Round 3 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Darley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Easier said than done.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip:  Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Darley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Round 5 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

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

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

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

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

The Lakers are 6.12 in the same stat for measure.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Darley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Round 6 Football Preview with Scoop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should be a ‘biggie’!

Scoop’s tip: Melton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

luck convincing either of these league heavyweights.

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

Scoop’s tip: Darley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But try telling that to Carmody!

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

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

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

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

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Round 7 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you look at the numbers, they compare nicely.

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

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

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

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

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

Postcode tip for me.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

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

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

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

While the win/loss stat is not everything at East Point, spare a thought for Melton coach Troy Scoble who is in the ‘premiership window’ but like so many can’t get their best version of themselves on the park.

Expect some change of luck for the Bloods this week with the return of premiership duo Lachlan Walker (concussion) and Ryan Davis (leg).

While the result for many is weighted heavily in the Bloods favour it’s fair to say both camps are clearly frustrated with the mounting injury toll and would rather take each other on at full strength.

Sidelined talent helps neither team. Even the Kangas who are invested in the ‘opportunity space’ would rather be developing their players alongside experienced campaigners Merrett, Brown and the like.

For Scoble at the Bloods, while their situation resembles more like Groundhog Day for another week, it’s time crack in and be grateful for the ‘what have’s’.

While they’re shy on a few soldiers, those standing have proven more than capable and will get the job done again.

Looking for a day out on the road in front of goal for Bloods forward pair Braedan Kight (6 goals from 5 games) and Liam Carter (11 goals from 6 games).

Scoop’s tip: Melton

All roads lead to Marty Busch Reserve for Saturday’s top of the table clash between the Burra and the Roosters.

The hosts have arguably the healthiest list in the comp and will enter the clash near full strength with only Sam Wilkinson likely to miss.

The Roosters have not been as fortunate with speedster Reggie Palmer (broken arm) their latest casualty, set for a period on the sidelines.

Brock Leonard (ACL), Wilbur Shea (shoulder) and Fletcher Loader (foot) are already done for the season while Simon McCartin (calf) and Isaac Carey (knee) are still three and four weeks away respectively.

Some good news however for the Roosters with the likely return of journeyman, key defender Isaac Lovisson who has played just one game since the 2023 grand final.

Lovisson has been in the US plying his trade as a punter in the American football system and was named best on ground in his return game with the Roosters’ Reserves in Round 6.

On the numbers front, very little separates these two sides. Overall pressure (NB+4), hard ball gets (NB+1) and intercept possessions (NB+3) are just three key areas validating the even nature of the match up.

Despite the Roosters slight edge, five game winning streak, and (current) number one ranked defence, my gut feel is somehow with the Burra.

Their dominance to kick away from Darley early in Round 6 and later respond when challenged is an ideal prep for a similar challenge.

Tony Lockyer’s boys have had a chance to rest up, identify the positives, and take learnings from a season defining win.

The mature heads at Sebastopol just may be enough to worry Clint Proctor’s crew out of it in the clinches.

Proctor would be the first to concede his group are on a journey while it feels like the Burra are playing with an edge, making up for lost time.

While a win for either of these big Improvers will do wonders in the belief space moving to 6-1 on top of the BFNL ladder, it’s not the end of the world for the loser.

Should be a belter, a true test of depth stocks for both camps.

Time to kick back and enjoy the show!

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Lions get the perfect opportunity at home against the Lakers to work on areas of their game, with an eye toward resembling some of the habits and enjoyment levels that led them to a berth in last year’s grand final.

Sunbury are 2-4 from their opening six games and like many, haven’t had the best run on the injury or availability front.

Coach Matty White is a proud leader of his pride so look for a compliant response on Saturday that equates to a big win on the scoreboard.

Unfortunately for the Lakers they can’t take a trick at the moment both on and off the field. Winless and an injury list to key personnel that would impact any side let alone one who has struggled to just four wins from their last 56 games.

Tireless ruckman Tom Zampatti (ACL) and midfield recruit Will Fordham (awaiting knee scans) are the latest casualties compounding an already difficult season for coach Rohan Brown and his group.

Knowing the character of Brown, expect the Lakers to embrace the road trip and plan on delivering one thing above all else at the weekend - effort.

That at least would appease the frustrations to some degree in the aftermath.

Lions star forward Jake Sutton is likely to return to Sydney while Jake Egan is in line for an Essendon VFL recall.

Key staples Josh Guthrie, Fraser Ampulski, Nathan Doyle and Dean Muir all missed the Lions Round 6 loss to Bacchus Marsh and face fitness tests ahead of their highly anticipated returns.

While a certain inevitability looms around the result, expect both camps to arrive with a number of KPIs they’ll want ticked off within game to validate any further progress.

Four-time premiership player Luther Baker prepares for his 200th game on Saturday when his beloved Devils host Redan at Darley Park.

The reigning premiers will look to assert their authority early having won just one game in May after away losses to Melton and Sebastopol.

But they will be made to earn it.

Redan coach Marc Greig was proud of his fledgling groups effort against ladder leaders North Ballarat at their last outing having pushed to be within eight points at half time.

Unfortunately, the reality is the Lions have struggled to score on relatively good decks since their Round 1 win over the Lakers. In fact, the Lions have just won three of 20 quarters since and are 0-5 for last quarters.

Returns on the goal front since their season opener (10,9,7,9,7) have been modest and Saturdays assignment finding a way through the Devils’ defence looms another tough challenge.

The proud high end of Devils talent will be raring to go, Jordan hopeful they can be ‘in the present’ having put their two recent losses behind them.

For the depth charges, a greater response in the compliance space, that was found wanting against the Burra, would be high on Jordan’s agenda.

For some reason the Lions, regardless of ladder position, have always enjoyed periods of momentum (in games) against the Devils.

However, despite the obvious aerial threats of Lachie and Taj Bond forward of the ball, the Lions inability to keep opposition scores under 100 is compelling 107, 164, 100, 126, 98 last five games.

