Scoop Reviews Round 12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big ask.

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Scoop Reviews Round 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The game was craving for an injection of outside brilliance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

point defeat at the hands of ladder leaders Sebastopol.

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Scoop' Reviews Round 14

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Scoop Reviews Round 15

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tough ask!

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunbury matched their return of the first quarter (5.5)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

Scoop Reviews Round 16

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STATS THAT MATTERED

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

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

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

COACHES’ VERDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Swans will be hoping Biggie is back from overseas to take his place against the Devils on Saturday with third place on the line at Alfredton Oval.

Redan, while out of the finals race can still shape the six overcoming the Bloods at MacPherson Park.

It’s not beyond them having beaten them at their previous meet.

Plenty to play out for both sides ahead in Round 17.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brody Pope (Redan) - 40 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 8 clearances, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“A tight tussle all day that we were glad to be on the right side of. Redan defended the ball really well and are playing a good brand of footy. We were able to find some good momentum during the third quarter, opening up a gap which we controlled fairly well against the wind in the last.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Another good game of footy. Close all day and we couldn’t quite get over the line again, but our lads kept coming right until the end. Ballarat’s wise heads showed good leadership and helped them get the job done. 3 more debutants were exciting for the club, and to have 9 players that played seniors yesterday, still eligible to play u18.5’s showed the talent we have to work with moving forward.”

Melton are one step closer to booking a place in the coming finals series following an impressive 27-point win over the Devils at Darley Park.

It was a case of déjà vous for many as the Bloods, under coach Troy Scoble, maintained its recent stranglehold over the Devils with a sixth win from their last seven meets.

But they did have some help!

As good and as honest as Melton were the Devils had a case of the yips with their field kicking that led to turnovers and more often scores.

Despite the Devils’ narrow five-point lead at three quarter time, Melton were ultimately the better side for longer having won three individual quarters in isolation and kicked eight of the last nine goals of the game to run away with the victory.

Footscray VFL talent Billy Crofts (three goals) was named best for the winners ahead of Jaycob Hickey who seemingly saves his biggest days for the Devils.

Given the Devils fundamentally flawed display, especially by foot, their defence was found under the pump for frustrating periods.

Matthew Brett and Zane Le Huray were recognised for their rebound and effort with the unenviable task denying the Carter boys. Brodie Ward performed admirably on Braedan Kight despite the 2024 Tony Lockett Medallist finishing with three goals.

The Devils own playmaker Billy Myers finished with a game high four goals.

The Bloods must beat Redan this week to consolidate their spot in the top six while the Devils (4th) return up the highway for a tough assignment with Ballarat (3rd).

A win for Dan Jordan’s touring party would see them replace the Swans in third place on the BFNL ladder, with just one round to follow.

Melton’s Conrad Farrugia (shoulder) is doubtful for the Bloods meeting with Redan after leaving the ground in the third quarter.

The Devils and the Bloods have now met on 50 occasions since their arrival in the BFNL (1997) - it’s Melton who hold the bragging rights with 25 wins and a draw.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 37 disposals, 9 clearances, 7 tackles

Billy Crofts (Melton) - 28 disposals, 8 clearances, 7 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 40 disposals, 11 clearances, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Melton thoroughly deserved the win. Fundamentally we were flawed and they made us pay on the scoreboard. We’ve got a bit to work on with our connection and have a couple more weeks against quality opposition to get it right. We did some good things, and I was relatively happy leading 16 points up in the third but again credit to Melton who finished too well for us.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“See sawing game of momentum, felt the game initially went in 15-minute patches of one team on top then that went to 10, then 5, then the game flipping both ways constantly. Proud for the lads to hang in and stay resilient through the middle part of the game when it wasn’t going our way, as Darley are an extremely tough team to play against and get momentum back from. When we got a few looks in the last quarter to execute, it was great reward for the team. The players have dug in the whole year met with disappointment in games like these prior falling just short but have been able to keep our season alive and still have a shot at the 6. Recover well and onto next week.”

Sunbury were no match for North Ballarat at home despite the inclusion of reigning Tony Lockett Medallist Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL) who booted four goals.

After scores were tied at quarter time the Roosters raised their game to extend with 10 goals to six running out comfortable winners.

Dangerous forward pairing Jye Lockett (four goals) and Jamie Quick (three goals) continued their rich vein of form in the front half for the Roosters proving arguably the difference on the scoring front between the two sides.

