ensure the slack is taken up and embraced by the next gen talent who have progressed under the tutelage of Carmody.

Jack Jeffrey, Liam Howard, Joe Fraser and Jessie Cairns have also stood the task at the Kangas, through the highs of recent finals series to the realities of a three win rebuild.

While the Kangas were always heavily favoured to end their five-game run of outs on Saturday, look for a four-quarter buy-in against a vulnerable Lakers outfit second up off an emotional investment of their own.

Should be an entertaining clash despite the forecast of a typical Winter’s day in Ballarat.

If difficult conditions happen to play a role minimising any predicted separation on the scoreboard, it will account for very little when you hear the jubilant Kangas celebrate in song.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Round 15 Football Preview with Scoop

The 2026 home & away season enters its final month with the next four weeks set to determine the fate of our clubs and their premiership hopes.

East Point will embrace a ‘throw at the stumps’ chance upstaging warm favourites Ballarat in Jacob Brown’s 100th game at Eastern Oval.

The second placed Swans will (again) be without a host of frontline stars (up to nine) but should prove the testing material on depth alone.

The inclusion of Kangas’ mid Joe Dodd will only complement Brown’s milestone occasion asking questions of Ash Baker’s bevy to maintain the rage that has led them to an impressive 11-3 record over the home and away season.

The Swans will be forced to play the waiting game on the availability of VFL listed pair Tristan Maple (Footscray) and Thomas Simpson (Werribee) despite a host of remaining outs, none more so than leading goalkicker Biggie Nyoun (overseas).

The imposing reality of this game leans heavily in the Swans’ favour who lead the competition for second, third and fourth quarters.

An even start with a top three position to play for is the only motivation Baker’s bevy needs to move forward, with an eye toward greater things.

The Swans ceiling is yet to be realised but beware the milestone game of club favourite JB in front of home fans.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

While the Bloods hold the box seat for a top six finish, they will sweat on the medical clearance of two premiership players Adrian Monitto and Jordy Kight when they host North Ballarat in the BFNL’s Match of the Round in the ‘east’.

Unfortunately, Ryan Carter (soreness) and Oscar Greenshields (season) will miss.

Troy Scoble’s 2024 premiers have, like many, struggled for any desired continuity to stake a legitimate claim for a top three spot despite what the numbers suggest.

The Bloods rank one for first quarters, and no worse than fifth for the remaining three suggesting their best is good enough to match it with third placed North Ballarat at MacPherson Park.

The Roosters aren’t out of the woods yet despite their (virtual) season long injury and availability troubles after Isaac Lovisson succumbed to a hamstring injury.

Reggie Palmer returns off a long layoff dating back to Round 5 which will be a morale boost for the visitors.

A win for the Bloods against the odds will keep the Cobras (7th) at arm’s length, a minimum game and percentage away depending on how Dennis Armfield’s quiver negotiate their highway trip to City Oval (Redan).

Counting on the Bloods to start well but the Roosters to stalk, with faith in their system to reel in the hosts, not dissimilar to the nature of their win against Redan last week.

Somehow, Proctor’s Roosters seem to do enough while the Bloods, find a way to fall agonisingly short when it matters most.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Bacchus Marsh key forward Jake Owen is an outside chance to take his place in a must win game for the club against Redan at City Oval.

While unlikely, the narrative surrounding Owen bears compelling relevance around the Cobras’ chances.

Redan veteran Grant Bell is a chance to play his 200th game pending a fitness test while reliable defender Nick Barker is a lock to return.

Forget the one-sided affair at their first meet, the Lions have come a long way since then, despite their ninth position on the BFNL ladder.

The Cobras have been competitive over recent weeks despite a tough draw without key pillars Owen and Wil Lalor (season).

Looking forward to the midfield battle, with Lions’ duo Rory Gunsser (Geelong VFL pending), Jake Connolly (Rebels pending) and Brodie Pope head-to-head against Josh Huxtable (Williamstown VFL pending), Jamie Fulton and Tyson Shea.

Should be an entertaining game that has the potential of going down to the wire, but plenty will need to go right for the visitors ahead of the ball for the Cobras to post a big enough score overcoming a Lions outfit on the rise.

Postcode tip, with a bit more to play out at selection..

Scoop’s tip: Redan

Reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan is a 90% chance of a return this week for Sunbury’s trip to Sebastopol.

The star midfielder has not played since Round 11 after suffering a fracture in his arm. The medics at his aligned VFL club, Essendon, will determine his availability.

Unfortunately, the Lions will be without key forwards Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL) and Daniel Johnston (Coburg VFL).

On spec alone, it’s hard to see Sunbury kicking a big enough score to trouble the ladder leaders without their two spearheads, despite winning their previous meet in Round 5.

Sure, the Lions held the Burra to just seven goals, but no team has been able to do so since.

Sebastopol (excluding their Lake Wendouree game) average 90 points per game, while Sunbury (excluding Lake Wendouree), sit at just just 66 ppg.

Yes, Sunbury have had their troubles with injury and continuity that hasn’t helped their numbers, but overcoming the Burra on the road is one of the toughest gigs going around at the moment.

Tony Lockyer’s men remain unbeaten at home this year in six matches, averaging a whopping 107.5 ppg and winning margin of 50.

Compelling numbers for Lions’ coach Matty White to contemplate despite arriving with back-to-back wins under their belts for the first time this year.

Looking forward to the midfield battle in particular, and how the Lions go about denying a deep Burra’s rotation capable of hitting the scoreboard.

In fact, the Burra engine room combined for 13/15 goals last week in their handling of Darley to the tune of 22 points.

The Sunbury defence is starting to resemble the back six of last year’s grand final side in health and connection but I’m not sure they will be able to restrict the Burra’s tsunami midfield and dangerous forwards.

Luke Kiel remains unlikely while Jack Buckley will be given to Thursday night to stake his claim.

Key forward Joel Edwards (concussion) will miss another week.

Expect the Lions to be competitive, they’re more than capable, but Saturday’s clash is looming more a square up opportunity for the ruthless Burra.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Given the challenges of the month ahead for Devils’ coach Dan Jordan, expect the dual premiership coach to arrive chasing as many ‘mini wins’ as Lake Wendouree interim coach Jake Lohmann when fourth meets tenth at CE Brown Reserve.

With essentially four sides vying for an all-important top three finish, it’s the reigning premiers who need to lift despite winning five of their last six games.

The Devils sit one game and percentage behind Ballarat (2nd) and North Ballarat (3rd) while ladder leaders Sebastopol look most likely to fill one of those key spots even this far out.

Darley have the Lakers (A), Melton (H), Ballarat (A) and North Ballarat (H) to come and will need to win all four to guarantee the desired finish.

Mini wins for Jordan, given the result looms inevitable, maybe more akin to a wish list - get through unscathed, win each quarter, earn the necessary percentage boost and mirror image a top four side on the rise looking to peak at the right time.

Big guns Brett Bewley (leg) and Billy Myers (thumb) are a chance to return on managed minutes but must tick a few boxes before getting the all clear.

For Lohmann’s brigade, effort will be the one non-negotiable on the former Werribee VFL talent’s white board, while a winning quarter against top four opposition would be a bonus.

Improving on their equal lowest score of the season registered last week (3.6) against East Point will also qualify for a response as the perennial underdogs aim to usurp their average return of 44 points per game.

Good to see season recruits Corey Rich, Lewis Antonac and Alfred Jarnestrom fighting it out each week against the odds, and the growth of midfielder Will Clark.

While the hosts welcomed back Will Fordham last week who had been sidelined with injury since Round 9, the task at hand against the 10-4 Devils won’t be any easier.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Round 16 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

The race for finals positions will become much clearer by 5pm on Saturday, with a series of crucial clashes set to shape the BFNL ladder in Round 16.

The Cobras will aim to keep their finals hopes alive when they host the Kangas at Maddingley Park.

It feels like such a longtime ago when the two sides last met in Good Friday’s standalone fixture at Eastern Oval.

The Cobras were simply superb that day, resembling every bit of a final’s contender moving forward.

If coach Dennis Armfield can orchestrate any copy/paste version from his players, the Kangas, it’s fair to say, are in trouble.

Unfortunately for the visitors Joe Dodd (dislocated knee), and Thomas Brown (broken wrist) will miss for while Joseph McGuane (cork) is also in doubt for the Kangas’ belated finals tilt.

Yes, a win for the Kangas will keep their slim finals chances alive. A loss however, while not the end of the world, will shut the door on any aspirations post the home and away season ending on August 22nd.

Plenty will need to go right for the travelling Kangas under stand-in coach Tommy Molan who arrives with back-to-back wins since taking over the reins. The reality is, the Kangas have just the one win away from home all season (Lakers).

The Cobras are 4-0 against teams currently below them and have trump card Jake Owen back and firing after a lengthy lay off with a hamstring tear. The key forward played a starring role last week with a five goals return.

Armfield’s quiver rank higher in all quarters in isolation bar the second. The Kangas are ninth for first and third terms, and marginally better for quarters two and four, ranking eighth.

While there is mutual frustrations on the injury front, I expect the Cobras to rise to the challenge of their most important game of the season to date in front of home fans - a pulse in the finals race depends on it.

And who would’ve thought the Cobras will be cheering home crosstown rivals Darley to help their cause.

The best scenario for Bacchus Marsh is if they and the Devils win. The Cobras would move into the top six, a game clear of the Bloods, with two rounds to play.

Plenty going on, keep your BFNL match centre close with update scores across the competition available at your fingertips.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Buckle up for a highly anticipated showdown between two archrivals when the Devils host The Bloods at Darley Park.

Underestimate the importance of this game at your peril as the outcome looms (potentially) season defining.

The Devils are staking a claim for an all-important top three finish while the Bloods cling to sixth with the Cobras, and the Kangas to lesser degrees, on their hammer.

There is no room for complacency for either side with a tough run home on the horizon.

Saturday will provide the answers to so many questions surrounding the BFNL Match of the Round in the ‘East’ (LIVE action and FULL commentary from 2pm via bfnl.com.au).

Can the Devils overcome their bogie side Melton who have won five of their last six meets?

Will the Bloods get the green light to include Billy Crofts (Footscray VFL) and key forward Ryan Carter?

How much improvement can we expect from Devils star duo Brett Bewley and Billy Myers second up off significant injuries?

Can the Bloods end their current three game losing streak to keep their season alive? - note the Devils are 17-1 at home since the 2024 semifinals!

Who will get the job on Bloods’ x-factor forward Braedan Kight who has multiple goal returns from his last nine games?

Can Devils danger man Will Johnson get an afternoon on his own terms or will it be the brilliance of speedster Nick Hind who proves difference?

The Bloods’ proven defence will have a say in that.

While there is a host of intrigue simmering in the lead-up, we’re more often drawn to one battle having the greatest impact - the midfield.

Can the honest two-way running ability, pressure and speed of the Bloods upstage the star power of the Devils when it matters most?

The Saturday afternoon stage at Darley Park is all set for an enthralling reveal, as fans are left with little choice than to speculate the ifs, what’s and maybes.

One notion we can trust however, is both sides are all-in.

Don’t miss any of the on-field action or the strategy unfolding off it as premiership coaches Dan Jordan (2023, 2025) and Troy Scoble (2024) seek consolidation as an exciting new dawn awaits the winner.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Lions’ coach Matty White will be sweating on the availability of his VFL affiliated quartet to give his Pride every chance of turning the tables on the Roosters from their previous meet when they go head-to-head at Clarke Oval.

Jake Egan (Essendon VFL), Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL - highly unlikely) and Coburg listed pair Daniel Johnston (highly unlikely) and Jordyn Gillard hold the keys bettering the Lions’ chances against a North Ballarat outfit on a five-game winning streak.

The Roosters are expected to have an unchanged line-up from the 22 disciplined soldiers who (virtually) strangled the Bloods last week enroute to a hard fought, yet comfortable 17-point win.

This matchup has the potential going down to the wire on recent form, but can the Lions withstand the relentless pressure of the Roosters and deliver the goods - not only physically but on the scoreboard?

Tough ask, considering Clint Proctor’s group are the number one ranked team defence in the competition for average points conceded per game.

Sunbury have hit their straps, unbeaten in their last three games including a win over ladder leaders Sebastopol last week in a three-point thriller at Marty Busch Reserve.

Yes, Egan was superhuman with his match winning, seven goal haul (eight behinds) but any expectations for a repeat performance, if indeed available, is reserved for the ambitious.

The big ground should favour the Lions, a chance to breathe and make better decisions against an elite pressure pack who love to outnumber at the source.

Recent history at the venue supports the possibility of the Lions causing another upset considering the Roosters have not won at the Clarke Oval since 2021.

Proctors’ inaugural visit last year ended in a 48-point loss. Egan (3 goals), Sutton (2) and Johnston (2) combined for half of the Lions’ score, aiding the separation.

For the record, just 12 Roosters from last year’s defeat will take their place - Sunbury, up to 17.

Season 2026 has proven every team is gettable - this clash could be another reminder of the Roosters mortality on foreign soil.

Rolling with an upset in this one, with Sunbury to execute well enough, and for long enough at home, to edge out the more fancied Roosters in a relatively low scoring affair.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

You have to have some empathy for the Lakers ahead of Saturday as they prepare for an away trip against the Burra who will be keen to bounce back from a narrow loss to Sunbury.

The upset defeat saw Sebastopol joined at the top of the table, percentage ahead of North Ballarat, an area Burra’s coach Tony Lockyer will be looking for a major boost this week.

Sebastopol key forward Joel Edwards and half back Jack Buckley (not seen since Round 11) will return while Luke Kiel will miss for a third straight week.

Just how the Lakers go about denying the Burra a score north of 150 (weather permitting) will be a challenge for interim coach Jake Lohmann.