So, expect the Devils to build on their scoreboard separation the longer this game goes.

What the Lions can hope for is denying the slow starting Devils a game on their own terms.

Darley (excluding Lake Wendouree) has split their first quarter win/losses for the sample size averaging just 16 points for the term. Expect Saturday to be part of the correction from the Jordan camp.

While every team was rapt to have last week off after a high octane start to the season - a spike in the Devils’ hunger levels would not surprise as they look to raise the bar amidst a very challenging title defence for the black and white.

Result aside, you can count on the unofficial ‘Lachie George Cup’ to generate its own point of interest!

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Round 8 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Round 8 presents some massive road trips as clashes up and down the highway will set the tone of the BFNL's current power rankings.

Bacchus Marsh face an ideal opportunity to atone for last week’s disappointment when they host the Lakers at Maddingley Park.

Dennis Armfield’s group cling to fifth spot on the BFNL table, a game clear of Melton and Sunbury who are sure to mount a challenge on the rise at some stage.

The Cobras, while expected to win, will have to get the job done without prime mover Jake Owen (hamstring).

Evidently Owen’s aerial prowess makes up one of just two key areas the Cobras rank in the ‘elite’ space according to Premier Data.

The other, hitouts - enter Luke Goetz.

The standout ruckman endured a tough afternoon last week, like many of his teammates, up against 200cm mobile Swans pair Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon.

Goetz task on Saturday has been made relatively easier in the absence of well-respected Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti who succumbed to a repeat ACL injury three weeks ago.

More broadly the numbers don’t lie for the Cobras. Closing the gap between their best and worst is symptomatic of a young team striving for greater consistency.

Essentially, we’ve seen firsthand how good the Cobras can be and what that looks like but on the flipside for periods against the Devils and the Swans they’ve been found wanting.

In fairness to the Cobras, they are yet to field their best 22 all season and that will remain the case for as long as trump card Jake Owen is sidelined.

Armfield is a positive voice and has the ability to get his boys to lift on the back of disappointment so expect a correction from the Cobras in front of home fans on Saturday.

Given the ‘outs’ at the Cobras, personnel are essentially auditioning on the run to be a part of their best 22 moving forward. That motivation alone should warrant a spike response.

The Cobras would be rapt with the last month from Sam Griffiths and Isaac Nixon and the consistent effort of tireless mid Jack Parente who seems to come up against players out of the VFL and AFL system from week to week.

For Rohan Brown’s Lakers mini wins will again forefront the agenda. Like it or not it’s just the reality of where they’re at.

It’s the second away trip in as many weeks down the highway for the Lakers and their third in five weeks. For the opening half of last week’s loss to Sunbury, Brown’s boys look to be enjoying the bonding nature of footy on the road to be within 11 points.

Clutching at straws I know but the Lakers also kicked three of the opening four goals of the game against the Devils in Round 5.

Can the clear underdogs click early once again and ask questions of a Cobras outfit potentially on the back foot from last week and the injury to Owen?

In the mini win stakes, the Lakers have a chance pinching a first or second quarter, catching the Cobras napping but expect the longer this game goes the hosts will do enough to secure the points and strive for any percentage advantages that come up with it.

The scoreboard will surely reflect the fruits of the Cobras labour as the Lakers endeavour to deny them an afternoon on their own terms.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Melton (6th) face the difficult task of ladder leaders Sebastopol at MacPherson Park in Saturday’s match of the round in the ‘East’.

While the clearance stat in isolation carries varying degrees of weight from coach to coach, the Bloods will need to address their ‘average’ returns (-7.4 avg) against a deep Burra’s midfield or contemplate the prospect of “chasing the game”.

Furthermore, the Burra rank #1 in the comp for inside 50s with an average of 60 per game, exceeding the previous two dominant premiers in Darley and Melton who were around the mid-50s.

A healthy Bloods outfit would have no reason to fear Tony Lockyer’s flock given they’re prominent in a host of key areas and lead the competition for pressure and intercept possessions.

However, the unwelcomed, overwhelming stat the Bloods have over the Burra is a casualty list they can’t shake leaving them exposed in the ‘bottom six’ conversation.

Lachie Watkins, Ryan Carter, Riley Walker, Brodie Sullivan and latest casualty Adrian Monitto are five players the Bloods missed in last week’s four-point loss to East Point.

All are unlikely to return for this all important stoush against the Burra who could push them outside the six for the first time in a longtime under Troy Scoble.

Sebastopol are seemingly a band of brothers at the moment, healthy and embracing their challenges under Lockyer from week to week.

Lockyer is not getting ahead of himself nor engaging in the potential ceiling of his group just yet.

The ‘flag favourites’ tag was put to the veteran playing coach midweek and duly deflected with a straight bat.

“Settle down mate, settle down!”

When the likes of Lockyer, Toby and Ben Hutt, Lachie Cassidy, Luke Kiel, Jack Bambury, Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley are healthy, streaming up and down the ground as we’ve seen over the last month especially, why wouldn’t you have them in the mix.

Just don’t tell Tony!

Much will be asked of the Bloods core to hold out the Burra. They’ve proven more than capable on their day and having dragged themselves off the canvas on a number of occasions to win games many believe they couldn’t.

The Bloods just aren’t travelling well enough for mine at the moment, but a peak performance would certainly stretch the Burra regardless of their absentees.

However, I’m tipping the wave of the Burra to maintain its momentum for another week in a physical affair.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

2025 Grand Finalists Sunbury will need to bring their best if they’re to trouble the high-flying Swans (6-1) on the road at Alfredton Oval.

The Lions will be required to do it without Sydney Swans VFL, and reigning Tony Locket Medallist Jake Sutton.

Matty White’s Pride are a far cry from their high achieving exploits of 2025 but injuries and inadvertent departures have stalled their progress.

