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

General Information

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

Match Schedule

Admission Fees

Junior Grand Final 2022

Adults - $12

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $26

Age Pensioner - $7

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Footy Record – $4 (Special Edition)

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

Gates

Gates open at 6:45am

Grand Final Filming

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

Live Scores

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

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

Netball - https://bit.ly/3KPteh6

Entry & Parking Information

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

Entry to MARS Stadium:

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

NO DOGS are permitted within the precinct this weekend.

Parking is available at the following locations:

General Parking:

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

Disabled Parking:

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

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

Darley

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bacchus Marsh

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

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

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

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

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

Redan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Wendouree

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

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

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

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

East Point

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

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

Their first win could come this week over the Lakers.

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

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

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

Carisbrook

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

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

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

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

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

With ten home and away rounds down and all teams now having faced one another twice, we take a look at the BFLW Women's competition so far and what the final third of the season might hold.

Darley

The reigning premiers look well-placed in their pursuit of a three-peat of flags, having gone unbeaten through the first eight rounds of the season.

Their only slip came in Round 9 – a 49-point loss to a young but polished Bacchus Marsh outfit.

It’s a result coach Brett Faulkhead will no doubt dissect closely, using the loss as fuel to tighten structures and adapt moving forward.

Darley’s depth remains one of their key strengths.

Charli Parsons-Jones has continued to turn heads in just her second senior season.

With Coates Talent League exposure and listed with the Western Jets, she’s brought a level of polish and maturity that’s seen her named among the best five times already this year.

Meanwhile, there’s been no slowing down for Lilli Condon.

The reigning League Best and Fairest has picked up right where she left off, consistently driving the Devils forward with clean ball use and inside 50 delivery.

She’s featured in the best in all nine of her appearances so far – a testament to her consistency.

Up forward, Kim Bessell remains as potent as ever with 39 goals to her name – the go-to target for the Devils' attacking entries.

However, Faulkhead will be well aware of the looming challenge Redan presents.

In two recent meetings, the Lions have restricted Bessell to just one goal combined – a feat few other sides have managed.

Expect emerging options like Lusiya Azina to become even more critical in the weeks ahead.

With two games still to come against Redan, the path to a top of the ladder finish is anything but straightforward.

The Devils will likely need to claim at least one of those clashes to lock in the all-important first-week bye – a valuable advantage in what’s shaping as a tight run into finals.

The run home: Redan, Lake Wendouree, Carisbrook, East Point, Lake Wendouree, Redan

Redan

Redan have cemented themselves as one of the most consistent outfits in recent BFLW memory – and 2025 has been no different.

But if there’s one obstacle they’ve yet to clear, it’s finding a way past Darley.

Both of the Lions' losses this season have come at the hands of the reigning premiers.

In Round 1, they trailed by just two points at the final change; in Round 6, it was five.

Close contests, but Redan couldn’t land the knockout blow.

That’ll be front of mind for coach Tim Meaney as the Lions gear up for two more critical clashes against the Devils before finals.

As has become a hallmark of Redan, it’s their depth that continues to impress.

Freya Palmer – the 2024 Under 19 League Best and Fairest – has taken the step up to senior level with composure and confidence.

Splitting her time across age groups, Palmer’s athleticism and pace have added an extra layer to Redan’s rotations.

At the pointy end, Jess Bokma is putting together a season to remember.

Leading the league goal kicking, Bokma has hit the scoreboard in every round – including a standout 10-goal haul against Lake Wendouree in Round 9.

Her consistency and accuracy make her one of the most dangerous forwards in the competition.

Adding further firepower has been the return of VFLW-listed Lori Stepnell.

With strong stints at Williamstown under her belt, Stepnell has made four appearances at club level this year, and each time has lifted the Lions with her presence, leadership, and class.

A top of the ladder finish – and a first-week finals bye – remains firmly on the table.

But for that to become reality, Redan will need to rewrite the script against Darley and hold off a surging Bacchus Marsh outfit.

The run home: Darley, East Point, Bacchus Marsh, Lake Wendouree, Carisbrook, Darley

Bacchus Marsh

If you were calling it after five rounds, the competition looked like a two-horse race. Darley and Redan were setting the pace and seemingly untouchable.

But fast-forward just a few weeks, and Bacchus Marsh have completely changed the narrative.

In Round 8, they took it right up to Redan, holding a narrow lead into the final quarter before falling by just 13 points.

A week later, they sent a statement to the rest of the competition – dismantling the previously undefeated Darley by 49 points in a four-quarter display of pressure, possession, and polish.

Coach Alan Johnson, working closely with Under 19s coach Leigh Bradbury, has managed the Cobras’ transition from young promise to genuine contender with precision.

The balance between youth and experience is striking – and shaping up nicely ahead of finals.

The Under 19 crop has been particularly influential.

Summer Marchewka, Charli O’Connor and Oliver Dilges have seamlessly stepped into senior roles, showing maturity beyond their years.

And with Coates Talent League players like Ruby Thomas and Jazmine Dalli also in the mix, Bacchus Marsh are blessed with depth and versatility.

Arguably the biggest impact has come from recruit Mel Freeman.

Fresh from Spotswood and bringing VFLW experience with both Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs, Freeman has brought structure, leadership, and composure – all while mentoring the next generation of Cobras.

With one win over the top two already in the bank, Bacchus Marsh are now the wildcard that could reshape the top of the table.

One more big scalp could be the key to a top-two finish.

The run home: East Point, Carisbrook, Redan, Lake Wendouree, Darley, East Point

East Point

In just their third season back in the BFLW competition, East Point have continued their upward trajectory — showing maturity on-field and a strong club culture off it.

The Dragons have fielded a balanced list of youth and experience, delivering big wins and keeping games competitive even against top-tier opposition.

The off-season posed challenges, with the departures of several key players.

Rebecca Fisher, runner-up Shania Oliver, and full back Simone McNeight were notable omissions from the 2025 squad.

But rather than rebuild, East Point reloaded.

Club mainstays like Cass Nolan and Kirsten Roth have anchored the side again this year, while fresh faces like Jaslyn Skilbeck have provided a new element.

In her first season of football, Skilbeck has taken to the game with confidence and consistency.

Megan O’Beirne has arguably had a career-best year, while Katie McAloon’s experience — including her stint in the VFLW system — has brought poise to the stocks.

Between them, they’ve featured in the side’s best across nearly every round, setting the bar for the red, white and blue.

With six rounds remaining, coach Jezza Jones will be zeroing in on a potential first-week finals clash against Lake Wendouree.

Their performances in second meetings against higher-ranked sides have shown clear improvement — a sign that East Point aren’t just aiming to make finals but are driven to shake them up.

The run home: Bacchus Marsh, Redan, Lake Wendouree, Darley, Carisbrook, Bacchus Marsh

Lake Wendouree

Lake Wendouree enter the final third of the season with a clear focus: securing fifth spot on the ladder and continuing to chip away at scoreboard margins in their third meetings with opposition sides — just as they’ve done from their first to second encounters.

The Lakers have shown steady improvement, managing to reduce margins and limit opposition scoring in their return fixtures.

Now, as they gear up to face each side for a third time, coach Mark Kinnane will be urging his side to turn those reduced margins into competitive contests – and, ideally, wins.

With an average age of just 23, the Lakers are among the youngest teams in the competition – a fact that bodes well for the club’s long-term trajectory.

Keeley Abbott is a shining example of this youth movement. Having stepped into the senior side early last year, her game has continued to develop with added experience and confidence.

Captains Demi Thompson and Shellby Lonie have been standouts all season.

Thompson’s ability to read the play and apply her netball smarts has made a noticeable impact, while Lonie’s strength and leadership continue to guide the group through key moments.

The Lakers will also be hoping for more game time from Faith McKenzie.

With her athleticism, ability to run out full games, and commanding vertical leap in the ruck, her presence has made a significant difference in her four appearances to date.

With a likely elimination final against East Point on the horizon, these final rounds will serve as crucial.

And with some ladder movement still possible, the Lakers will be quietly eyeing off a potential grab for fourth spot – making their run to finals one to watch.

The run home: Carisbrook, Darley, East Point, Bacchus Marsh, Redan, Carisbrook

Carisbrook

Whilst they remain winless, the scoreboard margins paint a different picture of the measurable wins Carisbrook are achieving.

 While the four points haven’t come yet, the experience being gained by the playing group – particularly the young stock – is vital in the long run.

The Redbacks have shown pockets of competitiveness – strings of play where possession is won, clearances are made and inside 50s are recorded.

Across the backline, turnovers are becoming less frequent, and the side is making better use of their rebound 50s.

The challenge now is converting those passages into full-quarter performances – and eventually, four consistent quarters.

There’s plenty to be excited about when you look at the list.

Olivia Rogers, fresh out of the Under 16 competition, has stepped up and held her own at Senior level.

Emme Johnson and Maddi Smith, both still eligible for the Under 19s, have embraced the challenge of Senior footy, featuring amongst the best on multiple occasions.

Captain Liv Butler is having another consistent season in the red and black – leading from the front and slotting three goals so far.

Coach Simon Booker will no doubt be using the second half of the season to instil belief and reward effort.

Internal wins – like reduced margins, increased pressure acts, and dominating key stat areas – will be crucial measures of progress from here.

The run home: Lake Wendouree, Bacchus Marsh, Darley, Redan, East Point, Lake Wendouree

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

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

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

Admission Prices

BFLW Finals 2022

Adults - $10

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25

Age Pensioner - $5

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Grounds Open

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

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

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

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

Admission prices will continue this weekend and are as follows:

Admission Prices:

BFLW Finals 2022

Adults - $10

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25

Age Pensioner - $5

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Grounds Open:

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

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

Finals Week 2 Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melton                                                                               

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W4 L0             

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

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

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Jack Walker

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W0 L4

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

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

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (31)

Best in first final (Week 1): Lachlan Cassidy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ballarat                                                                         

Finished 2nd (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W3 L2

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

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

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (38)

Best in first final (Week 1): Will Liston

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W1 L2

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

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

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Bailey Young         

The 2026 BFNL home and away season started with a bang as tight finishes and season starters made the headlines. 

Ballarat ended a run of outs at Mars Stadium dating back to 2022, with an all-the-way win over North Ballarat by 13 points.

The Swans won three quarters and may have won by more given their plus eight advantage of scoring shots (23-15).

Former Adelaide and Western Bulldogs key defender and new Swans recruit Alex Keath was the star of the show marking anything and everything that came his way in transition or turnover.

Rival clubs will need to find a way around the near 200 cm former AFL big man who announced his arrival assuming the role of director general, leading the Swans’ defence.

Tall timber trio Biggie Nyuon (200cm), Patrick Graham (in best) and Keath will remain a season long handful with their reach alone not to mention experience.

The clear beneficiaries of that first use at ground level for the Swans were reigning best and fairest Tristan Maple, Lewis Rinaldi, Fraser Perkins and the speedy Jake Drever.

Very encouraging signs for the Swans first up, their point of difference alone with their tall timber talent will take some quality coaching to negate, not to mention the aerial presence to compete.

While North Ballarat were missing key ruck signing David Brinker-Ritchie (knee), their spine on paper reads as good as any.

Despite Sam Glover, Denver Grainger-Barras and Josh Morris all featuring among the Roosters’ best it wasn’t enough to contain the Swans.

Lead up forward Jack O’Brien booted an equal game high three goals for the winners matched only by Grainger-Barras for the hosts.

Nyuon and Graham finished with two goals rotating ruck and forward. Tipping they will get hold of someone before the years out to combine for a match winning return. Look out on a dry deck!

At least future opposition can plan on the Swans playing a narrow(er) game, maximising the aerial strength if Saturday’s win was any guide.

Big tick for the Swans. Their spread has sone clearer direction complementing the exciting 200cm trio.

North Ballarat will sweat on the availability of Brinker-Ritchie (knee) and experience of club 200+ gamer Simon McCartin for their trip to Bacchus Marsh - they will need them.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) – 31 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 13 marks

Wyatt Squires (Ballarat) – 20 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 12 tackles

Alex Keath (Ballarat) – 25 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
Difficult conditions most of the day - wind and rain having an impact. I thought Ballarat were clean today and hurt us around stoppages with their movement.We adjusted well and had a chance to take the win - but unfortunately didn’t handle the moments late.

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
Pleased to come away with a win in trying conditions. Was an arm wrestle, North never gave up and came at us late. We were able to steady and find a couple of late goals. Plenty to work on moving forwards.

This highly anticipated match up ended in a fizzer as Redan smashed Lake Wendouree in a complete four-quarter performance at CE Brown Reserve.

New Lions’ coach Marc Greig would’ve heard all the reservations on his team improving given off season departures and the spruik on the Lakers, loaded with a handful of top end signings.

Clearly water off a duck’s back for the well-respected mentor given the Lions buy-in from the opening siren.

The accurate Lions piled on 26.8 to raise eyebrows across the competition with the convincing nature of the win.

Greig’s sprightly group, a mix of youth and experience won every quarter and did not take their foot off the pedal with returns of 5.2, 5.1, 6.2 and 8.3 to deny the disappointing Lakers any momentum.

Star Lions’ utility Lachlan Bond (best) finished with a game high five goals while Taj Bond and fourth gamer Flynn Batrouney snared four apiece to be among 11 of the Pride hitting the scoreboard.

Ball magnet Brodie Pope rose to the occasion, albeit external pressure, denying the hunters in this case given the two sides finish ninth and tenth (Lakers) last year.

Liam Hoy made a positive return to his old club to feature prominently alongside the Bond’s and Pope among the best.

Coach Greig was typically measured in the aftermath citing an even role contribution across the board.

It wasn’t the ideal (nor predicted) start for Rohan Brown’s Lakers in front of home fans.

Despite the relative hype around the Lakers, the reality is they’re still some way off despite the efforts of Angus Gove, Kynan Raven and newcomer Alfred Jarnestrom.

Noah Shearer and Will Clark booted two goals on an otherwise tough day at the office for the Lakers who have lost their last 19 games on the trot.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) – 73 hit outs, 20 disposals, 6 score involvements

Brody Pope (Redan) – 30 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Lachlan Bond (Redan) – 19 disposals, 11 score involvements, 5 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
Good start - we had control of the game and front half territory 1st 20 minutes. Redan then took all control away, fundamentally better, even contribution and took their scoring opportunities. Today won't define us moving forward.

Marc Greig (Redan)
Slow start, it took 10-15 minutes to blow a few cobwebs out. Had the good old fashioned even spread with everyone playing their role and contributing. 11 different goal kickers was encouraging.

The Cobras booted three of the last four goals of the game into the breeze to overrun the Bloods at MacPherson Park.

The ‘breeze’ reference may be a little ‘unders’ as many considered the advantage a four-goal wind.

Fourth quarter goals to Joel Freeman, Kade Hilton and Jake Owen helped seal the deal, providing Cobras’ coach Dennis Armfield with the perfect 2-0 start into his third season.

While there was clear jubilation for the Cobras to savour in the aftermath, there were concerns early for the visitors who failed to flatter in the opening term kicking just one goal with the wind.

The Bloods booted five goals to one in the second term, taking full advantage of the aid to lead by 19 points which was significant given the low scoring nature of the affair (5.5 v 2.4).

A mental reset of sorts for the Cobras at the main break proved timely, an opportunity to restore belief and get the ball rolling. Armfield’s group began to resemble more of the ‘edgy’ Cobras witnessed on Good Friday.

While a five-goal-to-one third term gave the Cobras back the lead at the final change the challenge ahead, denying the 2024 premiers on their own deck, against the elements, was always going to be a tough task.

But momentum remained with the spirited Cobras despite the obvious degrees of difficulty.

When Jake Owen kicked a goal in time-on to give the Cobras a six-point lead, the Bloods through Ryan Carter were given one last opportunity on goal from a tough angle but could only manage a point.

The siren sounded shortly after sending an invigorated Cobras faithful into raptures.

Jack Parente (best), Tyson Shea and new recruit Zach Vesty were named among the best for the winners while ruckman Luke Goetz continued his dominant start to the season. Kade Hilton finished with an equalling game high three goals for the Cobras to honour his recall.

For the Bloods, usual suspects Jordy Cotter, Liam (three goals) and Ryan Carter, Harry Handley and Jaycob Hickey earnt the nod of approval out of a game their hierarchy later described as “a missed opportunity”.

The absence of both Kights (wedding) on a windy day in particular was duly noted - unsighted in not only in the air but at ground level!

Again, the Bloods woes on goal accuracy reared its head, as their 8.12 scoreline will attest, 3.7 in the second half alone. The Cobras’ return of 10.5 was enough to secure the premiership points - full reward for their accuracy among many other encouraging variables and results coming out of the Bacchus Marsh Football Netball Club

STATS THAT MATTERED

Adrian Monitto (Melton) – 34 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, 12 rebound 50s

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) – 61 hit outs, 17 disposals, 9 marks

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) – 21 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
In the end a good game of footy, a quick game in tricky conditions, both teams had opportunities late marsh took theirs we did not. Played the game as we planned so on that front pleasing start to the season unfortunately conversion proved costly for us today when we had momentum. Sometimes you need an element of good fortune in games and today we could not find it. Plenty to get excited about internally but we just Got to take the learnings and keep building.

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
Really pleased to walk away from Melton with a win. Credit to Melton who came out strong and controlled the game early. After half time we were able to get the game a little more on our terms. Adjusting to the wind and being able to play our way for longer. Real arm wrestle in the last and we were able to make the most of our momentum. A real great hit out, arm wrestle all day.

Reigning premiers Darley came from 17 points down late in the final term, to pinch a thrilling two-point win over a gallant Sunbury.

Late goals to Will Johnson, Grant Hatcher and Andy Azzopardi broke Lions’ hearts, extending the Devil’s winning run to five over Matty White’s Pride and 21 wins more broadly over the competition.

While the scoreboard gave every indication the match was ‘a classic, one for the ages’, the reality leant more to a workman like scrap.

Both coaches conceded they have a bit to work on and will be better for the run.

Scattered showers and a typical swirly breeze at Darley Park didn’t help the occasion, asking questions around the execution of the basic fundamentals.

Neither side was spared the anguish of unforced turnovers, a major source for ‘scores against’ in the modern game.

Goals came at a premium as the defences from both camps impressed, aided by a number of flawed entries and limited connection.

The highly anticipated midfield match up was deemed a ‘square’ result in the aftermath as both parties enjoyed periods of momentum.

The Devils led at every change and looked comfortable at the main break with a 14-point advantage. While the Lions managed to reduce the margin to three at the final break, there was a degree of inevitability the Devils would do enough with the breeze to hold sway.

However, the Lions had different ideas. Sure, the breeze subsided, but it was the work rate between the arcs from Harry Power, Jake Egan, Zach Stevens and Hamish Pierce that triggered Sunbury’s foray, amounting to three unanswered goals and game high 17-point lead.

Despite the early crow of “it’s all over!”, heard from one Lions’ fan, Jordan implemented his last roll of the dice.

Key back Billy Myers (best on ground) went into the ruck to curb the dangers of Lions’ big man Fraser Ampulski, rebound defender Mace Cousins went forward, midfielder Nick Hind (three goals) to half back and newcomer Lachie George into the middle.

Not since the 2023 Grand Final have we seen the Devils escape with three unanswered goals late to win a game of footy. Super effort.

In a nutshell there were two winners at Darley Park on Saturday, unfortunately for Sunbury, only one left with the premiership points.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Billy Myers (Darley) – 34 disposals, 18 intercept possessions, 17 rebound 50s

Nick Hind (Darley) – 32 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Jake Egan (Sunbury) – 29 disposals, 8 clearances, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
Very pleased to walk away with the points against a very good Sunbury side. I thought we controlled the game for the most part in the first half and deserved our lead (14 points). Credit to Sunbury who kept coming. We had to find something special late, and our leaders stood up to find a way. Plenty of learnings for us to take from the game. Given the small sample size, it’s clear we are a work in progress and will be better for the hit-out.

Matt White (Sunbury)
Was a good game. Scrappy at time and we had our chance to win it which unfortunately went the other way. Really positive day considering a 2-point loss.

The Burra began their season in fine style with a comfortable 45-point win over the Kangas, under the lights at Marty Busch Reserve.

While the hosts started warm favourites, Burras’ coach Tony Lockyer would not have taken anything for granted given the two club’s recent history.

Sure, it’s a different looking Kangas outfit on recent years but the Burra, like all teams in 2026, won’t be taking any risks, conceding any upper hand to the 2018-19 premiers and 2024 grand finalists.