Dom Penny and Sam Glover continue to impress in their rebound and distribution roles for the winners, while speedsters Reggie Palmer and Taj Bowman thrived on the wide expanses of Clarke Oval, all finishing in the best alongside old school ‘follower’ Seb Collins.

Roosters’ coach Cling Proctor would be loving what he’s seeing from his progressive group, a genuine, now ready-made finals brand of footy.

For the Lions, all not lost, they won’t be the last team to lower their colours to the Roosters on road to finals.

While Sutton was named best on his return there were solid contributions from Jake Egan (two goals), Ben Cameron, Josh Guthrie, Ben Eales and Jack Hannett.

Sunbury head to Eastern Oval in the penultimate round to meet the Kangas while North Ballarat expect to welcome a couple more soldiers back for a run ahead of a monster Round 18 clash with the Devils.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Dominic Penny (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 13 clearances, 11 rebound 50s 

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 12 marks, 8 score involvements

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 23 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Great to have Sutton down for the weekend, wish we had him more, but Sydney VFL look to go deep into finals. So good luck to him. Well done to Proc and North. Defended us well all day and capitalised when they had the momentum. We just couldn’t get our offensive game going and let a couple of opportunities slip when we had them. Review and get ready for a big trip up the highway to East.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Excellent performance from the lads - collectively that’s the best we have played in a while. Sunbury are such a well-coached team, it’s never easy playing them especially away! But we were able to execute today and get the game on our terms. Looking forward to the next contest and last “home game” of the year.

Sebastopol flexed their muscles, returning to the winner’s list with a dominant display over struggling Lake Wendouree.

Tony Lockyer’s flock had their pedal to the metal, near mirror imaging their first and second halves on the goal front with 13 and 14 goals respectively.

Again, the depth of midfield stocks of the ladder leaders came to the fore as Gedd Hommelhoff impressed in a breakout performance given the opportunity in the absence of Lachie Cassidy.

The magnets continued to be ‘thrown around’ by Lockyer as wing/mid Bailey Medwell (six goals) was sent deep forward to exercise his versatility.

Refreshed big man Joel Edwards finished the day with an equalling game high six goals after a nervous start that yielded three straight behinds.

Sebastopol did simply what they had to do despite the heightened degrees of inevitability about the result heading in.

The Lakers’ horror run with injury continued with Bailey Ryan unable to return after a heavy hit in the third term while Jack Butler succumbed to a season ending hamstring strain - he cannot take a trick!

Corey Rich, Archie Todd and Timmy Collins featured prominently again for the Lakers despite another heavy loss, while the efforts of James Clark and Josh Canny earned themselves nominations among the best.

The Burra are highway bound for their penultimate hit out ahead of finals taking on Bacchus Marsh while the Lakers head to Mars for a daunting mission against second placed North Ballarat

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Edwards (Sebastopol) - 26 disposals, 14 marks, 6 goals

Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol) - 22 disposals, 11 marks, 6 goals

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 41 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 11 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Pleased with the performance overall. Was very happy with how the boys set up the day into the breeze in the first quarter. Clean with our use and set up some good looks on goal into a tricky wind. We wish Jake and the Lakers all the best for the run home, they had some good passages in the second half and have some great youth coming through. Plenty to learn for us still, we now commit to our review and look forward to the highway trip vs Bacchus Marsh.”

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Sebas way too good from the start and had a strong 4 quarter performance. We did have some really good looks in the third quarter and arm wrestled the territory battle and were able to hit the scoreboard. Tough day. Not enough pressure on ball and fundamentally fumbled so we weren’t clean enough throughout the game. We couldn’t get our Lakers style going at all. Disappointed with the effort which is a mindset thing however no one is complaining and with the 22 we had out there - we are maximising and we will keep the standards high, we want to keep getting better. What can we keep getting out of each session and each game is the question and the answer we will continue to find as a group. Brotherhood.”

Scoop Reviews Round 17

The BFNL football final standings were near on decided following a number of big results across the league over the weekend.

The ruthless Roosters made it seven wins in a row at home dominating Lake Wendouree to the tune of 151 points.

Despite some early resistance from the visitors, Clint Proctor’s relatively young group raised the bar after quarter time piling on 20 goals to one and move to the top of the BFNL table on percentage ahead of Sebastopol.