While the inclusions for the Lions have shown encouraging returns, the progressive nature of the Swans has been something to behold - to take up and notice.

Furthermore, their chances can only be improved with the return of former AFL intercept defender Alex Keath. More recent addition, Luke Dunstan’s (ex-AFL St Kilda and Melbourne) is expected to debut in Swans colours next week against Darley.

Ash Baker’s bevy have been able to achieve high end numbers in the ‘keeping off’ space, an area we normally associate with Sunbury and Melton.

Adding further weight to the ‘marks’ conversation in particular, only Sebastopol average more marks inside 50 per game.

For the record, there’s more to the bevy than high profile trio Biggie Nyuon, Alex Keath and Brad Crouch - and the numbers will agree.

The organic growth of the Swans is not dissimilar to the Bloods of yesteryear and the Lions of last season - the impact is palpable.

Pigeonhole the Swans’ top-end at your end peril - they ‘bat deep’, down to their 22nd man, all of whom would get a game in any BFNL team .

What you get with Sunbury, is what you see, what you’re familiar with.

While you can’t underestimate the Lions ceiling on any given day, White was one of the first opposition coaches noting the Swans were on the up.

And that they are, proving that again last week after dominating Bacchus Marsh from the outset.

Sure, the depth stocks at Sunbury are staking their claims to be part of their best 22 moving forward but it’s going to take more, taming the Swans.

I get there’s a certain feel among many, the Lions will do enough to return to finals but don’t count on the ‘hurry up’ with a win over the Swans in Ballarat at the weekend.

Ash Baker’s bevy are the real deal.

Lions beware!

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

North Ballarat has been decimated with injury and unavailability of 11 front line starters ahead of its match of the round meeting with Darley at Mars Stadium.

Star utility Sam Glover (internal bleeding), Isaac Lovisson (hamstring), Jarrod Curran (hamstring) and Declyn McGuigan (concussion) are the latest casualties from the Roosters camp to be ruled out of the Round 8 blockbuster.

Both sides enter the clash with solid home and away form, locked together on five wins, third (Darley) and fourth (North) on the BFNL ladder.

While the external appetite for this bout has been soured by the mounting casualty list at the Roosters, the same cannot be said for the anticipation held inside both camps as yet another of many on-field footy audits in season 2026 presents.

While this contest is morphing into a throw at the stumps game for Clint Proctor’s Roosters, try telling that to Devils’ mentor Dan Jordan!

The two-time premiership coach will be taking nothing for granted fully aware of the Devils own struggles peaking on the road this year.

The reigning premiers have just one win from three outings in the white shorts and were in trouble during their only success on the road against East Point.

It’s the Roosters’ number one ranked defence vs the Devils’ number one ranked offence if scores for and against are the barometer.

In 13/28 quarters this season, the Roosters have held their opposition to one goal or less which will ask questions of the Devils forward connection.

Only once this season have the Roosters lost the inside 50 count, centre clearance and groundball stat which is validation for their improvement.

Unfortunately for Proctor, there were telling signs last week his group had reached their tipping point.

Gee they’ve been brave and competitive despite the setbacks, and you can count on them leaving it all out there again on Saturday regardless of the result.

The undermanned Roosters will need to find a way curtailing a host of Devils talent well aware of this game’s importance in the context of a very even season.

Gun trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Billy Myers arrive in scary touch, while the form of Luther Baker, Mickey Edwards, Joel Cadman and current BFNL leading goal kicker Wil Johnson is on the upward trend which would be music to the ears of Devils fans.

Despite the absentees, the Roosters still carry enough armoury including a home deck to challenge Bewley’s entourage.

It’s advantage North Ballarat in the ruck stocks with newcomers Dave Brinker-Ritchie and Seb Collins while the form of Josh Morris and ‘Glover prodigy’ Dominic Penny in defence has been first class.

Just what the Roosters can manufacture out of dangerous forward pair Jye Lockett and Jamie Quick will tell its own story around the result in the aftermath.

The Devils have been dealt all the favours ahead of their all-important road trip against a Roosters outfit virtually on their knees. It’s up to Jordan and his on-field leaders to ensure they don’t stand up.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The rebuilding Kangas could find themselves just percentage outside the six with a win over the Lions at Easten Oval on Saturday.

Their chances of a third win of the season will be aided by the potential return of x-factor swing man Jacob Brown who must get through a fitness test on his troublesome hamstring to earn a recall.

Experienced Kangas defender Sam Cue returns from his suspension to bolster stocks against a Redan outfit hopeful of a few inclusions of their own - namely Brodie Pope, Jake Connolly, Oscar Henderson and Liam Hoy

While it was no surprise to see the Lions outclassed against a more seasoned Devils unit last week, the Kangas win over the Bloods certainly raised a few eyebrows across the competition AND at home.

Despite their eighth placing on the BFNL table the Kangas have managed to maintain their reputation as an above average side in clearance and groundball numbers according to Premier data.

Ruckman Thomas Brown, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd (suspended) and Liam Canny have proven the catalyst around stoppage, while the safe return of Alex Molan and Jarrod Joyce (three goals) last week, saw the Kangas resemble something closer to the best version of themselves.

Just what to expect from a young Redan side is a difficult proposition despite just one win separating the two sides.

Not dissimilar to East Point, Redan coach Marc Greig has enjoyed little luck on the injury front in his first season in charge with Taj Bond (broken foot) their latest casualty.

A return date for the key ruck/forward has not been confirmed and I can’t see the Lions pinching a result without him.

Lions revelation Oliver Pittard continues to take steps forward in the infancy of his senior career and remains the only player in the BFNL to be named in the best in all seven games.

Unfortunately for Redan however, excluding their big win over the Lakers in Round 1, they have won just three quarters and are 0-6 for last quarters.

If Joe Carmody’s Kangas can find some separation through the middle part of the game the likes of Joyce and Brown (test) could have a day out.