Development will come quickly for the proud club of East Point if their junior program results are any indication.

While they took another important step into the rebuild under Joe Carmody this result was always going to tell us more about Sebastopol.

Lockyer would be the first to concede the reality. It was a must win game for the Burra despite the difficult conditions that often present in a night game of local footy.

Jack Bambury was the star for the winners with a best on ground performance ahead of a host of Burra teammates including newcomers Jack Buckley and Felix Henderson, who made encouraging first impressions.

X-factor small forward Adam Forbes lit up Marty Busch Reserve, if it wasn’t already, with four goals to be the standout forward in a relatively low scoring affair.

The Burra were +11 for scoring shots, the degree of difficulty posting majors confirmed by the greasy conditions.

Kangas’ forward Jarrod Joyce finished with 1.5 in a frustrating return on the goal front despite his lead up brilliance.

New faces Sam Lucas, Cooper Glenwright-McGuane and Sam McDonald embraced their roles on a tough night for the visitors who lost all four quarters and struggled to score.

Kangas’ swing man Jacob Brown went back behind the footy this week for a different look. His observations and learnings to be shared with the group can only aid the group moving forward.

Geordie Slater and Joyce were the pick of the bunch from an otherwise very inexperienced East Point side.

While it’s ‘the ‘chin up’ mentality for the Kangas, making their way, a keen eye will be cast on the Burra this week finding a way to contain the trio of tall timber at the Swans who too are 1-0.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) – 48 hit outs, 29 disposals, 20 contested possessions

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol) – 27 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Liam Canny (East Point) – 22 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
Nice to kick the season off with a win at home. Strong contested game and was pleased with our movement in challenging night conditions. Solid contribution across the board individually, with everyone standing up when needed. All the best for East for the year ahead they have some great talent and quality. Grateful for the huge support from the Burra community on a cold night under lights. Looking forward to Ballarat next week.

Joe Carmody (East Point)
Unfortunately, the reality for us is that we are at the start of a rebuild with this young group. We had 7 players yet to play 10 Senior games playing tonight so great exposure for them. We will have results like tonight against physically stronger teams, but we will also have glimpses of how the group is developing. Plenty of work to do but we are very positive with what this core group will achieve in the years to come.

Scoop' Reviews Round 10

The first round of return fixtures to start the second half of the BFNL home and away season provided plenty of interesting results with premiership contenders and finals hopefuls making their mark.

The Bloods ended their five-game losing streak with a dominant 38-point win over the Cobras at Maddingley Park.

The win restores the 2024 premiers’ position inside the top six, percentage clear of Sunbury.

An eight-goal-to-two opening half set up the win for Troy Scoble’s visiting party.

Ryan Carter’s three goals and another stand-out performance from the ever consistent half back/mid Harry Hanley helped deny the hosts who had won two of their three previous meets.

The Cobras are clearly struggling to match it with the ‘bigger body’ teams without key bookends Jake Owen and Wil Lalor, in particular current top six oppositions, and its reflective on the scoreboard.

Since the Cobras’ five-point win over the Bloods in Round 1, they’re -24, -102, -55, -40, -38 against the current top six, essentially 1-5 with an average loss of 51.8 points.

Injuries have crippled the Cobras’ chances of claiming a genuine scalp and it will be no different this week, albeit at home, against a thriving Ballarat (8-2) outfit.

Unlikely source Jack Kovacevic finished with a game high four goals to have the Cobras within 14 points early in the last quarter, but the Bloods steadied with the last three goals of the game to win going away.

Hanley (best) aside, the Bloods were well served by Caleb Burquest, Josh Stewart, Conrad Farrugia, Jordy Cotter and the returning Riley Walker.

The Cobras settled on Adam Blain, Tarkyn Findlay, Cody Gates, Jack Parente and Kovacevic as their leading contributors.

While the Cobras brace for a home meeting with the Swans in Round 11, the Bloods look to get their season back on track with a consolidating victory over three-win East Point.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 71 hitouts, 20 disposals, 10 clearances

Harrison Hanley (Melton) - 23 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 9 marks

Kyle Borg (Melton) - 22 disposals, 9 tackles, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Another quarter of football let us down unfortunately. Troy and Melton came with an intent and when they had momentum in the second, we couldn’t wrestle it back. We fought back hard in the 3rd, however used all our tickets and couldn’t finish. A great contested game of footy, increasing pressure which led to some fumbles and missed skills leading to easy turnover goals against.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Really pleased for the group to get the result, working through a tough 8-week period having the most stable team we have had over a 2-week period since the start of the season. Very fast competitive game. We understood Marsh were players down and we had to try capitalize on those areas of the ground. Our connection forward. whilst clunky, was an improvement. Great to be a part of Tyson’s day, a super achievement. Thanks to the Marsh on hospitality all game, supporting our Unders program they went out of their way to help and encourage. The class shows by Dennis and their group was evident and you can certainly see where they are headed going forward.”

The Swans won every quarter enroute to a comfortable 59-point win over the Roosters at Alfredton Oval.

It was Ash Baker’s healthy group that proved the tipping point for Clint Proctor’s cavalry who have been decimated with injury despite winning their previous two games.

Ironically the scores from the Roosters previous loss against Sebastopol was exactly the same (99-40)!

Key forward Biggie Nyuon booted five goals for the winners to move eight clear in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

The nature of the Swans win was dominated by their big men in Biggie, Alex Keath, Patrick Graham, Tyson Richard (two goals) and Riley Constable while Thomas Simpson and Lewis Rinaldi maintained their excellent run of recent form that was capped with a goal apiece.

The undermanned Roosters were shy in a number of areas to overcome a well-seasoned Swans outfit, but the efforts of Dom Penny, Taj Bowman, Sam Artz, Seb Collins, Oscar Stone (two goals) and Jye Lockett (two goals) were recognised in a losing side.

Ballarat and Sebastopol have the healthiest lists in the comp by some way which is holding them in good stead at the top of the BFNL table.

Five of the Swans last seven wins have been by 50 points or more - scary stuff, while the Roosters have to play the waiting game as the troops near a return over the coming weeks.

Ballarat are away to Bacchus Marsh on Saturday for the BFNL’s ‘Match of the Round’ in the ‘East’.

North Ballarat (4th) host ladder leaders Sebastopol.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Thomas Simpson (Ballarat) - 35 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 inside 50s

Dominic Penny (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 intercept possessions

Alexander Keath (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 9 marks, 8 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Really pleased with our four-quarter effort today. The boys were keen to start well and while not quite getting the reward on the scoreboard early, we thought we had control of the territory game. We were then able to get a bit of reward through the third quarter. In trying conditions, it was a contested style of football, to which North were very strong at. We’ll look to recover well and crack in to training this week for another big game against Bacchus before the bye.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Hard day at the office - difficult conditions and contest. Well down from the past couple of weeks, credit to Ballarat they were very good inside and around the contest. Some great learnings for our team to take away and work through.”

The high-flying Burra overcame a 27-point deficit in the second quarter to run out deserved winners in a close encounter against the Kangas at Eastern Oval.

Despite considerable ladder separation between the two sides, there was mounting belief the Kangas would take it up to their more fancied rivals on their home deck and they did not disappoint.

Outside of the Burra’s only loss of the season to Sunbury, no one has been closer to Tony Lockyer’s boys at the final siren. The Kangas’ narrow 12-point defeat has been matched only by Melton so kudos to Joe Carmody and the broader effort from the camp.

Luke Kiel continues to produce some of his best footy to be in vote calculations while gut runners Jack Buckley, Jack Bambury and Bailey Medwell filled the void left in the absence of Lachie Cassidy.

Big men Cooper Littlehales and Toby Hutt also earned the nod of approval.

X-factor Burra forward Adam Forbes finished with a team high three goals.

For the home side, brave in defeat there was an encouraging mix of youth and experience featuring among the best.

Joe Dodd (best), Deng Lual, Luca Gueue, Joe Fraser and Liam Canny were all prominent while the highly anticipated return of Lachie Charleson (two goals) was validated with some key moments.

Evergreen campaigner Jacob Brown finished with a game high four goals.

Gee, what could’ve been for the Kangas ended in a great save by Lockyer’s group despite three less scoring shots.

The Kangas will give themselves a genuine live chance on the road next week when they head to Melton.

Sebastopol are away to Mars Stadium for a meeting with North Ballarat who are still battling injury which should make the assignment a hell of a lot easier than once thought.

Interesting times ahead.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 25 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Fraser Molan (East Point) - 20 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 6 clearances

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol) - 24 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 7 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Well done to Tony and the Sebas team. They won the crucial contests at pivotal moments in the game and were too good in the end. Our team continues to improve. Our good is very good but we are still having lapses where the opposition score quickly in short periods of time. The more games this group plays together the better they will be and experiences like today will hold them in good stead going forward.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Tough slog of a day but very proud of the boys working through the challenges to get the result. East Point had us on the ropes with their contest work and superior method in the conditions. Full credit to Joe and the team. 27 points down midway through the second was a concern but really pleased how we shifted momentum to get the margin back to one-point at half time. East are certainly going to cause some headaches in the second half of this year to the top sides. Some huge individual efforts and great to get a debut into Ned Mills (u18s), kicking a great goal in the second to spark us. Onto North at Mars next week - another big game.

Despite another slow start, Redan kicked into gear with 11 unanswered goals after quarter time to down the Lakers by 46 points.

The result meant back-to-back wins for Marc Greig’s pride, and their third of the season, drawing them level with East Point (8th).

The winless Lakers made it difficult for the Lions early - enough to lead by 14 points at the first change.

But it was all Redan thereafter who went onto record a comfortable win.

Rory Gunsser and Daniel Bond were named best for the winners once again by the powers that be, ahead of a spread of eight goalkickers in the Lions’ hard fought win.

For the Lakers, while busy early in particular, there were a handful of personnel that fought it out right to the end.

Alfred Jarnestrom made it three appearances in a row among the best and a fifth in 10 games.

Other notables were Joel O’Connell and Cooper James. Noah Shearer booted two of the Lakers three goals in a game that looked so promising early before falling flat in their endeavours of taking a game deeper.

Both teams are at home next week as Redan try to make it a hattrick of wins when they take on Darley. The Lakers host Sunbury.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 32 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 9 tackles

William Madden (Redan) - 47 hitouts, 26 disposals, 11 clearances

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 38 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 14 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Lakers were up and about early and put some scoreboard pressure on. Some honest feedback at the quarter time break was used and to the lad’s credit they responded in the 2nd. Both teams cracked in and fought out the game well.”

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Both sides had a real crack in hard conditions for footy. Game on our terms for the 1st quarter then credit to Greigy and Redan from the break as they went to work and controlled the contest. Happy with our effort. 3 more debutants and 12 new faces in the side since Round 1.”

A spirited Darley simply hung in and did enough before overwhelming Sunbury on their home deck to the tune 18 points at Clarke Oval.

The crucial win elevates the reigning premiers to third on the BFNL ladder behind Sebastopol and Ballarat.

Sure, the Lions had a handful of preferred soldiers missing but kudos to Dan Jordan and his predominantly young group to worry Matty White’s Pride out of a contest that was vital to both sides given the context of their current seasons.

Duel Henderson Medallist Brett Bewley (three goals) led from the front with a dominant display for the Devils and was ably assisted by key top end contributors Nick Hind (two goals), Joel Cadman (one goal), Lachie George (two goals) and Mickey Edwards (one goal).

While it wasn’t the best exhibition of the fundamentals on the large ground that is Clarke Oval, one couldn’t question the endeavour of both sides as only one point separated the two sides at three quarter time.

Externally it felt like the Lions were just a goal away from breaking the Devils, who were without Billy Myers, Wil Johnston, Adam Azzopardi, Jayven and Ayden Tanner, Harley Inglis, Jarrod White and Jack Bewley.

In fact, the Devils had just 11/22 from last year’s premiership winning team.

Sunbury had 14 of their 22 that fell short on that particular day but were buoyed with the inclusions of Josh Guthrie and Cody Bramble - both of whom had their fair share of the footy.

Lions pair Jake Sutton (three goals) and Jake Egan (one goal) returned from VFL commitments to attempt the end the 0-5 run of outs against the Devils, but it wasn’t to be.

Unfortunately, Egan took no part in the game after half time due to a shoulder/arm injury sustained in the second quarter.

There were a number of good players from both sides in the relatively high scoring affair - none better than the two respective captains in Bewley and Tyson Lever who had an old fashioned ‘day out’ as their numbers would suggest.

Apart from the top end brilliance on display, there were a host of youngsters still in their teens that stood up and had their moments.

Road trips await these two in Round 11 before the bye. Darley (3rd) head to City Oval to meet Redan (9th) while Sunbury face the Lakers (10th).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 33 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, 11 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 40 disposals, 11 score involvements, 9 inside 50s

Nick Hind (Darley) - 35 disposals, 11 score involvements, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Super win for our group - we were really pleased with the buy-in and belief across the board from 200+ gamers to 2 gamers. Our leaders stood up and were instrumental dragging the boys over the line against a quality side like Sunbury who are always a tough assignment especially at home. Down back, Sunbury were very efficient with their conversion on goal and had our boys under the pump, but I was proud of the effort from our relatively young back six who tried their hearts out. The mids were fantastic - (Brett), Bewley, (Joel) Cadman, Hind and George were massive for us. Our wingers (Andy) Azzopardi and Edwards were really solid with their running and aerial ability. Our ruck options Matthews and Lesko answered the call and competed hard, halving a lot of contests. Up forward we were under resourced, but we found a way to manufacture 100 points which is a credit to (once again) what was a very young front six. Boys never gave up.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“A fantastic game of footy that we couldn’t close out. We had our moments to win it but the class at Darley stood up when it counted. Bewley and Hind combining for 5 goals was the difference in the end. Reload for a road trip and a big second half of the year.”

Scoop Reviews Round 11

The bye will be a welcomed break for many teams across the competition after a hard fought weekend pulled out some season defining results.

The Swans have moved to the top of the BFNL ladder following an impressive 106-point win over the Cobras at Maddingley Park.

It was the classy Swans’ sixth win (of nine) by 50 points or more.

Key tall Biggie Nyuon was the star of the show finishing with nine goals, including eight in the second half.

The class difference after quarter time was clear for all to see as Ash Baker’s bevy monstered a disappointing Cobras outfit who slump to outside the top six for the first time this season.

After a relatively even first quarter, the Swans flexed their muscles outscoring the hosts 19 goals to four. In a nutshell, Saturday’s Ballarat Toyota Match of the Round was an old school thrashing.

The Swans had arguably the best 12 players on the ground. Tristan Maple, Biggie Nyuon, Fraser Perkins (two goals), Brad Crouch, Lewis Rinaldi and Riley Constable were superb earning the nod of approval from the Swans’ hierarchy in the aftermath.

There were slim pickings for the Cobras, who will welcome the bye and a chance to reset.

Unfortunately for Dennis Armfield’s quiver, there is very little resemblance of the impressive showing witnessed on Good Friday in their standalone fixture against East Point.

The Cobras recognised the efforts of Sam Griffiths and Cody Gates who never stopped trying on a day that simply belonged to the Swans.

Post the bye, the Cobras are up the highway to face North Ballarat at Mars Stadium, while the Swans are away to Sebastopol for a mouthwatering top of the table clash at Marty Busch Reserve.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Biggie Nyuon (Ballarat) - 19 disposals, 13 marks, 9 goals

Brad Crouch (Ballarat) - 38 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Sam Griffiths (Bacchus Marsh) - 24 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 6 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Started and finished well but unfortunately Ballarat too strong, structured and skilful in the middle. Unfortunately, it’s been a pattern of late, missing our shots and allowing theirs. We will keep fighting, I’ll never questions the effort and character of the boys.
We will need to cross our fingers again on the injury front into the bye. Had another 4 soldiers not finish the game, so good time for a week off, regroup ready to take on a strong North up at Mars.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Really pleasing four quarter performance from the boys today. Bacchus Marsh came out firing, and we were able to hold our own in a tightly contested first quarter, before getting some separation in some key areas during the second quarter. The bye has come at a good time for us so we can freshen up ahead of another big challenge after the bye v Sebastopol.”

2025 grand finalist Sunbury moved inside the top six with a much needed 66-point win over the Lakers.

The Lions led at every change but couldn’t shrug the determination of the Lakers until late, kicking away with a six-goal-to-one final term.

Despite the loss it was the Lakers’ third highest score of the season – a decent effort considering their list of outs would rival any as we head into a much-welcomed bye.

It really was season on the line stuff for Matty White’s Pride, a game they could not take for granted regardless of the Lakers’ winless record heading in.

With some key outs of their own, White has been resolute in his acceptance and dealings with the frustration and expectation on his progressive group.

Lions’ newcomers and former Montmorency pair Jordyn Gillard (six goals) and Ryan Sturgess (Coburg VFL) combined for nine goals to be named best behind young speedster Cody Bramble.

Midfield combo Joel Muir and Josh Guthrie also earned the nod of approval alongside Nathan Doyle who is proving a find forward with another three goals making it 12 goals for season from seven games.

For the hosts, coach Rohan Brown continues to ride the tough journey from week to week but is getting his reward in areas other than wins column - more so effort.

Consistent trio Joel O’Connell, Alfred Jarnestrom and Corey Rich were good again for the Lakers to be named in the best next to Noah Shearer, Logan Clark and Lewis Antonac (two goals).

Both teams will lap up the bye like many clubs before the run home.

Next up the Lakers are away to Melton while Sunbury host Redan at Clarke Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Muir (Sunbury) - 76 hitouts, 19 disposals, 8 marks

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 39 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Jack Newitt (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Played a terrific game for three quarters, thought we were in front of the game. Had real opportunities in the 2nd quarter just couldn't finish off our work. Great to see our kids go well against some VFL listed players. In the end the dam wall broke with Lever the difference. Looking forward to the week off, our kids need it.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
"Was a good win in the end. Battled hard in the first half against a spirited Lakers. Nice for Gillard to get a 6-goal return and got some more experience into our younger talent. The week off comes at a good time for us. Hopeful to get a few soldiers back post bye and attack the last block of games."

The Bloods made it back-to-back wins with a character building 26-point win over the Kangas at MacPherson Park.

Only six points separated the two rivals at the final change, but it was a five-goal-to-two last term that broke of the hearts of Kangas’ fans while sending the Bloods’ band of loyal and faithful into celebration mode.

The win elevates the Bloods into fifth with a decent percentage advantage over Sunbury and Bacchus Marsh.

A typical seesawing classic witnessed the Bloods start like a house on fire booting six goals to one with a handy 30-point lead.

The Kangas fought back through the middle stages winning the second and third terms to be within six points at the final change.

Credit to the Bloods steadying the resistance and regaining the momentum enroute to an all-important fifth win of the season.

Braedan Kight finished with four goals for the winners, and Liam Carter and Lachie Ericsson (three) came to aid the Bloods’ scoreline above the 100-point mark.

Kangas ever reliable Jacob Brown kicked four and Sam Lucas two, proving a handful for the Bloods who welcomed the inclusion of Billy Crofts (Footscray VFL) for his first game of the season.

Harry Hanley was named best for the winners ahead of defenders Lachlan Phillips and Riley Walker. Jaycob Hickey and Brodie Sullivan maintained their run of form to feature ahead of Kight’s contribution around goal.

In form Kangas’ midfield trio Joe Dodd (in best 6/9 games), Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (5/10) and Liam Canny (7/11) flew the flag leading from the front and were well support led by next-gen talent Deng Lual, Joseph McGuane and Cooper Glenwright-McGuane.

It doesn’t get any easier for the Kangas post bye with an away trip to Darley first up while the Bloods are at home to face the Lakers.

The Bloods lose Harry Hanley (in best 9/11 games) and Max Scoble effective immediately due to a pre-planned overseas holiday, with the pair not expected back until Round 16 or 17.

They will be missed!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 31 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Josh Stewart (Melton) - 47 hitouts, 10 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Billy Crofts (Melton) - 28 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Games against East Point just have something about them. Rinse and repeat… tight contested momentum swings and close results. Rode our momentum well in the first half and lost it in the third. Very pleased for the second week in a row to recapture and run the game out well. Loved my time coaching with Joey we had some ripper battles. Wish him again all the best going forward. Been a challenging month of June for our group, we just keep showing up. Like many byes, a chance to rest refresh build some boys back up to return post bye."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Another great contest vs Melton. Melton started really well which put us on the back foot early. We bridged the gap and gave ourselves a chance in the last quarter but ultimately not good enough in the end. Good luck to Scobes and Melton for the rest of the season. We’ve had some great battles in my time at East playing against Melton.”