Expect Will Clark, Corey Rich, Lewis Antonac and Alfred Jarnestrom to provide much of the resistance for the visitors alongside the recent form of Archie Todd and promoted youngster Aiden Wiltsher who booted four goals against the Devils last week.

Unfortunately, injuries have crippled the Lakers’ chances breaking their winning drought that sits at 33 games. Their average losing margin this year after 15 games is 87.8 points, up one goal on last year (81.7).

Lohmann will challenge his boys in the areas they can control, in particular effort. If the Lakers can deliver that until they have nothing more to give, the coach will sleep well.

It’s been difficult for any team containing the Burra this season, their ability to extract scores from a dangerous midfield has played a major role in their renaissance.

Again, Toby Hutt (16 goals), Jack Bambury (18), Felix Henderson (13), Lachlan Cassidy (8 from 10 games) will challenge the two-way running ability of the Lakers and will endeavour to hit the scoreboard.

Of the Burra’s five wins from six games at home their average winning margin hovers around 50 points on average. Expect that average to be extended come 5pm Saturday night.

In reality, the Lakers will eye winning a quarter and bettering their season average score of 44.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Expect the Swans to rebound quickly off a surprise loss for many against East Point last week by taking care of Redan at Alfredton Oval.

There’s simply too much at stake for the bevy as they eye a return inside the top three.

Unfortunately, four doesn’t go into three meaning one of the Swans, Sebastopol, North Ballarat or Darley miss out. And who wants to be playing a Sunbury outfit on the rise in a potential fourth v fifth elimination final?

Swans’ coach Ash Baker will have to play the waiting game learning the availability of VFL pair Tristan Maple (Footscray) and Thomas Simpson (Werribee).

Some good news however given the absence of up to nine frontliners last week, the Swans welcome back Luke Dunstan, Lewis Rinaldi and Tom Mooney.

Redan’s slim finals aspirations were put to bed last week, sent packing by the Cobras at City Oval.

Saturday’s assignment won’t be any easier.

Unfortunately core trio Nick Barker, Oliver Pittard and Lachie McLean have been ruled out already for the Swans clash raising the degrees of difficulty.

Clearly the Lions struggled without their two key midfielders Rory Gunsser (Geelong VFL) and Jake Connolly (Rebels) and it’s unlikely they will be released.

Gun Swans Fraser Perkins and Brad Crouch can prepare for a potential day out if the bevy can get their running game going.

Underrated recruit Patrick Graham will go head-to-head with Lions duo Taj Bond and Will Madden in and enthralling contest in the ruck.

Centre clearance and stoppage numbers make for a compelling read in the aftermath - whether it validates the result we shall wait and see.

Speaking of wait and see - looking forward to Biggie returning from his European vacation and assuming his role forward as the once tear way leader in the Tony Lockett Medal race.

Given the absence of experienced x-factor forward Andrew Hooper (inj), the value of Biggie to Baker’s outgoing flag mission is rated among the top few for any club eyeing the prize.

Given the predominate age profile of Redan, they will hold no fear of the Swans, rather embrace the challenge of another opportunity to grow.

Winning for the Lions is not paramount on Saturday - nor expected.

However, we’ve seen what momentum can do in games, it can turn a game quickly.

If Marc Greig’s Pride can start well against the nervous starting Swans who knows, maybe another upset on the cards?

The learnings from last week will prove enough for the compliant Swans to correct back on track, reinstating their reputation as genuine, well fancied flag contenders.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

Round 17 Football Preview with Scoop

Double chances and last-ditch efforts to make finals are on the line this weekend as our senior football teams prepare for Round 17.

Bacchus Marsh needs little motivation getting up for this home clash against ladder leaders Sebastopol.

Dennis Armfield’s quiver are well and truly in the race for a finals berth but will start long odds causing one of the upsets of the season.

So, with little external expectations on the Cobras and percentage of little or no consequence why not throw everything at the Burra.

Armfield will expect effort, that’s a non-negotiable and with the potential inclusions of Josh Huxtable and Zach Dali that should help them to at least match with the Burra for periods between the arcs.

Jake Owen and Joel Freeman will provide the aerial presence forward, enough to worry Tony Lockyer’s defence in a solid hit out for the visitors ahead of a deep finals campaign.

The ruck duel between Luke Goetz and Toby Hutt will be worth the entry ticket alone as first use out of the middle is likely to play a role reflective on the scoreboard.

Lockyer won’t be taking this game lightly nor will Armfield be treating this as a ‘throw at the stumps’.

An upset win for the Cobras would see them firm into narrow favourites qualifying for finals given Melton have the Burra in Round 18 and Lockyer will not want to head into the post season having lost three of their last four games.

The Cobras are a long shot but will test the waters of the Burra to use the penultimate round of the season to assert their reign of dominance that has equated to just three losses.

The Burra should win comfortably but not without a fight from the never-say-die Cobras.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The oh-so-close giant killers Redan head to MacPherson Park to attempt a 2-0 clean sweep over Melton in 2026.

Near misses have been the theme of the Lions over the last two months and will challenge the Bloods to reproduce their best after their ‘season alive’ morale boosting win over Darley.

Troy Scoble’s group will have their fingers crossed on the availability of Billy Crofts (Footscray VFL) and Ryan Carter (work) ahead of the clash and could well include Harry Hanley and Max Scoble given the stakes despite the pair having just returned from overseas.

A loss for the Bloods would put their finals intentions in jeopardy as Bacchus Marsh endeavour to pinch a late spot in the six.

Scoble won’t be taking anything for granted given the Lions are likely to recall Harry Lawson, Will Madden and Nick Barker for the road assignment.

Plenty to play out here, both sides will be confident however there is sure to be an under belly of nervousness in the Bloods camp given a loss may well prove their undoing and a premature exit from the 2026 premiership race.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

Interim Lake Wendouree coach Jake Lohmann gets his first crack in a dual role as he prepares for his long-awaited playing return against North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

While expectations on the Lakers are low, it’s one piece of good news they can look forward to in an otherwise challenging season.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor will use Saturday as an opportunity to fine tune ahead of a Round 18 rematch with Darley.

It was Round 18 last year that saw the Roosters all-in against the Devils aiming to pinch a finals berth in arguably the game of the year as a host of VFL affiliated talent took their place.

Fortunately for the Roosters having already qualified, the landscape has changed.

X-factor forward Jamie Quick and utility Tom Bromley-Lynch (both managed) will miss the clash but the Roosters welcome the return of ruckman Dave Brinker-Ritchie (North Melbourne VFL) for just his sixth game of the season having missed a bulk of the season with injury and VFL selection.

Isaac Lovisson and Simon McCartin have timed their return from injury (while not planned) to perfection and are also in the mix for a call up.

It’s hard seeing the Lakers surpassing their season average of 43 points despite the inclusion of Lohmann (ex-Werribee VFL) as the likes of he, Alfred Jarnestrom (40 disposals last week), Corey Rich and co providing much of the resistance.

It’s all about getting through unscathed for North Ballarat on Saturday as they prepare for a finals tilt with the tag of arguably the best team defence in the competition pinned to their chest.

For the record - the Roosters have conceded a miserly 45 points on average from their last six home games.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

LIVE stream and FULL commentary from 2.15pm via BFNL.com.au

Star forward Biggie Nyuon returns for Ballarat when they host Darley at Alfredton Oval this Saturday.

The stakes are high as both clubs eye an all-important top three finish.

The Devils are essentially ‘all-in’ on the road with the likely inclusions of Joel Cadman, Adam Azzopardi and Mitch Gardiner who all missed last week’s fade out loss to Melton.

Darley are running out of chances consolidating a top three spot with two must win games ahead.

Unfortunately, the Swans will be without Andrew Hooper, Luke Gray, Riley Constable, Wyatt Squires while the availability of VFL pair Tristan Maple and Thomas Simpson is unlikely given their recent form at the higher level.

Some positive news for the Swan’s camp, Biggie’s return aside, is Rhys Perry, who will be considered for a recall after a lengthy lay off with injury.

Darley will embrace the hunters tag having been the hunted for so long, asking questions of the Swans to resemble something close to their best to earn the points and a prized spot in the top three.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Despite the reality of this match being considered a dead rubber in the context of their respective seasons, good luck convincing either camp!

The Kangas will want to claim another scalp on the way out under stand-in coach Tommy Molan, further validating their rebuild while Sunbury remain a work in progress, peaking at the right time!

The ‘reality’ refers to the fact the Kangas cannot play finals while the Lions can only miss if they drop both games (East Point, Ballarat) and Melton and Bacchus Marsh win their last two.

You would think Murphy’s law is all that stands in the way of Matty White’s Pride missing out!

The Lions should get the job done if they’re going to be any threat come finals even without their number one ‘striker’ Jake Sutton, who returns to Sydney VFL duties.

The Kangas lose Alex Molan to another hamstring complaint, a chronic issue for the skilful talent in isolation.

Let’s hope the condition of Eastern Oval is susceptible to a free running, high scoring affair that these two have enjoyed over previous seasons at the venue,

Looking forward to the midfield battle, as the more experienced combatants go about their afternoon territory battle.

Curious to find out the main avenue to goal given Sutton booted four of their seven last week at home.

While Jarrod Joyce looms the likely threat forward for the hosts they do have some alternatives in the names of Jack Jeffrey, Jacob Brown and potentially Sam Lucas who had been swung forward on occasions despite being recruited as a defender.

Expect Sunbury to struggle at times throughout the match given the Kangas liking to play their best footy at home but Matty White will do enough with the messaging and the magnets to drag his boys over the line.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

Round 18 Football Preview with Scoop

Although the top 6 is already sorted there is still plenty to play out with the finals standings yet to be determined ahead of the September action. 

The Devils host the Roosters in a perfectly timed hitout ahead of arguably the most even BFNL finals series on recent record.

Dead Rubber? Nah, not for these two coaches who will embrace every last minute to be cherry ripe for their respective final’s campaigns.

The cat and mouse decision to rest players on the err of caution hasn’t been in the forefront of mind for these two, rather another opportunity to build connection and continuity with ‘games-in’ given their injury troubles.

While some teams would prefer an easier lead up into the post season, coaches Dan Jordan and Clint Proctor see it differently.

Jordan has gone on the record in recent campaigns wanting a physical challenge while Proctor agreed (last year) in favour of the dual premiership coach’s theory.

Expect a full-dress rehearsal on Saturday minus any plan B reveals from the men with the magnets.

Let the players play they say, and that you can count on.

Devils’ key defender Matthew Brett is in doubt having missed last week while the Roosters welcome the return of Jamie Quick and Tom Bromley-Lynch at the expense of Max Faulkner and Harvey Shea who suffered ‘corks’ during their big win over the Lakers. 

Devils’ morale alone requires a top four scalp heading into finals given their 1-4 season record, not to mention a win at home having lost their last two at Darley Park.

In fact, the only win anywhere (1-3) Jordan’s army has had in the last month came against the Lakers on August 1 (Round 15).

On the other hand ladder leaders North Ballarat could be minor premiers come 5pm Saturday, a remarkable achievement for Proctor and his group who have had to overcome season long adversity on the injury front.

The Roosters are flying at the moment having won their last seven games. Hard working high forward Jye Lockett is on fire with multiple goal returns from his last nine outings while Dave Brinker Ritchie looks set to expose the Devils in the ‘ruck’ space.

Darley’s best is undoubtedly good enough, I’m just not sure we’ve seen it for long enough this year.

If the theory ‘peaking at the right time’ carry’s any weight, Jordan’s Devils should go close - a fourth loss in five games (three at home) in the run home is not ideal.

Tipping a proud yet vulnerable reigning premier to find a way back this week - it’s time!

Scoop’s tip: Darley 

While there’s little at stake in the context of the BFNL season, this intriguing battle between the Lions (ninth) and the Kangas (eighth) will provide the means for one team to celebrate at City Oval come 5pm Saturday.

In Redan’s case it would confirm their improvement not solely from recent near misses but also their previous meeting with the Kangas back in Round 8 when they were soundly beaten at Eastern Oval.

Key Lions Nick Barker, Oliver Pittard, Wil Madden, Zach Lang, Pat Fitzgibbon and Sean Mason will be given until Thursday night to prove their availability but no risks will be taken according to coach Marc Greig who already has one eye fixed on the coming pre-season.

For East Point, a sixth win would validate an encouraging rebuild ahead of a 2027 campaign under newly appointed, former Redan assistant coach Patrick Bowden.

Despite a couple of season ending injuries expect the Kangas to be right up for this final stoush, embracing the opportunity to end their season on a high.

There will be plenty of experienced and next gen talent on display at City Oval and well worth the visit if you’re in the area.

Two proud clubs, chasing a win on the way out - so just who is the better team in 2026?

Best let them decide….

Scoop’s tip: Draw

It’s likely the Swans will make the pilgrimage to Sunbury’s Clarke Oval for their Round 18 clash without three of their big guns.

With a prized third place finish already locked in for Ash Baker’s bevy, no risks are (likely) to be taken with Alex Keath, Brad Crouch and Fraser Perkins (all rested).

Good news for the travelling party however with the likely returns of Tristan Maple (Footscray VFL), wingman Luke Gray and Rhys Perry (ankle).

Unfortunately, the hosts will be without Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL) but welcome back Daniel Johnston, Cody Bramble and Jordy Gillard from Coburg VFL duties.

For the record, Johnston’s last game at BFNL level was against the Swans at their last meet back in Round 8.

Harry Power and Tyson Lever missed last week’s narrow six-point win over East Point and will need to get through training to earn the green light while Ben Cameron (work) remains subject to availability.

The inclusions for Sunbury give coach Matty White a better chance to shape the best version of his 22 ahead of an Elimination Final with Darley (likely) or Ballarat for a second week in a row.