While Redan usual suspects Lachie Bond, Rory Gunsser, Jacob Werts and Pittard loom the four players to lead the resistance, the Kangas can’t afford to underestimate impact returns from Pope, Connolly, Henderson and Hoy.

The challenge for Greig and his pride will be denying the hosts an afternoon on their own terms.

I’m not sure they can for long enough at Eastern Oval to sway opinion.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Round 9 Football Preview with Scoop

As the halfway point of the season approaches, things are heating up in the Wintery depths of the competition with plenty to play for this weekend.

Expect the high-flying Swans to start unofficial favourites against the Devils for the first time in four years at Darley Park.

Sure, the Devils recent record at home is compelling, a 15-0 run dating back to the 2024 Semi Final, but they’re vulnerable and need a scalp.

The reality is, the Devils have beaten the bottom four sides and only Bacchus Marsh (5th) inside the top six.

The weight of expectation on the Devils’ top end to deliver has never been greater since Nick Hind joined the club at the start of 2025.

The reigning premiers will require every bit of their brilliance PLUS a second tier and depth response to get this done!

Star playmakers Hind, Brett Bewley and Billy Myers lead the charge again on Saturday but will be confronted by a team that bats arguably deeper than any list for talent in the competition.

The Swans’ enviable point of difference is their well-documented trio of inform 200cm keys Patrick Graham (in best 6/8), Biggie Nyuon (26 goals/7 games) and Alex Keath (in best 4/6 games).

The luxury for coach Ash Baker developing the spread around them is seeing a growing response by the week, their commitment to the task is palpable.

Midfield combo Lewis Rinaldi, Fraser Perkins, Thomas Simpson and Wyatt Squires will test the elite band of Devils given the advantage of Graham’s athleticism in the ruck.

The potential inclusions of Footscray VFL listed talent Tristan Maple, and former AFL pair Brad Crouch and Luke Dunstan (debut) only raises the degree of difficulty facing the black and white army.

While Biggie is the only Swans player to post 10 or more majors for the season, their frugal defence says they don’t need to shoot the lights out to win a game of footy.

Dual premiership coach Dan Jordan and his staff will be stretched to their limits finding a way to resemble their best footy for long enough and deny the Swans an impressive seventh win in a row and eighth for the season.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

Expect the Bloods to be buoyed with the inclusion of key forward Ryan Carter for their must win game on the road against Redan.

Troy Scoble’s Blooder-hood (6th) are two games shy of Bacchus Marsh and Darley and must win to consolidate a top six position as Sunbury come knocking.

The Bloods were brave last week against ladder leaders Sebastopol, anything resembling that performance should prove enough disposing of Marc Greig’s Pride (1-7) albeit on the road.

The Carter brothers, namely Liam and Ryan, alongside Braedan Kight, pose an afternoon long threat for the young Lions striving for a second win of the season without prime mover Taj Bond.

You can analyse this game as much as you like - manufacture a potential upset at your peril, for the reality is, the Bloods aren’t going as bad as their three-win season suggests.

Expect Melton to pull away late and win comfortably despite the resistance of a willing Redan outfit.

If found under the pump, the Bloods proven defence, led by Jordy Cotter, Harry Hanley and Lachie Phillips, in the absence of Adrian Monitto, is enough to suggest the Bloods will earn a fourth win of the season, closing the gap on either Bacchus Marsh or Darley who face difficult assignments against Sebastopol (1st) and Ballarat (2nd) respectively.

Redan coach Marc Greig, while well ahead of the Lakers predicament, can look for mini wins in the form of a quarter and or half win. The Lions are still yet to win a final quarter since the season opener against the Lakers (0-7)

The Bloods will do enough.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

The Lions host the Kangas in a must win game for Matty White’s Pride.

While very little separates the two sides on the BFNL table, the weight of expectation on Sunbury is far greater given Joe Carmody’s Kangas well versed rebuild.

The Lions should be full of confidence playing host given the last eight Ballarat based sides have left Clarke Oval disappointed.

Of the sample size, only the Swans (9 points) have been within four goals of the Lions who have had their way over their visitors from the ‘West’.

Ironically, there is some positives for the Kangas - they were the last Ballarat based team to win at the Den back in late 2024.

The visitors arrive on a three-game winning streak and welcome the return of Joe Dodd and Fraser Molan.

The Lions on the other hand have looked vulnerable without spearhead forward Jake Sutton, despite the efforts Daniel Johnston who has multiple goal returns in each of his last four games.

Other avenues to goal have been scarce amounting to a modest 66 points per game, down from 90 last year.

White, like most rival coaches has had his frustrations with ongoing injury, unable to get the best version of the Pride on the park.

Carmody has been in the same boat, minus the expectation.

It’s fair to say the Kangas have been travelling under the radar until now - expect White to have done his homework.

This game could make or break a proud Lions outfit who would not have pictured themselves 3-6 at the halfway mark. At least a 4-5 scenario at the turn is workable.

Despite the loss of Jackson Merrett, the Kangas are beginning to resemble more of the ideal Carmody had foreseen at the start of the season.

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus has had a huge month and will take some containing as will forward pair Jarrod Joyce and Jacob Brown.

The experienced heads at East Point will believe they can give this a shake given a mere 7.77% separates the two sides on the table.

Gee, the Kangas would’ve loved this meet to be at Eastern Oval given recent momentum but unfortunately a road trip to Sunbury is the reality.

Tough ask.

The Lions must win to stay in touch of the top six and protect the legacy that is Sunbury at Sunbury.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Burra return home for a fourth consecutive hitout against top six opposition when they host the Cobras at Marty Busch Reserve.

Tony Lockyer’s men have passed the acid test with flying colours having won all three encounters over a tough month, making it through relatively unscathed.

That’s unheard of at Sebastopol!

Lockyer was the first to concede they were made to earn their win against the Bloods last week having trailed by up to 25 points midway through the third term.