Darley has dug deep to secure a crucial come from behind six-point win over a gallant Redan at City Oval

The hosts, buoyed with the inclusion of Cooper Craig Peters (Footscray VFL) asked questions of a tiring core group of top end Devils, who have had to shoulder the load of recent weeks given a host of key outs.

Somehow, the Devils clawed their way back for a second week in a row after trailing by 19 points.

The win sees the reigning premiers in the mix for a prized top three finish, a game shy of the top two and percentage ahead of North Ballarat (4th) with seven games still to play.

Redan gave Dan Jordan’s touring party something to think about early having started well for the first time in five weeks with a five-goal-to-two opening term to set up a handy 18-point lead.

The margin extended to 19 at the mainbreak, providing the visitors with enough time for a reset of sorts. It proved that way given Darley were able to erase the lead in good time early in the second half.

It was an arm wrestle thereafter as scoring came to a near standstill.

As both sides traded blows in the form of mini wins to earn any advantage, it was the undermanned Devils who took their moments standing up in the clinches.

The game could easily have gone either way - a super effort from Marc Greig’s Pride who were able to reduce an 89-point margin four weeks ago down to 6 points at the weekend.

Scores were level with just a minute or so remaining before Joel Cadman (best) deservedly slotted the winner to give the Devils a third win in a row essentially under the pump.

Cadman, Bewley, Hind and Baker led the charge alongside defenders Brodie Ward and Zane Le Huray who celebrated key moments complemented with the run and distribution of Andy Azzopardi and Darcy Matricardi.

The Lions too were heading for a hattrick of wins but fell agonisingly short in a proud showing against the odds.

Craig-Peters (two goals) was arguably ‘best on’, while Lachlan Bond finished with a game high four goals.

Midfield trio Will Madden, Rory Gunsser and Brodie Pope were instrumental in their support roles and nearly pulled off one of the upsets of the season.

Both teams gave us every indication the bye has come at a good time to replenish stocks ahead of the final third of the season which makes for compelling viewing.

Redan will give themselves an outside chance upsetting Sunbury on the road while the Devils are faced with another must win game at home against East Point.

Jordan’s army are on a 16-game winning streak at Darley Park while the Kangas’ last success at the venue came over 10 years ago.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 37 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Nick Hind (Darley) - 37 disposals, 7 rebound 50s, 6 marks

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan) - 32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 7 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“A game we learnt a lot from. We had early momentum and kicked out to a lead. Darley was always going to respond in the second half. We expected it but couldn’t stop it. Seesawing last quarter when each moment counted for both teams and we couldn’t quite make our moments count. Very pleased with the efforts from the lads."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Grinding win against a Redan team who came to play. Credit to them, they were on top at the half, but our boys showed a bit of ticker after a reset to work back into the game and finish with our noses on front. Very proud of the group, it’s been a big three weeks - we will savour the week off and get back to work. It’s a very open comp this year, no easy games.”

The undermanned Roosters’ impressive run at home claimed another scalp at the weekend in the form of (then) ladder leaders Sebastopol with a stirring 18-points victory.

North Ballarat has won five of their six home games this year, unbeaten at Mars Stadium since their season opener against Ballarat.

How Roosters coach Clint Proctor has been able to manufacture wins against Darley and now Sebastopol with a host of players on the sidelines is a significant achievement.

Check out the missing - there’s no ceiling on the Roosters’ credentials this season when you consider what is likely to return over the coming weeks - Sam Glover (internal), Isaac Lovisson (hamstring), Jarrod Curran (hamstring), Isaac Carey (knee), Dec Mcguigan (concussion) Reggie Palmer (broken arm) and Denver Grainger-Barras (overseas) are all on the short term list while Brock Leonard (ACL), Wilbur Shea (shoulder) and Fletcher Loader (foot) are already done for the season.

You can add Elliot Lamb to the list of short-term casualties as well after he was concussed at the weekend.

Scary stuff the proposition of the Roosters moving forward given their recent successes over the Devils and the Burra.

Familiar names littered the Roosters’ best players at the weekend including Josh Morris (best), Jye Lockett (two goals), Tom Bromley-Lynch, versatile recruit Seb Collins, who has proven a genuine find, and youngsters Taj Bowman and Max Faulkner.

It was always going to be a team contribution for the Roosters kicking a winning score. While an 11-goal return proved enough, it took as many as eight Roosters to hit the scoreboard.

The Burra were by no means disappointing despite their warm favourites tag heading in.

Many sides previously have left Mars Stadium empty handed and it’s expected many more will in the future - it’s just a thing!

Not dissimilar to other Round 11 games, only six points separated the two sides at three quarter time.

Unfortunately for Tony Lockyer’s all conquering visiting party they were unable to match the Roosters in the last quarter despite it being their best performed quarter over the season to date.

The Burra weren’t shy on effort - Jack Bambury, Jack Buckley, Ash Munari (three goals), Luke Phillips, Tony Lockyer and Jacob Wilkinson all featured among the best.

The Burras’ nine goal return was their (second) lowest of the season since their previous and only loss to Sunbury in Round 5 (7.11).

Lockyer and Proctor weren’t in cliche mode welcoming the bye and the bonus rest and reset that comes with it given the demands of a very even season of BFNL footy.

Every team has proven gettable - as the longest current winning run of games (3) will attest.

Should be a cracking ride home to finals, but it can simmer for a week, a chance for all sides to refuel, recover and take a breath.

Post bye the Roosters host the Cobras at Mars while the Burra face the Swans in a one v two blockbuster to kickstart the road to finals.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Josh Morris (North Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 12 rebound 50s, 6 marks

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 11 marks, 7 inside 50s

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 30 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Good response from last week - nice to see the lads learn from the lesson against Ballarat and implement against the top team of the comp. Exciting for the club to continue to unearth some new talent! Looking forward to having some senior lads return and settle the team after the bye.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“The better team won today. North had us beat on a few fronts and deserved the result after four quarters. Well done to Clint and his boys, they played a great brand of footy and ran the ground well. We knew it was going to be a test and again this league shows if you are a few percent off it will be very hard to get a result. We stayed calm and had small bursts of momentum but couldn’t sustain it. We are looking forward to the bye. The freshen up will be great for us ahead of an exciting run home. Couldn’t be prouder of the club’s efforts so far this year.”

Scoop Reviews Round 12

Blustery conditions across the competition made the going tough on Saturday, but as the old adage goes, it just meant that tough got going as the road to finals nears.

The Cobras’ disappointing run of outs continued following a 58-point loss to the Roosters at Mars Stadium.

It was their fourth loss in a row and fifth in six games by an average of 59.4 points.

Dennis Armfield’s quiver kicked with the aid of a five-goal wind in the first quarter but again failed to get any real bang for buck on the scoreboard, the tale of the last month essentially for this group in the absence of key forward Jake Owen.

Despite the Roosters being held scoreless in the first term under trying conditions, the Cobras return of 2.6 was shy of the mark, vulnerable at best.

Those initial thoughts were confirmed at the half as the hosts booted 6.4 to no score in the second term to lead by 22 at the main break.

The Cobras scoring woes continued with a miserly 2.2 return (with the wind) in the third, outscored by the Roosters 3.1.

The hosts went onto to post an inaccurate 4.7 in the final term but again kept the Cobras scoreless to run out comfortable winners.

It was Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor’s sixth win in a row at home, unbeaten on Mars Stadium since their season opener against Ballarat.

Unfortunately, the Cobras are expected to be without Jake Owen (and Will Lalor) for at least another week prompting questions about their ability to post a score high enough to challenge Darley in Saturday’s local derby.

Over the last six weeks (Lakers game excluded) the Cobras have averaged just 42 points per game.

The Roosters however, welcomed back a handful of key troops for the battle with immediate impact.

Declyn McGuigan finished with an equal game high three goals, while Dave Brinker-Ritchie (two goals) and Sam Glover (one) also hit the scoreboard.

In form trio Dominic Penny, Josh Morris and Jye Lockett (three goals) were named best for the winners ahead of McGuigan, and speedsters Ethan York and Michael Hughes who have played just five senior games between them.

For the Cobras, all too familiar names Luke Goetz, Jamie Fulton, Tyson Shea and Zach Vesty led the resistance, but the contributors simply did not bat deep enough to trouble a very talented and exciting Roosters outfit on the rise.

The Cobras chances of rebounding at home against the Devils will be improved with the potential return of Josh Huxtable (Williamstown VFL), James McDaid (Western Jets), Sam Griffiths (suspension), Jack Parente (foot) and Angus Morgan (quad). Tarkyn Findlay (finger) will miss the local derby.

The Roosters are off to Eastern Oval to take on three-win East Point. The job on the road should be made easier with the return of x-factor forward Jamie Quick and corridor mid Elliott Lamb (concussion).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 22 disposals, 22 hitouts, 9 marks

Josh Morris (North Ballarat) - 35 disposals, 10 marks, 8 rebound 50s

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 6 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Very strong wind today and a game of two ends! I thought we had the game on our terms and got the rewards in the second half eventually. Bacchus started very well and took some moments - Goetz such an influence around the ground. Good signs with our brand of football looking forward to the next challenge!”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“A tough day out at Mars Stadium. With a strong breeze one way, we were unfortunately not able to capitalize early. While North took their chances. While into the breeze, we were able to hold for large patches and apply great pressure most of the day, yet on a skill error North hurt us on turnover. Overall, a great learning for our whole team (coaches and players) and we look forward to Darley next week and getting some troops back.”

The Devils made it four wins on the trot with a stirring 72-point win over East Point at the weekend.

Despite missing Brett Bewley (leg), Billy Myers (thumb), Joel Cadman (hamstring), Duncan Cadman (concussion), Adam Azzopardi (overseas), Harley Inglis (ankle) and Jarrod White (overseas), the Devils made light work of Joe Carmody’s young Kangas.

The reigning premiers extended their impressive winning run at home to 17 while the Kangas must wait another year for an opportunity to end their drought at Darley Park dating back to 2014.

The return of key forward pairing Will Johnson (six goals) and Jayven Tanner (three goals) seemingly went under the radar given the focus of attention around the Bewley injury.

The absence of Bewley and Myers meant the next line of experienced leaders at the Devils had to stand up with voice and deliver on performance. The response was emphatic, leaving the visitors shell shocked at the half trailing by 52 points - game over!

While the Kangas toiled well in the second half, the damage was already done as Carmody referred to the contest in the aftermath as “men against boys…”

Lachie George, Nick Hind and Luther Baker rose to the occasion winning the all-important midfield battle while Johnson and Tanner’s collective nine goal haul showed what the Devils had been missing on the structural front over recent weeks.

Versatile wingman Mikey Edwards was super while Matty Brett and Zane Le Huray targeted jobs on Kangas potential match winners Jacob Brown (two goals) and Jarrod Joyce.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan was typically measured in the post-match, acknowledging the depth of the performance across the board and notable improvement of his group fresh off a break.

The Kangas were simply outclassed on a day that many gave them a genuine chance heading in, causing the upset of the round.

It wasn’t to be despite the efforts of Joseph McGuane, Liam Canny, Luca Geue and Sam Lucas.

The Devils will embrace another week into the rehab of their missing guns as they prepare for another chapter of the local derby across town at Maddingley Park with the Cobras, who have lost their last four games in the absence of Jake Owen and Will Lalor.

The Kangas next assignment doesn’t get any easier despite the luxury of a home meeting with North Ballarat (4th) who welcome the return of Jamie Quick and Elliott Lamb (concussion).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lachlan George (Darley) - 41 disposals, 19 inside 50s, 12 marks

Nick Hind (Darley) - 29 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 inside 50s

Thomas Brown (East Point) - 33 hitouts, 16 disposals, 5 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)

“Very pleased with the performance across the board today against a determined, young East Point side. We thought it was important to start the game well sparing us the potential of having to chase the game as we have for periods in recent weeks. Clearly, we were benefitted by the week off and we looked a different side. Structurally we were improved with the inclusions of Wil Johnson and Jayven Tanner and our leaders really stood up. Sound win.”

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Men against boys today. We were blown off the park in the first half. To the boys credit it was 11 scoring shots each in the second half. A pretty valuable experience for our young players to get a first-hand look at what a high work rate and sticking to your role looks like. We had 14 players today who are 21 or under so we are getting some games into these kids to fast track their development.”

Perennial finalists Melton delivered on expectation with a runaway 107-point win over the Lakers.

While the result attracted a certain degree of inevitability, interest was by “how far” given it was popular Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown’s last game at the helm.

The Lakers have lost their last 30 games on the trot but displayed enough intent to satisfy the faithful despite the gulf in class.

Will Clark (two goals), Corey Rich, Alfred Jarnestrom and Kye Anderson led the charge for the undisputed underdogs to be within 16 points at the first change despite the advantage of a four or five goal wind to the city end.

Talk about celebrating mini wins - when the Lakers won the toss, Brown’s boys did all but sing the song recognising the flip of the coin had landed their way.

Despite posting a respectable 4.4 in the first term, the Bloods were on song posting 7.2 of their own to deserve the lead at quarter time.

The dominance of the Bloods should’ve come as no surprise given Troy Scoble’s ‘Bloodahood’ rank #1 in the comp for first quarters.

A 16-point quarter time lead for the hosts was extended to 72 at the half and again to 78 at the final change before some inaccurate kicking late flattered the score line for the visitors.

Braedan Kight finished with a selfless, game high six goals ahead of brow raising improvers Archie Greenshields (four goals) and Austin Thorneycroft (three goals).

The most encouraging thing about the Bloods’ big win was their will to share the footy given as many as 10 players hit the scoreboard on the goal front.

While there are bigger fish to fry, the Bloods were solid despite the absence of Harry Hanley (overseas), Jordy Kight (ankle), Lachlan Walker (overseas), Max Scoble (overseas), Brodie Sullivan (wedding), Adrian Monitto (shin), Jordy Kight (foot) and Billy Crofts (Hamstring/Footscray VFL).

The percentage booster consolidates the Bloods’ fifth position on the ladder, now a game and considerable percentage ahead of Sunbury.

Bloods captain Braedan Kight (six goals) was named best for the winners ahead of defenders Jordy Cotter and Lachlan Phillips.

Kyle Borg, Liam Carter and Jack Walker stretched their legs covering considerable ground and were rewarded with enough ball to feature prominently.

One highlight in particular for the Lakers came from goal of the day contender Will Clark who had three or four links in the chain before a quality finish earned the applause of both camps.

The Lakers host Ballarat next week while the Bloods are at home to Sunbury.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 33 disposals, 14 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Caleb Burquest (Melton) - 36 disposals, 10 clearances, 10 score involvements

Will Clark (Lake Wendouree) - 42 disposals, 5 clearances, 5 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Our youngest senior side in 8 years. Very competitive game from start to finish - pleased with our performance into the breeze in the first and third able to still move the ball and connect well forward. The connection between the Lakers boys and Browny is so evident - they played right to the end. Local footy isn’t easy especially if you experience availability challenges and Browny has represented himself and the club extremely well. Thanks to Lakers boys, full book in the socials post-game.”

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Challenging day for footy, thought we had some good positive patches throughout. Melton capitalised on any fundamental error, and they don't miss their chances. They will start to get some players back and Scobes has a system in place good enough to challenge. So incredibly proud of our club and the group of players I have been fortunate enough to lead over the last 3 years. Yes, it's been tough, but the resilience & loyalty shown by all is something I'm very grateful of. We are all very emotional at the club, but I said that's a good thing it means we care. Looking forward to watching the club move forward. Very humbled by the amount of phone calls, texts and well wishes from all. It's a bloody hard and challenging gig in what is a strong league led by some amazing coaches that I've been fortunate to connect with & learn. Looking forward to a bit of family time. Good luck to everyone over the next few weeks and into finals.”

Redan led at every change to upset Sunbury at Clarke Oval in a low scoring affair largely due to one man… Bond. Lachlan Bond!

The former Geelong VFL listed talent booted five of the visitors six goals to prove the difference on a day majors came at a premium.

While many at Redan would consider the ‘upset’ status an overreach given their recent form, overcoming Sunbury at Clarke Oval is a feather in the cap for coach Marc Greig in his first season in charge.

While Sunbury look a much younger line up compared to their grand final side of last year they still had 14 members of that side take the field, not including Josh Guthrie who missed the decider with injury.

For the record, Darley had just 10 players from their premiership winning side in their 72-point win over East Point.

Just not much going right on field for Sunbury this year - an injury laden season has not seen the best from the Matty White’s Pride despite the names on paper suggesting they should be going better than 5-7.

A fourth win for Redan has opened the door for Greigy’s young boys to make their own claim for an unlikely finals berth now just a game and percentage (20%) outside the six.

Lachlan Bond’s starring role aside there were many contributors for the winners - put simply, their good players all played well.

Harry Lawson, Jake Connolly, Rory Gunsser, Bailey McKay and Brodie Pope led the charge to warn the nod of approval from the Redan camp.

Unfortunately for Sunbury they’re like a nice car that just won’t start at the moment - the stocks are there but the absence of Jake Sutton, Jake Egan and Daniel Johnston is palpable.

Again, the efforts of Jack Newitt, Tyson Lever and Cody Bramble were to be recognised in the narrow loss but Sunbury’s four goal return in difficult conditions I must concede was never going to be enough to earn the premiership points.

Hats off to Redan, I’m sure they duly celebrated keeping their season alive.

Sunbury (6th) face Melton (5th) next week in a very important match up (aren’t they all this year!) while Redan host flag contenders and current number side Sebastopol.

Big ask.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 33 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 6 pressure acts

Harry Lawson (Redan) - 25 disposals, 13 marks, 8 rebound 50s

William Madden (Redan) - 25 disposals, 17 hitouts, 12 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Hard day in the end. Windy conditions that we couldn’t adapt to. Poor skill execution under big pressure from Redan. Redan were able to handle the conditions better than us and unfortunately, we couldn’t get it going our way. Makes it hard from here for the rest of the year but looks like we’ll get some sliders back over the next couple of weeks so let’s see what comes of that.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Tricky conditions for both teams. I was pleased with our ability to apply pressure and tackle which led to opportunities to get/keep the ball in our front half for scoring opportunities. It’s been a good month of footy for the lads. Next week is another good opportunity to learn and develop against the flag favourites.”

An eight-goal-to-two final quarter blitz has rocketed the Burra back to the top of the BFNL ladder with a 31-point win over the Swans.

This seesawing affair witnessed a host of lead changes before the Burra finally shrugged off the persistent Swans to give their loyal and faithful plenty to celebrate from the members balcony.

The anticipation of this one v two clash first up off the bye certainly lived up to the billing providing a snapshot into what lies ahead come finals.

Credit to Sebastopol without important trio Tony Lockyer, Jeff Buckley and Gedd Hommelhoff making it 2/2 against a depth laden Ballarat who may have touched flag favouritism for a moment in the build-up.

The Swans were missing a handful of their own (Tristan Maple, Thomas Simpson, Wyatt Squires, Sam Batistella, Rhys Perry, Bailey Fraser) and lost no admirers suffering just their third defeat of the season.

The hierarchy at the Burra settled on key ball winning trio Luke Kiel, Jack Bambury and Felix Henderson as their best in an otherwise proud team effort that yielded eight goal kickers posting a winning score.

Biggie Nyuon booted four goals for the Swans to consolidate his stranglehold on the Tony Lockett Medal tally while Luke Gray, Fraser Perkins and Patrick Graham maintained their season of good form to be named best for the visitors.

How good is BFNL footy at the moment? While the finals series is sure to entertain our socks off, don’t wish the season away as there are so many more enthralling match ups to come ahead of finals that will shape opinion and inevitably the makeup of the top six.

Next up, the Burra face Redan at City Oval while the Swans are off to CE Brown Reserve following a changing of the guard at the Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 34 disposals, 10 tackles, 10 marks

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 35 disposals, 9 score involvements, 7 clearances

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 38 disposals, 10 inside 50s, 8 marks   

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“High quality game of Ballarat footy in trying conditions. The boys started so well and set up their day in Q1. Whilst the challenge and pressure from Ballarat came all day, particularly at the start of Q4, I was so proud to watch the character and resilience of this group to respond the way they did. All the best to Ash and the Swans for the remainder of the run home. Special thank you to Shane and off field team at Sebas for taking charge yesterday in my absence.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Full credit to Tony, Snibo and the Sebas lads - too good for us most of the day. Sebas started well, moved the ball really well and we struggled to defend their ball movement. They were really well organised around stoppage also. We stuck at it and were able to find some momentum late in the third and early in the fourth and gave ourselves a sneaky chance before Sebas regained that momentum and finished too strongly. Plenty for us to work on this week as we look to be better next weekend.”