Expect a free-flowing encounter on the big ground as both teams concede there are bigger fish to fry with finals moving forward with the risk of injury minimised.

Both camps will be happy getting through unscathed over the result, as they prepare to resemble something closer to their best after a frustrating run with injury and unavailability.

With merely bragging rights on the line, I think this result means more to Sunbury, at least in the mental space given the Swans have already shown enough.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Bloods should hold no fears for the high-flying Burra despite a road trip to Marty Busch Reserve.

With a finals berth all but sewn up, coach Troy Scoble can plan for a flag tilt that looked in jeopardy for periods on the back of losses to all teams outside the top six, bar the Lakers!

The recent acquisition of Billy Crofts (Footscray VFL) alone has triggered some life into the 2024 premiers who looked vulnerable on six wins just a fortnight ago.

Crofts, the confirmation of an available Ryan Carter and the return of Harry Hanley (overseas) are three major boosts for Scoble’s campaign, an overdue change of luck for the premiership coach.

The form of Braedan Kight, Jaycob Hickey and progressive young ruckman Joshua Stewart has restored the ‘Bloodahoods’ premiership claims.

And that’s without mentioning their trusted, tried and proven defence led by Jordy Cotter and Lachlan Phillips.

While it’s likely the Bloods will finish sixth, they wouldn’t be the sixth seed heading into finals that’s for sure - they may well scare a few along the way - including Sebastopol on Saturday!

These two sides have a history of hard-fought encounters over the last seven or eight years in particular, wherever they are on the ladder.

Burra coach Tony Lockyer will be looking for signs their best has not passed them as they prepare to face a team on the rise at the right time of year.

Lachlan Cassidy is a chance to return for a timely hit out while Ben Hutt (knee knock) and Luke Kiel (managed) are less likely, targeted more so for a final’s return.

The midfield battle has the all makings of a must watch - the running power of the Bloods vs the scoring ability of the Burra given the talent levels border on the same.

Tipping the Burras’ midfield (this time) to create enough chances in their front half, at home, to enable a narrow advantage on the scoreboard in what looms a cracking finals preview.

Scoop’s tip:  Sebastopol

Expect the Cobras to ‘fill their boots’ on Saturday when they travel to CE Brown Reserve to meet a Lake Wendouree outfit carrying a 35-game losing streak.

With the pressure of finals now off the table for the Cobras, anticipate an open, free running game in contrast to their last two that were dour in nature, essentially nine and eight goal games decided by less than kick!

Jake Owen and Joel Freeman are likely to pose the biggest threats to the Lakers in the Cobras’ front half, and it would come as no surprise if the two combined for double figure returns on the goal front.

Cobras’ ruckman Luke Goetz will have the larger say at stoppage providing the likes of Josh Huxtable and Jamie Fulton first use, heightening the likelihood of Armfield’s quiver posting a big score.

If the Cobras can replicate the intent and pressure of recent weeks, the margin could blow out well beyond 100 despite the celebratory return of Lakers’ interim coach Jake Lohmann into a dual role.

Lohmann played managed minutes last week in a small but giant step back from a season long hamstring tear.

Lakers’ trio Corey Rich, Alfred Jarnestrom and Lewis Antonac continue to rack up the bulk of possession for the Lakers but unfortunately most coming from behind the ball given the weight of play in the Lakers back half.

While the Cobras are expected to go out on a high and left to a degree wondering what could have been, the finish line for the Lakers’ season can’t come quick enough.

With the inclusion of Gisborne into the BFNL in 2027, the Lakers must get cracking in the off season not only with an eye to retain players but acquire some clever ‘moneyball’ recruits to get around the current list.

Yes, the Lakes have endured a horror run on the injury front and will need the missing back fully rehabilitated and firing.

It’s proving a long way back for the Lakers who have won just 4 of their last 67 games.

The Cobras will play without restraint this week and may impress as much as they did back on a sunny Good Friday afternoon when they trounced East Point in arguably their most convincing win of the season.

“Out with a bang” is the saying that best likens my prediction of the Cobras’ final game of their season.

An eighth win of the season for the Cobras would match the returns of 2025 while another loss for the Lakers ironically mirrors theirs.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Round 2 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

A flurry of thrilling results from the start of the season sees Round 2 provide another valuable look at the BFNL's senior football competition this weekend.

Expect an invigorated Cobras outfit to relish the opportunity in front of home fans for the first time this season when they host the Roosters at Maddingley Park.

Dennis Armfield’s men are 2-0 having secured back-to-back wins on the road against two of last year’s finalists.

A six-month off-season can be a long time in local footy but the Cobras have started with a faultless campaign aided by the addition of no less than six players, four of whom are familiar returns while the acquisition of Zach Vesty (Hoppers Crossing) and Hugh Canning (Corowa) has only strengthened the Cobras’ version of their best 22.

Given injured pair Jamie Fulton (shoulder) and Jack Kovacevic (hand) remain sidelined short term, the future looks bright at Cobra land.

Not dissimilar to last year, the Roosters, under second year coach Clint Proctor have already endured all too familiar frustration with the unavailability of highly touted recruit David Brinker- Richie (knee soreness) who is expected to miss another week, and more importantly the critical match up with dominant Cobras ruckman Luke Goetz.

Nonetheless the Cobras cannot afford to underestimate the spine of the Roosters who arrive with the star power of Sam Glover, Josh Morris, Denver Grainger-Barrass and progressive talent Jai Lockett, all of whom have had an impact at VFL level.

Young 200cm tall Finn Russell and speedster Reggie Palmer are in the mix for a call up after the Roosters fell short in their season opener against Ballarat.

While spoilt for top end talent the Roosters will need to improve on last week to curb the Cobras impressive run and connection.

Armfield’s group are as fit as they’ve ever been under the former Carlton 145 gamer.

The point differential for the Cobras in second halves (111-49) and 4-0 record for second half quarters suggests the Roosters will need to bring their skates to deny the hosts a third win on the trot.

While Proctor’s Roosters failed in their two previous attempts in 2025 to down the Cobras, they do have the cattle both aerially and at ground level to upset the pattern.

Belief is an undervalued commodity; one the Cobras are embracing with aplomb early into the new season.

Over to the Roosters to find a way to curtail that growing momentum with some lasting impressions of their own.

Compliance to Proctor’s instructions is a non-negotiable if the visitors are any chance squaring their win loss ledger.

While Cobra fans need only wish for more of the same, to witness firsthand a 3-0 start would be all the more special.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh by 12 points

The Swans host Sebastopol in the only game across the Round 2 senior football fixture involving two winners from the opening round.

While Sebastopol enjoyed a convincing win at their last visit to the nest, this assignment presents a different set of challengers for Tony Lockyer’s men.

A trio of experienced, 200cm trumpeter Swans will pose an afternoon long threat for the visitors to contain.

Alex Keith, Biggie Nyuon and Patrick Graham will have a large say in the Swans’ fortunes.

Given Keith’s intercept role across half back, compliance to Lockyer’s game plan will be a non-negotiable if the Burra are to find a way around the former Adelaide and Western Bulldog’s defender.

The Burra’s midfield can expect an early audit on their footy smarts given Biggie and Graham have the height advantage and athleticism to control the aerial contest.

Denying a formidable Swans midfield that is likely to include Tristan Maple, Thomas Simpson, Lewis Rinaldi and Fraser Perkins will test the Burra’s brains trust.

Any first use advantage out of stoppage will be significant for these two evenly matched teams at the source.

Unfortunately, recent Burra club best and fairest winners Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell who play key midfield roles, are expected to miss another week.

In this case, it’s advantage Ballarat.

Swans’ second year coach Ash Baker has been busy with the enviable task of shifting the magnets with the freedom to find the right balance given all player types essentially are at his disposal.

On the flipside, if the Swans can be found out early despite the luxuries of the 200cm trio, finding the right balance becomes an ongoing challenge.

While the Swans take another step finding the best version of themselves, the Burra are not dissimilar despite a couple of key figures on the sidelines.

The addition of GFL trio Jack Buckley, Felix Henderson and Joel Edwards is significant - each played an encouraging role in the Burra’s first up win over East Point.

Lockyer will hope for further improvement, a must you would think if the Burra are to secure the premiership points.

Baker on the other hand, would be the first to concede his bevy were ‘ordinary’ at their previous meet against the Burra but pose a completely different proposition in the here and now.

Yes, plenty has gone under the bridge since their last meet and with more games together, expect the Swans to resemble a force to be reckoned with.

No Cassidy or Medwell for the Burra moves the needle in favour of the Swans for one the picks of the round in BFNL action.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat by 10 points

New season Redan coach Marc Greig gets a ‘throw at the stumps’ opportunity to upset league heavyweights Sunbury when they host the Lions of the East at City Oval.

Redan’s relocation for the interim, comes on the back of renovations now in full swing at City Oval.

Greig’s eclectic group surprised a few with the nature of their 92-point demolition job over the Lakers in Round 1 booting ‘the sweep’ (highest score), some 12 goals more than any other club across the BFNL.

That stat alone will have drawn interest from Sunbury coach Matty White following their agonising two-point loss to Darley in the much-anticipated Grand Final replay.

Sunbury haven’t always had their way on the win/loss front up the highway but their four home and away season wins from six trips last year suggests the mental demons have subsided on the back of instilled belief and collective buy-in.

Under White, Sunbury are the genuine real deal having won seven of their last 10 BFNL games.

Only Darley has beaten them (three times) over the period.

White would be the first to concede some, if not all of his boys were sore after their first up outing given the physicality of the affair.

Redan’s case may well be different following their big win, with the occasion running a majority of the group into some early season form.

If Greig’s Lions can hit the ground running and give Whitey’s Pride something to chase, this matchup could get interesting.

The Bond boys will stretch the Sunbury defence ONLY IF the Redan midfield can have their way against a deep Sunbury core led by reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan and more experienced Josh Guthrie.

Sunbury’s midfield will want to make their presence felt early providing some ‘good looks’ of their own for key targets Daniel Johnston and Phil Scanlon.

Sure, their mid-forward connection remains a work in progress when Jake Sutton doesn’t play but you can’t discount their ability to score.

Redan must deny Sunbury at the source and win the “ground ball” battle to be any chance of an upset win but on the small sample size alone, who knows what they’re capable of.

Fond memories should aid a favourable result for Whitey’s Pride but they will be made to earn it if Greig’s Lions can build on their Round 1 heroics.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury by 30 points

Having overcome a major scare in the season opener, the Devils’ next assignment against the Kangas should be a little more comfortable despite the road trip to Eastern Oval.

The Kangas take another step forward in their rebuild against the competition’s benchmark and should embrace the challenge with plenty of learnings to be drawn from the hit out.

East Point coach Joe Carmody and his staff will have other priorities than the scoreboard given their slim chances of an upset were dealt a severe blow following the confirmation of a hamstring injury to Jacob Brown that is expected to sideline the star utility for a couple of weeks.

The midfield battle however will be relatively familiar to both camps with the core of Kangas’ experienced mids including Mickijta Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd and Liam Canny up against gun trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Luther Baker.

Unfortunately (midfield aside) the inexperience of the Kangas is likely to surface at some time and reflect for periods on the scoreboard given up to eight of Carmody’s fledgling group have played less than 10 senior games.

Devils’ clutch defender Billy Myers will welcome the absence of Brown, paving the way for a more offensive role if coach Dan Jordan sees fit, raising the degrees of difficulty for Carmody to contain.

Not to mention the likely return of Mikey Edwards from an eye complaint suffered in the Devils’ 12-point practice match win over GFL club Leopold.

Weather permitting, expect the Devils to hit the scoreboard in waves despite the resistance of a predominantly young group, keen to make an impression.

While Kangas’ forward pair Jack Jeffrey and Jarrod Joyce will keep the frugal Devils defence honest, the visitors look to have too much firepower across the ground to be denied a 22nd BFNL win on the trot.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

After disappointing losses for both sides in the season opener, you can bank on some early heat when the Lakers host Melton at CE Brown Reserve.

Let’s be honest, the Lakers owe their fans more than what was dished up against Redan in Round 1, a 92-point thrashing.

Yes, the Lakers have lost their last 19 BFNL games but given the off-season additions, Rohan Brown’s boys fell well short on external and (surely) internal expectation.

While the Bloods assignment looms tougher again for the Lakers they should not fear Troy Scoble’s visiting party.

Why might you ask?

Since Round 6 last year the once invincible Bloods have lost to every team in the BFNL bar North Ballarat and the Lakers (draw v Ballarat).

The 2024 Premiers (18-1) have less than a 50%-win record from their last 14 home and away games (6.5/7.5) and need a spark albeit being just Round 2.

A trip to CE Brown Reserve is the last dress rehearsal for Scoble ahead of blockbuster meetings with Sunbury (A) and Darley (H).

The Bloods will look to exceed KPI numbers in a number of areas, none more so than goal conversion that has cost them some close ones in recent times.

Highly decorated x-factor forward and proud leader Braedan Kight returns to bolster the mission.

The 2024 Tony Lockett Medallist (3.1) and Sunbury sharpshooter Jake Sutton (3.6) are the only two players in the BFNL to average more than three goals per game from their last 50 outings.

While an historic win for the Lakers is highly unlikely, Brown will be demanding an immediate response from his boys so used to the underdogs tag.

Genuine top end quality has been added to the Lakers list capable of matching any side for periods.

Fingers crossed we bear witness to that and the Lakers Round 1 debacle is looked upon in hindsight as a forgiven run.

On the flipside, look for the Bloods to make a statement of their own.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

Round 3 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Round 3 brings an all star lineup of matches, with local rivalries set to ignite, finals replays back on home turf and action set to take place under lights.

A bumper crowd is expected to descend on Darley Park for the annual Anzac Day clash between proud crosstown rivals Darley and Bacchus Marsh.