The running depth at Sebastopol, and ominous forward line, simply overwhelmed the Bloods in the end and you can expect similar reason proving the difference again on Saturday.

The Cobras are a good team on their day and possess underrated depth having played 37 from their list already in 2026 for win/loss returns on par with the reigning premiers and cross-town rivals Darley.

Yes, in the short, their win/loss nears a mirror image. Both have beaten the bottom four sides and one team inside the six.

Not a bad effort from a team who has had no less than five preferred options missing from week to week.

In this case, and crucial to the Cobras’ chances, bookends Jake Owen and Wil Lalor will miss another week.

We know how good Owen is but don’t underrate Lalor. The Cobras’ defence let in 11 goals from 37 entries last week against the 0-8 Lakers.

If the Burra can manage somewhere near their average of 60 inside 50s, I hold grave fears for Dennis Armfield’s defence coughing up 100 points in Wintery conditions!

In fairness the Burra conceded 11 goals from their 38 entries against last week against the Bloods but they’re a different assignment altogether.

Looking forward to a host of match ups starting with Toby Hutt and Luke Goetz in the ruck.

Just who can provide first use will be pivotal in this contest we hope is not impacted by any extreme Ballarat weather pattern.

The Burras’ forward line is a concern for the Cobras with Joel Edwards, Ash Munari and Cooper Littlehales all averaging over a goal a game - the three-pronged attack will stretch the Cobras aerially.

If that trio doesn’t get you Adam Forbes (6 multiple goals in 8 games) or Jacob Fletcher (5 multiple goals in 8 games) just might.

The Cobras are honest - Goetz, Josh Huxtable, Jack Kovacevic, James McDaid, the Griffiths boys, Isaac Nixon and season newcomer Zach Vesty are playing some good footy but overcoming the Burra on the road looms a bridge too far.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

League improvers North Ballarat will look to consolidate their position inside the top three against the Lakers, despite a host of key personnel on the sidelines.

Some positive news however out of the Clint Proctor camp with experienced campaigner Simon McCartin and progressive type Max Faulkner set for a return to bolster stocks ahead of Saturday’s important hitout.

Important you ask?

Given the setbacks and current age profile of North Ballarat, getting a game on their own terms for long periods won’t be an easy task.

These next gen Roosters are effectively on trial to stake their claims for a part of the action at the business end.

They all can’t hang on but the likelihood of Proctor finding a diamond in the rough is not out of the question.

Some nine Roosters aged 18 or under, showed enough last week, playing a role in a most memorable win over the Devils in abhorrent conditions.

With the genuine outs at the Roosters still in double figures, that will be welcoming news for Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown who has endured his fair share of hardship over the journey on the injury front.

While the scenario is not ideal for the Roosters, try telling that to Brown as he prepares for as good as chance as any to challenge a top three opponent.

The harsh reality is the Lakers will struggle despite the home ground advantage but that shouldn’t stop the perennial underdogs from having a crack, eyeing a ‘mini’ win or two, to draw on in the aftermath.

Harvey Hicks is an exciting type while season recruits Corey Rich and Alfred Jarnestrom continue to build some good form in Lakers colours.

Brown’s boys arrive on the back of their highest score from the last 12 months - that alone should see them embrace the challenge, eager to go further.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor will be just happy to bank the points, get through unscathed and see continued progress with his young brigade ahead of a Round 10 meeting with Ballarat (7-1).

Brown will keep his ‘wants’ from the game simple and achievable.

The pattern of scoring alone throughout the day will give us some indication as to how these developing groups measured up.

While there’s no reason to shy away from an expected, comfortable win for the Roosters,

I’m curious to see what resistance the Lakers can muster in front of their loyal band of supporters.

It all matters.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL wishes to advise of a game cancellation due to Health & Safety Protocols.

Circumstances have arisen whereby the Ballarat v Melton reserves game at Alfredton Reserve Saturday 14^th May 2022 will be cancelled under COVID by-laws and protocols.

This is supported by advice and recommendations from AFL Victoria.

As a result of the game being cancelled under COVID guiding bylaws and protocols, the points for this game shall be split and each team receive 2 points.

A revised schedule for football games has been arranged which will see Under 19 football commence at 11am and senior football commence at 1pm.

The league supports the actions of the Ballarat FNC in dealing with this issue and thank them for their proactive stance and initiative to address the unfortunate circumstance where the available players do not allow for reserves to be played.

State government protocols and league safety bylaws have been implemented to ensure the health and wellbeing of players, supporters and members of the football and netball community.

A special thanks to the Melton FNC for their understanding and willingness to work with the Ballarat FNC to ensure games continue in a safe environment.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce a new partnership with Gawk Outdoor for Season 2022.

Look out for the promotion of various league events on the Gawk digital billboard and other exciting initiatives through 2022.

Gawk Outdoor is an outdoor advertising business with billboards across Regional Victoria. Providing high-quality outdoor advertising to Victorian businesses – both large and small - the newest digital board can be found at the corner of Mair and Humffray Streets, Ballarat.

“We are stoked to be on board for 2022 with BNFL. Our long-term vision has always been to support local business and sporting organisations, so it’s great to get the opportunity to help promote the league with our digital site. To have the flexibility to promote upcoming events, key rounds/games and league partners, we are excited to showcase the capabilities this site has to offer," said James Course, Director of Gawk Outdoor.

Following a recruitment exercise, the board of the McDonalds BFNL is pleased to announce Gemma Murphy has been successful and will be appointed Netball Manager for the league.

Gemma would be familiar to most netball contacts as a current member of the league board. She brings a wealth of knowledge to the role through umpiring across a number of leagues, previous experience as the umpire coordinator for the BFNL her role understanding the strategic direction of the league as we move through change and her desire to enhance the netball competitions in the Ballarat FNL.

With two children playing football and netball in the league, Gemma has a first hand understanding of the challenges facing clubs in this current environment.