Scoop Reviews Round 13

On a July Saturday soaked in sun, it was the away teams prevailing in all five matches to return home with the vital premiership points.

The third placed Devils made it nine local derby wins in a row with a 29-point win over the Cobras (7th).

Maddingley Park played host to a monster crowd, as loyal fans flooded the perimeters with vested interest.

Next generation talent was on full display with Bacchus Matsh loaded up with as many as 13 players aged 21 or under, while Darley fielded nine of their own including 16-year-old debutant Whitiora 'Phittie' Kilmartin (one goal).

The young brigades certainly impressed on one of local footy’s biggest stages, seemingly unperturbed by the occasion.

The match was a game of two halves essentially as both sides struggled to get the game on their own terms and impact the scoreboard.

Just six goals were managed in a dour first half with both defences relatively on top.

The Devils held a slender eight-point lead on the back of greater efficiency inside 50. The Cobras would be the first to concede they were wasteful, unable to take full advantage of their superior numbers that equated to an inaccurate 2.9 on the scoreboard.

The game was craving for an injection of outside brilliance.

When Joel Freeman booted two goals for the Cobras in the third term to give the hosts the lead, questions were being asked of the Devils for a response.

Star speedster Nick Hind (four goals) and x-factor forward Will Johnson (three goals) raised the heart rates of both fans for contrasting reasons as the Devils duo looked dangerous around goal proving arguably the difference in the game on the offensive front.

Despite being under the pump for periods throughout the third term, Dan Jordan’s group remained composed and took their chances posting 6.0 for the term to the Cobras’ 5.3.

With the game on the line and just 11 points separating the two at the final change it was all about who could maintain the level for long enough.

The Devils who went into the 59th version of the local derby warm favourites held their nerve despite an inaccurate 5.7 to earn the prized premiership points and unofficial bragging rights that come with it.

Mikey Edwards provided plenty of drive off a wing for the Devils to feature prominently ahead of defensive young trio Chaz Jones, Jett Darcey and Brodie Ward.

The Cobras looked markedly better than recent weeks and were well served in particular by Zach Dalli, Sam Griffiths, Luke Goetz and Josh Huxtable.

Big games await these two next up with the Devils hosting ladder leaders Sebastopol to remain in top three calculations while the Cobras look to keep their top six chances alive with a tough trip to Sunbury.

LIVE vision and FULL commentary available from 2pm Saturday via BFNL.com.au.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 30 disposals, 11 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Nicholas Hind (Darley) - 32 disposals, 8 score involvements, 7 intercept possessions

Lachlan George (Darley) - 25 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Unfortunately missed opportunities early come back to bite us late. I felt we controlled the game early yet allowed Darley easy goals. And you can’t allow good teams momentum because they will capitalise. We now focus on Sunbury away who seem to be finding their feet too.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Pleased with the way the boys fought out a grinding win. The local derbies always deliver on pressure, and I was proud of the way our leaders and relatively young group absorbed everything the Cobras threw at us. Our response in the third (quarter) in particular when challenged showed maturity and composure which was encouraging. Our focus shifts to Sebastopol next week, another challenge for our boys in a very even comp.”

Ballarat moved into second place on the BFNL table with a percentage gaining, 73-point win over the Lake Wendouree at CE Brown Reserve.

As many predicted, the Swans led all day with spearhead forward Biggie Nyuon amongst the action once again finishing with a game high five goals.

The 200cm former North Melbourne and Richmond representative has 51 goals from his 12 games this year averaging 4.25 goals per game.

The Swans running brigade did most of the damage as Fraser Perkins, Luke Gray, Brad Crouch and Paddy Simpson were named best ahead of key ruckman Patrick Graham (in best 9/13) and in-form small defender Zak Haintz.

Jake Lohmann took over the reins at the Lakers chasing a couple of mini wins against the dangerous Swans.

The two that spring to mind defining a mini win were the Lakers’ first, third quarter win of the season and their ability to usurp their season average of 44 points, finishing with 8.9-57 on the scoreboard.

It’s clutching at straws, but when you have lost your last 31 games it’s not a bad place to start on the long road back.

Alfred Jarnestrom (in best 8/13) was again the pick of the Lakers ahead of Corey Rich and Will Clark who just know how to find the footy. Bailey Ryan, Archie Todd and Kynan Raven also earned the nod of approval from the new, caretaker boss.

The Lakers head to Eastern Oval next week to face the Kangas while the Swans host Melton at Alfredton Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 10 clearances, 8 score involvements

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 34 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) - 56 hitouts, 22 disposals, 12 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Kicked a score of 60 and kept Biggie to 5 (goals). Played with a re-brand of footy, a dash of dare, full of spirit - built on the back of defence and brotherhood.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Very pleased with our performance today. We were able to fend off a determined Lakers unit, to come home with the four points. Plenty of positives to take out of the game. I thought our young backline in the absence of a number of our ‘regular’ defenders was able to continue to learn and develop. Was also pleased to debut another U18 player this week. Looking forward to welcoming back some soldiers over the coming week or two.”

Visiting North Ballarat banked an all-important 10th win of their season with an inaccurate 19-point victory over East Point at Eastern Oval.

Clint Proctor’s promising Roosters led comfortably at every change and managed to keep the hosts at arm’s length despite conceding four unanswered goals in the final term.

The first quarter set the tone for a wasteful afternoon in front of goal for the Roosters, who set up the win with a 26-point advantage despite the frustrations of a 3.10 scoreline.

The margin blew out to as much as 45 points at the final change before a belated response from the hosts, that saw them within 19 at game’s end.

Elliott Lamb returned for the Roosters to be named best ahead of Oscar Stone, Sam Glover, Max Faulkner and ever consistent pair Josh Morris (in best 9/13 games) and Dominic Penny (7/13).

Unlikely goal source Liam Howard finished with a game high three goals for the Kangas to feature in the best alongside midfield trio Joe Dodd, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Liam Canny. Sam Lucas was named best in a new ‘freed up’ role for Joe Carmody’s crew.

North Ballarat host improvers Redan at Mars Stadium next up while East Point are at home again to take on the Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Dominic Penny (North Ballarat) - 30 dispoals, 18 contested possessions, 9 inside 50s

David Brinker-Ritchie (North Ballarat) - 48 hitouts, 22 disposals, 19 contested possessions

Joe Dodd (East Point) - 23 disposals, 10 tackles, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“We were flattered by the final scoreline. North smashed us early in all phases of the game. Good luck to Proc and his team as they head towards finals.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Never an easy game at Eastern Oval - I thought we played a great brand of footy today up until the 3rd quarter. We just needed to finish the work and no doubt the game would have been done. But credit to East they came home strong and were the better team in the last quarter.”

Redan validated their ‘league improvers’ status despite a narrow eight-

point defeat at the hands of ladder leaders Sebastopol.

Marc Greig’s group boasted some 14 players aged 21 or under had the scoreboard tied at three quarter time but were held goal less in the final term by the competitions number one fourth quarter team.

The Burra pounced early keeping their young opponents at bay with handy 12 and 13-point leads at the breaks before a surge came from Greig’s Pride in the third that saw the hosts draw level with a quarter to play.

Burra midfielders Jack Bambury, Bailey Medwell, Ben Hutt and Felix Henderson were named best for the visitors while it was the bigger bodied brigade of Lions that were recognised - namely Jacob Werts, Will Madden, Lachlan Bond and Daniel Bond. Progressive midfielders Jake Connolly (best) and Brodie Pope kept the midfield depth of the Burra honest all afternoon with their hunt and gather ethos.

The low scoring nature of the affair added kudos to the defensive efforts of both sides given eight goals was essentially enough to win the game.

The Burra will welcome back Tony Lockyer and Jack Buckley for their road clash against the Devils next week but there will be a watch on Joel Edwards who took little or no part in the second half of Saturdays win.

Redan will prepare to embrace another opportunity donning the underdogs tag when they head to Mars Stadium in Round 14 to face North Ballarat who have proven awfully hard to beat home (5-1) this season.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 35 disposals, 11 inside 50s, 10 clearances

Jake Connolly (Redan) - 26 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 24 disposals, 11 marks, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Another good game of footy for our lads to be a part of. We learnt plenty again from a good organised footy team. I thought we were a bit off our game for the first quarter but after that we played our method and gave ourselves opportunities to win the game. 14 of our lads 21 or under, to experience the heat from the ladder leaders and play some good footy was very pleasing.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“We knew it was going to be a tough game today. Redan are a much-improved team and showed that on Saturday. They will be a serious test for all teams they play on the run home, and I expect they’ll get some key results! Credit to Greigy and co for the work they have done. It was a grind, but we did just enough to win. Didn’t make the most of our ball movement early and Redan did a great job to defend, then swing back momentum in the second and third quarters. Our players stood up when the pressure was on in last quarter and delivered. We look forward to the Darley challenge this week. Always a great contest”

The Lions kept their season alive with a morale boosting nine-point win over the Bloods at MacPherson Park.

Matty White’s Pride set up the crucial away win with a six-goal-to-two second term to earn a 25-point scoreboard advantage at the main break.

The Bloods responded with a seven-goal-to-four second half, but it wasn’t enough to pinch the game late.

‘Home’ life for the Bloods this year has been a struggle on the win/loss front after their fourth defeat in seven games.

Melton fans would be disappointed knowing they won every quarter bar the second of Saturday’s clash.

Both sides had a host of outs narrowing the attention to the ‘what haves’ and who could stand up and take some ownership on the outcome.

Intercept Lions’ defender and captain Tyson Lever was named best ahead of midfielders Josh Guthrie (four goals), Jack Newitt (three goals) and experienced bodies Myles Gollant, Ben Eales and Mitch McLean.

For the hosts, dashing trio Kyle Borg, Riley Walker and Chase Scoble proved a handful with their leg speed while Lachlan Phillips, Braedan Kight (two goals) and Jordy Cotter maintained their run of good form.

Despite the narrow margin, Bloods’ coach Troy Scoble virtually conceded the Lions were deserving of the win that sees the two now level on six wins in fifth and sixth place, a game and percentage clear of Bacchus Marsh.

The Bloods face a challenging Round 14 assignment on the road against the Swans (2nd) while Sunbury look to make it back-to-back wins for the first time this year when they host the Cobras (7th) at Clarke Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 38 disposals, 12 clearances, 10 score involvements

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 11 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Riley Walker (Melton) - 24 disposals, 14 rebound 50s, 10 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Outworked today by Sunbury through the middle section of the game. We had opportunities in the first quarter and half and did not capitalize conversion wise as well as Sunbury did. They executed their plan really well and after half time had to keep chasing the game. Sunbury had the answers today and we now sit frustrated that we planned well and could not execute for long enough. That’s six games lost by less than two goals, that in the end could define our year. It gets harder from here we know but we will regroup and go and keep fighting to the end.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Great to get back on the winner’s list this week. A great game of footy the had a bit of everything. Melton jumped us we got a good roll on in the second that set us up. Guys getting into form at an important time of the year. Melton didn’t give up and challenged us until the last minute so credit to them. We’ll celebrate but know we have a big task ahead this week.”

Scoop' Reviews Round 14

Statement wins highlighted the Round 14 action ahead of a huge finale of the home & away season for our senior football teams.

North Ballarat overcame a 20-point deficit at quarter time to reel in a gallant Redan outfit at Mars Stadium.

Marc Greig’s Pride sent a scare through the Roosters camp with an impressive five-goal-to-two opening term before the hosts could reset.

Like many well-coached good sides, the Roosters, under Clint Proctor, were able to remain calm, holding faith in a systematic response that took up until the final change to reel in the margin.

Given the Wintery conditions and low scoring nature of the affair, the ‘20-point assignment’ would’ve felt like more for Proctor, and his group eyeing a share of the spoils that come with a top three finish.

Unfortunately for Lions fans, just one goal could be mustered after quarter time, strangled by the league’s number one ranked defence.

Roosters’ big man Dave Brinker-Ritchie played his best game since joining the club, while running trio Taj Bowman, Ethan York (two goals) and Henry Shea were pivotal mounting the response. In-form pair Dominic Penny and Jye Lockett (two goals) were good again.

For the visitors, experienced leader Jacob Werts was named best ahead of a host of youngsters including Zachary Lang, Oliver Pittard, Jake Connolly, Lachie Clark and Brodie Pope.

Redan are coming, their progress is palpable but there’s still a way to go given the realities of a four-win season. Another chance presents this week in the form of Bacchus Marsh at City Oval in an old school flip of the coin match-up.

North Ballarat head to the ‘East’ down the highway for a meeting with Melton who are both capable and vulnerable in the same breath.

The Bloods cling to sixth, a game and percentage clear of the Cobras.

The tension builds ahead of Round 15’s BFNL Match of the Round in the ‘East’ - Melton vs North Ballarat with full commentary LIVE from 2pm Saturday via BFNL.com.au.

STATS THAT MATTERED

William Madden (Redan) - 20 disposals, 15 hitouts, 10 tackles

David Brinker-Ritchie (North Ballarat) -  63 hitouts, 12 disposals, 6 tackles

Dominic Penny (North Ballarat) - 18 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“We adjusted well after half time. I felt our decision making was a bit off early and we turned the ball over too much! Redan’s pressure and contest was really strong. We worked our way back took control of the field and finished well.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“We tried some new things in the first quarter which was pleasing to see work, and it gave us some scoreboard presence. Unfortunately, the ground conditions really deteriorated after quarter time, and it was all about who could make the most of their chances/moments across the ground and we couldn’t deliver and hold our lead. A great contested game from both sides. There’ll be 44 sore boys wake up (Sunday) morning.”

Ballarat withstood a second half surge from Melton in trying conditions at Alfredton Oval to win by 23 points.

When Troy Scoble’s touring party closed within two points late, the trusty bevy responded with the last three goals of the game.

Both camps were vulnerable on spec, given a host of key outs, but the Swans’ remaining big guns stood up providing coach Ash Baker an impressive 11th win of the season, one game shy of ladder leaders Sebastopol.

Fraser Perkins, Alex Keath and Brad Crouch were named best for the winners while Tyson Richard and Jake Drever shared the honours with a game high three goals with Bloods’ pair Braedan Kight and Ryan Davis.

Midfielder Jaycob Hickey was named best for the visitors ahead of usual suspects Braedan Kight, Liam Carter, Jordy Cotter and Lachlan Phillips.

Ballarat head to Eastern Oval in Round 15 to consolidate their top three credentials against East Point, while the Bloods welcome a change of postcode hosting third placed North Ballarat.

Melton fall to sixth on the back of Saturday’s result, a game and healthy percentage ahead of Bacchus Marsh who face Redan at City Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 40 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 9 score involvements

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) - 65 hitouts, 17 disposals, 9 1%ers

Riley Walker (Melton) - 30 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 13 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“A well fought out, close battle all day in really trying conditions and we were glad to be on the right side of the result. We had some opportunity to hit the scoreboard in the second quarter, however Melton’s defence held up well and being the determined team that they are, they came back hard at us in the second half. Pleased that we were able to steady late and come away with the win.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Full credit to Ballarat. Extremely tough conditions they were cleaner around contest and executed better in the key moments. They have put together a very impressive squad and their method carried true and deserved the win. So proud of the group as I am sure Ash is of his boys slugging it out from start to finish. On to North (Ballarat) who are in ripping form!”

East Point honoured departed coach Joe Carmody with a comfortable 58-point win over Lake Wendouree at Eastern Oval.

While there was some inevitability about the result, the Kangas were taking nothing for granted enroute to a fourth win of the season and into eighth place on BFNL table, percentage clear of Redan.

The hosts were consistent on the goal front throughout the afternoon posting three majors in each term to win all four quarters.

The struggling Lakers finished with a two goal first half and failed to flatter again in the second, with one solitary goal, matching their lowest return of the season against Melton in Round 2.

Midfield trio Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Liam Canny and Jesse Cairns flew the flag for the Kangas to be named in the best, while as many eight players hit the scoreboard to enhance the team-oriented contribution of the group.

Prominent Lakers’ pair Corey Rich and Alfred Jarnestrom led the resistance alongside promising utility Tyson Walsh, but it wasn’t enough to deny the hosts an emotional victory.

No doubt the Kangas would’ve celebrated their win in style ahead of a much tougher assignment, albeit at home, against the Ballarat Swans (2nd).

The Lakers return to CE Brown Reserve to face fourth placed Darley in Round 15 seeking a measured response under interim coach Jake Lohmann.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Liam Canny (East Point) - 28 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 32 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 26 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jacob Brown and interim coaches (East Point)
“Not the best day for footy, it was an up and down contest, but we managed to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Credit to Jakey Lohmann and the Lakers cohort, they challenged us in all areas in different stages. Shout out to Joey Carmody, he was on all of our minds this week, we’ve been in every game over the last 5 weeks and just haven’t managed to get over the line - we put a big focus after building a lead to stay consistent and connected which we were able to do. Still four rounds to go, we’ll work on getting the most out of it. Also big thanks to Tommy Molan for stepping in on short notice helping bring everything together.”

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Disappointing, tough conditions and credit to East Point who adapted better than us. Harder at the contest and were able to kick and catch their way through our defence. We will continue to keep getting the best out of our players and improve week by week. We as a club will be looking for a challenge from every individual player next week.”

Six goals from star midfielder Jack Bambury has led Sebastopol to a solid 22-point win over Darley at Darley Park.

The result sees Tony Lockyer’s groundbreaking flock remain a game clear at the top of the BFNL table while ending a run of 17-straight wins at home for Dan Jordan’s group in the process.

With little breeze to speak of, the Burra were off to a flier again putting the Devils on the back foot early with another six-goal opening term.

Tony Lockyer’s men led by 23 points at the first change back in Round 6, while a handy 14-point advantage at the weekend represented a near mirror image.

The margin extended to 29 at the half largely attributed to the Devils’ woeful conversion in front of goal. The hosts added a frustrating 1.6 to the new benchmark’s 4.3.

The contrasting score line at the half 10.3 to 4.10 complemented the Burra’s efficiencies and ease with which they were able to score given Bambury already had four majors to his name out of the middle.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan has a few things to think about given any vulnerabilities were never extended to the midfield.

With the jury already out on an inexperienced forward and back combination matching it with the top three sides in particular, expect a mounted response from a proud Devils midfield who had their colours lowered at the weekend by a thriving Burra unit.

When the margin extended to 40 at the last change, there was mounting evidence to support one claim from the inner sanctum, describing the game as “nothing like we played them the first time.”

Credit to the Devils with little going right on a tough day at the office, showing some ticker to win the last quarter 5.3 to 2.3.

The afternoon simply belonged to the Burra and their superior midfield on the day.

While Bambury was the standout, fellow mids Toby Hutt (two goals) Ben Hutt and Lachlan Cassidy (three goals) also joined the party to feature prominently.

Jacob Fletcher and Lachie Rockebrand deserved their nod of approval from the Burra camp to feature in the best.

For the Devils, defending trio Matthew Brett, Zane Le Huray and Mitch Gardiner were named best for their tireless effort under the pump for long periods, while the Devils were pleased with the progression of young pair Jet Grech and Kai Watkins who had their moments.

While the Devils look to marshal the missing troops over the coming weeks let’s not ignore the fact the Burra were missing some top end talent of their own. Luke Kiel, Jack Buckley, Joel Edwards and underrated key defender Luke Phillips all missed.

Ahead, the high-flying Burra host Sunbury in Round 15 while the Devils are highway bound to take on the Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 43 hitouts, 36 disposals, 24 contested possessions

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 44 disposals, 12 marks, 12 clearances

Nick Hind (Darley) - 26 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 pressure acts

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Plenty of learnings to draw from the game. Sebastopol took their opportunities (on goal) and unfortunately, we didn’t and that was validated on the scoreboard. Credit to Tony and his boys, most deserving of the win.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Pleased to come away with the result on the road. Wish DJ and the boys all the best and look forward to seeing them again later in the year. Game of momentum early, where Darley missed some key chances that could have changed course of game. We were lucky enough to hit the scoreboard and put pressure on.”