Star forward Jye Lockett finished with a game high eight goals ahead of nine other team mates to hit the scoreboard on the goal front.

Some 45 scoring shots to four tells the story of the tape as the Lakers welcomed the return of Jake Lohmann who played managed minutes in one genuine positive for the embattled group on an otherwise long afternoon.

Roosters’ ruckman Dave Brinker Ritchie earned the nod of best on ground honours ahead of Lockett while Brayden Purchase, Reggie Palmer and Dominic Penny continued their recent run of good form.

It was always going to be hard work for Lohmann and his group, but you couldn’t deny the efforts of ball magnet Will Clark, Tyson Walsh, Josh Canny, Corey Rich, Patty Corbett and Ash Cutts who fought out the contest to the very end.

North Ballarat head to Darley next week to consolidate top spot while the winless Lakers get one more crack at breaking a run of 35 outs when they host Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 27 disposlas, 14 marks, 8 goals

David Brinker-Ritchie (North Ballarat) - 45 hitouts, 31 disposals, 27 contested possessions

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 43 disposals, 12 marks, 10 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Lakers came out hard and hit the scoreboard early - the game was a really tight contest, and it was difficult to find brand. We made some adjustments which seem to work in our favour once the match went on. Looking forward to Darley now.”

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Tough day, didn’t give up until the end of the game. Credit to North’s team defence, the best I’ve seen all year from anyone. Squeezed us in back half and controlled the game. Having 10-12 seniors players out and key players in Joel O’Connell, Angus Gove, Tom Zampatti, Will Fordham, Bailey Ryan, Kynan Raven, Cooper James, Noah Shearer just to name a few out of the side but gives us 7 kids under the age of 19 playing today. We are getting some good exposure and learning from each game. We will only improve and continue to get better. Must believe and stay connected leading into Bacchus @home.”

Ballarat secured a prized top three position following a dour 17-point win over a wasteful Darley at Alfredton Oval.

Ash Baker’s bevy simply made more of their opportunities despite a landslide differential (minus 26) of inside 50s.

Alex Keath was the general in defence marshalling the troops while midfielder Paddy Simpson stood up in his mid/forward role finishing with a game high three goals.

The Swans’ four-goal-to-one first quarter laid the foundations of a lead the Devils simply couldn’t reel in despite Brett Bewley’s monster 49 disposals and two goal game.

Trailing by 22 points at the main break the Devils peppered the goals throughout the third but were their own worst enemy adding just 1.6 and two out of bounds on the full - a hard watch for all Devils’ fans that made the trek.

Alfredton Oval was deceptively heavier and slippery underfoot, conditions the Devils struggled to master despite a majority of the ball.

Swans trio Luke Dunstan, Lewis Rinaldi and Jack O’Brien were solid in their respective roles landing in the best. Key forward Biggie Nyuon made his much-awaited return and booted two handy goals in a relatively low scoring affair.

The Swans looked the winners a fair way out, won three quarters in isolation despite missing up to six of their best 12 and the Devils enjoying long periods with ball in their front half.

Bewley aside, the Devils had solid contributions from Lachie George, Zane Le Huray, Mickey Edwards and Jayven Tanner.

The Swans head to Sunbury in Round 18 with a top three spot already in their pockets to face Sunbury who cannot miss the finals action either with a fifth or sixth place beckoning.

Darley on the other hand host North Ballarat, both of whom have qualified for finals.

Curious to see what plays out here at selection and the intensity of these games in particular, ahead of a massive finals series.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 49 disposals, 10 inside 50s, 9 score involvements

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 25 disposals,  9 inside 50s, 8 clearances

Alex Keath (Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 12 marks, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Really pleased with the outcome today against a quality side. Our first half was really solid. We were able to get the game on our terms for the majority of it. We knew Darley would come out firing in the second half, which they did, and we were fortunate that they weren’t able to capitalise on their opportunities in the third quarter. Plenty for us to continue to work on and looking forward to another strong opponent next week.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“While disappointed with the result we saw progress in a few key areas of focus. We controlled the game for periods but could not finish off our good work on goal. We simply do not take our opportunities - credit to Ballarat, they took theirs and was arguably the difference in the game. Plenty to like moving forward with another game into a few of our blokes on the way back and further development into our young boys.”

Melton have booked their place in this year’s BFNL finals series with a convincing 55-point over Redan at MacPherson Park.