Gemma will commence the role on a part time basis (three days per week), commencing February 1^st 2021, but will still continue in her role as a board member until the league AGM. 

Redan started it's 2023 campaign under new coach Gary Learmonth with an emphatic 92 point win over a disappointing Lakers outfit in Good Friday's stand alone fixture at City Oval.

IN A NUTSHELL

Experienced Lions’ big guns stole the show with midfielder Lachie George named best afield and Grant Bell finishing with a game high five goals.

Reigning Club best and fairest and rising star Isaac Grant joined in bagging four majors while Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers could manage just one of their own for the entire afternoon coming via the boot of Nathan Pring.

Learmonth and Lions fans would have been all smiles over the Easter weekend before a birds-eye view opportunity, scoping future opponents presents at the conclusion of round one matches this coming Saturday.

For the Lakers, a 15-day break ahead of their round two meeting with Ballarat provides some valuable time to work on the fundamentals and improve connection.

Redan (Goals); G.Bell 5, I.Grant 4, L.McLean 2, H.Lawson, D.Phillips, L.Hoy, D.Bond, L.George.

Lakers (Goals); N.Pring.

Redan (Best); L.George, G.Bell, W.Madden, I.Grant, L.Phillips, J.Werts.

Lakers (Best); P.James, E.Preston, L.O'Connell.

COACHES VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan); "I was really happy with our commitment. Our pressure around the ball was excellent and our willingness to share the ball gave us plenty of forward entries to kick a winning score."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree); "The fact we went from 5 goals down at the 21-minute mark of the third quarter to losing by just under 100 is incredibly disappointing. Redan played very well, credit to them. “They belted us up around the ball and used it better than we did."

After 88 home and away games and six finals, Melton meets Sebastopol to decide the 2022 BFNL Carlton Draught Grand Final in arguably one of the more even competitions in recent history.

Despite Bloods coach Aaron Tymms' 0-3 record at Mars Stadium, the Minor Premiers will start red hot favourites against the Burra.

Will Melton will do enough to secure their first title since 2005? Burras coach Michael Searl will have different ideas and ensure they're made to earn it, even if they come up short as they have in their previous two meets.

Tymms' winless record at the ground is something Burra fans can cling to, but they will have to overcome a similar record (against) of their own to get it done.

Under Searl, Sebastopol is 0-3 against Tymms' Melton. You would have to go back 1099 days come game day to witness the last Burra success over the Bloods - an 18-point,= 2019 Preliminary Final win.

Searl and his boys were able to overcome their 0-3 record over Ballarat last week to make it onto the McDonald's Ballarat FNL's biggest stage. And what an opportunity for both clubs the day presents.

Melton finally gets their chance to assert their dominance, their stranglehold on the 2022 competition in front of a huge crowd enhanced by the addition of live streaming via Facebook, the CLUCH TV app and LIVE radio. I expect this game to be the most watched of any BFNL game in recent history given the improvements to access.

It's the players' time to shine before one club's time to celebrate.

For the record, these two teams are the current Runners Up of 2018 and 2019. So, for the here and now, one club's luck is about to change.

The Bloods ability to score is frightening

If the nature of the Bloods' uncontested superiority is the fuel then surely their ability to score is the fire.

On ten occasions, the Bloods have scored 100+ points or more, not to mention a further six scores of 80+ points. On the flipside for the Burra, three scores of 100+ and just three other scores of 80+.

On the two occasions the Burra has met Melton they have managed just six goals, in fact, their two returns were identical. Why so? See 'the worry for Sebastopol' below. They are just six shy of the Bloods on average for inside 50s per game. The Bloods +7 advantage for marks inside 50 validates the separation of scoring to a degree, highlighting Searl and his support crew will need to have a day out on the magnets and get the message through.

Of the 12 goals kicked by the Burra against Melton this year, only Lachie Cassidy (once - 2 goals) has a multiple-goal return.

The Bloods on the other hand have had six multiple goalscorers from their two meets - Braedan Kight (twice - 2,3), Liam Carter (twice - 4,2), Ryan Carter (once - 3) and Luke Heaney (once - 3).

To put the weight of scoring into perspective, the Burras have just four or more players that played at the weekend kick 10 or more goals this season - James Keeble (32 / 17 games), Jed Hill (17/18), Toby Hutt (16/16), Liam Stow (15/18). Melton however have seven - Ryan Carter (60/17), Braedan Kight (42/18), Liam Carter 40/18), Lachlan Hickey (19/17), Luke Heaney (18/16), Kyle Borg (16/18) and Lachie Watkins (11/17). It's fair to imply that 'frightening' is the operative word.   

Expect the Bloods defence to hold up

Only the height of the occasion stands in the way of this unheralded defensive group getting it right once again.

The Bloods have been the competition's benchmark in defence, matching the exploits of their more spoken about forwards group, but that would suit them just fine.

Tymms and his support staff would be thrilled with the returns from his defence given they've been 'the hunted' near all of 2022. Just one more effort stands in the way of the club's first Senior Men's Premiership since 2005.

Surely they've proven themselves more than capable of honouring the challenge.

Only one club averaged less than 60 points per game against this season and it's Melton (54). Convincing to say the least, as the silent assassins went about turning defence on the back of intercept into attack and, ultimately, scores.

Just how the 'Burra forwards get separation and find avenues to goal is another primary concern for Searl and his men. There is some merit in that everything that has happened previously accounts for nothing but something will need to change for the Burra to take home the Cup.

The worry for Sebastopol 

Clearly Melton's advantage, regardless of opposition this year, has been their superior weight of possession, and more so uncontested possession.

Tymmsy's boys are +58 for disposals over the Burra on average per game, 50 of those uncontested. As a result, there is no surprise to see the Bloods are +27 for marks including a whopping +26 of those uncontested.