Sunbury moved two games and percentage clear inside the top six with an all-important 19-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Clarke Oval.

In relatively fine conditions, compared to those experienced in the ‘West’, Sunbury were able to kick away in the second half booting seven goals to four, after scores were level at the main break.

Lions’ pair Jack Newitt (three goals) and Harry Minton-Connell (two goals) led the tidy up on the efficiency front after a wasteful opening half littered with turnover, fumbles and wayward conversion on goal.

The 3.10 to 4.4 score line at the half validates the observation to some degree.

One could attribute the fundamental struggles to pressure, but light work was made look difficult on numerous occasions.

Intermittent drizzle did enough to have the ball in the slippery range for periods, but it was the hosts who initiated any raising of the bar.

The Cobras were dour for the most part but looked a little more dangerous forward on occasions with Joel Freeman (three goals) and Angus Morgan (two goals) providing an aerial presence while hitting the scoreboard.

Josh Huxtable was the standout for the visitors, while their solid contributions came from Sam Griffiths, Luke Goetz, Jamie Fulton, Zach Vesty and Hamish Coulton.

For the winners, some breathing space inside the six was aided by the inclusion of Minton-Connell, and Newitt’s day out in particular but a host of support roles followed in the name of Cody Bramble, Josh Guthrie and defenders Tyson Lever, Nathan Wood and Jordan Tentonello.

Moving forward, the Cobras’ season hangs in the balance next week when they head up the highway to meet improving Redan (9th).

A win you would think is crucial for Armfield’s quiver with the potential return of key forward Jake Owen on the cards.

The stakes aren’t so high for the Lions under Matty White, but the former Richmond and Port Adelaide forward is not here to make up the numbers.

The Pride are also up the highway facing a huge task against ladders Sebastopol.

If it’s any consolation, Sunbury won their earlier meet against the Burra in Round 5, albeit at Clarke Oval, by 26 points.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Newitt (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 12 marks, 11 score involvements

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 30 disposals, 10 marks, 7 intercept possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 10 marks, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Was a good solid win in the end. Inaccurate early which kept Bacchus in the game, and they were able to score of our mistakes to their credit. Took three quarters to get the game on our terms but a strong performance in the end against an opposition that always challenges us. A few sore boys coming out of the game so recover and get ready for a big trip up the highway next week.”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“A great game of football, where unfortunately we fell away late. 15 players under the age of 22 is very exciting looking ahead. However, Sunbury leadership and execution for longer slowly wore us down and was the difference in the end. Exciting to have another two home grown debutants, Metcher and Martin, taking us to 46 players for the season.
We welcome some players back for our last exciting 4 weeks.”

Scoop Reviews Round 15

A weekend of massive upsets and memorable victories has turned the BFNL ladder on its head with just three rounds remaining.

Star forward Jake Owen gave fans a timely reminder of his ‘invaluable’ status in the BFNL with five match winning goals in his return game for the Cobras at the weekend.

The former Williamstown VFL talent had missed the last seven games with a high-grade hamstring tear.

Worth noting it was Owen’s third bag of five goals from his last four games dating as far back to May 9 (Round 5 v Redan).

The timing could not be worse for Marc Greig’s Lions, as an Owen led quiver essentially ended any slim chances of the Pride pinching an unlikely spot in the finals action.

The presence of Owen alone changes the dynamic of the Cobras and for the second time this season the Lions have worn the brunt.

Sure, he wasn’t on his own but structurally the Cobras are a different proposition altogether.

Ball magnet Josh Huxtable was prominent again, named alongside Owen in the best players ahead of Adam Blain, Ben Locke (one goal), Joel Freeman (one goal) and Armi Wakefield.

Cobra fans have every reason to be pleased with the morale boosting win given Redan have (recently) played well above their ninth placing suggests.

The young pride has recorded wins over Sunbury (5th) and Melton (6th) and pushed top four opposition Sebastopol (8 points), Darley (6 points) and North Ballarat (18 points).

The spirited win for Dennis Armfield’s Cobras keeps their finals mission alive as they draw level with Melton (sixth) on six wins.

For the record the Cobras (82.6%) have East Point (H), Sebastopol (H) and Lakers (A) on the way home compared to the Bloods (126.03%), Darley (A), Redan (H), Sebastopol (A).

The Cobras will need little motivation getting up for their matchup with the Kangas (8th-20 points) who haven’t given up on any finals aspirations of their own following their upset win over the Swans.

Redan however, while disappointed with the 29-point loss, had a handful of warriors flying the flag for veteran forward Grant Bell in game 200.

Zac Mortlake, Nick Barker, Brodie Pope, Taj Bond (two goals), Lachie Clark and Jacob Werts were acknowledged by the Lions hierarchy while forward Lachie Bond finished with a team high three goals.

The Lions are away to Alfredton Oval this Saturday to face Ballarat.

Tough ask!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) -  55 hitouts, 22 disposals, 14 contested possessions

William Madden (Redan) - 27 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“A bit of an off day for our lads. We certainly didn’t play at the level we have played for the last 8 weeks but that’s bound to happen occasionally with a young group. We still had chances to get over the line early in the last quarter but couldn’t get it done. Baccus Marsh used their leg speed well with ball in hand and their full forward was the difference and capitalised on their good play. A small bump in the road but plenty to learn from the day.”

Dennis Armfield (Dennis Armfield)
“Great result to get the four points against Redan at City Oval. They were an inform team of the comp and we executed our plan for most parts. I felt we were in control most the day, a small scare early in the last, but our boys steadied the ship to finish off strong. We now get back to Maddingley to take on East Point who have changed a lot since our first game of the year.”

Darley ticked off their wish-list mission in fine style with a thumping 149-point win over the Lake Wendouree at CE Brown Reserve.

The reigning premiers were rapt to get through relatively unscathed (tick) following the return of key trio Brett Bewley (one goal), Billy Myers (six goals) and Harley Inglis (four goals).

The nature of the win gave the Devils a much needed percentage boost (tick), moving them into third place on the BFNL ladder after Ballarat’s upset loss to East Point.

Scoreboard aside, the Devils resembled every bit of a top four side (tick) as coach Dan Jordan looked for a response from his players after the disappointment of Round 14’s loss to Sebastopol.

Nick Hind (seven goals) was the star of show in his mid-forward role running rings around his Lakers opponents who did not have the answers.

Defenders Matthew Brett and Mitch Gardiner had a day out denying the Lakers who provided some cheek, in the first quarter especially, to be within seven points.
Devils midfield trio Ethan Matthews (ruck), Luther Baker and Andy Azzopardi were compliant in their roles earning the nod from Jordan and his crew to feature in the best.

The visitors booted 10 goals in the first half and a staggering 20 in the second as nine Devils hit the scoreboard.

The task was never going to be easy for the winless Lakers who extend their run of outs to 33.

Interim coach Jake Lohmann would’ve been thrilled with the buy-in early before the Devils really hit their straps.

Lakers youngster Aiden Wiltsher kept the Devils honest with four goals while Timmy Collins (two goals) was the only other multiple contributor.

Archie Todd (best) was the pick of the bunch for the hosts in general play ahead of Wiltsher, Collins and consistent performer Corey Rich.

The season gets very real for the Devils in the run home with Melton (H), Ballarat (A) and North Ballarat (H) to come.

Three wins would guarantee the Devils a prized top three finish.

The Lakers meet Sebastopol (A), North Ballarat (A), and Bacchus Marsh (H) in the coming weeks before any thoughts of putting the cue in the rack.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 41 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Nicholas Hind (Darley) - 37 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 18 score involvements

Will Clark (Lake Wendouree) - 36 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 7 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Losing two key players early in the game - puts you on the back foot with a team that had the foot on the throttle for most of the day. We owned territory and should’ve been up by 2-3 goals at quarter time if we finished our work. We showed 10-12 minutes of really good patches each quarter the way we want to play just not doing it for long enough. Darley flexed their muscles, were able to get first use, spread from the contest get the ball to the outside shifting angles and understand where the ball needed to go. All on the same page. Something that we admired and will continue to learn and get better from this experience.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Pleased with the four-quarter effort from the boys. We were able to kick away after halftime - Lakers definitely had a crack early. Got some time into some boys returning and worked on a few things we sort improvement on from last week. Onto next week.”

North Ballarat surged to equal first on the BFNL ladder following a hard fought 17-point win over Melton at MacPherson Park.

With three rounds to still play before a highly anticipated finals series the Roosters have put themselves in the box seat for a top three finish with Sunbury (A), Lakers (H) and Darley (A) to determine their fate.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor will hope his contested ball brand continues to stand up with a relatively inexperienced group, compared to some rivals.

While this contest was even for the most part, the Bloods would be rueing too many turnovers across their half forward line.

It was as if the Bloods were beaten at their own game given we’re accustomed to their signature rebound off half back.

The Roosters ability to strangle the Bloods, between the arcs especially, was palpable.

Proctors high press put pressure on the Bloods ball carrier while the Roosters will to provide the outnumber at the ground level source was another key ingredient denying the hosts any continuity in transition.

When the Roosters held possession from inside to out, they would ask questions of the Bloods to EARN the ball back - a draining watch essentially if you’re not a North Ballarat fan.

The physical toll on both parties was noted late in the game. Examples of cramp on the firm deck and players labouring late to the finish line was testament to the hard-fought nature of the affair.

A perceived (to the eye) increase in stoppages, boundary throw ins, ‘on the fulls’ and lasso rebound free kicks just added another layer of evidence to the pressure gauge.

Melton kept their number one rank for first quarters in check with a narrow win in isolation but thereafter you couldn’t deny the Roosters the road win.

North Ballarat are gettable that is true but be prepared to roll up your sleeves and bring your work boots.

Proctor is up for any challenge but the one that provides arguably more intrigue is the battle of who will crack first.

In a nutshell, the Bloods were solid with their intent, but their execution was found wanting under the stress of the competitions number one ranked team defence.

Sam Glover, Henry Shea and Seb Collins were named best for the winners while Liam Carter, Jaycob Hickey and Jordy Cotter provided much of the resistance for the hosts.

Bloods’ forward Braedan Kight finished with a game high three goals.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, 12 marks

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 27 disposals, 8 score invovlements, 8 tackles

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 10 marks, 7 score involvements    

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Was a fast high transition game of footy. Perfect conditions. We felt we set the ground up well for large parts of the game and gave great effort to the final siren. North converted their opportunities well very efficient in their attack phase. We did not convert well today 3.6 in the last. They nailed the key moments to separate the teams. We just have not been able to close that couple goal gap on the top teams. Another big challenge for us next week.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“High octane game - Melton play such a fast system! At times they were too clean and moved the ball well. I thought we adjusted well and played a North brand when it mattered. Happy to come away with the win! It’s been a very long time for the club (winning down there)”

East Point secured further validation for their season rebuild, claiming a top four scalp in the form of Ballarat at Eastern Oval.

Under stand-in coach Tommy Molan the troops gave club favourite Jacob Brown 100 a day to remember as he celebrated 100 games.

Brown was proud as punch in the aftermath confirming his pre-game vibe that Saturday would be the day the Kangas get the job done after a number of near misses.

The Kangas kept themselves in it with some accurate finishing on goal including one of the goals of the year (second quarter) from x-factor forward Jarrod Joyce who evidently played a starring role with his game high six goals.

The undermanned Swans led at quarter time before trailing at the half by eight points 5.5 to the Kangas’ 7.1.

All the Kangas needed was a sniff at the main break to find a way through the Swans, who trounced them by 55 points at their first meet back at Alfredton Oval in Round 5 (May 9).

Just two points separated the two sides at the final change with many anticipating the Swans to runover the Kangas given their (then) impressive number one ranking in each of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th quarters across the competition.

Someone forgot to give the Kangas the memo as they fought doggedly to hang on.

The Kangas survived a last quarter challenge before steadying late with the final two goals of the game.

The result gave the Kangas their second win in a row and fifth win of the season, just one game and percentage shy of Melton (sixth) and Bacchus Marsh (seventh).

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus was named best for the winners ahead of Joyce, Jack Jeffrey (three goals), Brown in his milestone game, Dylan Hiscock and Jessie Cairns.

The Swans named Patrick Graham, Fraser Perkins, Luke Gray, Jake Drever and former AFL pair Alex Keath and Brad Crouch in their best while the goals were shared among eight of the bevy.

Kudos to Ash Baker and the Swans acknowledging the effort of the Kangas in the post-match rather than blaming injury and unavailability as their reasoning for falling short.

For the record East Point were the only ‘home’ team to win across the five games in Round 15.

Moving forward, the Swans get a chance to atone quickly at home this week hosting Redan while the Kangas have a throw at the stumps opportunity keeping their slim finals chances alive when they travel done the highway to meet the Cobras.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) -  79 hitouts, 19 disposals, 12 contested possessions

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 34 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 10 marks

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 37 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tommy Molan (East Point stand-in coach)
“The boys were really good today. We identified what our role needed to be at stoppage and how we could stop Ballarat’s outside run. We were probably a little lucky getting Ballarat with a few out, but we were happy with how our boys implemented the game plan and worked for each other. Our forwards are starting to connect and create opportunities for each other, and our defenders are winning one on ones consistently. We finished the game without a bench, so it was great to see the boys respond after Ballarat edged in front with a few minutes to go.”

Dean Hetherington (East Point Team Manager)
“Very happy with the effort. When the experience in Micka (Rotumah-Onus) and (Jacob) Brown play well, it drags the young group along with them. We are loving the progression of blokes who haven't played 20 games yet. Special mentions to Jarrod Joyce, Dylan Hiscock and Deng Lual. Looking forward to playing on a fast deck next week at Bacchus Marsh.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Disappointing result for us today after a promising start. We were well beaten around stoppages and on the spread. Credit to East Point, they applied plenty of pressure all day, resulting in us turning the ball over far too easily. Plenty of learnings from the game and will be looking to bounce back next week.”

Seven goals from reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan has Sunbury one step closer to securing a finals berth in 2026 and a 2-0 clean sweep against the high flaring Burra.

Sebastopol simply had no answers for Egan (7.8!) in his return game after he suffered a fractured arm against Darley on June 20 (Round 10).

To the Burra’s credit, testament to their character, they did come home with a whirlwind six goals to one final term but fell agonisingly short.

Great learnings for both clubs will be drawn from the game. Just the fourth quarter as an exercise in isolation has merit - defending a lead and secondly chasing one down. In this case the ask for the Burra was overcoming a 34-point deficit at three quarter time.

The Lions benefited kicking with the breeze in the opening term establishing a handy 32-point lead that was reduced to 15 at the half.

Sunbury matched their return of the first quarter (5.5)

with the advantage in the third largely on the back of Egan’s individual brilliance.

Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer would’ve had complete confidence in his boys running down a 34-point deficit as long as his core group continue to perform the way do. The chase was gallant, but three points shy at the final siren.

No doubt Sunbury coach Matty White was both relieved and super proud of his boys eventually holding out the new benchmark.

While Egan was ‘ridiculously’ good, Jack Newitt and Jordyn Gillard (three goals) continued their run of recent good form in the Lions third win in a row.

Last year’s runners up look like they’re coming good at the right time of year as Mitch McLean, Riley Miller and Zach Stevens moved freely around Marty Busch Reserve with fond memories of their last visit still etched in the back of their minds - the 2025 Preliminary Final extra time win over Melton.

The Burra were brave, gee they kicked 91 points - a total that would win most matches.

However, they were 16 points shy of their season average at home while the Lions were up almost five goals (excluding their Lakers games) on their own, up from 66.

For the gallant hosts Adam Forbes finished with a team high three goals to be among nine of the Burra to hit the scoreboard.

The midfield contingent of the Burra were good again, combining for six goals but were not afforded the same luxuries of the previous week that amounted to 13 of their teams 15 goals.

No concerns for either team to be drawn from Saturday’s nail biter.

Sunbury will continue to build ahead of another tough assignment this week albeit at home against North Ballarat.

Sebastopol will use this Saturdays hit out against the Lakers to harness whatever advantage Lockyer chooses, around the management of his players.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 39 hitouts, 25 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 16 score involvements, 7 goals

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 6 1%ers 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Poor start to the day ended up being difference. Sunbury got the jump on us and it took too long for our boys to adjust. Improved after quarter time, more consistent with our brand getting us back in it. Credit to our boys never giving in, nearly getting it done late. Good learnings to come from the game against a slick Sunbury team. They’ve got some great quality. Well done to Matty and his boys deserved winners.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Great hard-fought win in the end. Egan’s return was a huge plus for us. 7 goals on return brilliant. Got off to a fast start which is always a good thing and had to withstand a fast-finishing Sebas. Can see why they are at the pointy end of the ladder in that last quarter. We celebrate as normal but turn our focus to North at home for another ladder leader clash.”

Scoop Reviews Round 16

The Round 16 action proved there are no sure things when it comes to one of the closest BFNL football home and away seasons in recent memory.

Bacchus Marsh kept their finals hopes alive with a thrilling come from behind win over East Point at Maddingley Park.

Returned Cobras’ forward Hamish Coulton snapped an unlikely goal late to break the hearts of the willing Kangas on tour while sending the large band of Cobras loyal and faithful into raptures.

The Cobras were dour in their struggle to stay in the game as the visitors led at every change including 23 points at the half.

Without next gen talents Josh Huxtable and Zach Dalli, the equation for the Cobras heading into the game was made that little more difficult keeping their season alive.

Progressive wiry defender Adam Blain was named best for his job on x-factor talent Jarrod Joyce (three goals). Still in the infancy of his senior career Blain has already taken on the best of opposition clubs in the absence of Wil Lalor (season).

While there was a depth of Cobra contributors dragging the quiver over the line coach Dennis Armfield and his staff settled on Jack Kovacevic, Luke Goetz, Jamie Fulton, Isaac Nixon and Hamish Coulton as the pick of the bunch behind Blain.

Key Cobra forwards Jake Owen and Joel Freeman looked threatening all day before finishing with two goals each in a game where goals were worth their weight in gold.

For the Kangas, while brave again, the four-quarter journey proved barely a fraction beyond them despite the efforts of experienced campaigners Liam Canny, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Liam Howard and Jacob Brown while youngsters Cooper Glenwright-McGuane and Deng Lual continued their upward trend with another impactful display.

The Cobras host ladder leaders Sebastopol in a tough Round 17 match up while the Kangas are at home to face Sunbury.

For the record Round 16’s loss by rebuilding East Point was their fifth loss of the season by 19 points or less.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 71 hitouts, 14 disposals, 12 contested possessions

Jamie Fulton (Bacchus Marsh) - 30 disposals, 9 marks, 8 inside 50s

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 32 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“A cracking game of contested football. East Point were on top early and hurting us on turnover. However, our boys did enough to stay close enough. I thought the second half we played our brand and unfortunately in the 3rd didn’t finish our work, kicking 1.6 to 0.3. It could have went either way late and I felt we executed our last 4 minutes superbly. Proud of the heart show by our young group.”

Tommy Molan (East Point)
“Our boys did a lot right today but unfortunately; we couldn’t kick a score to get the win. Credit to Bacchus Marsh they took their moments and their keys stood up late. We won a lot of the key stats in the game, and we continued to play our way, especially around stoppage but it wasn’t enough.”

Ballarat moved back into the top three holding out a persistent Redan in a low scoring affair at Alfredton Oval.

While Ash Baker’s bevy led at every change, the young Lions refused to throw in the towel even winning the last quarter, three goals to one, to be within eight points at the finish.

No surprise to see Fraser Perkins named best again, what a super organic product he has become under the development of firstly Chris Maple and now Baker.

Youngster Emmerson Hooper enjoyed a breakout game and looks at home at the level already while key recruits Alex Keath and Patrick Graham were also at the forefront in the Swans hard fought win.

For gallant Redan (again), midfielders Rory Gunsser and Brodie Pope enjoyed their fair share of the footy to be named best ahead of Lachie Bond and youngsters Sam Kallio, Bailey McKay and Lachie Clark.

With goals coming at a premium with just 17 goals kicked collectively it was Perkins again who did the damage with a game high four goals.

The Swans will be hoping Biggie is back from overseas to take his place against the Devils on Saturday with third place on the line at Alfredton Oval.

Redan, while out of the finals race can still shape the six overcoming the Bloods at MacPherson Park.

It’s not beyond them having beaten them at their previous meet.