Troy Scoble’s rediscovery of the winning form we’ve been used to over previous years has made a timely return after his boys won every quarter at the weekend to put the competition on notice they’re not here making up the numbers.

Braedan Kight finished with best on ground honours on the back of a game high five goals, as eight members of the ‘Bloodahood’ posted majors.

The Bloods maintained their number one standing in the competition for first quarters and will ask questions of future opposition to start well or face the prospect of chasing down a lead.

While Ryan Carter was unavailable for the clash, Billy Crofts suited up again and will feature for the remainder of the season in the Bloods’ flag tilt. Harry Hanley (two goals) made a safe return from an overseas trip with immediate impact while the Bloods in form defence continued to deny the Lions.

Jordy Cotter, Lachlan Phillips and Jack Walker were solid again featuring among the best players behind Kight and progressive ruckman Joshua Stewart.

The Lions were disappointing given their recent form and perhaps due for a quiet day.

They were never really in the hunt as the margin extended north at every change.

Taj Bond finished with a team high three goals while midfielders Rory Gunsser (best) and Brodie Pope continued to rack up high possession numbers.

Big men Lachlan Bond and Jacob Werts were solid for the Lions while next gen Lachlan Kroussaritis and Rory Bell rounded out the pick of the visitors named in the best.

Melton face Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve in an ideal hit out ahead of finals.

The Lions host East Point and will be chasing a fifth win to end their season on a high.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 39 disposals, 9 clearances, 5 1%ers

Billy Crofts (Melton) - 26 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 32 disposals, 11 marks, 7 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Tough contest, Redan have quality players that challenge you defensively when they get momentum. Both sides did not convert in the first half, we felt our connection was clunky in transition but fortunately in the second half, with a lot to play for, we were able to run the game out well. Physical second half by both teams to be congratulated. Really pleased with our second half of year to date, one to go and see where we finish.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Solid game of footy. We missed a few easy ones in the second quarter to even up the scoreboard at halftime but that’s footy. The game went up a notch in the second half, and we didn’t match Melton in the third quarter who had plenty to play for with a finals spot up for grabs. Our lads kept up the pressure and scoring in the last, but the margin was too great. All the best in the finals. Looking forward to finishing the year strong in our last game vs East next week.”

The Cobras fell agonisingly short causing one of the upsets of the season stretching (then) ladder leaders Sebastopol to within two points at Maddingley Park.

Unfortunately, as brave as Dennis Armfield’s quiver were, given Melton’s win over Redan their finals prospects are now all but over.

The Cobras started well, confidence up with a narrow three-point lead before the Burra obtained the slender advantage at the main break (four points) and three quarter time (ten points).

With a genuine sniff of an upset and a finals spot on the table, the Cobras fought their hearts out restricting the high-flying Burra to their second lowest score of the season but to no avail.

While there was full praise for the Cobras charge against the odds, credit must be afforded to the Burra who were challenged from start to finish before winning the game.

Burra trio Toby Hutt, Adam Forbes and Joel Edwards all booted two goals and featured in the best in a game where goals were savoured and celebrated.

Cobras’ pair Josh Huxtable (in best) and Joel Freeman matched their Burra counterparts with a game high two goals.

Felix Henderson, Tony Lockyer, Cooper Littlehales and Jacob Wilkinson were prominent alongside their multiple goal contributors.

Cobras’ quintet Hamish Coulton, Luke Goetz, Jude Milburn, Isaac Nixon and Zach Vesty joined Huxtable in the best players in a timely reminder for Tony Lockyer’s Burra to maintain their form as finals approach.

Expect the Cobras to finish on a high next week with a big win over the Lakers while the Burra are at home to Melton who are showing signs of peaking at the right time.

Selection will be a watch this space across the games featuring the top six sides in particular given the make-up of the finals has essentially been decided.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 15 marks, 10 tackles

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 38 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 8 score involvements

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 51 hitouts, 16 disposals, 14 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“A ripping game of footy all game. Our last month we have had a focus on defence and our scores against have been a positive, unfortunately we couldn’t find that one goal to get us in front late. A few more seconds would have been great. However, congrats to Tony and his men. I want to wish Tony the best of luck in his last games as coach (however far), a true gentleman and great club person, pleasure to coach against.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Solid contest against Bacchus played in great spirit. Both teams with plenty to play for meant the pressure was high. Felt we got some good movement going early but couldn’t capitalise into scoreboard pressure missing some key chances. Our boys stayed strong whilst Bacchus kept the pressure right on themselves. They play a great brand of footy under Dennis when they are up and going. Anyone’s game to grab late and we did enough just to hang on. Looking forward to Melton next week!”