The Bloods often start their attack off half-back and boast a handy +14 advantage over the Burra for intercept possession that no doubt has the follow-on effect to the aforementioned. As a result, these chains of intercept, rebound and uncontested passage amount to a +4 advantage for marked shallow entries inside 50 and +3 for marks deep inside 50. Their sheer weight of possession alone, more often uncontested, has proven the catalyst behind their imposing 16-2 win/loss record and clearly the difference in their previous 41- and 43-point wins.

What is encouraging for the Burra, it's these stats in isolation loom their greatest threat, the rest are quite similar. 

The 'potential' fix

Only two teams have been successful against the Bloods in 18 attempts this year. Melton spread most defences with good effect. The only chance the Burra have of causing an upset will be to keep their defence high as they did in the second half of their Elimination Final win over North Ballarat, denying the Bloods the corridor and width of the ground in offence. Easier said than done.

Burra have weapons of their own 

You can't make it through such an even BFNL season without some weaponry of your own.

Sebastopol deserves its place in the big one. In fact, Tymms would be the least surprised of any, being the only coach to tip Sebastopol (outside of your own team) at the start of the season.

What will keep the Bloods in check is Tymms' respect for the 'Burra. The Bloods - let's be honest - haven't won anything yet. Tymms has been measured all through the season and has not once been caught 'out of his lane' assuming any premature entitlement.

So, when the Bloods back themselves in they will be fully aware that their opposition bat deep enough to test the season-long favourites.

James Keeble, Lachie Cassidy, Luke Kiel, Toby Hutt, Jed Hill, James Richards, Bailey Medwell, Riley O'Keefe are just eight players that spring to mind without raising the head off the keyboard. Each brings with them an impactful skillset that can aid across all three lines and deny the Bloods a game on their terms. Apologies to Matt Austin, Daniel Widgery, Chase Dummett and maybe even Tony Lockyer. There are another three or four and the potential Lockyer return (?) will gather its own head of steam in the build-up. 

What the coaches say

Aaron Tymms (Melton):Really looking forward to the challenge that awaits us. It has been three years of hard work to reach this point and we are looking to get reward for the effort put in over that time. We are under no illusions that Sebastopol presents a tough challenge, are a well-organised team with high-quality players across the ground who enjoy the contest. We will need to be at our best and most combative to succeed and enjoy the ultimate success.

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):Excited for the challenge. We're under no illusions that Melton is deserving of the favourites tag this weekend but we are excited and can't wait to crack in. Anything can happen in a final, so we prepare well and enjoy the lead-up to the biggest game of the year.

*Statistics for this article sourced via Premier Data

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL today welcomes the announcement from the AFL of updated concussion management guidelines for community football.

Concussion management is vital to support the health and wellbeing of players affected with the Ballarat FNL to adopt these guidelines with immediate affect across all competitions at all levels. The competitions referred include:

• McDonalds Ballarat FNL Seniors
• McDonald’s Ballarat FNL Juniors
• McDelivery BFLWomens
• Western Bulldogs Under 9’s

Further support for clubs and officials (trainers / first aid) is being sought by the league through medical professionals that will further enhance the processes and provide greater support for clubs when dealing with players and returning to play.

The guidelines are not a radical departure from what has been the previous version of the concussion guidelines in place since 2017. The primary differences are the adoption of the head check app as the management tool. This app has been trialled within community leagues for a number of seasons.

Following an update from AFL Victoria, the BFNL Independent Tribunal has adopted new procedures for both reporting and assessing judicial incidents. 

Players who have been “reported” will now have their alleged incident classified that includes either base sanctions, tribunal referrals or deductions for early guilty pleas.

The new processes will ensure greater consistency across competitions and has been implement with the full support of the Ballarat FNL, Maryborough Castlemaine District FNL, BFUA and clubs.

“The new process will ensure the BFNL, and other competitions are consistent in how incidents are assessed and should reduce the number of cases referred to the tribunal," said Ballarat FNL Competition Manager Matt Newton. 

"Players with good records can also now receive a ‘discount’ for accepting an early guilty plea which was not available previously,".

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL will introduce an Independent Tribunal for season 2022. Expressions of interest are welcome from suitably qualified applicants to join the Tribunal panel. 

The McDonald's Ballarat Football Netball League will introduce a new Independent Tribunal in 2022 to hear disciplinary matters arising from the various competitions of the league.

Applications are now invited for suitably qualified people to become a member of the Independent Tribunal. Working with the Tribunal chairs, panel members will hear reports and other matters referred according to the guidelines of the AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria.

This role is ideally suited to a person who has recently retired from the game or who has a passion and interest in football and/or netball.

To express your interest, please email BFNL General Manager Shane Anwyl at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by COB Tuesday 5^th April 2022.

For further information, please contact Shane Anwyl on 0409 072 403.

The BFLW is proud to announce Federation University as the inaugural BFLW Finals Series naming rights partner.

Federation has today been announced as the naming partner of the upcoming BFLWomens finals series and grand finals, commencing this Sunday the 14th of August 2022. 

The partnership will see Federation not only as naming partner of the now Federation BFLW Finals Series and Federation BFLW Grand Finals but will provide valued support to grow female football in Ballarat and regional Victoria. 

Since its inception in 2021, BFLWomens has continued to grow and be the home of female football participation across regional Victoria from Melton, Maryborough and across the wider Ballarat district. 

Support from Federation will ensure the McDonald's Ballarat FNL, as custodians of female football in the region, can continue to build on the current competition with the stated aim of maximising female sports participation. 

Ballarat FNL General Manager, Shane Anwyl 

“The partnership with Federation is an exciting step in the growth of female football, and more broadly participation across Ballarat. The Ballarat FNL is committed to the growth of female sport and an 'access for all' priority”. 

Federation is Victoria’s leading regional university focused on transforming lives and enhancing communities. They have a 152-year history of partnering with community, industry and government to meet the needs of the regions they serve. 