With fine conditions forecast, little room will be left for excuses in the aftermath as the improving Cobras attempt to overcome the reigning premiers.

Let’s be honest, the Devils (on spec) look to be ‘just going’ at the moment despite their 2-0 start to the season, having come from behind in both matches to earn the points.

The Cobras on the other hand have shown enough to suggest they can test Dan Jordan’s army, who remain unbeaten in their last 22 BFNL games.

It will be a huge task for Dennis Armfield and his group, a four quarter investment surely a non-negotiable if they’re to inflict what East Point went so close to doing last week, the upset of the season so far.

The Cobras won’t die wondering, nor do many sides facing the competition benchmark.

It’s a timely, early season footy audit for Bacchus Marsh who will need to find a way without four of their preferred starters in Jamie Fulton (shoulder), Jack Kovacevic (hand), Hamish Coulton (calf) and Billy Griffiths (managed).

One clear disparity favouring the Cobras is the ruck duel with Luke Goetz likely to face a rotation of part timers in the specific role.

While Goetz was dominant with his tap out differential (+22) last week against young North Ballarat tall Finn Russell, the Cobras best and fairest winner ended the afternoon -1 for hit-outs to advantage.

You can back it in Devils’ luxury trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Luther Baker will be waiting feverishly at the fall of the ball, heightening the importance of the Cobras to take more advantage of another predicted landslide in tap outs.

The groundball stat is an interesting one. Sure, we’re only two games in but the Devils have yet to reach the dominant levels of last year.

The Devils ranked one in this space last year (+20 average) but find themselves in ninth (-14) after two games. Ironically, only Bacchus Marsh (-21) trails in differential.

Both sides remain a work in progress with their mid forward connection despite encouraging inside 50 numbers.

The Cobras average 49.7, the Devils 56.5. Just who can “click” with those ample number of entries will tell its own story on the scoreboard at games end.

The Cobras will miss Fulton at the source, but the form of Jack Parente, veteran Tyson Shea and Ethan McKercher has been solid enough aiding the favourable 2-1 win/loss ledger.

Denying the Devils at the source, will pose ‘a new level’ hurdle for the Cobra trio - not to mention Billy Myers who has been arguably the Devils’ most important player from their two wins.

Just on that, it will be interesting to see who Jordan sends to Cobras’ match winner Jake Owen who booted five goals against the Devils in last year’s Anzac Day clash.

Expect the Devils to put some time denying future star Josh Huxtable having an impact - especially in the Cobras front half.

The BFNL representative averages more than a goal per game from his opening three appearances, adding to his impressive 27 disposals and 6.7 score involvements (avg).

While x-factor Devils forward Will Johnson has been relatively quiet on the goal front his work inside 50 has been sound, bordering on the unselfish as the mounting number of crumb goals in the opening two games will attest.

Should be a belter if the Cobras can get into the game early. The Devils will again carry the warm favourites tag into the Derby in front of home fans and will run out the game accordingly after two previous come from behind wins.

An upset win for the Cobras would officially announce their arrival as a genuine contender but I’m tipping we will have to wait until their next meet in the second half of the season to see the Cobras at their best.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

On current form the Swans will look to put this game away early against the Lakers, banking important percentage which could play a crucial role at the business end.

The Swans have the dynamic to stretch the Lakers in areas they haven’t been already despite two 90+ point losses.

This hit out will tell us about the offensive capabilities of the Swans with a predicted game on their own terms for long enough to post an intimidating score.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, albeit a small sample size, their trip to Alfredton Oval looks every bit daunting given star playmaker Jake Lohmann (back) is likely to miss another week. Consistent utility Angus Gove (elbow) is also sidelined.

While there were positive signs from newcomers Alfred Jarnestrom and Will Fordham, the scoreboard in isolation poses a harrowing issue for the Lakers to make an impression.

Containing Swans pair Biggie Nyuon and Patrick Graham in their time spent forward will test the magnet moving ability of Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown and his staff let alone a team defence approach.

Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti is an invaluable asset applying his craft but numbers around the source are in need of a major spike to deny the Swans a copy-paste version of the Lakers’ opening two rounds.

Brown will show up in full swing with his charges expecting to win but the reality is, on the back of two 24-goal concedes in as many matches, it’s hard to envisage the needle moving enough to trouble the Swans.

The improved structure and experience at the Swans has seen continued growth in their spread stocks despite a 15-point loss to the Burra last week.

While the Lakers focus of attention leans to the resting tall timber forward, do not discard the lead up ability of Jack O’Brien who has proven more than capable hitting the scoreboard.

O’Brien on first impressions resembles the old school lead up forward who can take a grab and convert.

So, what’s a par result for the Lakers come the final siren?

Earning the tick of approval from their coach and fellow teammates in the effort and execution space would be a small step forward in the direction many anticipated a given at the start of the season.

Sure, the Lakers are coming from a fair way back but even a hint of the Anzac spirit shown on such a special day will at least ask questions of a Swans outfit who are expected to win and win well.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The “system based” Bloods head to the wide expanses of Clarke Oval for another crack at the Lions in a replay of last year’s preliminary final.

While a repeat of the nail-biting draw witnessed at Marty Busch Reserve at their last outing is improbable, we can at least forecast a close one on present form, acknowledging a small sample size.

Both sides are 1-1 on the win/loss front but something tells me it’s Troy Scoble’s visiting party that have more at stake regarding their early standing in the competition.

Sure, the Bloods beat up on their “bunnies” in the Lakers last week but this well drilled Lions outfit will ask questions of the depth at Scoble’s disposal given up to five premiership players Ryan Carter, Jordy Kight, Ryan Davis, Lachie Watkins and Max Scoble are likely to be sidelined for another week.

There’s rarely any place to hide on Clarke Oval as the Bloods found out at their last visit, beaten comfortably, 100-40.

The Bloods managed just six goals for the afternoon, four coming off the boot of gun, spiritual leader Braedan Kight.

Scoble would be the first to concede they were handed a lesson around the ball, but the return of Jackob Hickey will provide a major boost despite the Lions inclusion of Josh Guthrie who too missed the Round 18 clash.

With the unlikelihood of Jake Sutton taking his part, the onus on the Lions reaping a greater spread of goalkickers remains a work in progress despite obvious dangers, Daniel Johnston and Pat Scanlon.

The once revered, organised, impenetrable defence of the Bloods has shown encouraging signs in the opening couple of weeks with Jordy Cotter, Harry Handley and Adrian Monitto in full flight, and cherry ripe for the challenge.

Sunbury have won eight (twice v Melton) of their last 11 BFNL games, losing only to Darley.

So, this potential classic will tell us more about the Bloods than it will the Lions who are likely to be without Sutton, Mitch McLean (quad), Zach Stephens (broken arm), Jack Newitt (test) and speedster Cody Bramble (test) who is nears a long-awaited return from an ACL.

“Prep” should be familiar for Lions’ coach Matty White in the “oppo” space.

Contain the Carters, the Kights and the rebound of Cotter and Handley - you’re halfway there.

Easier said than done.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Burra must continue its winning momentum when they host the Lions under the lights at Marty Busch Reserve from 6.15pm.

The equation should hold no ‘left field’ surprises for Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer, but what will be asked of his undefeated charges is consistency.

That alone, given the Burras’ opening two wins, should be enough despite key pairing Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell likely to be sidelined for another week.

Sebastopol’s three GFL gains in the off season are mounting their claim among the top echelon of pickups already, despite the small sample size.

The Burra must be travelling alright if former St Joey’s talent Felix Henderson could not make it into the ‘best’ last week after his brow raising 36 disposal return against Ballarat.

And let’s not forget the Burras organic stocks that have featured prominently in the opening two rounds.

X-factor forward Adam Forbes (nine goals) leads the Tony Lockett Medal tally and is sure to attract the attention of Redan coach Marc Greig in his planning.

Veteran leader Luke Kiel is expected to make a swift return raising the degrees of difficulty for the visitors.

Sure, the Burra downed the highly touted Swans in their last hit out by a modest 15 points but it was the 32 scoring shots to 22 that drew the attention, giving every indication Lockyer’s army will prove the testing material against any opposition moving forward.

Redan however, fairness to them, won’t be rocking up under the lights for a party - in fact Greig’s Pride, a balanced mix of youth and experience will embark on Marty Busch Reserve with every intention of winning.

Following their 92-point win over the Lakers, the Lions showed plenty of grit to outscore 2025 Grand Finalists Sunbury in the second half last week, giving every indication this twilight meet could be closer than once thought.

The Bond boys, Taj and Lachie, pose an aerial threat of concern for the Burras’ back six, especially if ball magnets Brodie Pope and Rory Gunsser can extricate some forward half momentum.

The wealth of experience from both camps will come as no surprise to Lockyer or Greig given their celebrated history. With that comes undeniable, mutual respect.

Just who can settle first under the elements, albeit night footy, and make the most of their opportunities will go a long way determining the result.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Roosters host the next generation talent of the Kangaroos at Mars Stadium on Sunday.

Experienced mentor and Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor will look at putting this game to bed early, fully aware the potential dangers a young group with any momentum present.

The Kangas, despite a 0-3 record, took it up to the all-conquering Devils last week, leading the game until very late, before Brett Bewley and Billy Myers found another level to deny coach Joe Carmody the upset of the season.

Proctor would’ve seen the vision, the buy-in across the board from the Kangas, palpable.

The experienced heads at East Point are leading by example, all have earned the nod of approval featuring prominently in the best players.

Rising star Jarrod Joyce is proving a focal point up forward and surely the attention of the Roosters’ hierarchy for a targeted role.

Match ups aside, North Ballarat needs to reclaim its aura at Mars Stadium. The days of fearing the Roosters on their home deck are feeling like a thing of the past for rival teams.

The Roosters fell short in their season opener against Ballarat making it three losses from their last four home games.

Time to make a statement, a correction on that if they’re to pose a genuine title threat moving forward.

The Roosters have enviable talent, and a more mature mix of youth and experience than, not only the Kangas, but most BFNL sides.

Sam Glover, Josh Morris and Denver Grainger-Barras would stretch any opposition in local footy, let alone Jai Lockett and Jamie Quick on a good day around the sticks.

What you get from Brock Leonard, Elliott Lamb and Isaac Carey is a model of consistency while Sam Artz, Darby McGuigan, Harvey Lewis, Wilbur Shea, Taj Bowman and Will Quinlan are just some of the running types between the arcs capable of impacting games on a weekly basis.

All bring form into Sunday’s hit out with East Point who is committed to the rebuild naming up to seven players with 10 games or less senior experience.

As brave as the Kangas were last week, the task for a predominantly young group to reproduce those “highs’ will be a tough one.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

With the action heating up, Round 4 supplies some must win clashes already at this point of the season as our clubs look to consolidate their early starts.

While the Swans sit comfortably inside the top six ahead of the ledger (2-1 & 126%), closing the gap between their best and worst remains an ongoing mission for coach Ash Baker.

You could’ve knocked the competition interest over with a feather last week to find the Swans trailing the Lakers at half time on current form.

Credit to the Lakers for showing signs of improvement albeit for a half before the Swans got back to work, going on to win by 57 points.

Unfortunately for Redan, they need everything to go their way on the injury front having witnessed firsthand last week the problems a few key outs can have on a young group with up to 10 players representing, still eligible for the Under 19s.

What we have found, for those that didn’t know already Marc Greig is the ideal mentor for a developing group and is surrounded by some key experience both on and off field.
The Lions at their peak will trouble all sides for periods but for how long separates those inside the six from those who are not.

Another challenge presents for Greig up against the tall timber at the Swans.

Containing Biggie Nyuon and Patrick Graham forward is a tough ask as we refer to every week not to mention Alex Keath across half back.

Swans midfielder Brad Crouch had arguably his best game last week and will look to carry on that form against more challenging opposition as they come to hand.

The Lions are clearly at a loss without Brodie Pope (finger) and Lachlan Bond (suspended).

The Swans are doing enough for periods to find the line; their best is very good.

Harnessing momentum against will be a watch for the Swans given you would expect their time spent with it, will prove more than enough to earn the points.

Scoop’s tip:  Ballarat

The Roosters will look to consolidate their recent form with a third win on the trot when they host a wounded Sunbury at Mars Stadium.

While Clint Proctor’s group made light work of an East Point side four games into a rebuild, it would be bordering on ignorance if you were not impressed with what the Roosters delivered.

Their Round 2 win over Bacchus Marsh a week earlier was essentially the first step into how the Roosters want to look like under Proctor in his second year at the helm.

Any resemblance of further progress from Proctors group will spell trouble for Matty White’s travelling party who sit in 8th place on the ladder and just one win from their opening three games.

Expect at least a handful of Sunbury players from their 2025 grand final side to miss, not to mention Josh Guthrie (hamstring) and newcomer Keenan O’Shea, elevating the hosts to outright favourites.

Nonetheless, Proctor can’t afford to contemplate the ‘have nots’ out of the Sunbury camp, rather continue the build on his own plan that is showing plenty of promise in the opening month.

The organisation and form of Sam Glover and Josh Morris down back, the run and carry of next gen trio Taj Bowman, Will Quinlan and  Reggie Palmer and heavy load shouldered by Brock Leonard, Elliott Lamb and Tom Bromley-Lynch has given forwards Denver Grainger Barrass, Jye Lockett and Jamie Quick a host of entries to capitalise - and that they are!

Sunbury’s makeshift 22 will arrive with a plan, some with an opportunity to cement a spot, proving their worth on the big stage.

I don’t envy White’s mission without the likes of Jake Sutton, Zach Stevens, Jordan Tentonello, Mitch McLean, Guthrie and O’Shea.

On paper, it’s North Ballarat who hold the aces despite the Lions undeniable top end talent led by Jake Egan and Tyson Lever.