Finals bound Sunbury did enough to outlast East Point in a low scoring encounter by six points at Eastern Oval.

It was East Point’s sixth loss of the season by 19 points or less giving every indication their rebuild has been a success, not necessarily about win/loss.

In a dour struggle on a Wintery surface and goals at a premium it was the Lions’ Patrick Scanlon and Kangas’ Cooper Glenwright-McGuane who split the honours with three goals apiece.

Sunbury named Ben Eales best on ahead of Jordyn Tentonello, Myles Gollant and midfield pair Jack Newitt and Jake Egan.

It took every bit of the Lions’ will to win as the Kangas refused to throw in towel staying within touch at the breaks trailing by eight, two and ten at the last change.

The Kangas recognised the efforts of Jack Jeffrey and fresh names Archie Bennett, Zane Lubeek and Deng Lual among the best alongside Glenwright-McGuane and Hamish Thompson.

Sunbury host Ballarat in their last hit out ahead of finals while the Kangas chase a sixth win of the season against ninth placed Redan.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 34 disposals, 10 clearances, 7 score invovlements

Liam Canny (East Point) - 26 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Myles Gollant (Sunbury) - 26 hitouts, 20 disposals, 18 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tommy Molan (East Point)
“A really frustrating loss today. We couldn’t get the game on our terms at any stage. Our first quarter was really poor, but we managed to hold on. We struggled to find any connection from our defence forward, but our effort kept us in the contest. We played four 18-year-olds today and they held their own in heavy conditions, but we failed to take our moments late. Credit to Sunbury, they too were undermanned but managed the key moments in the game well and their leaders stood up when required. We managed to hit the lead with a couple of minutes to go but we failed to control contest at the next stoppage. There is a lot to like about our ability to stay in games, especially given our extensive injury list but, at the end of the day you are judged on Ws and we don’t have enough of them to progress into finals. We will be really keen to finish on a positive next week.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“A hard fought win in extremely trying ground conditions. Best of luck to East Point getting their ground back in a playable condition and they can find somewhere to train. Was hard to get any ball movement going but a surge mentality worked in our favour. Guys stood up when required and great to have Scanlon back and kicking goals. Egan Newitt and Guth again provided the mid-forward connection. Happy to get through injury free and looking forward to a few more returning players next week and for finals.”

Scoop Reviews Round 18

The 2026 BFNL football home and away season came to its conclusion on Saturday ahead of what is set to be a blockbuster finale in finals.

Bacchus Marsh legend Tyson Shea was given the ideal send off from teammates as the Cobras overwhelmed the Lakers on the road to the tune of 107 points.

While key forward Joel Freeman did the bulk of the damage on the scoreboard booting 10 goals 6, the afternoon was all about Shea’s last game and giving the 10 x club best and fairest a day to remember.

Shea’s three goals in isolation would be dear to the Cobra veteran’s heart I assure you.

Not a noted goalkicker over his long journey, Shea would have loved hitting the scoreboard and the opportunity to sing the victory theme song one last time.

Freeman’s ten goal haul elevated the dangerous forward to a share of eighth place in the Tony Lockett Medal race with 30 goals, alongside teammate Jake Owen and Redan’s Lachie Bond.

Another tough day at the office for the Lakers unfolded despite posting their highest score since round 13 and conceding their lowest since Round 14.

Whichever way you look at the current climate, it looks every bit a long road back for the Lakers who are winless in the last two seasons (0-36). Fingers crossed they can find a way back to the winner’s list sooner rather than later.

The win for the Cobras was their eighth for the season making it a clean sweep 6-0 against the bottom three sides. Wins against Melton and Sunbury early in the season were their highlights as Dennis Armfield, like many rival coaches, had to find a way around long-term injuries to key players. The Cobras eight wins matches their returns from 2025.