Federation University Vice-Chancellor, Liam Sloan 

“We are proud to be partnering with BFLW in the inaugural finals series for the League and look forward to enjoying the competition during the Federation Finals Series and supporting the growth of women in sport in Ballarat and surrounding areas. This collaboration between Federation and BFLW is driven by our shared value of inclusion and common goal of equality in sport."

The Ballarat Football Netball League is seeking enthusiastic members to be part of its media team for the 2024 season.

The BFNL is the premier sporting competition in the Western region of Victoria, and is seeking volunteers to provide coverage of its renowned football and netball competitions.

This opportunity is perfect for journalism and media students looking to gain experience in sports media, or for passionate sports fans and former participants of the league to keep engaged in a fun and meaningful way.

There are many ways to get involved as part of the team, see the available positions below:

Football Commentator

Be involved in the BFNL Football Match of the Round live stream each Saturday from 2pm. Both Play-by-Play and Special Comments positions available.

Netball Commentator

Be involved in the BFNL Netball Match of the Round live stream each Saturday from 2:30pm. Both Play-by-Play and Special Comments positions available.

Football Reporter

Write content, including match previews, reviews and feature articles for the BFNL Website from the BFNL’s football competition.

Netball Reporter

Write content, including match previews, reviews and feature articles for the BFNL Website from the BFNL’s netball competition.

BFLW Reporter

Write content, including match previews, reviews and feature articles for the BFNL Website from the BFLW competition.

If you are interested in becoming a media volunteer with the BFNL, please contact the relevant BFNL competition managerwith a resume and brief background.

BFNL Football

Matt Newton – E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Ph: 0435 737 257

BFNL Netball

Gemma Murphy - E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Ph: 0401 152 906

BFLW

Tom McGregor - E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Ph: 0472 700 410

Adrian Bettio, Chairman of the McDonald's Ballarat Football Netball League, has issued a joint statement alongside President of the Central Highlands Football League, Doug Hobson, asking the local football and netball community to respect and abide by the crowd restrictions put in place by government and health authorities.

 The boards of the Ballarat FNL, Central Highlands FL look forward to finals commencing this weekend after an interrupted season. 

The entire football and netball communities across the wider Ballarat region are to be commended for adapting to the everchanging protocols that are in place to keep us all safe and healthy. 

One of those protocols that are in place is the need to limit the number of people who can attend sporting events. This of course has a profound impact on our competitions, but we understand the need to have such measures to ensure we can move to a more normal environment soon. 

Whilst both leagues would welcome public, family and club members to support their teams competing, the current restrictions do not allow anymore than the minimum number of people to conduct the games of football and netball. There is, however, an allowance for one parent or carer to attend for junior players. 

Across this weekend, we ask that the football and netball community respect the restrictions put in place by government and health experts, that both leagues must abide by. 

Good luck to all teams and clubs competing this weekend and beyond. 

Regards,

Adrian Bettio - Chairman, McDonald's Ballarat FNL

Doug Hobson - President, Central Highlands FL

- with Scoop

Ex-AFL Assistant Coach and BFNL Hall of Famer, Dan Jordan, will take the reins as Senior Coach at Darley Park in a huge coup for the Devils.

News of the marquee signing dropped at the weekend as the Devils proudly unveiled an image of Jordan donning the black and white, sparking plenty of interest from the wider competition almost immediately.

The 40-year-old brings with him enviable degrees of knowledge and expertise, and none more so than from his most recent stint at the top level after two years as Essendon's Assistant Coach. The Bombers loss is a huge gain for the Devils.

The 2006 Henderson Medallist and five-time Tony Locket Medal winner was upbeat about the journey that lies ahead.

"Hopefully I can make a difference at this proud club and lead them back to finals," Jordan said.

"I'm really excited about the challenge, it was in fact one of the reasons I settled on the Devils, and the process in which they presented their case was first class.”

Former Western Bulldogs coach and current senior coach at North Ballarat City, Brendan McCartney spoke generously of Jordan's character and his standing in the game.

"It's great for Darley and footy in the region," McCartney said.

"Every young player in the area should listen to what Dan has to say and offer, and he's a ripper bloke as well," he said.

Darley Football Manager, Craig Baker, was rapt the club could lure a bona fide, experienced coach like Jordan with eyes on emulating McCartney’s blueprint at North Ballarat that saw them rise from outside the six in 2019 to Minor Premiers in 2021, and all on the back of developing their own stocks.

"We thought we needed someone to oversee the progress of our Under 19's to senior footballers," Baker said.

"It would be a waste if we did not capitalise on the body of work Doug [Hawkins] has put into our young blokes after a terrific season that saw them finish second before COVID cut their season short.

"I've no doubt our boys would have given [the Premiership] a shake.

"Moving forward, we are aware that local 'one point' players are worth their weight in gold."

According to Baker, Dan will also be on hand to advise the junior coaches whenever needed, ensuring all age levels at the club are heading in the same direction.

"COVID has made it hard for our senior club, like many others, but we think Dan will help rejuvenate the group after a lean couple of years," he said.

While the thought of Jordan and 'the big dance' has its own familiar ring, the Devils know their version has a long way to go. And no one knows that more than Baker himself, who has spent the best part of 35 years at the club.

"All the talk about Dan's signing has been positive," Baker said.

"Hopefully everyone gets behind him and we can start winning again in all three grades."

For the Devils’ first grade, whose talented young list haven't won a game since August 24 of 2019 – the signing is some welcome some good news. The narrative it seems has changed and the revival is now firmly set in motion.  Just how the Devils respond on-field under Jordan must be whetting the appetites of the Darley faithful already.

*Check out Dan Jordan's impressive footy CV at www.facebook.com/darleyfnc

Following a successful Junior & Youth Girls interleague program this season, relive all the results and action below:

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Match Replays

Watch all matches of the 2022 Goldfields Trophy between the Ballarat FNL and Bendigo JFL.

Match Centre

Check out full match results of each grade including best players & goal kickers from our matches against Bendigo JFL & Riddell District FNL:

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