Plenty to play out for both sides ahead in Round 17.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brody Pope (Redan) - 40 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 8 clearances, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“A tight tussle all day that we were glad to be on the right side of. Redan defended the ball really well and are playing a good brand of footy. We were able to find some good momentum during the third quarter, opening up a gap which we controlled fairly well against the wind in the last.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Another good game of footy. Close all day and we couldn’t quite get over the line again, but our lads kept coming right until the end. Ballarat’s wise heads showed good leadership and helped them get the job done. 3 more debutants were exciting for the club, and to have 9 players that played seniors yesterday, still eligible to play u18.5’s showed the talent we have to work with moving forward.”

Melton are one step closer to booking a place in the coming finals series following an impressive 27-point win over the Devils at Darley Park.

It was a case of déjà vous for many as the Bloods, under coach Troy Scoble, maintained its recent stranglehold over the Devils with a sixth win from their last seven meets.

But they did have some help!

As good and as honest as Melton were the Devils had a case of the yips with their field kicking that led to turnovers and more often scores.

Despite the Devils’ narrow five-point lead at three quarter time, Melton were ultimately the better side for longer having won three individual quarters in isolation and kicked eight of the last nine goals of the game to run away with the victory.

Footscray VFL talent Billy Crofts (three goals) was named best for the winners ahead of Jaycob Hickey who seemingly saves his biggest days for the Devils.

Given the Devils fundamentally flawed display, especially by foot, their defence was found under the pump for frustrating periods.

Matthew Brett and Zane Le Huray were recognised for their rebound and effort with the unenviable task denying the Carter boys. Brodie Ward performed admirably on Braedan Kight despite the 2024 Tony Lockett Medallist finishing with three goals.

The Devils own playmaker Billy Myers finished with a game high four goals.

The Bloods must beat Redan this week to consolidate their spot in the top six while the Devils (4th) return up the highway for a tough assignment with Ballarat (3rd).

A win for Dan Jordan’s touring party would see them replace the Swans in third place on the BFNL ladder, with just one round to follow.

Melton’s Conrad Farrugia (shoulder) is doubtful for the Bloods meeting with Redan after leaving the ground in the third quarter.

The Devils and the Bloods have now met on 50 occasions since their arrival in the BFNL (1997) - it’s Melton who hold the bragging rights with 25 wins and a draw.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 37 disposals, 9 clearances, 7 tackles

Billy Crofts (Melton) - 28 disposals, 8 clearances, 7 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 40 disposals, 11 clearances, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Melton thoroughly deserved the win. Fundamentally we were flawed and they made us pay on the scoreboard. We’ve got a bit to work on with our connection and have a couple more weeks against quality opposition to get it right. We did some good things, and I was relatively happy leading 16 points up in the third but again credit to Melton who finished too well for us.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“See sawing game of momentum, felt the game initially went in 15-minute patches of one team on top then that went to 10, then 5, then the game flipping both ways constantly. Proud for the lads to hang in and stay resilient through the middle part of the game when it wasn’t going our way, as Darley are an extremely tough team to play against and get momentum back from. When we got a few looks in the last quarter to execute, it was great reward for the team. The players have dug in the whole year met with disappointment in games like these prior falling just short but have been able to keep our season alive and still have a shot at the 6. Recover well and onto next week.”

Sunbury were no match for North Ballarat at home despite the inclusion of reigning Tony Lockett Medallist Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL) who booted four goals.

After scores were tied at quarter time the Roosters raised their game to extend with 10 goals to six running out comfortable winners.

Dangerous forward pairing Jye Lockett (four goals) and Jamie Quick (three goals) continued their rich vein of form in the front half for the Roosters proving arguably the difference on the scoring front between the two sides.

Dom Penny and Sam Glover continue to impress in their rebound and distribution roles for the winners, while speedsters Reggie Palmer and Taj Bowman thrived on the wide expanses of Clarke Oval, all finishing in the best alongside old school ‘follower’ Seb Collins.

Roosters’ coach Cling Proctor would be loving what he’s seeing from his progressive group, a genuine, now ready-made finals brand of footy.

For the Lions, all not lost, they won’t be the last team to lower their colours to the Roosters on road to finals.

While Sutton was named best on his return there were solid contributions from Jake Egan (two goals), Ben Cameron, Josh Guthrie, Ben Eales and Jack Hannett.

Sunbury head to Eastern Oval in the penultimate round to meet the Kangas while North Ballarat expect to welcome a couple more soldiers back for a run ahead of a monster Round 18 clash with the Devils.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Dominic Penny (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 13 clearances, 11 rebound 50s 

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 12 marks, 8 score involvements

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 23 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Great to have Sutton down for the weekend, wish we had him more, but Sydney VFL look to go deep into finals. So good luck to him. Well done to Proc and North. Defended us well all day and capitalised when they had the momentum. We just couldn’t get our offensive game going and let a couple of opportunities slip when we had them. Review and get ready for a big trip up the highway to East.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Excellent performance from the lads - collectively that’s the best we have played in a while. Sunbury are such a well-coached team, it’s never easy playing them especially away! But we were able to execute today and get the game on our terms. Looking forward to the next contest and last “home game” of the year.

Sebastopol flexed their muscles, returning to the winner’s list with a dominant display over struggling Lake Wendouree.

Tony Lockyer’s flock had their pedal to the metal, near mirror imaging their first and second halves on the goal front with 13 and 14 goals respectively.

Again, the depth of midfield stocks of the ladder leaders came to the fore as Gedd Hommelhoff impressed in a breakout performance given the opportunity in the absence of Lachie Cassidy.

The magnets continued to be ‘thrown around’ by Lockyer as wing/mid Bailey Medwell (six goals) was sent deep forward to exercise his versatility.

Refreshed big man Joel Edwards finished the day with an equalling game high six goals after a nervous start that yielded three straight behinds.

Sebastopol did simply what they had to do despite the heightened degrees of inevitability about the result heading in.

The Lakers’ horror run with injury continued with Bailey Ryan unable to return after a heavy hit in the third term while Jack Butler succumbed to a season ending hamstring strain - he cannot take a trick!

Corey Rich, Archie Todd and Timmy Collins featured prominently again for the Lakers despite another heavy loss, while the efforts of James Clark and Josh Canny earned themselves nominations among the best.

The Burra are highway bound for their penultimate hit out ahead of finals taking on Bacchus Marsh while the Lakers head to Mars for a daunting mission against second placed North Ballarat

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Edwards (Sebastopol) - 26 disposals, 14 marks, 6 goals

Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol) - 22 disposals, 11 marks, 6 goals

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 41 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 11 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Pleased with the performance overall. Was very happy with how the boys set up the day into the breeze in the first quarter. Clean with our use and set up some good looks on goal into a tricky wind. We wish Jake and the Lakers all the best for the run home, they had some good passages in the second half and have some great youth coming through. Plenty to learn for us still, we now commit to our review and look forward to the highway trip vs Bacchus Marsh.”

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Sebas way too good from the start and had a strong 4 quarter performance. We did have some really good looks in the third quarter and arm wrestled the territory battle and were able to hit the scoreboard. Tough day. Not enough pressure on ball and fundamentally fumbled so we weren’t clean enough throughout the game. We couldn’t get our Lakers style going at all. Disappointed with the effort which is a mindset thing however no one is complaining and with the 22 we had out there - we are maximising and we will keep the standards high, we want to keep getting better. What can we keep getting out of each session and each game is the question and the answer we will continue to find as a group. Brotherhood.”

Scoop Reviews Round 17

The BFNL football final standings were near on decided following a number of big results across the league over the weekend.

The ruthless Roosters made it seven wins in a row at home dominating Lake Wendouree to the tune of 151 points.

Despite some early resistance from the visitors, Clint Proctor’s relatively young group raised the bar after quarter time piling on 20 goals to one and move to the top of the BFNL table on percentage ahead of Sebastopol.

Star forward Jye Lockett finished with a game high eight goals ahead of nine other team mates to hit the scoreboard on the goal front.

Some 45 scoring shots to four tells the story of the tape as the Lakers welcomed the return of Jake Lohmann who played managed minutes in one genuine positive for the embattled group on an otherwise long afternoon.

Roosters’ ruckman Dave Brinker Ritchie earned the nod of best on ground honours ahead of Lockett while Brayden Purchase, Reggie Palmer and Dominic Penny continued their recent run of good form.

It was always going to be hard work for Lohmann and his group, but you couldn’t deny the efforts of ball magnet Will Clark, Tyson Walsh, Josh Canny, Corey Rich, Patty Corbett and Ash Cutts who fought out the contest to the very end.

North Ballarat head to Darley next week to consolidate top spot while the winless Lakers get one more crack at breaking a run of 35 outs when they host Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 27 disposlas, 14 marks, 8 goals

David Brinker-Ritchie (North Ballarat) - 45 hitouts, 31 disposals, 27 contested possessions

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 43 disposals, 12 marks, 10 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Lakers came out hard and hit the scoreboard early - the game was a really tight contest, and it was difficult to find brand. We made some adjustments which seem to work in our favour once the match went on. Looking forward to Darley now.”

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Tough day, didn’t give up until the end of the game. Credit to North’s team defence, the best I’ve seen all year from anyone. Squeezed us in back half and controlled the game. Having 10-12 seniors players out and key players in Joel O’Connell, Angus Gove, Tom Zampatti, Will Fordham, Bailey Ryan, Kynan Raven, Cooper James, Noah Shearer just to name a few out of the side but gives us 7 kids under the age of 19 playing today. We are getting some good exposure and learning from each game. We will only improve and continue to get better. Must believe and stay connected leading into Bacchus @home.”

Ballarat secured a prized top three position following a dour 17-point win over a wasteful Darley at Alfredton Oval.

Ash Baker’s bevy simply made more of their opportunities despite a landslide differential (minus 26) of inside 50s.

Alex Keath was the general in defence marshalling the troops while midfielder Paddy Simpson stood up in his mid/forward role finishing with a game high three goals.

The Swans’ four-goal-to-one first quarter laid the foundations of a lead the Devils simply couldn’t reel in despite Brett Bewley’s monster 49 disposals and two goal game.

Trailing by 22 points at the main break the Devils peppered the goals throughout the third but were their own worst enemy adding just 1.6 and two out of bounds on the full - a hard watch for all Devils’ fans that made the trek.

Alfredton Oval was deceptively heavier and slippery underfoot, conditions the Devils struggled to master despite a majority of the ball.

Swans trio Luke Dunstan, Lewis Rinaldi and Jack O’Brien were solid in their respective roles landing in the best. Key forward Biggie Nyuon made his much-awaited return and booted two handy goals in a relatively low scoring affair.

The Swans looked the winners a fair way out, won three quarters in isolation despite missing up to six of their best 12 and the Devils enjoying long periods with ball in their front half.

Bewley aside, the Devils had solid contributions from Lachie George, Zane Le Huray, Mickey Edwards and Jayven Tanner.

The Swans head to Sunbury in Round 18 with a top three spot already in their pockets to face Sunbury who cannot miss the finals action either with a fifth or sixth place beckoning.

Darley on the other hand host North Ballarat, both of whom have qualified for finals.

Curious to see what plays out here at selection and the intensity of these games in particular, ahead of a massive finals series.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 49 disposals, 10 inside 50s, 9 score involvements

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 25 disposals,  9 inside 50s, 8 clearances

Alex Keath (Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 12 marks, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Really pleased with the outcome today against a quality side. Our first half was really solid. We were able to get the game on our terms for the majority of it. We knew Darley would come out firing in the second half, which they did, and we were fortunate that they weren’t able to capitalise on their opportunities in the third quarter. Plenty for us to continue to work on and looking forward to another strong opponent next week.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“While disappointed with the result we saw progress in a few key areas of focus. We controlled the game for periods but could not finish off our good work on goal. We simply do not take our opportunities - credit to Ballarat, they took theirs and was arguably the difference in the game. Plenty to like moving forward with another game into a few of our blokes on the way back and further development into our young boys.”

Melton have booked their place in this year’s BFNL finals series with a convincing 55-point over Redan at MacPherson Park.

Troy Scoble’s rediscovery of the winning form we’ve been used to over previous years has made a timely return after his boys won every quarter at the weekend to put the competition on notice they’re not here making up the numbers.

Braedan Kight finished with best on ground honours on the back of a game high five goals, as eight members of the ‘Bloodahood’ posted majors.

The Bloods maintained their number one standing in the competition for first quarters and will ask questions of future opposition to start well or face the prospect of chasing down a lead.

While Ryan Carter was unavailable for the clash, Billy Crofts suited up again and will feature for the remainder of the season in the Bloods’ flag tilt. Harry Hanley (two goals) made a safe return from an overseas trip with immediate impact while the Bloods in form defence continued to deny the Lions.

Jordy Cotter, Lachlan Phillips and Jack Walker were solid again featuring among the best players behind Kight and progressive ruckman Joshua Stewart.

The Lions were disappointing given their recent form and perhaps due for a quiet day.

They were never really in the hunt as the margin extended north at every change.

Taj Bond finished with a team high three goals while midfielders Rory Gunsser (best) and Brodie Pope continued to rack up high possession numbers.

Big men Lachlan Bond and Jacob Werts were solid for the Lions while next gen Lachlan Kroussaritis and Rory Bell rounded out the pick of the visitors named in the best.

Melton face Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve in an ideal hit out ahead of finals.

The Lions host East Point and will be chasing a fifth win to end their season on a high.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 39 disposals, 9 clearances, 5 1%ers

Billy Crofts (Melton) - 26 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 32 disposals, 11 marks, 7 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Tough contest, Redan have quality players that challenge you defensively when they get momentum. Both sides did not convert in the first half, we felt our connection was clunky in transition but fortunately in the second half, with a lot to play for, we were able to run the game out well. Physical second half by both teams to be congratulated. Really pleased with our second half of year to date, one to go and see where we finish.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Solid game of footy. We missed a few easy ones in the second quarter to even up the scoreboard at halftime but that’s footy. The game went up a notch in the second half, and we didn’t match Melton in the third quarter who had plenty to play for with a finals spot up for grabs. Our lads kept up the pressure and scoring in the last, but the margin was too great. All the best in the finals. Looking forward to finishing the year strong in our last game vs East next week.”

The Cobras fell agonisingly short causing one of the upsets of the season stretching (then) ladder leaders Sebastopol to within two points at Maddingley Park.

Unfortunately, as brave as Dennis Armfield’s quiver were, given Melton’s win over Redan their finals prospects are now all but over.

The Cobras started well, confidence up with a narrow three-point lead before the Burra obtained the slender advantage at the main break (four points) and three quarter time (ten points).

With a genuine sniff of an upset and a finals spot on the table, the Cobras fought their hearts out restricting the high-flying Burra to their second lowest score of the season but to no avail.

While there was full praise for the Cobras charge against the odds, credit must be afforded to the Burra who were challenged from start to finish before winning the game.

Burra trio Toby Hutt, Adam Forbes and Joel Edwards all booted two goals and featured in the best in a game where goals were savoured and celebrated.

Cobras’ pair Josh Huxtable (in best) and Joel Freeman matched their Burra counterparts with a game high two goals.

Felix Henderson, Tony Lockyer, Cooper Littlehales and Jacob Wilkinson were prominent alongside their multiple goal contributors.

Cobras’ quintet Hamish Coulton, Luke Goetz, Jude Milburn, Isaac Nixon and Zach Vesty joined Huxtable in the best players in a timely reminder for Tony Lockyer’s Burra to maintain their form as finals approach.

Expect the Cobras to finish on a high next week with a big win over the Lakers while the Burra are at home to Melton who are showing signs of peaking at the right time.

Selection will be a watch this space across the games featuring the top six sides in particular given the make-up of the finals has essentially been decided.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 15 marks, 10 tackles

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 38 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 8 score involvements

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 51 hitouts, 16 disposals, 14 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“A ripping game of footy all game. Our last month we have had a focus on defence and our scores against have been a positive, unfortunately we couldn’t find that one goal to get us in front late. A few more seconds would have been great. However, congrats to Tony and his men. I want to wish Tony the best of luck in his last games as coach (however far), a true gentleman and great club person, pleasure to coach against.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Solid contest against Bacchus played in great spirit. Both teams with plenty to play for meant the pressure was high. Felt we got some good movement going early but couldn’t capitalise into scoreboard pressure missing some key chances. Our boys stayed strong whilst Bacchus kept the pressure right on themselves. They play a great brand of footy under Dennis when they are up and going. Anyone’s game to grab late and we did enough just to hang on. Looking forward to Melton next week!”

Finals bound Sunbury did enough to outlast East Point in a low scoring encounter by six points at Eastern Oval.

It was East Point’s sixth loss of the season by 19 points or less giving every indication their rebuild has been a success, not necessarily about win/loss.

In a dour struggle on a Wintery surface and goals at a premium it was the Lions’ Patrick Scanlon and Kangas’ Cooper Glenwright-McGuane who split the honours with three goals apiece.

Sunbury named Ben Eales best on ahead of Jordyn Tentonello, Myles Gollant and midfield pair Jack Newitt and Jake Egan.

It took every bit of the Lions’ will to win as the Kangas refused to throw in towel staying within touch at the breaks trailing by eight, two and ten at the last change.

The Kangas recognised the efforts of Jack Jeffrey and fresh names Archie Bennett, Zane Lubeek and Deng Lual among the best alongside Glenwright-McGuane and Hamish Thompson.

Sunbury host Ballarat in their last hit out ahead of finals while the Kangas chase a sixth win of the season against ninth placed Redan.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 34 disposals, 10 clearances, 7 score invovlements

Liam Canny (East Point) - 26 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Myles Gollant (Sunbury) - 26 hitouts, 20 disposals, 18 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tommy Molan (East Point)
“A really frustrating loss today. We couldn’t get the game on our terms at any stage. Our first quarter was really poor, but we managed to hold on. We struggled to find any connection from our defence forward, but our effort kept us in the contest. We played four 18-year-olds today and they held their own in heavy conditions, but we failed to take our moments late. Credit to Sunbury, they too were undermanned but managed the key moments in the game well and their leaders stood up when required. We managed to hit the lead with a couple of minutes to go but we failed to control contest at the next stoppage. There is a lot to like about our ability to stay in games, especially given our extensive injury list but, at the end of the day you are judged on Ws and we don’t have enough of them to progress into finals. We will be really keen to finish on a positive next week.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“A hard fought win in extremely trying ground conditions. Best of luck to East Point getting their ground back in a playable condition and they can find somewhere to train. Was hard to get any ball movement going but a surge mentality worked in our favour. Guys stood up when required and great to have Scanlon back and kicking goals. Egan Newitt and Guth again provided the mid-forward connection. Happy to get through injury free and looking forward to a few more returning players next week and for finals.”

Scoop Reviews Round 18

The 2026 BFNL football home and away season came to its conclusion on Saturday ahead of what is set to be a blockbuster finale in finals.

Bacchus Marsh legend Tyson Shea was given the ideal send off from teammates as the Cobras overwhelmed the Lakers on the road to the tune of 107 points.

While key forward Joel Freeman did the bulk of the damage on the scoreboard booting 10 goals 6, the afternoon was all about Shea’s last game and giving the 10 x club best and fairest a day to remember.

Shea’s three goals in isolation would be dear to the Cobra veteran’s heart I assure you.

Not a noted goalkicker over his long journey, Shea would have loved hitting the scoreboard and the opportunity to sing the victory theme song one last time.

Freeman’s ten goal haul elevated the dangerous forward to a share of eighth place in the Tony Lockett Medal race with 30 goals, alongside teammate Jake Owen and Redan’s Lachie Bond.

Another tough day at the office for the Lakers unfolded despite posting their highest score since round 13 and conceding their lowest since Round 14.

Whichever way you look at the current climate, it looks every bit a long road back for the Lakers who are winless in the last two seasons (0-36). Fingers crossed they can find a way back to the winner’s list sooner rather than later.

The win for the Cobras was their eighth for the season making it a clean sweep 6-0 against the bottom three sides. Wins against Melton and Sunbury early in the season were their highlights as Dennis Armfield, like many rival coaches, had to find a way around long-term injuries to key players. The Cobras eight wins matches their returns from 2025.