Out of the weekend, Shea and Freeman aside, the Cobras named Luke Goetz, Zach Vesty, Josh Huxtable (one goal) and Isaac Nixon as among the best while the Lakers settled on Kyle Anderson, Bailey Ryan, Lewis Antonac (one goal), Liam Holmes, Alfred Jarnestrom and Paddy Corbett as the pick of their bunch.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Freeman (Bacchus Marsh) - 31 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 10 goals

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 58 hitouts, 23 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 44 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jake Lohmann (Lake Wendouree)
“Again. Another opportunity to learn and get better with a proud and united 22. We probably played our best 20 mins of footy in the 3rd quarter for the whole year. Super games again for our young guns - who have stepped up massively this year. We are not as far away as people think. It can turn really quickly. We need complete buy in and changes off field to strengthen and a couple key position players. It will turn. Watch this space for 2027. Well done to Bacchus the better team on the day and all the best to some of their legends into the future. Goodluck to everyone in finals.”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Great to finish the year off with a good win and some difficult conditions. Credit to Jake and the Lakers for the way they threw everything at us for four quarters, especially first 15mins of the 3rd. Having played 48 players and missing out on finals by percentage is a bittersweet. It all ends yet we developed our list. We now get fully behind our reserves and U18.5s”

Sunbury defeated an undermanned Ballarat at Clarke Oval by 19 points ahead of a highly anticipated finals campaign for both sides.

While the Lions looked to resemble the best version of themselves in a dress rehearsal for what’s to come, the Swans took no risks having already locked in third position on the table.

Reigning Tony Lockett Medallist Jake Sutton (Sydney VFL) missed for the hosts while Brad Crouch, Alex Keath and Fraser Perkins were notable absentees for the visitors.

In what was perceived a dead rubber you could not deny the Lions a third win in six tries against top three opposition giving every indication their best is good enough.

The Lions won 3.5 quarters in isolation sounding alarm bells for rivals Darley who they meet this week in a fourth v fifth elimination final.

Jake Egan was named best for the winners ahead of Coburg VFL listed pair Daniel Johnston (three goals) and Jordyn Gillard (two goals).

Lions’ utility Jack Newitt continued his run of good form to feature prominently alongside Zach Stevens and Myles Gollant.

For the travelling bevy, Tristan Maple made light work of his return from VFL duties to be named best ahead of Biggie Nyuon who slotted a game high six goals to secure the Tony Lockett Medal.

Whilst the Lions meet out of form bogie side Darley in week one of the finals, the Swans will have their work cut out progressing when they meet the Bloods despite their superior (3rd v 6th) win / loss season.

Cracking finals series ahead, I’m sure both sides can’t wait!!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Newitt (Sunbury) - 39 disposals, 13 marks, 11 clearances

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances   

Bailey Fraser (Ballarat) - 20 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Happy to get through with no injuries and a good win. Getting the VFL boys back in now is great and to have a win against quality oppo helps the connection going into a final’s series. We’ll test some guys who missed during the week and have a tough night at selection!”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Disappointing result today for us. Outplayed and out hunted for most of the first half and were lucky not to be further behind on the scoreboard. Matty has got his team playing a good brand of football at the moment. We’ll have a quick review of the game as a team and move on pretty quickly, as we look towards our elimination final next week and begin our preparation for another really big challenge.”

Sebastopol finished their home and away season on a high with a 15th win of the season holding out the determined Melton by 13 points.

Tony Lockyer’s men led all day and won three quarters in isolation despite the close nature of the affair. Ironically it was the second week in a row Sebastopol had been held to less than 10 goals and still won.

Midfielders Felix Henderson and Jack Bambury were named in the best for the winners while key talls Joel Edwards (two goals) and Cooper Littlehales (three goals) rated worthy mentions.

For the Bloods, Braedan Kight booted a game high five goals to finish within four of Ballarat’s Biggie Nyuon in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal. All too familiar and reliable Bloods names featured prominently behind Kight in a share of best player honours - namely Riley Walker, Jaycob Hickey, Jordy Cotter, Lachlan Walker and Brody Sullivan.

The Bloods winning chances suffered a double blow heading in with the absence of Billy Crofts and ruckman Joshua Stewart (illness) but expect them both to return for the elimination final against Ballarat on Saturday.

However, the availability of Lachlan Phillips, Adrian Monitto, Ryan Davis, Jack Walker is in doubt after all were sidelined on the bench for the last quarter. Important utility Conrad Farrugia is also in doubt having missed last week with a shoulder/collarbone complaint.