However, if the Roosters are slightly off their tucker, beware of the hungry Pride.
White is a proud leader of his men so expect an immediate response from last week’s 83-point drubbing at the hands of Melton.
If the Roosters can withstand the heat early in the name of a hunting Pride, North Ballarat will be well on their way consolidating a spot in the top six (3-1) ahead of another blockbuster home game against the Bloods (2-1).

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Expect the Devils’ 23-game winning streak to be challenged on Saturday when they head to MacPherson Park to take on the Bloods.

Sure, the Bloods will be a little shy of their best 22 but they have proven a bogie team for Dan Jordan’s all conquering army having won four of the past five meetings.

For the record the Devils last defeat came in Round 1 last year at the hands of the Bloods at this very venue.

Melton coach Troy Scoble will have had this ‘Match of the Round’ on his radar for some time and done his due diligence on the progression of the Devils.

While appreciating the reigning premier’s obvious firepower, you can take it to the bank Scoble will back in his system getting the job done.

You know what you’re going to get from the Devils, the evidence speaks for itself. They’re healthy, on the up into the new season and hunting the complete four quarter performance.

Denying the Devils intent will be an afternoon long battle for the Bloods who returned with a bang on the road last week, thrashing Sunbury by 83 points.

Jordan will have done his homework and plotted his own plan undoing the Bloods in front of their own fans.

Playmakers Braedan Kight, Liam Carter, Kyle Borg and rebound defender Jordy Cotter loom the obvious threats derailing the Devils dream run.

Kight arrives on the back of eight goals last week and will have earned a target match up.

In the last three season’s the x-factor forward has been held goal less just once - extraordinary effort.

But where do you start if you’re Scoble trying to find the right balance between containing the Devils’ mounting star power and etching a plan offensively capable?

While the 2024 premiership coach has found a way in all bar one of his matchups with the Devils, Scoble would be the first to concede a repeat success given the current landscape would be his best yet.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The spirited Burra will look to maintain their early season form with a big win over the Lakers at CE Brown Reserve.

For Tony Lockyer’s men eyeing a 4-0 start, they will want to use Saturday’s hit out as the final tune up ahead of ‘big boy’ month with meetings against Sunbury (A), Darley (H), North Ballarat (H) and Melton (A) to follow.

Sebastopol are flying at the moment - even without key midfielders Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell, who are closing in on a timely return.

In their absence, the Burra have used the opportunity to explore the ‘make-up’ of their midfield and what it looks like moving forward - all at the feet of in-form ruckman Toby Hutt.

Newcomers Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley and Joel Edwards have announced their arrivals at Sebastopol with an impressive opening month.

All have enjoyed either high numbers around the ball or in Edwards’ case, a bag of five goals last week just to loosen the collar.

The former GFL trio have taken some of the attention away from more familiar names in Jack Bambury, Luke Kiel, Hutt and Lockyer himself who continues to pose one of the more difficult match ups in the competition.

While Lockyer would be the first to acknowledge the challenges ahead, the task at hand in the form of the Lakers cannot be underestimated.

A win foremost, getting through unscathed, improving touch, connection and compliance will be high on Lockyer’s wish list for this week, plain and simple.

For Rohan Brown’s Lakers, how encouraging was it to see them lead the Swans at half time last week with spruik recruits Will Fordham and Corey Rich featuring prominently.

Hopefully the first half was replayed to the group during the week as motivation for what buy-in and belief will get you.

“More of the same for longer please”, will not only be Brown’s wish, but that from the competition more broadly.

The BFNL would love to see the Lakers give this a shake, but on form you can’t go passed the Burra making the perfect 4-0 start to their season.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Round 5 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

As the colder weather sets in the action is heating up as we enter a scintillating Round 5 fixture with plenty of questions looking to be answered. 

The Cobras should be fresh and raring to go after a week off ahead of their must win clash against Redan at Maddingley Park.

Coach Dennis Armfield has utilised the time well to work on a few things and will be hopeful a response in the compliance space is restored after their disappointing second half fade out against the Devils in Round 3.

The Cobras impressed winning their opening two games but struggled to maintain the spark for long enough in their previous two.

It’s hoping a timely rest, a reset of sorts, proves the catalyst for a return to the winners list.

While the Cobras will start warm favourites, you can’t put a reservation on the capabilities of a young side like Redan given any momentum.

There are just enough experienced soldiers in the Lions’ camp to help steer the ship if they’re in a position to win.

One thing is for certain; Redan are well coached and will not leave any stone unturned despite having 18 of their 22 last week aged 21 or under.

While out classed against unbeaten Sebastopol, the Lions were in their game at halftime against Ballarat, within five goals of Sunbury and did what they had to when putting away the Lakers.

Greig’s pride will be buoyed with the inclusion of more experienced campaigners Lachlan Bond, Jordy Grant and Jacob Werts (test) while they will have to wait on the availability of Rory Gunsser who debuted for Geelong VFL. Ball magnet Brodie Pope remains sidelined with a work injury.

The Cobras will be made to earn the points, with onus on their mid-forward connection to be a major player determining the length of separation on the scoreboard.

Jake Owen is the obvious focal point, but there are a number of others more than capable impacting the contest in the air or at ground level if the game can be played on the Cobras terms.

Whether silky mover Josh Huxtable attracts the attention of a tag will be a watch out of the Greig camp given his creative influence.

Given the age profile at Greig’s disposal, it’s not about wins and losses but he’ll give them every chance to orchestrate an upset win on the road. Momentum will be the key for their young group.

Big men Lachie and Taj Bond will ask questions of the Cobras’ defence while the progression of young winger Oliver Pittard (in best 4/4) has been encouraging.

Expect the Cobras to bounce back to the winners list and kick away late after an even first half.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

The Swans remain a work in progress despite their impressive 3-1 start to the season and must embrace their next challenge against East Point accordingly.

While Ash Baker’s group have won a respectable 10/16 quarters this season, they have trailed both the Lakers and Redan at the first change in the last fortnight.

Furthermore, the Lakers still led the Swans at the half, while in Redan’s case, the game was still in the balance with just a goal separating the two..

Sure, East Point haven’t won a game in the infancy of their rebuild but a sniff of momentum afforded to the Kangas may be all they need to scare the Swans, chasing the complete four quarter performance.

The Kangas should be fresh after the week off in an otherwise demanding competition, to hit the ground running albeit on the road at Alfredton Oval.

Can the Swans deny the midfield experience still at the Kangas’ first use and minimise their forward half entries?

Expect the contest to be ferocious early, a battle of ‘the first to crack’.

While Baker will be all over the Swans correcting on their slow starts, you can guarantee the Kangas will see that stat in isolation as an opportunity to kickstart momentum, despite the underdogs tag.

There’s many a proud member within the Kangas’ line up who would be frustrated with the reality of a 0-4 ledger that can often translate following a reset.

So, heed the advice Swans, get cracking early or risk these proud Kangas coming for you on your home deck.

Star Kangas’ utility Jacob Brown returns and will champing at the bit to have an immediate impact after what he endured (watching) on the sidelines against North Ballarat.

The Swans have an exciting mix of player type and capabilities. Getting that enviable spread to connect over four quarters would be the testing material for any opposition.

For the immediate task at hand however, another forward showing from Baker’s bevy, a game on their terms for longer, should be enough to hold out a willing and eager Kangas outfit.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The Roosters are beginning to live up to early (external) expectations with three wins on the bounce but must raise the bar again to overcome the Bloods.

North Ballarat coach Clint Proctor is no fool and would have watched the Bloods tape and identified how they were able to get away with the Devils again.

One win over the reigning premiers could be considered a surprise but five of the last six - that’s a pattern.

Proctor must find the ‘solution’ if they’re to deny an underestimated, understrength Bloods’ system.

The Roosters had two cracks at the Bloods last year and could’ve and should’ve won them both!

A failed third attempt, albeit their first meeting in 2026, will shed further light on where the two teams are at.

The Bloods have little to prove given their recent successes and will embrace the underdogs tag for a third week in a row like a duck to water.

However, given the Bloods’ past fortnight and the realities of ongoing injury and unavailability, don’t be surprised if coach Troy Scoble opts for the ‘long game’ or preservation mode for the Mars Stadium assignment.

The ‘Blooderhood’, still a handful shy of their best, will back in their system that withstood all of Sunbury and Darley, roll with their youth and see what that delivers.

No point wasting crucial assets if indeed they’re not ready - in May!

North Ballarat are flying in all areas of the ground at the moment, the buy-in and compliance under captain Elliott Lamb and Proctor is palpable.

The Roosters have won 11 of their previous 12 quarters, including their last two games at home.

Unfortunately for the Bloods, their much-celebrated defence will need to contain Denver Grainger Barras in what will likely be his last game until August due to travel. Also consider dangerous pair Jamie Quick and Jye Lockett who have hit the scoreboard with a bag of six goals and five respectively in the last fortnight.

Despite the Bloods’ unquestionable momentum with wins over both of last year’s grand finalists in successive weeks, surely, they can’t reproduce that level again and deny a fit and fresh Roosters outfit keen to make a statement of their own in front of home fans and the competition more broadly.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

After a taxing month against four of last year’s finalists the Devils get the opportunity to spread their wings on home soil against the winless Lakers.

Sure, their 23-game winning streak came to a surprise end for a few last week, but the reality is the Bloods have won five of their last six meetings head-to-head under Troy Scoble.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan will use the afternoon to work on any areas of their game he has identified needs room for improvement ahead of a huge match up on the road with Sebastopol (currently 4-0) in Round 6.

If I was to be picky the reigning premier’s first quarters are in need of a spark having returned below par numbers of 8.16 on the scoring front, clearly their worst of any term in their opening four rounds.

The Lakers are 6.12 in the same stat for measure.

The form of dual Henderson Medallist and Devils’ captain Brett Bewley sees him in rare air with a collective 100 disposals over the last fortnight.

Touted Lakers’ off-season additions not shy on experience will see first-hand the buy-in the former Fremantle Docker provides leading by example.

Will Fordham, Corey Rich, Alfred Jarnestrom and Louis Antonac are four quality players tipped to have an impact on the Lakers’ fortunes, but a first win still eludes them.

The assignment for Rohan Brown’s group, who concede just shy of 150 points per game on average across the first four rounds, does not get any easier heading into one of the toughest road trips in the BFNL.

The Devils will be hungry to atone for their loss last week and regain the kind of touch that saw them so dominant for the best part of 12 months.

The timing for the Lakers copping the Devils is not ideal.

Expect favourable, compelling numbers to bat deep for Jordan’s men in the aftermath, not to mention on the goal front.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The embattled Sunbury Lions face another gruelling test in more ways than one when they prepare for the undefeated Burra at the weekend.

Six missing staples from the Sunbury line up last week will face fitness tests in a race against time to aid the rebound off two compelling losses to Melton and North Ballarat.

Josh Guthrie, Fraser Ampulski, Tyson Cook, Brock Landt (unlikely), Mitch McLean and Nathan Wood will be put through their paces for a desperate recall.

The timing of the draw didn’t help Matty White’s depleted pride at all, copping the Bloods, the Roosters and now the high-flying Burra.

White, like opposing coach Tony Lockyer, is quite the diplomat in these circumstances.

It’s an “it is what it is” scenario despite the obvious frustrations. From the outside, you have to wonder if the Lions’ interrupted prep with weddings, cricket finals and the like has denied them the ideal preparation with most having missed large periods of games in the pre-season.

Anyway, enough of that. White has made zero reference to the quandary the Lions are in on the casualty front so let’s reason with the ‘what haves’.

Well, what Sebastopol ‘have’ is a thriving list arriving on the back of four wins.

However, the Burra’s next month will tell us more of where they sit in the pecking order having played three of the bottom four sides who have won just one game between them.

Sebastopol’s three recruits from the GFL in Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley and Joel Edwards have been significant - they would be loving their short time in the new colours.

I’m sure Lockyer would’ve advised them of the realities that lay forward despite the week-by-week cliche approach.

Looks like Lockyer will get the Lions well shy of their best 22 but it won’t stop him from reaching higher, asking more of their own capabilities.

Bailey Medwell and Lachie Cassidy returned last week and will be better for the run, timely ahead of a trip to Clarke Oval.

Leading forward Joel Edwards will be brimming with confidence on the back of his 12 goals last week as would Adam Forbes given his consistency around the sticks.

The competition is very even for the most part, the intent on the footy uncompromising regardless of the score line.

If the Burra cannot overcome a vulnerable Lions outfit that would be a disappointing result for Lockyer.

In closing, the Burra have spent too long dealing with their own frustrations over recent times - they’re as fit and as healthy as they’ve been in years.

Lockyer has lived through it all - best make it count!

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Round 6 Football Preview with Scoop

The Round 6 fixture promises plenty of big blockbusters as teams continue to grapple over the BFNL ladder while looking for valuable wins across the board.

There’s arguably no more important game amidst a blockbuster Round 6 BFNL fixture when the Cobras host the Lions at Maddingley Park.

While we savoured the heroics of Sunbury’s backs-to-the-wall win over Sebastopol last week, Matty White’s pride must stay in the present or risk falling short against a more than capable Cobras outfit under Dennis Armfield.

The Cobras’ 65-point win over Redan last week may have been lost in the wash to a degree given it was not only their biggest win of the season but Redan’s second biggest loss in their opening five rounds.

Armfield’s quiver did a lot right last week at this very venue, their key players were not only significant but the contributions from their next tier were enough to suggest they will take it right up to last year’s grand finalists who may take some time shaking the emotional highs of last week.

The reality is the Cobras are sixth with three wins (99%) and Sunbury seventh on two wins (75%). Given the sample size of the opening five rounds, we can safely assume the race for a spot in the top six is down to seven teams.

Just who can record the best results head-to-head against those seven are likely to feature, adding further weight of importance to this contest.