Out of the weekend, Shea and Freeman aside, the Cobras named Luke Goetz, Zach Vesty, Josh Huxtable (one goal) and Isaac Nixon as among the best while the Lakers settled on Kyle Anderson, Bailey Ryan, Lewis Antonac (one goal), Liam Holmes, Alfred Jarnestrom and Paddy Corbett as the pick of their bunch.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Freeman (Bacchus Marsh) - 31 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 10 goals

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 58 hitouts, 23 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 44 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Again. Another opportunity to learn and get better with a proud and united 22. We probably played our best 20 mins of footy in the 3rd quarter for the whole year. Super games again for our young guns - who have stepped up massively this year. We are not as far away as people think. It can turn really quickly. We need complete buy in and changes off field to strengthen and a couple key position players. It will turn. Watch this space for 2027. Well done to Bacchus the better team on the day and all the best to some of their legends into the future. Goodluck to everyone in finals.”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Great to finish the year off with a good win and some difficult conditions. Credit to Jake and the Lakers for the way they threw everything at us for four quarters, especially first 15mins of the 3rd. Having played 48 players and missing out on finals by percentage is a bittersweet. It all ends yet we developed our list. We now get fully behind our reserves and U18.5s”

Sunbury defeated an undermanned Ballarat at Clarke Oval by 19 points ahead of a highly anticipated finals campaign for both sides.

While the Lions looked to resemble the best version of themselves in a dress rehearsal for what’s to come, the Swans took no risks having already locked in third position on the table.

Reigning Tony Lockett Medallist Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL) missed for the hosts while Brad Crouch, Alex Keath and Fraser Perkins were notable absentees for the visitors.

In what was perceived a dead rubber you could not deny the Lions a third win in six tries against top three opposition giving every indication their best is good enough.

The Lions won 3.5 quarters in isolation sounding alarm bells for rivals Darley who they meet this week in a fourth v fifth elimination final.

Jake Egan was named best for the winners ahead of Coburg VFL listed pair Daniel Johnston (three goals) and Jordyn Gillard (two goals).

Lions’ utility Jack Newitt continued his run of good form to feature prominently alongside Zach Stevens and Myles Gollant.

For the travelling bevy, Tristan Maple made light work of his return from VFL duties to be named best ahead of Biggie Nyuon who slotted a game high six goals to secure the Tony Lockett Medal.

Whilst the Lions meet out of form bogie side Darley in week one of the finals, the Swans will have their work cut out progressing when they meet the Bloods despite their superior (3rd v 6th) win / loss season.

Cracking finals series ahead, I’m sure both sides can’t wait!!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Newitt (Sunbury) - 39 disposals, 13 marks, 11 clearances

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances   

Bailey Fraser (Ballarat) - 20 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Happy to get through with no injuries and a good win. Getting the VFL boys back in now is great and to have a win against quality oppo helps the connection going into a final’s series. We’ll test some guys who missed during the week and have a tough night at selection!”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Disappointing result today for us. Outplayed and out hunted for most of the first half and were lucky not to be further behind on the scoreboard. Matty has got his team playing a good brand of football at the moment. We’ll have a quick review of the game as a team and move on pretty quickly, as we look towards our elimination final next week and begin our preparation for another really big challenge.”

Sebastopol finished their home and away season on a high with a 15th win of the season holding out the determined Melton by 13 points.

Tony Lockyer’s men led all day and won three quarters in isolation despite the close nature of the affair. Ironically it was the second week in a row Sebastopol had been held to less than 10 goals and still won.

Midfielders Felix Henderson and Jack Bambury were named in the best for the winners while key talls Joel Edwards (two goals) and Cooper Littlehales (three goals) rated worthy mentions.

For the Bloods, Braedan Kight booted a game high five goals to finish within four of Ballarat’s Biggie Nyuon in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal. All too familiar and reliable Bloods names featured prominently behind Kight in a share of best player honours - namely Riley Walker, Jaycob Hickey, Jordy Cotter, Lachlan Walker and Brody Sullivan.

The Bloods winning chances suffered a double blow heading in with the absence of Billy Crofts and ruckman Joshua Stewart (illness) but expect them both to return for the elimination final against Ballarat on Saturday.

However, the availability of Lachlan Phillips, Adrian Monitto, Ryan Davis, Jack Walker is in doubt after all were sidelined on the bench for the last quarter. Important utility Conrad Farrugia is also in doubt having missed last week with a shoulder/collarbone complaint.

The Burra have tried to manage their players as best as possible leading into finals - it’s thought Ben Hutt (knee) and Luke Kiel (knee) will be in the mix with x-factor forward Adam Forbes for a qualifying final return against North Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 37 disposals, 12 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Riley Walker (Melton) - 30 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 8 marks

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 13 score involvements, 5 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“A great game of footy against a club we have a huge amount of respect for. We know it will always be a quality contest with Scobes and his troops and this was no different. Intensity was up at the contest. We wanted to bring a high level of pressure, and I felt we did that. Created some good chances in forward half from it. Melton play a great brand and kept challenging throughout the day. We wish them all the best for finals action, they’ll go well. Exciting month ahead for the competition.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Terrific game to finish the season off just what you want, combative and high intensity. In fairness Sebas led from start to finish we absorbed a lot but were able to counterattack for much of the game to have a shot late but just couldn’t quite nail our attack phase with composure, partly due to the defensive pressure in the game from Sebas. Terrific season for Tony and his troops wish them well in their finals campaign they will be a formidable opponent to all teams. Was not the ideal home and away season but for us to qualify for another finals campaign as a club we are proud of our group. Season done and now we enter match play. The 6 is very even and our form against the best gives us reason for optimism.”

North Ballarat sealed the minor premiership with a comfortable 36-point win over an out-of-sorts Devils outfit at Darley Park.

It was an eighth win on the trot for Clint Proctor’s progressive group who look to have more improvement up their sleeve.

Darley look a shell of their 2025 dominant selves having lost four their last five games including three of those at home, a venue they had won 17 games in a row previous.

The loss for the Devils was compounded by the untimely hamstring scare of star mid Brett Bewley and season ending injury to Jayven Tanner (fractured cheekbone),

While the Devils title defence is looking shaky at best, one cannot deny the form of the Roosters.

Sam Glover, Dom Penny and Josh Morris were solid contributors all day denying the Devils an inch while Jye Lockett made it 10 games in a row of multiple goal returns in front of the big sticks.

The performance was every bit what you would expect from the newly crowned minor premiers ahead of a very open finals series.

For the Devils, Mikey Edwards was a standout in a losing side while Duncan Cadman impressed in his role against the odds conceding both height and size.

Unfortunately, the jury is out on the Devils current form, their only win in the last five weeks coming against the Lakers on August 1.

With finals now upon us, North Ballarat meet Sebastopol in the qualifying final on Saturday while it’s do-or-die for Darley up against Sunbury in Sunday’s elimination final.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 21 disposals, 17 marks, 15 intercept possessions

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 29 disposals, 6 clearances, 5 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“I thought our effort was there today, but we were simply outclassed in the end. Congratulations to Proc, his boys are humming at the right time of the season. Looking forward to the challenge ahead against Sunbury and the opportunity for us to improve. Should be a belter of a final’s series.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Physical contest today. Very difficult match throughout the day - both teams challenged and had moments. It’s always a difficult game vs Darley regardless of ladder positions anytime of the year. Time to recover and re-set for our finals campaign - super proud of the club this year with all teams featuring in top 3. Exciting to be a part of September.”

Redan earned a fifth win of the season with a comfortable 28-point victory over East Point at City Oval.

Marc Greig’s young group won every quarter in the ninth v eighth battle of the rebuilds.

Lions’ big man Taj Bond ended his injury interrupted season with a game high five goals to be named best on ground ahead of Rory Bell, Nick Barker, Pat Fitzgibbon, Zach Mortlock and the ever consistent Rory Gunsser who made it a 10th appearance in 13 games.

It was a disappointing end for the Kangas who had been ‘up a while’ with a number of close losses.

Liam Canny and Jack Jeffrey were named best in a losing side while Cooper Glenwright-McGuane continues to impress finishing with a team high three goals.

A couple of top up recruits and a healthy pre-season will be on the Christmas wish list for these two sides moving forward.

Rival sides would be the first to concede both Redan and East Point are not far away from knocking on the door of finals.

With Gisborne coming into the competition next year, spots in the top six will be harder than ever to consolidate.

An exciting pre-season awaits.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Liam Canny (East Point) - 35 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 40 disposals, 13 mark, 6 tackles

Brody Pope (Redan) - 35 disposals, 10 marks, 10 clearances  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“A good reward to get the win for the lads and a good finish to a positive 12-week block of games. We felt in control for most of the game and unfortunately couldn’t kick straight to increase the margin earlier. Some very positive signs/efforts from so many of our teenagers was the most pleasing aspect.”

Tommy Molan (East Point)
“A disappointing loss to end our season today. We looked like a team that had played on heavy grounds for too many weeks and didn’t have any run left in the legs. Credit to Redan they had plenty of run and connected the ground well. We struggled to get the game on our terms at any stage but still felt in it at 3 quarter time. Taj Bond was the difference all day. We are pleased that we got games into many of our younger boys towards the end of the year and feel confident that we can push again in 2027.”

Scoop Reviews Round 2

While Round 2 action endured a mixed bag of results, one constant was a clean sweep of wins for the away teams.

As many as eight teams have already enjoyed victory in song but just two remain unbeaten.

North Ballarat squared their win/loss ledger with a deserving 24-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

In perfect conditions, under bright blue skies there were no excuses for either team.

North Ballarat led all day, rewarded for their ability to outnumber the Cobras around the contest, and execute the basic fundamentals under pressure with greater efficiency.

If only for some errant finishing on goal, the Roosters’ plus nine scoring shots (not including out of bounds on the full) indicates the margin could have been greater.

The Roosters upstaged the unbeaten Cobras with a lesson in ball movement and mid-forward connection enabling key targets Denver Grainger-Barras (four goals) and Jamie Quick (three goals) to capitalise on the open spaces afforded to them.

It’s rare in the modern game you witness more lead up marks inside 50 (directly in front of goal) than opposition intercepts.

On spec alone, the Cobras struggled for that effective rebounder which was a credit to the Roosters’ speed of ball movement, decision making and delivery.

Utility Sam Griffiths was arguably the exception with his long, bail-out kicking from defence that kept the Cobras out of trouble.

The hosts fought hard all day, none more so than fearless leader Jack Parente but couldn’t get the game on their own terms for long enough to reel in the deficit that fluctuated between the 10- and 24-point range for the most part.

In a nutshell, North Ballarat had the response for anything the Cobras could muster.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor was proud of the team-oriented nature of the win and rightly so, with arguably seven of the best ten players on the ground.

Cobras’ coach Dennis Armfield didn’t miss the mark either conceding “not our day today at home in front of our crowd.”

STATS THAT MATTERED

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 8 marks, 7 intercept possessions

Josh Morris (North Ballarat) - 21 disposals, 7 inside 50s, 7 intercept possessions

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 5 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
We were ever so slightly off today and credit to Proc and North, they came with a plan and were able to control the game which started with pressure. Our skills were off and they made us pay on turnovers. We were still in the game till late, yet their players stood up in moments that mattered. Great learnings and we look forward to traveling across the bridge.

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
Always nice to get that win ticked off and to find some momentum now moving into East Point. Bacchus are so dangerous with their midfield - ruckman and key forwards - it’s been a huge issue for us in the past. The lads executed really well which enabled us to have the match on our terms and play our brand of football.

Tony Lockyer’s visiting party made the perfect 2-0 start to the new season with an important 15-point win on the road over Ballarat.

Just how important we won’t know until the business end but surely it will play its own role when the whips are cracking.

No more than seven points separated the two sides at any of the first three breaks, confirming the evenly matched pairing, referred to in the lead up.

Finding a way around the Swans’ 200cm trio was always going to provide challenges for Lockyer and his support staff.

Restricting Ash Baker’s side to 11 goals was a pleasing return for the Burra who managed 32 scoring shots of their own.

While conversion was a clear issue (12.20), just claiming the premiership points usurped any of ‘the small stuff’ for Burra fans in the immediate aftermath.

Sebastopol still have currency on the sidelines with Lachie Cassidy, Bailey Medwell and Luke Kiel expected to return over the coming weeks.

X-factor forward Adam Forbes booted five goals (comp rank #1) for the winners, joining teammate Toby Hutt in ‘best on ground” discussions.

The Swans were never far away despite the absence of VFL listed pair Tristan Maple (Footscray) and Thomas Simpson (Werribee).

Enviable ruck combo Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon (two goals) threatened for the most part but credit to the Burra getting a spread of contributors deep enough to get the job done.

Jack Bambury, Gedd Hommelhoff and Ash Munari earned the praise of the Burra hierarchy, while for the Swans consistent quartet Fraser Perkins, Lewis and Zak Rinaldi and Wyatt Squires gave their all at the source and two way running.

Paddy Simpson was the Swans leading goal scorer for the match finishing with three majors.

Both sides are at home for their respective Anzac Day / Night fixtures.

The Swans take on the struggling Lakers (3.15pm) eager for a response while the Burra face Redan (6.15pm) under the lights at Marty Busch Reserve.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 24 disposals, 20 hitouts, 19 contested disposals

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 11 tackles, 10 score involvements

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
Well done to Tony and his boys at Sebas - they outplayed us today from the beginning. Their ball movement was impressive and if it wasn’t for some inaccurate kicking on Sebas’ behalf, they could’ve been further in front at quarter time. Plenty to work on from our end as we look to bounce back next weekend.

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
Pleased to come away with 4 points against a high-quality team. Great day for footy with the ball moving end to end in the first half. We put in a strong 4-quarter effort in terms of our input. With some more accurate kicking at goal, we could have controlled the game further. Credit to Ballarat who took their chances and kept coming at us late. Our boys showed maturity and held strong, very proud of them. We look forward to yet another quality opponent in Redan next week.

Melton completely dominated Lake Wendouree enroute to a monster 142-point win at CE Brown Reserve.

The hosts were held goalless in the second half, outscored 10.14 to 0.2.

Twenty-four scoring shots to two was damming for Rohan Brown’s predicted improvers, 49 shots to 9 overall was the difference by the final siren.

And that wasn’t the only indicator validating the Bloods’ dominance.

Marks inside 50 were always going to highlight further disparity but the 44-1 stat recorded by Premier Data is bordering on the ridiculous, simply insane.

The Bloods, without spearhead Ryan Carter, had 12 goal kickers, a spread of contributors that would’ve pleased coach Troy Scoble.

Kyle Borg and Liam Carter matched the Lakers’ return of three goals for the match to equal game high returns.

Jordy Cotter (best) and Harry Hanley maintained their early season form to feature prominently alongside a positive return from sharpshooter Braedan Kight (two goals), and Brodie Sullivan (two goals).

Despite conceding 24 goals for a second week in a row the Lakers did show some individual effort and resistance through Alfred Jarnestrom, Will Fordham, Bailey Ryan and Tom Zampatti.

Kynan Raven and Will Clark maintained their good form from the Lakers’ Round 1 loss to Redan.

Another difficult challenge, this time away from home, presents for the Lakers on Anzac Day v Ballarat (3.15pm start) while the Bloods are on the road again to face Sunbury (5.15pm start) at Clarke Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) -  35 disposals, 17 intercept possessions, 10 score involvements

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 46 hitouts, 14 disposals, 10 tackles

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 28 disposals, 11 score involvements, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
Melton were red hot early and played some pretty slick footy. We played some good footy when we faced the game. Onto a big Anzac Day clash vs Ballarat, it's a hard slog at the moment and our turn will come. Very proud of our club as an entirety to keep showing up.

Troy Scoble (Melton)
Group had a strong focus all week and executed as planned in the first half to establish a strong position. Got to compete strongly at the source against Lakers their contest game always challenges. Credit to Lakers, they played to the final siren and were great hosts all day and post-game. Thanks to Browny, his group and the club. Onto Sunbury next week.

A dominant first half from Sunbury proved the catalyst in the visitor’s 34-point win over an honest Redan at City Oval.

An 11-goal-to-three scoreline at the main break gave Matty White’s men some welcomed separation and breathing space on the back of a gruelling Round 1 hit out with Darley.

Key forward pairing Daniel Johnston and Patrick Scanlon booted four goals for the winners, proving a headache for the hosts to contain while defender Jordan Tentonelllo, star midfielder Jake Egan and winger Riley Miller (best) were prominent in Sunbury’s first win of the season.

Unfortunately for Sunbury, progressive midfielder Zachary Stevens suffered a broken arm joining key pillars Josh Guthrie, Jack Newitt, Mitch McLean and Jake Sutton on the sidelines.

North Melbourne VFL listed half back Hamish Pierce continues to benefit with more time spent around teammates, taking all in his stride.

Redan showed plenty of grit in the second half outscoring their more fancied opponents 51-37 but the bird had flown.

The response from the group would’ve pleased new coach Marc Greig given the first half lessons.

Future Redan stars and BFNL representatives Rory Gunsser and Taj Bond were solid at ground level and in the air, earning the nod from Greig, featuring alongside Sam Kalllio (two goals), Oliver Pittard (one goal), Lachlan McLean and experienced defender Nick Barker among the club’s best players.

The mix of youth and experience at Redan is working favourably at the moment with a big win in Round 1 and a competitive showing against last year’s grand finalist.

Redan are off to Marty Busch Reserve on Saturday night for an Anzac Night (6.15pm) showdown with unbeaten Sebastopol.

Sunbury host Melton, again with a later start to the regular schedule (5.15pm).

Should be a cracking twilight of action across the BFNL on a jam-packed Anzac Day fixture.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Brody Pope (Redan) - 30 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 37 disposals, 8 rebound 50s, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
Great weather for footy. A disappointing period for us in the second quarter allowed 5/6 unanswered goals to Sunbury. They were slick. To our boy’s credit, we stuck to our method and outscored the oppo in the second half. We had 9 lads under 19 out there today and they continued to bring energy and excitement. Sunbury were far more experienced and mature and their organisation on field was a great learning opportunity for where we want to get to.

Matty White (Sunbury)
I called it a gritty win in the end. Played well in the first half in amazing Ballarat conditions. A few injuries early meant the second half was a bit tired with no rotations in the end. A lot to like about what Redan brought. Their youth have some real go about them. Time to recover, regroup and get ready for Melton.

Dan Jordan’s Devils overcame a major scare and fourth quarter deficit to keep their unbeaten run intact with a 28-point win over the young Kangas at Eastern Oval.

Trailing by five points late, the reigning premiers, led by Brett Bewley and Billy Myers, clicked into top gear with five unanswered goals, earning vital scoreboard separation in an otherwise hard-fought afternoon.

The nature of the affair told us more about East Point and where they’re at in the infancy of a rebuild.

Expect Joe Carmody’s group boasting seven players with 10 or less senior games experience to bounce quicker than first thought, from their “reset”.

The organic talent at East Point is relatively untapped given the experienced nature of the group over recent years.

Jarrod Joyce (five goals) is a special player bound for a crack at the higher level according to the Devils’ hierarchy.

New Kangas’ ruckman Thomas Brown highlighted the Devils struggles without a bonafide matchup - an area of interest for Jordan to manage moving forward given quality rival stocks.

While external opinion suggested a big win on the cards for the Devils, the response from the Kangas came as no surprise to Jordan.

The fact the Devils have had to come from behind in both games into the new season is healthy.

“Every team will come with an extra 5% when they play us,” Jordan said.

“It’s the nature of the beast that follows any team winning a premiership.”

Nine Devils hit the scoreboard, a pleasing return for the winners.

Nick Hind, Joel Cadman and fifth gamer Rhys Younger finished with a team high three goals to feature among the best behind Brett Bewley and Myers.

Duncan Cadman made it two from two appearances (in the best) with another versatile display.

The Kangas, without Jacob Brown, were brave, and close to ending the Devils’ 21-0 run since last year’s season opener.

Experienced campaigners Jackson Merrett and Mickijta Rotumah-Onus led the challenge alongside Liam Canny and Liam Howard who play with maturity beyond their years.

When you add Jarrod Joyce’s standout performance into the mix, you can guarantee the Kangas won’t go down without a fight especially at Eastern Oval.

The confidence drawn from the hit out against the competition benchmark should hold the Kangas in good stead.

Sure, they won just one quarter for the match, their first of the season (1/12), but they were in this game up to their eyeballs.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Billy Myers (Darley) - 33 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 13 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 36 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jarrod Joyce (East Point) - 17 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
Darley’s quality got over us in the end. Came up against a well drilled and well coached team but our effort was outstanding. A small step forward towards where we need to get to. Played in patches the first two weeks but a more consistent effort today.

Dan Jordan (Darley)
Hard fought win from the boys, East Point certainly came to play, and it took some of our best late to find the line. Brett (Bewley) and Billy (Myers) were huge for us. East were well drilled and converted their opportunities better than we did, they play their ground so well. Again, plenty to take away from a win we were made to earn from the outset.