The Burra have tried to manage their players as best as possible leading into finals - it’s thought Ben Hutt (knee) and Luke Kiel (knee) will be in the mix with x-factor forward Adam Forbes for a qualifying final return against North Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 37 disposals, 12 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Riley Walker (Melton) - 30 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 8 marks

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 13 score involvements, 5 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“A great game of footy against a club we have a huge amount of respect for. We know it will always be a quality contest with Scobes and his troops and this was no different. Intensity was up at the contest. We wanted to bring a high level of pressure, and I felt we did that. Created some good chances in forward half from it. Melton play a great brand and kept challenging throughout the day. We wish them all the best for finals action, they’ll go well. Exciting month ahead for the competition.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Terrific game to finish the season off just what you want, combative and high intensity. In fairness Sebas led from start to finish we absorbed a lot but were able to counterattack for much of the game to have a shot late but just couldn’t quite nail our attack phase with composure, partly due to the defensive pressure in the game from Sebas. Terrific season for Tony and his troops wish them well in their finals campaign they will be a formidable opponent to all teams. Was not the ideal home and away season but for us to qualify for another finals campaign as a club we are proud of our group. Season done and now we enter match play. The 6 is very even and our form against the best gives us reason for optimism.”

North Ballarat sealed the minor premiership with a comfortable 36-point win over an out-of-sorts Devils outfit at Darley Park.

It was an eighth win on the trot for Clint Proctor’s progressive group who look to have more improvement up their sleeve.

Darley look a shell of their 2025 dominant selves having lost four their last five games including three of those at home, a venue they had won 17 games in a row previous.

The loss for the Devils was compounded by the untimely hamstring scare of star mid Brett Bewley and season ending injury to Jayven Tanner (fractured cheekbone),

While the Devils title defence is looking shaky at best, one cannot deny the form of the Roosters.

Sam Glover, Dom Penny and Josh Morris were solid contributors all day denying the Devils an inch while Jye Lockett made it 10 games in a row of multiple goal returns in front of the big sticks.

The performance was every bit what you would expect from the newly crowned minor premiers ahead of a very open finals series.

For the Devils, Mikey Edwards was a standout in a losing side while Duncan Cadman impressed in his role against the odds conceding both height and size.

Unfortunately, the jury is out on the Devils current form, their only win in the last five weeks coming against the Lakers on August 1.

With finals now upon us, North Ballarat meet Sebastopol in the qualifying final on Saturday while it’s do-or-die for Darley up against Sunbury in Sunday’s elimination final.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 21 disposals, 17 marks, 15 intercept possessions

Jye Lockett (North Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 29 disposals, 6 clearances, 5 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“I thought our effort was there today, but we were simply outclassed in the end. Congratulations to Proc, his boys are humming at the right time of the season. Looking forward to the challenge ahead against Sunbury and the opportunity for us to improve. Should be a belter of a final’s series.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Physical contest today. Very difficult match throughout the day - both teams challenged and had moments. It’s always a difficult game vs Darley regardless of ladder positions anytime of the year. Time to recover and re-set for our finals campaign - super proud of the club this year with all teams featuring in top 3. Exciting to be a part of September.”

Redan earned a fifth win of the season with a comfortable 28-point victory over East Point at City Oval.

Marc Greig’s young group won every quarter in the ninth v eighth battle of the rebuilds.

Lions’ big man Taj Bond ended his injury interrupted season with a game high five goals to be named best on ground ahead of Rory Bell, Nick Barker, Pat Fitzgibbon, Zach Mortlock and the ever consistent Rory Gunsser who made it a 10th appearance in 13 games.

It was a disappointing end for the Kangas who had been ‘up a while’ with a number of close losses.

Liam Canny and Jack Jeffrey were named best in a losing side while Cooper Glenwright-McGuane continues to impress finishing with a team high three goals.

A couple of top up recruits and a healthy pre-season will be on the Christmas wish list for these two sides moving forward.

Rival sides would be the first to concede both Redan and East Point are not far away from knocking on the door of finals.

With Gisborne coming into the competition next year, spots in the top six will be harder than ever to consolidate.

An exciting pre-season awaits.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Liam Canny (East Point) - 35 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 40 disposals, 13 mark, 6 tackles

Brody Pope (Redan) - 35 disposals, 10 marks, 10 clearances  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“A good reward to get the win for the lads and a good finish to a positive 12-week block of games. We felt in control for most of the game and unfortunately couldn’t kick straight to increase the margin earlier. Some very positive signs/efforts from so many of our teenagers was the most pleasing aspect.”