How will the four players for Sunbury who returned from injury front up on the road second up? The nature of injury can lean to a second up plateau in performance, anything resembling that could spell danger for White’s pride.

If Bacchus Marsh can start on the right foot like they did last week it will go a long way towards claiming a second scalp already this year. Season results so far indicate you don’t want to be chasing the game, arresting momentum.

While both sides have shown they can put together back-to-back goals for periods, similar concedes (goals against) guarantee this game will be decided in the ‘momentum’ space.

Sunbury welcome back reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan (Essendon VFL) and is likely to be a thorn in the Cobras’ fortunes for the most part.

Cobras spearhead Jake Owen is a handful at the best of times and will ask questions of a Sunbury defence who thrive on rebound led by Tyson Lever.

Quality of entries aiding that mid-forward connection will also be a telling feature as Lions’ forward pair Daniel Johnston and Pat Scanlon look for any aerial advantage.

Gee, my gut was leaning to Bacchus Marsh to cause an upset until I heard of Egan’s imminent return.

After more thought, the sense of an upset still remains. Ignore the current standings of the McDonald’s BFNL ladder, the Lions are favourites albeit on the road.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

The Swans leave the city of Ballarat for the first time this season for an enthralling meeting with the Bloods.

It’s always a test down the highway given the four sides in the ‘East’ all played finals last year.

Sure, Ballarat enjoyed an afternoon of the finals action themselves but outside of ‘Brick city’ for the touring party, the degrees of difficulty are raised, like it or not.

However, Swans’ coach Ash Baker will arrive confident he has the right mix of experience and talent, not to mention Ballarat’s point of difference.

The reference to the tall timber stocks at the Swans does get a little monotonous but the reality is - they are the significant point of difference.

Expect Biggie Nyuon to return after a rest from general soreness while Patrick Graham and key back Alex Keith should be keen to exploit their vertical advantage over an unsettled Bloods line up.

Yes, the Bloods can’t take a trick at the moment. In fact, ‘the moment’ is extending near the 12-month period with no less than five players missing from their best 22 from week to week.

Just who lines up for the Bloods this week, not even coach Troy Scoble will know until as late as Saturday morning such has been the frustrations of sidelined personnel.

If the Bloods can recapture the form that saw them account for last year’s grand finalists in successive weeks in Rounds 3 and 4, surely that alone makes a genuine case for them getting the job done on their own ‘dung hill’.

The Bloods have proven they can scrap with the best despite ‘men down’, their wins over Sunbury, Darley and last year’s preliminary final near miss will attest.

What version we see of the ‘Bloodahood’ this weekend will tell its own story on the scoreboard come 5pm.

Last week, up and about early before getting smashed. The ‘tipping point’ had finally claimed the Bloods for the last three quarters at Mars Stadium.

Can they bounce back quickly and deny a progressive Swans bevy, potentially vulnerable first up on the road?

The Swans’ list of talent rivals the Bloods on paper, however getting it done at Maccy Park gives me a leaning toward the hosts, but I wouldn’t be surprised if mistaken.

In the event of the Swans claiming the points it’s then they will have announced their arrival as a legitimate contender with a tough month ahead post the interleague bye.

If the Swans get the road scalp, three of their next four games are at home despite stiff opposition, a real chance to set up their season already buoyed with a 4-1 start.

For the Bloods, they can’t afford to look too far ahead - just one week at a time given their situation. No win can be considered a ‘lock’ given their current landscape.

Something tells me they might do enough to hold out the Swans in a tight one.

Curious to see how Scoble deals with the trumpeter Swans and how Baker denies the Bloods rebound defence and x-factor forward Braedan Kight an afternoon on their terms.

Should be a ‘biggie’!

Scoop’s tip: Melton

While the timing for the Lions to host red-hot North Ballarat is not ideal, coach Marc Greig will embrace the challenge as another opportunity for his young group to grow.

The Roosters have won their last four games in a row and sit on top of the BFNL table with a superior percentage and will look to build on that ahead of the May 23rd break.

Just to revisit that timing notion mentioned at the top for a second, Saturday will mark the highly anticipated debut of former SANFL ruckman Dave Brinker-Ritchie in Roosters’ colours.

The North Melbourne VFL listed talent has been held back due to ongoing knee soreness but has been cleared to play, adding to the spoil of riches at coach Clint Proctor’s disposal.

In fairness Proctor hasn’t had it all his own way in recent weeks with injuries to Brock Leonard (knee), Wilbur Shea (shoulder - season), Fletcher Loader (foot - season) and the more recent departure of Denver Grainger-Barras who is heading overseas (pre-planned) before a return to finals.

It’s arguably the first time Proctor, now in his second year, can openly cope with losing a few soldiers given the way his team have bought into the structure and execution of a plan.

While there were never any doubts on the Roosters’ a-grade spine, the impact of their spread players was always going to ask questions.

If the opening five rounds are any indication, the buy-in and compliance of the group has been nothing short of impressive as their place on the BFNL ladder will attest.

Sam Glover and Josh Morris have been the cornerstone in defence, rank one in the competition for scores against (46.2) and have yet to play two of the bottom three sides.

Redan will have very little investment in the numbers which does allow them freedoms without reservation.

Greig has his young group building from week to week endeavouring to stay in games for longer or at least fighting it out to the very finish.

That theory was noted last week despite the Lions’ 65-point loss to the Cobras.

The relatively more experienced Bond boys in Lachlan, Taj and Daniel, alongside Lachlan McLean and sprightly young talent Oliver Pittard provide some dangerous offensive presence while the distribution of Harry Lawson was very encouraging.

Unfortunately, the Lions have too many injuries to key players that would’ve at least made a case for mounting an upset.

While it’s not all about win/loss for Greig in his first season at helm of such a young group, rather an eye to ‘keep moving forward’.

However, the requirements of this editorial says I have to make a call regardless.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

This star-studded matchup between the Burra and the Devils has the potential to go down to the wire when the two sides face off at Marty Busch Reserve.

The Burra were disappointing last week on the road to Sunbury but that, in hindsight, should come as no surprise, considering the proud club has NEVER won at Clarke Oval (0-23).

At home against the Devils won’t be an easy assignment by any stretch for Tony Lockyer’s 4-1 outfit but the weekend bares as good as time as any to take down the reigning premiers, despite an imposing 24-1 record from their last 25 BFNL games.

Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer will welcome the challenge in front of home fans despite their recent struggles against the black and white.

Newcomers Joel Edwards, Jack Buckley, Felix Henderson and returning Bailey Medwell complement an already talented and healthy list ready to embrace another footy audit amidst a testing 2026 season.

The failings of the Burra last week may work in Lockyer’s favour, with a greater focus on their own process as opposed to being preoccupied with the long list of enviable, very real challenges within the Devils’ line up.

Sure, Dan Jordan’s army could not have impressed more last week against the Lakers but the reality is the unofficial competition benchmark has had to come from behind in near all of their games this season to get the job done.

While the Devils remain a work in progress, the degrees of difficulty on the road will ask questions of their resilience putting a four-quarter performance together against quality opposition.

Jordan would be the first to concede such comfort has yet to materialise.

Burra key soldiers in Lockyer, Luke Kiel, Toby and Ben Hutt, Lachlan Cassidy, Adam Forbes and Jack Bambury to name a few, will be fully aware what lies in waiting but for the Devils it’s somewhat of a different story given the hosts off season inclusions and rare, full bill of health.

The Devils’ recent record is compelling, too many names to mention but all too familiar for Lockyer given recent history.

Run with roles, targeted match ups or simply a head-to-head approach lies in the trusting hands of the beholders.

While the stakes pale in comparison to what’s to come at the business end, good

luck convincing either of these league heavyweights.

Should be a cracker, here’s hoping expectations live up to the billing.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

While neither side is yet to win a game, expect the Kangas to enter Saturday’s contest at CE Brown Reserve warm favourites.

Unfortunately, key personnel from both camps are expected to miss.

The Lakers’ highly touted recruit Will Fordham (leg-unlikely) joins integral teammates Jake Lohmann (hamstring), Angus Gove (elbow) and Joel O’Connell (leg) on the sidelines while the Kangas prepare without Jarrod Joyce (knee), Jacob Brown (hamstring), Geordie Slater (knee) and the unlikelihood of inside mid Mickijta Rotomuh-Onus (groin).

The Lakers have shown some resistance early in games including a first half win over the Swans and booted three of the first four goals of the game last week against reigning premiers Darley.

On the flipside the Kangas matched it with the Swans for three quarters to be within touch and stretched the Devils into time on before a late rally from Dan Jordan’s men averted the upset of the season.

The concern for the Lakers is their leaky defence who have been extended little favours from their midfield counterparts in the form of low pressured entries.

Last week was the prime example despite an obvious gulf in class and experience.

The Lakers conceded 26 unanswered goals which is enough to suggest they may need to shift a few magnets, minimising the damage moving forward.

If that example in isolation is not enough, the 162-point average concede over the opening 5 rounds rings alarm bells.

The Kangas have endured their own struggles in the rebuild conceding on average 108 points per game but have been more competitive on the offensive front averaging 54 points per game compared to the Lakers’ 41.

Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody has too many potential winners head-to-head across the ground to be troubled by Rohan Brown’s Lakers for long enough to be concerned.

But try telling that to Carmody!

The experienced mentor won’t take anything for granted, acutely aware of the benefits a win can do for the morale of a club in the infancy of a rebuild.

It’s fair to assume Brown is in a similar boat with his boys, desperate for a win and the spoils that come with it.

However, the reality of the Lakers securing the premiership points appears beyond them.

Expect the Kangas to notch up their first win of the season and celebrate in song as if it were a final.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Round 7 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

After the Interleague bye, the action is back on home turf with plenty of big clashes set to take place this Saturday.

The high-flying Swans (5-1) will be without boom recruit Alex Keath (concussion) for Saturday’s enthralling match up against the Cobras (4-2) at Alfredton Oval.

While the former AFL intercept defender’s absence looms as a mini win for the visitors in the build-up, the emergence of Riley Constable as a bonafide key back doesn’t mean its ‘alarm bells’ for Ash Baker’s bevy.

In fact, the Swans’ defence has continued to improve up from rank 5th in the comp last year to 3rd after the opening six rounds.

The Cobras ‘busy’ front half led by Jake Owen will ask questions of a Swans’ defence without Keath but I’m confident they can hold sway under pressure as they did against Melton (albeit with Keath) restricting them to nine goals for the afternoon.

The ruck battle looms a cracker with Cobras’ big man Luke Goetz up against 200cm pairing Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon.

If the Cobras can deny the Swans tall duo, that will go a long way toward claiming a fourth win against a 2025 finalist already this year.

Biggie does his damage forward, it’s as simple as that, and leads the Tony Lockett Medal race averaging four goals a game.

Just who gets that match up will be a ‘watch this space’ given the lack of genuine height among a Cobras’ defence without Wil Lalor.

The centre clearance battle at the feet of the tall timber will surely play its own role given very little separates the two sides on the numbers front.

If you look at the numbers, they compare nicely.

Bacchus Marsh (62) lead Ballarat (58) for hit outs while averaging two more hitouts to advantage per game (11.8 to 9.7) While the Swans lead clearance 20-17 and centre clearances 11-10.7.

The dogfight 1%s are also evenly matched 45-41 in favour of the Swans.

Baker’s boys are currently ranked one in the comp for pressure and handballs so the challenge for Dennis Armfield’s army will be to bring the heat, denying the Swans a spread on their own terms.

If the Cobras can resemble anything close to their recent win over Sunbury, they’re surely in the mix of joining the Swans on five wins.

The numbers suggest there’ll be very little in it, I guess the one that matters most come 5pm will be the scoreboard. The wash up on the numbers front will be reserved for a later day.

Postcode tip for me.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The Kangas will host the Bloods minus four of their big guns Jackson Merrett (season - broken arm), Jacob Brown (hamstring), Jarrod Joyce (knee) and Joe Dodd (four weeks suspended but currently contested).

As if the assignment wasn’t hard enough, especially when the Bloods are 3-3 and in desperate need of a win.

Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody will embrace the occasion as another opportunity to grow the next gen talent into the cornerstone of the club’s future.

While the win/loss stat is not everything at East Point, spare a thought for Melton coach Troy Scoble who is in the ‘premiership window’ but like so many can’t get their best version of themselves on the park.

Expect some change of luck for the Bloods this week with the return of premiership duo Lachlan Walker (concussion) and Ryan Davis (leg).

While the result for many is weighted heavily in the Bloods favour it’s fair to say both camps are clearly frustrated with the mounting injury toll and would rather take each other on at full strength.

Sidelined talent helps neither team. Even the Kangas who are invested in the ‘opportunity space’ would rather be developing their players alongside experienced campaigners Merrett, Brown and the like.

For Scoble at the Bloods, while their situation resembles more like Groundhog Day for another week, it’s time crack in and be grateful for the ‘what have’s’.

While they’re shy on a few soldiers, those standing have proven more than capable and will get the job done again.

Looking for a day out on the road in front of goal for Bloods forward pair Braedan Kight (6 goals from 5 games) and Liam Carter (11 goals from 6 games).

Scoop’s tip: Melton

All roads lead to Marty Busch Reserve for Saturday’s top of the table clash between the Burra and the Roosters.

The hosts have arguably the healthiest list in the comp and will enter the clash near full strength with only Sam Wilkinson likely to miss.

The Roosters have not been as fortunate with speedster Reggie Palmer (broken arm) their latest casualty, set for a period on the sidelines.

Brock Leonard (ACL), Wilbur Shea (shoulder) and Fletcher Loader (foot) are already done for the season while Simon McCartin (calf) and Isaac Carey (knee) are still three and four weeks away respectively.

Some good news however for the Roosters with the likely return of journeyman, key defender Isaac Lovisson who has played just one game since the 2023 grand final.