In a weekend of statement wins and big blow outs the league's top contenders seperated themselves from the chasing pack in brutal fashion.

The Devils piled on 16 of the last 17 goals of the game in a relentless hour of footy to win big in the annual Anzac Day derby at Darley Park.

Star Devils’ duo Billy Myers (eight goals) and Brett Bewley (48 disposals) were unstoppable earning the plaudits of both Devils and Cobra fans in the aftermath.

The Devils looked to be cruising in time-on of the second term before three unanswered goals from the Cobras narrowed the margin to 17 points at half time.

When the margin was reduced to as low as 10 at the nine-minute mark of the third term, it sparked an emphatic response from Dan Jordan’s men with local bragging rights and a 22-game winning streak in the BFNL under threat.

What transpired thereafter was a sight to behold.

The run, carry and distribution on display from the reigning premiers gave the bumper crowd a firsthand glimpse of what the Devils resemble at their best.

The competition benchmark simply ran riot taking advantage of an ailing Cobras outfit who struggled for 18 fit players at games end.

Despite a landslide of hit outs (85-19) favouring Cobras’ big man Luke Goetz, it was the Devils who had the last laugh posting scores of 10.2 to 3.1 out of stoppage.

The Devils went deep with their number of contributors behind Myers and Bewley.

Unfortunately, the Cobras lost spiritual leader Jack Parente and progressive winger Ashton Craig to injury - both of whom were enjoying impactful games prior to their premature exits.

But in fairness they would’ve struggled to even part stem the avalanche of what was to follow.

It was a timely reminder for the Devils after a month of peak and troughs their best is scary good.

The Cobras will take valuable learnings from the hit out according to coach Dennis Armfield and work on those over their coming bye weekend.

Darley are on the road to Melton, a team who has beaten them in four of their last five meetings. Game on!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 48 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 21 disposals, 9 marks, 8 goals

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh) - 21 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“We took another step forward today and showed what we’re capable of for longer periods. Always a pleasure to be a part of these local derbies and a privilege to recognise the Anzac tradition. The Marsh came at us late in the 2nd quarter and early in the third but credit to our boy’s ability to respond. We played some good footy late, and we’re hopeful that translates to more of the same next week.”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Came up against the best and it showed. Down to 18 players late in the third, and if you’re going to compete with the top, you need 22 contributors. I’ll never question of effort or character and proud of the way we fought it out. Great day, well hosted and great showing of the local crowd on ANZAC day. We move onto a bye and a reset.”

MEDAL WINNERS
Light Medal: Billy Myers (Darley)
Wheelahan Medal: Angus Morgan (Bacchus Marsh)

After overcoming a first half scare, the Swans steadied to down the Lakers comfortably by 57 points.

Strangely, it was the closest of all five BFNL games played at the weekend.

Credit to the Lakers asking questions of the Swans in the opening half to surprise the entire competition with a seven-point lead.

The 4.10 to 4.3 score line indicates the Lakers advantage could well have been greater but nothing in this game comes on a platter.

Swans’ coach Ash Baker would’ve welcomed the main break with a chance to reset and reinforce a process that had been compromised, amounting to a seven-point deficit.

After the break it was all the Swans as the pre-game warm favourites piled on 11 goals to one.

Key Swans tall Biggie Nyuon proved the catalyst with his standout seven goals to be named best ahead of experienced new arrivals Brad Crouch and Alex Keith.

For the Lakers, highly rated recruits Will Fordham and Corey Rich featured prominently to set up the surprise half time lead. But again, Rohan Brown’s group were found wanting late, managing just one goal in the run home.

The Swans are away to Redan this week, the Lakers host unbeaten Sebastopol.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Biggie Nyuon (Ballarat) -23 disposals, 16 marks, 7 goals

Brad Crouch (Ballarat) - 35 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wenoduree) - 36 hitouts, 16 disposals, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Super proud of the boys today. It was a tale of two halves. Lakers brought plenty of pressure early and were clearly fully focussed on the contest, dominating contested ball and clearances. We were able to compose ourselves at half time, make some adjustments and get back to the way we want to play our footy. All eyes forward now on another tough contest next Saturday against Redan.”

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“We had the game on our terms in the 1st half and a chunk of the 3rd. Our pressure, hunt and control of the game was fantastic. If we applied more scoreboard pressure than who knows game would look different if your 7-8 goals in front of the game instead of 2, but we didn't & 30 minutes of footy got us beaten in the end. Asked plenty of questions and got plenty of answers. It's an absolute privilege to be able to play on such a special day, well done to the Ballarat FNC who did the day very well.”

The Roosters maintained the pattern of Round 3 blow-outs, cruising to a 98-point win over East Point at Mars Stadium.

The writing was on the wall early despite just 16 points separating the two sides at quarter time.

The Roosters’ defence led by Josh Morris (best) and Sam Glover were impenetrable, taking intercept marks at will - the clear beneficiaries of the Kangas’ poor entries.

Clearly the Roosters had put some work into containing young gun Jarrod Joyce after his five-goal haul against the Devils in Round 2.

The Roosters’ defence were well organised, denying Joyce any space to impact aerially and with that, the Kangas’ ability to score.

When the game was on the line after the first break it was all North Ballarat.

The Roosters piled on 11 unanswered goals through the middle period, building an insurmountable 84-point lead at the final change.

Forward pairing Denver Grainger-Barras and Jai Lockett shared the honours booting five goals each for the winners.

There were a host of significant contributors across the ground for the Roosters that could’ve made their list of ‘best players’ while it was slim pickings for Joe Carmody’s camp.

Joe Dodd, Jackson Merrett and teenage debutant Albie Cheesman led the resistance but holistically, it was to no avail.

North Ballarat coach Clint Proctor would be thrilled with the compliance of his group, in clearly their most complete performance in the opening month.

The Roosters host a wounded Sunbury outfit in Round 4 while the Kangas will savour the rest after a challenging 0-4 start to their season.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Another physical contest at Mars - I thought we played our way and certainly didn’t allow East any easy time on the ball. It’s always nice to kick away and finish the way we did - happy for the lads to enjoy a win like that. We have been on the other end before.”

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“We were easy to play against today with a lack of pressure on the opposition and lack of composure with the ball. There was a huge difference between the work rate of the two sides. We understand there will be fluctuations with performance with so many youngsters but there was a stark difference between last week and this week. We have to bridge that gap. We debuted another two players today so we just have to keep getting games and training into this group and develop a squad that will be able to challenge in the future.”

Tony Lockett’s Sebastopol continued their winning ways with a dominant 104-point win over undermanned Redan.

The Burra have validated the theory ‘you can only beat what’s in front of you’ with their 3-0 record and the Lakers to come in Round 4.

Confidence levels at the Burra will be through the roof ahead of a looming ‘big boy’ month, not to mention the returns of key midfield pair Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell.

The Burras’ three newbies from the GFL have warmed to their new club and starting to turn a few heads more broadly across the competition.

Felix Henderson and Jack Buckley are starting to rack up ‘top end’ numbers while Joel Edwards enjoyed the arrival of his first bag of five goals in Sebastopol colours.

The Burra won all four quarters, refusing to take their foot off the pedal.

Separation for the Burra at the breaks increased from 21, 58, 78 before ending at 104 in front at the final siren.

Given the even fight for as many as seven teams in a battle for a top six berth, percentage will play a role at some stage.

Teams are just struggling to avert momentum in the opening month on good decks, aided by the new rules that keep the ball rolling!

While the margin was compelling the Lions did have a handful of triers, namely Lachlan Kroussaratis, Taj Bond, Rory Bell, Flynn Batrouney, Oliver Pittard and Liam Hoy.

Redan host Ballarat in Round 4 while the Burra head to CE Brown to take on the winless Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 34 hitouts, 28 disposals, 11 clearances

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 42 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s

Taj Bond (Redan) - 24 hitouts, 15 disposals, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Happy for the boys to get a convincing result in night conditions. Contest was good early, Redan challenged us. Our boys executed our method and managed to put some great scoreboard pressure on. To Redan’s credit they kept coming and never gave up. A lot to like about their young list who will continue to get better as the year goes on. They’ll be a danger team in the back half of the year. Pleased with our start - focus goes onto Lakers now!”

Marc Greig (Redan)
Positive start to the game, but a disappointing period in the second quarter again allowed the oppo to put a run of goals on the board. Once they had the upper hand Sebas played a very aggressive attacking brand of footy and it paid off for them.”

The Bloods went to town on a wounded Lions’ pride smashing last year’s grand finalists by 83 points in the twilight hours, under lights at Clarke Oval.

Troy Scoble’s ‘Blooderhood’ arrived on a mission missing six of its 2024 premiership side including Ryan Carter, Lachie Watkins, Jordy Kight and Max Scoble, Jack Walker and Ryan Davis.

That seemed only to stir up the Bloods with their backs ‘supposedly’ against the wall.

I use the term loosely given the Lions were missing Jake Sutton, Mitch McLean, Jordan Tentonello, Zachary Stevens, Keenan O’Shea, and Cody Bramble.

The Lions’ chances were dealt another blow in-game losing Josh Guthrie to hamstring.

We savour the winning moments of this great game given Its brutal capabilities when under the pump.

So as the Bloods prepared for unlikely mission according to many, the Lions were dealing with the same, if not more issues come the opening bounce.

And didn’t that play out accordingly.

The Lions were never in it, shut out of the game by a very focussed Bloods outfit who had earmarked the importance of their Round 3 and Round 4 (v Darley) assignments in the lead up.

The Bloods won every quarter and were relentless in their margin build.

Leads of 17, 29 and 46 at the breaks culminated in an 83-point separation at night’s end - a memorable occasion celebrated in heartfelt song by the Bloods.

For the Lions, the end could not have come sooner despite the efforts of Myles Gollant, Jack Newitt and Ben Cameron.

Reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan was also in the mix on an otherwise forgettable night for Matty White’s pride.

For the winners, Braedan Kight announced his arrival in 2026 with a seven goal return to finish among the better players behind Caleb Burquest, Jordy Cotter, Adrian Monitto and Brody Sullivan.

With the Bloods absentees unlikely to feature again this week against the Devils, there’s no doubting the timely confidence boost ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster at MacPherson Park.

Footy life for the wounded Lions looks like hard work for at least another week with a trip to Mars Stadium scheduled. Sunbury are currently 1-2 on the win loss front, 8th on the BFNL ladder.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 29 disposals, 13 marks, 7 intercept marks

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 35 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s 

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 11 marks, 10 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
“A very disappointing night on a special occasion. We were beating in all aspects of the game by an up and about Melton. Kick 4 goals in the first 5 mins and we couldn’t wrestle any momentum our way. Melton super impressive.” 

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Need to acknowledge the performance of the playing group, whole group in their planning and prep and execution in all phases. Quality sides test you in so many ways through a game we were able to adapt and adjust through the night and keep playing to our plan. Been on the wrong side of those games at Clarke Oval for many years so was pleasing for our group to get reward. Some of the young kids playing had never won at the ground through their juniors. On to the biggest test in the BFNL right now!”

Scoop Reviews Round 4

The Round 4 results have caused an all mighty logjam on the BFNL ladder, with the unofficial power rankings within the comp starting to take shape.

The Roosters made it three wins in a row with a comprehensive display over an out of sorts Sunbury at Mars Stadium.

X-factor forward Jamie Quick (six goals) and spearhead Denver Grainger-Barrass (three goals) combined for half of the Roosters majors ahead of another eight contributors to hit the scoreboard.

Isaac Carey and Dominic Penny were named best for the winners ahead of Quick, while Jarrod Curran and spread runners Taj Bowman and Sam Artz continued with their solid start to the season.

While the Roosters begin to resemble more on the promise tipped in the pre-season, it’s a been a horror fortnight for Matty White’s 2025 Grand Finalists.

An 83-point home loss to Melton has been trumped by an 86-point defeat at the hands of the Roosters. The Lions are reeling in 8th place with just one win and poor percentage currently 64.78%.

The absence of Jake Sutton has had a huge impact on the Lions’ 2026 campaign, considering the pride managed just 10 shots on goal at the weekend and 12 in Round 3’s loss to Melton.

Sure, clubs don’t like to blame injuries for loss but there comes a tipping point.

Missing Lions included Sutton, Josh Guthrie, Nathan Wood, Mitch McLean, Nathan Doyle, Zachary Stevens, Brock Landt, Fraser Ampulski, Ben Cameron and Keenan O’Shea.

That’s ten players off the cuff, not to mention eight changes from their Round 1 line up that were narrowly beaten by Darley.

Credit to Matty White in the aftermath making zero reference to the depleted nature of his team.

Riley Miller and Tyson Lever were named best for the Lions, while a safe and impactful return from Cody Bramble (ACL) may well have been the most rewarding part of the day for the embattled pride.

Cracking matchups await these two sides in Round 5.

North Ballarat host Melton while Sunbury are at home taking on undefeated Sebastopol.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) – 34 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 12 inside 50s

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) – 24 disposals, 12 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) – 29 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Sunbury have caused us a lot of headaches in the past! So, it’s nice to get the win this time around. Matty is doing a good job with the amount of injuries they have - never easy for any coach. The lads played our tough and attacking brand today and should be proud of their efforts. We are super excited now to test ourselves against Melton who are one of the form sides of the comp.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Tough day at the office. We were unable to capitalise when we had the wind in the first and couldn’t stop an up and about North. Who to their credit played a great brand of footy. Reload for Sebas and hopefully get a few troops back.”

Sebastopol remain the only undefeated team in the BFNL with a thumping 150-point win over the struggling Lake Wendouree.

Tony Lockyer’s men were relentless on the road piling on the goals with consistent returns across all four quarters of 7,6,6 and 8.

New season recruit Joel Edwards booted 12 goals for the Burra in a dominant display while Adam Forbes maintained his early season form finishing with three.

The monster win sees the Burra flying high on top of the BFNL ladder, a game and percentage clear of four teams including Melton, North Ballarat, Ballarat and Darley.

Experienced Burra trio Tony Lockyer, Luke Kiel and Gedd Hommelhoff were prominent once again finishing among the best behind Edwards and in form ruckman Toby Hutt.

Lockyer will be aware the realities of the draw suggest their toughest run of games are still to come with matchups against Sunbury (A), Darley (H), North Ballarat (H) and Melton (A) over the next four weeks.

The Burra welcomed back Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell (two goals) for a timely hit out ahead of their month-long footy audit.

The Lakers will be scratching their heads finding a way to be more competitive for longer after a third loss in four games north of 15 goals.

Despite an unenviable run of outs, you couldn’t question the handful of Lakers who led the resistance for coach and proud mentor Rohan Brown.

Harley Hicks, Tyson Walsh, Tom Zampatti, Will Clark, Kyle Anderson and Timmy Collins flew the flag for the Lakers on an otherwise disappointing afternoon.

The Lakers mission for that elusive win doesn’t get any easier this week when they’re on the road to face the Devils coming off an upset loss (for many) to the Bloods.

Sebastopol's score (27.18.180), their winning margin of 150 points and Joel Edwards' bag of 12 goals are new Sebastopol records for games against Lake Wendouree, beating their previous bests of 18.24.132 (2006), 81-point winning margin (2019) and 7-goal haul by Michael Powell (2019).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Edwards (Sebastopol) – 21 disposals, 17 score involvements, 14 marks

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) – 27 hit outs, 20 disposals, 13 score involvements

Will Fordham (Lake Wendouree) – 25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Outclassed & outplayed, credit to Tony he has his side up and going and very well balanced. A serious threat in the competition. We are all disappointed at Lakers, but we will as always stick together, try and get better.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Solid win in trying conditions. Felt we played the challenging Wendouree wind well and executed the way wanted. Was pleased to hit the scoreboard across all 4 quarters. All the best to Ro and the Lakers over the remainder of the year. Their reward for effort over the off season will come I am sure with some quality senior players to come back into their lineup.”

The Bloods maintained its impressive record against the Devils under Troy Scoble with a deserving 24-point win at MacPherson Park.

It was Scoble’s fifth win in six outings against Dan Jordan’s boys and arguably their most satisfying given the Devils were on a 23-0 run.

Brody Sullivan’s four goals were a standout in the windy conditions making a case for best on ground honours alongside excellent two-way runner and accumulator Jaycob Hickey.

The Bloods had a host of contributors and adjusted far better to the conditions.

The Devils first quarter with the breeze was wasteful and under par and could only match the Bloods’ returns of 2.5.

With scores level, Melton used the conditions with the breeze much better in the second term adding six unanswered goals to lead at halftime by 34 points in Braedan Kight’s 200th game.

The x-factor star looked dangerous every time the Bloods went inside 50 but ended the day with 1.4. Progressive young Devil Mitch Gardiner acquitted himself well in the match up both aerially and at ground level with his takeaway run and carry.

Gardiner ended up among the best in a losing side behind Jayven Tanner and Brett Bewley.

The second half of the match was a grind as the Devils enjoyed periods of control but could not get bang for buck on the scoreboard. Four ‘posters’ didn’t help the cause.

Full credit to the Bloods who were right at home in the conditions and made the Devils pay for any recurring skill errors.

Jordy Cotter and Jack Walker made it look easier than what it was with ball in hand, providing many forays forward for the hosts that led to scores.

Young Blood Austin Thorny-Croft had arguably his best game at the level while the aerial and running power of Liam Carter was a constant feature.

All honours with the Bloods, they were super, despite missing key soldiers Lachie Watkins, Ryan Carter, Jordy Kight, Josh Stewart and Max Scoble and looked the winners from a fair way out.

While the last fortnight of results elevated the Bloods to second on the BFNL ladder it’s not the end of the world for Jordan’s Devils who slip to fifth.

In fact, it may be a timely reminder of their mortality, as more challenging assignments on the road against Sebastopol (Round 6) and North Ballarat (Round 8) loom large.

Consider the race for the BFNL title officially wide open.

It’s game on!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) – 52 disposals, 26 contested possessions 13 score involvements

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) – 38 disposals, 14 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Jack Walker (Melton) – 26 disposals, 9 clearances, 9 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Challenging game as expected, Darley challenge you in so many different ways, pleased with the resilience and mindset of the group through the whole game with what presented. Shout out to Dan and Darley as a club after fierce battle respect shown to our skipper was greatly appreciated post-game.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Credit to Melton they outworked us and took more of their opportunities on goal. Congratulations to Braedan Kight on his 200 games, great effort from a quality, upstanding man of the competition. We tried hard, tried to find a number of ways to get the result but it just wasn’t our day.”

The Swans booted nine goals to two in the second half to earn an all-important third win of the season.

Ash Baker’s Swans are keeping pace amidst a logjam of four teams on three wins behind undefeated Sebastopol.

Again, the start was slow for the Swans, credit to Redan for opening up a handy 14-point lead that was enough to have them within just two points at the main break - game on.

However, not dissimilar to the Swans’ Round 3 exploits, they flexed their muscles and asserted their field dominance to win going away.

The 50-point margin was validated with double the amount of scoring shots 30-15.

Swans’ tall timber Biggie Nyuon (four goals) and Patrick Graham (one goal) challenged the Lions for the most part to land in the best players for the winners ahead of Tyson Richard (three goals), Bailey Fraser and Rhys Perry in his first game for the club since his off-season return.

It was slim pickings for the Lions after halftime but credit to coach Marc Greig and his staff keeping pace with these sides despite dealing with a number of key outs of their own.

Oliver Pittard was named best for Redan ahead of Lachlan McLean, Bailey McKay, Harry Lawson and Daniel Bond.

The Lions are away next week to Bacchus Marsh (live stream with full commentary from 2pm) while the Swans can make it four wins from five when they host East Point.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) – 30 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 12 inside 50s

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) – 51 hitouts, 15 score involvements, 9 1%ers

Oliver Pittard (Redan) – 32 disposals, 12 marks, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Well done to Bakes and his team. Some good ball movement from both teams during the day despite the conditions. We just needed to kick the first goal at the start of the last to get the boys up and about to give ourselves a chance, but Ballarat controlled the ball well and finished the last quarter strongly. Extremely proud of the young lads for their effort, and again a great learning opportunity for their all-round game.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Redan brought plenty of pressure at the contest all day and were fierce in their attack at the ball. We had a tough ask to work our way back into the contest; however we were able to do so throughout the second quarter and eventually get the game more on our terms during the second half of third quarter and into the fourth.”