Lovisson has been in the US plying his trade as a punter in the American football system and was named best on ground in his return game with the Roosters’ Reserves in Round 6.

On the numbers front, very little separates these two sides. Overall pressure (NB+4), hard ball gets (NB+1) and intercept possessions (NB+3) are just three key areas validating the even nature of the match up.

Despite the Roosters slight edge, five game winning streak, and (current) number one ranked defence, my gut feel is somehow with the Burra.

Their dominance to kick away from Darley early in Round 6 and later respond when challenged is an ideal prep for a similar challenge.

Tony Lockyer’s boys have had a chance to rest up, identify the positives, and take learnings from a season defining win.

The mature heads at Sebastopol just may be enough to worry Clint Proctor’s crew out of it in the clinches.

Proctor would be the first to concede his group are on a journey while it feels like the Burra are playing with an edge, making up for lost time.

While a win for either of these big Improvers will do wonders in the belief space moving to 6-1 on top of the BFNL ladder, it’s not the end of the world for the loser.

Should be a belter, a true test of depth stocks for both camps.

Time to kick back and enjoy the show!

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Lions get the perfect opportunity at home against the Lakers to work on areas of their game, with an eye toward resembling some of the habits and enjoyment levels that led them to a berth in last year’s grand final.

Sunbury are 2-4 from their opening six games and like many, haven’t had the best run on the injury or availability front.

Coach Matty White is a proud leader of his pride so look for a compliant response on Saturday that equates to a big win on the scoreboard.

Unfortunately for the Lakers they can’t take a trick at the moment both on and off the field. Winless and an injury list to key personnel that would impact any side let alone one who has struggled to just four wins from their last 56 games.

Tireless ruckman Tom Zampatti (ACL) and midfield recruit Will Fordham (awaiting knee scans) are the latest casualties compounding an already difficult season for coach Rohan Brown and his group.

Knowing the character of Brown, expect the Lakers to embrace the road trip and plan on delivering one thing above all else at the weekend - effort.

That at least would appease the frustrations to some degree in the aftermath.

Lions star forward Jake Sutton is likely to return to Sydney while Jake Egan is in line for an Essendon VFL recall.

Key staples Josh Guthrie, Fraser Ampulski, Nathan Doyle and Dean Muir all missed the Lions Round 6 loss to Bacchus Marsh and face fitness tests ahead of their highly anticipated returns.

While a certain inevitability looms around the result, expect both camps to arrive with a number of KPIs they’ll want ticked off within game to validate any further progress.

Four-time premiership player Luther Baker prepares for his 200th game on Saturday when his beloved Devils host Redan at Darley Park.

The reigning premiers will look to assert their authority early having won just one game in May after away losses to Melton and Sebastopol.

But they will be made to earn it.

Redan coach Marc Greig was proud of his fledgling groups effort against ladder leaders North Ballarat at their last outing having pushed to be within eight points at half time.

Unfortunately, the reality is the Lions have struggled to score on relatively good decks since their Round 1 win over the Lakers. In fact, the Lions have just won three of 20 quarters since and are 0-5 for last quarters.

Returns on the goal front since their season opener (10,9,7,9,7) have been modest and Saturdays assignment finding a way through the Devils’ defence looms another tough challenge.

The proud high end of Devils talent will be raring to go, Jordan hopeful they can be ‘in the present’ having put their two recent losses behind them.

For the depth charges, a greater response in the compliance space, that was found wanting against the Burra, would be high on Jordan’s agenda.

For some reason the Lions, regardless of ladder position, have always enjoyed periods of momentum (in games) against the Devils.

However, despite the obvious aerial threats of Lachie and Taj Bond forward of the ball, the Lions inability to keep opposition scores under 100 is compelling 107, 164, 100, 126, 98 last five games.

So, expect the Devils to build on their scoreboard separation the longer this game goes.

What the Lions can hope for is denying the slow starting Devils a game on their own terms.

Darley (excluding Lake Wendouree) has split their first quarter win/losses for the sample size averaging just 16 points for the term. Expect Saturday to be part of the correction from the Jordan camp.

While every team was rapt to have last week off after a high octane start to the season - a spike in the Devils’ hunger levels would not surprise as they look to raise the bar amidst a very challenging title defence for the black and white.

Result aside, you can count on the unofficial ‘Lachie George Cup’ to generate its own point of interest!

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Round 8 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Round 8 presents some massive road trips as clashes up and down the highway will set the tone of the BFNL's current power rankings.

Bacchus Marsh face an ideal opportunity to atone for last week’s disappointment when they host the Lakers at Maddingley Park.

Dennis Armfield’s group cling to fifth spot on the BFNL table, a game clear of Melton and Sunbury who are sure to mount a challenge on the rise at some stage.

The Cobras, while expected to win, will have to get the job done without prime mover Jake Owen (hamstring).

Evidently Owen’s aerial prowess makes up one of just two key areas the Cobras rank in the ‘elite’ space according to Premier Data.

The other, hitouts - enter Luke Goetz.

The standout ruckman endured a tough afternoon last week, like many of his teammates, up against 200cm mobile Swans pair Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon.

Goetz task on Saturday has been made relatively easier in the absence of well-respected Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti who succumbed to a repeat ACL injury three weeks ago.

More broadly the numbers don’t lie for the Cobras. Closing the gap between their best and worst is symptomatic of a young team striving for greater consistency.

Essentially, we’ve seen firsthand how good the Cobras can be and what that looks like but on the flipside for periods against the Devils and the Swans they’ve been found wanting.

In fairness to the Cobras, they are yet to field their best 22 all season and that will remain the case for as long as trump card Jake Owen is sidelined.

Armfield is a positive voice and has the ability to get his boys to lift on the back of disappointment so expect a correction from the Cobras in front of home fans on Saturday.

Given the ‘outs’ at the Cobras, personnel are essentially auditioning on the run to be a part of their best 22 moving forward. That motivation alone should warrant a spike response.

The Cobras would be rapt with the last month from Sam Griffiths and Isaac Nixon and the consistent effort of tireless mid Jack Parente who seems to come up against players out of the VFL and AFL system from week to week.

For Rohan Brown’s Lakers mini wins will again forefront the agenda. Like it or not it’s just the reality of where they’re at.

It’s the second away trip in as many weeks down the highway for the Lakers and their third in five weeks. For the opening half of last week’s loss to Sunbury, Brown’s boys look to be enjoying the bonding nature of footy on the road to be within 11 points.

Clutching at straws I know but the Lakers also kicked three of the opening four goals of the game against the Devils in Round 5.

Can the clear underdogs click early once again and ask questions of a Cobras outfit potentially on the back foot from last week and the injury to Owen?

In the mini win stakes, the Lakers have a chance pinching a first or second quarter, catching the Cobras napping but expect the longer this game goes the hosts will do enough to secure the points and strive for any percentage advantages that come up with it.

The scoreboard will surely reflect the fruits of the Cobras labour as the Lakers endeavour to deny them an afternoon on their own terms.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Melton (6th) face the difficult task of ladder leaders Sebastopol at MacPherson Park in Saturday’s match of the round in the ‘East’.

While the clearance stat in isolation carries varying degrees of weight from coach to coach, the Bloods will need to address their ‘average’ returns (-7.4 avg) against a deep Burra’s midfield or contemplate the prospect of “chasing the game”.

Furthermore, the Burra rank #1 in the comp for inside 50s with an average of 60 per game, exceeding the previous two dominant premiers in Darley and Melton who were around the mid-50s.

A healthy Bloods outfit would have no reason to fear Tony Lockyer’s flock given they’re prominent in a host of key areas and lead the competition for pressure and intercept possessions.

However, the unwelcomed, overwhelming stat the Bloods have over the Burra is a casualty list they can’t shake leaving them exposed in the ‘bottom six’ conversation.

Lachie Watkins, Ryan Carter, Riley Walker, Brodie Sullivan and latest casualty Adrian Monitto are five players the Bloods missed in last week’s four-point loss to East Point.

All are unlikely to return for this all important stoush against the Burra who could push them outside the six for the first time in a longtime under Troy Scoble.

Sebastopol are seemingly a band of brothers at the moment, healthy and embracing their challenges under Lockyer from week to week.

Lockyer is not getting ahead of himself nor engaging in the potential ceiling of his group just yet.

The ‘flag favourites’ tag was put to the veteran playing coach midweek and duly deflected with a straight bat.

“Settle down mate, settle down!”

When the likes of Lockyer, Toby and Ben Hutt, Lachie Cassidy, Luke Kiel, Jack Bambury, Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley are healthy, streaming up and down the ground as we’ve seen over the last month especially, why wouldn’t you have them in the mix.

Just don’t tell Tony!

Much will be asked of the Bloods core to hold out the Burra. They’ve proven more than capable on their day and having dragged themselves off the canvas on a number of occasions to win games many believe they couldn’t.

The Bloods just aren’t travelling well enough for mine at the moment, but a peak performance would certainly stretch the Burra regardless of their absentees.

However, I’m tipping the wave of the Burra to maintain its momentum for another week in a physical affair.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

2025 Grand Finalists Sunbury will need to bring their best if they’re to trouble the high-flying Swans (6-1) on the road at Alfredton Oval.

The Lions will be required to do it without Sydney Swans VFL, and reigning Tony Locket Medallist Jake Sutton.

Matty White’s Pride are a far cry from their high achieving exploits of 2025 but injuries and inadvertent departures have stalled their progress.

While the inclusions for the Lions have shown encouraging returns, the progressive nature of the Swans has been something to behold - to take up and notice.

Furthermore, their chances can only be improved with the return of former AFL intercept defender Alex Keath. More recent addition, Luke Dunstan’s (ex-AFL St Kilda and Melbourne) is expected to debut in Swans colours next week against Darley.

Ash Baker’s bevy have been able to achieve high end numbers in the ‘keeping off’ space, an area we normally associate with Sunbury and Melton.

Adding further weight to the ‘marks’ conversation in particular, only Sebastopol average more marks inside 50 per game.

For the record, there’s more to the bevy than high profile trio Biggie Nyuon, Alex Keath and Brad Crouch - and the numbers will agree.

The organic growth of the Swans is not dissimilar to the Bloods of yesteryear and the Lions of last season - the impact is palpable.

Pigeonhole the Swans’ top-end at your end peril - they ‘bat deep’, down to their 22nd man, all of whom would get a game in any BFNL team .

What you get with Sunbury, is what you see, what you’re familiar with.

While you can’t underestimate the Lions ceiling on any given day, White was one of the first opposition coaches noting the Swans were on the up.

And that they are, proving that again last week after dominating Bacchus Marsh from the outset.

Sure, the depth stocks at Sunbury are staking their claims to be part of their best 22 moving forward but it’s going to take more, taming the Swans.

I get there’s a certain feel among many, the Lions will do enough to return to finals but don’t count on the ‘hurry up’ with a win over the Swans in Ballarat at the weekend.

Ash Baker’s bevy are the real deal.

Lions beware!

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

North Ballarat has been decimated with injury and unavailability of 11 front line starters ahead of its match of the round meeting with Darley at Mars Stadium.

Star utility Sam Glover (internal bleeding), Isaac Lovisson (hamstring), Jarrod Curran (hamstring) and Declyn McGuigan (concussion) are the latest casualties from the Roosters camp to be ruled out of the Round 8 blockbuster.

Both sides enter the clash with solid home and away form, locked together on five wins, third (Darley) and fourth (North) on the BFNL ladder.

While the external appetite for this bout has been soured by the mounting casualty list at the Roosters, the same cannot be said for the anticipation held inside both camps as yet another of many on-field footy audits in season 2026 presents.

While this contest is morphing into a throw at the stumps game for Clint Proctor’s Roosters, try telling that to Devils’ mentor Dan Jordan!

The two-time premiership coach will be taking nothing for granted fully aware of the Devils own struggles peaking on the road this year.

The reigning premiers have just one win from three outings in the white shorts and were in trouble during their only success on the road against East Point.

It’s the Roosters’ number one ranked defence vs the Devils’ number one ranked offence if scores for and against are the barometer.

In 13/28 quarters this season, the Roosters have held their opposition to one goal or less which will ask questions of the Devils forward connection.

Only once this season have the Roosters lost the inside 50 count, centre clearance and groundball stat which is validation for their improvement.

Unfortunately for Proctor, there were telling signs last week his group had reached their tipping point.

Gee they’ve been brave and competitive despite the setbacks, and you can count on them leaving it all out there again on Saturday regardless of the result.

The undermanned Roosters will need to find a way curtailing a host of Devils talent well aware of this game’s importance in the context of a very even season.

Gun trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Billy Myers arrive in scary touch, while the form of Luther Baker, Mickey Edwards, Joel Cadman and current BFNL leading goal kicker Wil Johnson is on the upward trend which would be music to the ears of Devils fans.

Despite the absentees, the Roosters still carry enough armoury including a home deck to challenge Bewley’s entourage.

It’s advantage North Ballarat in the ruck stocks with newcomers Dave Brinker-Ritchie and Seb Collins while the form of Josh Morris and ‘Glover prodigy’ Dominic Penny in defence has been first class.

Just what the Roosters can manufacture out of dangerous forward pair Jye Lockett and Jamie Quick will tell its own story around the result in the aftermath.

The Devils have been dealt all the favours ahead of their all-important road trip against a Roosters outfit virtually on their knees. It’s up to Jordan and his on-field leaders to ensure they don’t stand up.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The rebuilding Kangas could find themselves just percentage outside the six with a win over the Lions at Easten Oval on Saturday.

Their chances of a third win of the season will be aided by the potential return of x-factor swing man Jacob Brown who must get through a fitness test on his troublesome hamstring to earn a recall.

Experienced Kangas defender Sam Cue returns from his suspension to bolster stocks against a Redan outfit hopeful of a few inclusions of their own - namely Brodie Pope, Jake Connolly, Oscar Henderson and Liam Hoy

While it was no surprise to see the Lions outclassed against a more seasoned Devils unit last week, the Kangas win over the Bloods certainly raised a few eyebrows across the competition AND at home.

Despite their eighth placing on the BFNL table the Kangas have managed to maintain their reputation as an above average side in clearance and groundball numbers according to Premier data.

Ruckman Thomas Brown, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd (suspended) and Liam Canny have proven the catalyst around stoppage, while the safe return of Alex Molan and Jarrod Joyce (three goals) last week, saw the Kangas resemble something closer to the best version of themselves.

Just what to expect from a young Redan side is a difficult proposition despite just one win separating the two sides.

Not dissimilar to East Point, Redan coach Marc Greig has enjoyed little luck on the injury front in his first season in charge with Taj Bond (broken foot) their latest casualty.

A return date for the key ruck/forward has not been confirmed and I can’t see the Lions pinching a result without him.

Lions revelation Oliver Pittard continues to take steps forward in the infancy of his senior career and remains the only player in the BFNL to be named in the best in all seven games.

Unfortunately for Redan however, excluding their big win over the Lakers in Round 1, they have won just three quarters and are 0-6 for last quarters.

If Joe Carmody’s Kangas can find some separation through the middle part of the game the likes of Joyce and Brown (test) could have a day out.

While Redan usual suspects Lachie Bond, Rory Gunsser, Jacob Werts and Pittard loom the four players to lead the resistance, the Kangas can’t afford to underestimate impact returns from Pope, Connolly, Henderson and Hoy.

The challenge for Greig and his pride will be denying the hosts an afternoon on their own terms.

I’m not sure they can for long enough at Eastern Oval to sway opinion.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Round 9 Football Preview with Scoop

As the halfway point of the season approaches, things are heating up in the Wintery depths of the competition with plenty to play for this weekend.

Expect the high-flying Swans to start unofficial favourites against the Devils for the first time in four years at Darley Park.

Sure, the Devils recent record at home is compelling, a 15-0 run dating back to the 2024 Semi Final, but they’re vulnerable and need a scalp.

The reality is, the Devils have beaten the bottom four sides and only Bacchus Marsh (5th) inside the top six.

The weight of expectation on the Devils’ top end to deliver has never been greater since Nick Hind joined the club at the start of 2025.

The reigning premiers will require every bit of their brilliance PLUS a second tier and depth response to get this done!

Star playmakers Hind, Brett Bewley and Billy Myers lead the charge again on Saturday but will be confronted by a team that bats arguably deeper than any list for talent in the competition.

The Swans’ enviable point of difference is their well-documented trio of inform 200cm keys Patrick Graham (in best 6/8), Biggie Nyuon (26 goals/7 games) and Alex Keath (in best 4/6 games).

The luxury for coach Ash Baker developing the spread around them is seeing a growing response by the week, their commitment to the task is palpable.

Midfield combo Lewis Rinaldi, Fraser Perkins, Thomas Simpson and Wyatt Squires will test the elite band of Devils given the advantage of Graham’s athleticism in the ruck.

The potential inclusions of Footscray VFL listed talent Tristan Maple, and former AFL pair Brad Crouch and Luke Dunstan (debut) only raises the degree of difficulty facing the black and white army.

While Biggie is the only Swans player to post 10 or more majors for the season, their frugal defence says they don’t need to shoot the lights out to win a game of footy.

Dual premiership coach Dan Jordan and his staff will be stretched to their limits finding a way to resemble their best footy for long enough and deny the Swans an impressive seventh win in a row and eighth for the season.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

Expect the Bloods to be buoyed with the inclusion of key forward Ryan Carter for their must win game on the road against Redan.

Troy Scoble’s Blooder-hood (6th) are two games shy of Bacchus Marsh and Darley and must win to consolidate a top six position as Sunbury come knocking.

The Bloods were brave last week against ladder leaders Sebastopol, anything resembling that performance should prove enough disposing of Marc Greig’s Pride (1-7) albeit on the road.

The Carter brothers, namely Liam and Ryan, alongside Braedan Kight, pose an afternoon long threat for the young Lions striving for a second win of the season without prime mover Taj Bond.

You can analyse this game as much as you like - manufacture a potential upset at your peril, for the reality is, the Bloods aren’t going as bad as their three-win season suggests.

Expect Melton to pull away late and win comfortably despite the resistance of a willing Redan outfit.

If found under the pump, the Bloods proven defence, led by Jordy Cotter, Harry Hanley and Lachie Phillips, in the absence of Adrian Monitto, is enough to suggest the Bloods will earn a fourth win of the season, closing the gap on either Bacchus Marsh or Darley who face difficult assignments against Sebastopol (1st) and Ballarat (2nd) respectively.

Redan coach Marc Greig, while well ahead of the Lakers predicament, can look for mini wins in the form of a quarter and or half win. The Lions are still yet to win a final quarter since the season opener against the Lakers (0-7)

The Bloods will do enough.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

The Lions host the Kangas in a must win game for Matty White’s Pride.

While very little separates the two sides on the BFNL table, the weight of expectation on Sunbury is far greater given Joe Carmody’s Kangas well versed rebuild.

The Lions should be full of confidence playing host given the last eight Ballarat based sides have left Clarke Oval disappointed.

Of the sample size, only the Swans (9 points) have been within four goals of the Lions who have had their way over their visitors from the ‘West’.

Ironically, there is some positives for the Kangas - they were the last Ballarat based team to win at the Den back in late 2024.

The visitors arrive on a three-game winning streak and welcome the return of Joe Dodd and Fraser Molan.

The Lions on the other hand have looked vulnerable without spearhead forward Jake Sutton, despite the efforts Daniel Johnston who has multiple goal returns in each of his last four games.

Other avenues to goal have been scarce amounting to a modest 66 points per game, down from 90 last year.

White, like most rival coaches has had his frustrations with ongoing injury, unable to get the best version of the Pride on the park.

Carmody has been in the same boat, minus the expectation.

It’s fair to say the Kangas have been travelling under the radar until now - expect White to have done his homework.

This game could make or break a proud Lions outfit who would not have pictured themselves 3-6 at the halfway mark. At least a 4-5 scenario at the turn is workable.

Despite the loss of Jackson Merrett, the Kangas are beginning to resemble more of the ideal Carmody had foreseen at the start of the season.

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus has had a huge month and will take some containing as will forward pair Jarrod Joyce and Jacob Brown.

The experienced heads at East Point will believe they can give this a shake given a mere 7.77% separates the two sides on the table.

Gee, the Kangas would’ve loved this meet to be at Eastern Oval given recent momentum but unfortunately a road trip to Sunbury is the reality.

Tough ask.

The Lions must win to stay in touch of the top six and protect the legacy that is Sunbury at Sunbury.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Burra return home for a fourth consecutive hitout against top six opposition when they host the Cobras at Marty Busch Reserve.

Tony Lockyer’s men have passed the acid test with flying colours having won all three encounters over a tough month, making it through relatively unscathed.

That’s unheard of at Sebastopol!

Lockyer was the first to concede they were made to earn their win against the Bloods last week having trailed by up to 25 points midway through the third term.

The running depth at Sebastopol, and ominous forward line, simply overwhelmed the Bloods in the end and you can expect similar reason proving the difference again on Saturday.

The Cobras are a good team on their day and possess underrated depth having played 37 from their list already in 2026 for win/loss returns on par with the reigning premiers and cross-town rivals Darley.

Yes, in the short, their win/loss nears a mirror image. Both have beaten the bottom four sides and one team inside the six.

Not a bad effort from a team who has had no less than five preferred options missing from week to week.

In this case, and crucial to the Cobras’ chances, bookends Jake Owen and Wil Lalor will miss another week.

We know how good Owen is but don’t underrate Lalor. The Cobras’ defence let in 11 goals from 37 entries last week against the 0-8 Lakers.

If the Burra can manage somewhere near their average of 60 inside 50s, I hold grave fears for Dennis Armfield’s defence coughing up 100 points in Wintery conditions!

In fairness the Burra conceded 11 goals from their 38 entries against last week against the Bloods but they’re a different assignment altogether.

Looking forward to a host of match ups starting with Toby Hutt and Luke Goetz in the ruck.

Just who can provide first use will be pivotal in this contest we hope is not impacted by any extreme Ballarat weather pattern.

The Burras’ forward line is a concern for the Cobras with Joel Edwards, Ash Munari and Cooper Littlehales all averaging over a goal a game - the three-pronged attack will stretch the Cobras aerially.

If that trio doesn’t get you Adam Forbes (6 multiple goals in 8 games) or Jacob Fletcher (5 multiple goals in 8 games) just might.

The Cobras are honest - Goetz, Josh Huxtable, Jack Kovacevic, James McDaid, the Griffiths boys, Isaac Nixon and season newcomer Zach Vesty are playing some good footy but overcoming the Burra on the road looms a bridge too far.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

League improvers North Ballarat will look to consolidate their position inside the top three against the Lakers, despite a host of key personnel on the sidelines.

Some positive news however out of the Clint Proctor camp with experienced campaigner Simon McCartin and progressive type Max Faulkner set for a return to bolster stocks ahead of Saturday’s important hitout.

Important you ask?

Given the setbacks and current age profile of North Ballarat, getting a game on their own terms for long periods won’t be an easy task.

These next gen Roosters are effectively on trial to stake their claims for a part of the action at the business end.

They all can’t hang on but the likelihood of Proctor finding a diamond in the rough is not out of the question.

Some nine Roosters aged 18 or under, showed enough last week, playing a role in a most memorable win over the Devils in abhorrent conditions.

With the genuine outs at the Roosters still in double figures, that will be welcoming news for Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown who has endured his fair share of hardship over the journey on the injury front.

While the scenario is not ideal for the Roosters, try telling that to Brown as he prepares for as good as chance as any to challenge a top three opponent.

The harsh reality is the Lakers will struggle despite the home ground advantage but that shouldn’t stop the perennial underdogs from having a crack, eyeing a ‘mini’ win or two, to draw on in the aftermath.

Harvey Hicks is an exciting type while season recruits Corey Rich and Alfred Jarnestrom continue to build some good form in Lakers colours.

Brown’s boys arrive on the back of their highest score from the last 12 months - that alone should see them embrace the challenge, eager to go further.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor will be just happy to bank the points, get through unscathed and see continued progress with his young brigade ahead of a Round 10 meeting with Ballarat (7-1).

Brown will keep his ‘wants’ from the game simple and achievable.

The pattern of scoring alone throughout the day will give us some indication as to how these developing groups measured up.

While there’s no reason to shy away from an expected, comfortable win for the Roosters,

I’m curious to see what resistance the Lakers can muster in front of their loyal band of supporters.

It all matters.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Redan started it's 2023 campaign under new coach Gary Learmonth with an emphatic 92 point win over a disappointing Lakers outfit in Good Friday's stand alone fixture at City Oval.

IN A NUTSHELL

Experienced Lions’ big guns stole the show with midfielder Lachie George named best afield and Grant Bell finishing with a game high five goals.

Reigning Club best and fairest and rising star Isaac Grant joined in bagging four majors while Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers could manage just one of their own for the entire afternoon coming via the boot of Nathan Pring.

Learmonth and Lions fans would have been all smiles over the Easter weekend before a birds-eye view opportunity, scoping future opponents presents at the conclusion of round one matches this coming Saturday.

For the Lakers, a 15-day break ahead of their round two meeting with Ballarat provides some valuable time to work on the fundamentals and improve connection.

Redan (Goals); G.Bell 5, I.Grant 4, L.McLean 2, H.Lawson, D.Phillips, L.Hoy, D.Bond, L.George.

Lakers (Goals); N.Pring.

Redan (Best); L.George, G.Bell, W.Madden, I.Grant, L.Phillips, J.Werts.

Lakers (Best); P.James, E.Preston, L.O'Connell.

COACHES VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan); "I was really happy with our commitment. Our pressure around the ball was excellent and our willingness to share the ball gave us plenty of forward entries to kick a winning score."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree); "The fact we went from 5 goals down at the 21-minute mark of the third quarter to losing by just under 100 is incredibly disappointing. Redan played very well, credit to them. “They belted us up around the ball and used it better than we did."

The BFLW is proud to announce Federation University as the inaugural BFLW Finals Series naming rights partner.

Federation has today been announced as the naming partner of the upcoming BFLWomens finals series and grand finals, commencing this Sunday the 14th of August 2022. 

The partnership will see Federation not only as naming partner of the now Federation BFLW Finals Series and Federation BFLW Grand Finals but will provide valued support to grow female football in Ballarat and regional Victoria. 

Since its inception in 2021, BFLWomens has continued to grow and be the home of female football participation across regional Victoria from Melton, Maryborough and across the wider Ballarat district. 

Support from Federation will ensure the McDonald's Ballarat FNL, as custodians of female football in the region, can continue to build on the current competition with the stated aim of maximising female sports participation. 

Ballarat FNL General Manager, Shane Anwyl 

“The partnership with Federation is an exciting step in the growth of female football, and more broadly participation across Ballarat. The Ballarat FNL is committed to the growth of female sport and an 'access for all' priority”. 

Federation is Victoria’s leading regional university focused on transforming lives and enhancing communities. They have a 152-year history of partnering with community, industry and government to meet the needs of the regions they serve. 

Federation University Vice-Chancellor, Liam Sloan 

“We are proud to be partnering with BFLW in the inaugural finals series for the League and look forward to enjoying the competition during the Federation Finals Series and supporting the growth of women in sport in Ballarat and surrounding areas. This collaboration between Federation and BFLW is driven by our shared value of inclusion and common goal of equality in sport."