Tommy Molan (East Point)
“A disappointing loss to end our season today. We looked like a team that had played on heavy grounds for too many weeks and didn’t have any run left in the legs. Credit to Redan they had plenty of run and connected the ground well. We struggled to get the game on our terms at any stage but still felt in it at 3 quarter time. Taj Bond was the difference all day. We are pleased that we got games into many of our younger boys towards the end of the year and feel confident that we can push again in 2027.”

Scoop Reviews Round 2

While Round 2 action endured a mixed bag of results, one constant was a clean sweep of wins for the away teams.

As many as eight teams have already enjoyed victory in song but just two remain unbeaten.

North Ballarat squared their win/loss ledger with a deserving 24-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

In perfect conditions, under bright blue skies there were no excuses for either team.

North Ballarat led all day, rewarded for their ability to outnumber the Cobras around the contest, and execute the basic fundamentals under pressure with greater efficiency.

If only for some errant finishing on goal, the Roosters’ plus nine scoring shots (not including out of bounds on the full) indicates the margin could have been greater.

The Roosters upstaged the unbeaten Cobras with a lesson in ball movement and mid-forward connection enabling key targets Denver Grainger-Barras (four goals) and Jamie Quick (three goals) to capitalise on the open spaces afforded to them.

It’s rare in the modern game you witness more lead up marks inside 50 (directly in front of goal) than opposition intercepts.

On spec alone, the Cobras struggled for that effective rebounder which was a credit to the Roosters’ speed of ball movement, decision making and delivery.

Utility Sam Griffiths was arguably the exception with his long, bail-out kicking from defence that kept the Cobras out of trouble.

The hosts fought hard all day, none more so than fearless leader Jack Parente but couldn’t get the game on their own terms for long enough to reel in the deficit that fluctuated between the 10- and 24-point range for the most part.

In a nutshell, North Ballarat had the response for anything the Cobras could muster.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor was proud of the team-oriented nature of the win and rightly so, with arguably seven of the best ten players on the ground.

Cobras’ coach Dennis Armfield didn’t miss the mark either conceding “not our day today at home in front of our crowd.”

STATS THAT MATTERED

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 8 marks, 7 intercept possessions

Josh Morris (North Ballarat) - 21 disposals, 7 inside 50s, 7 intercept possessions

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 5 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
We were ever so slightly off today and credit to Proc and North, they came with a plan and were able to control the game which started with pressure. Our skills were off and they made us pay on turnovers. We were still in the game till late, yet their players stood up in moments that mattered. Great learnings and we look forward to traveling across the bridge.

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
Always nice to get that win ticked off and to find some momentum now moving into East Point. Bacchus are so dangerous with their midfield - ruckman and key forwards - it’s been a huge issue for us in the past. The lads executed really well which enabled us to have the match on our terms and play our brand of football.

Tony Lockyer’s visiting party made the perfect 2-0 start to the new season with an important 15-point win on the road over Ballarat.

Just how important we won’t know until the business end but surely it will play its own role when the whips are cracking.

No more than seven points separated the two sides at any of the first three breaks, confirming the evenly matched pairing, referred to in the lead up.

Finding a way around the Swans’ 200cm trio was always going to provide challenges for Lockyer and his support staff.

Restricting Ash Baker’s side to 11 goals was a pleasing return for the Burra who managed 32 scoring shots of their own.

While conversion was a clear issue (12.20), just claiming the premiership points usurped any of ‘the small stuff’ for Burra fans in the immediate aftermath.

Sebastopol still have currency on the sidelines with Lachie Cassidy, Bailey Medwell and Luke Kiel expected to return over the coming weeks.

X-factor forward Adam Forbes booted five goals (comp rank #1) for the winners, joining teammate Toby Hutt in ‘best on ground” discussions.

The Swans were never far away despite the absence of VFL listed pair Tristan Maple (Footscray) and Thomas Simpson (Werribee).

Enviable ruck combo Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon (two goals) threatened for the most part but credit to the Burra getting a spread of contributors deep enough to get the job done.

Jack Bambury, Gedd Hommelhoff and Ash Munari earned the praise of the Burra hierarchy, while for the Swans consistent quartet Fraser Perkins, Lewis and Zak Rinaldi and Wyatt Squires gave their all at the source and two way running.

Paddy Simpson was the Swans leading goal scorer for the match finishing with three majors.

Both sides are at home for their respective Anzac Day / Night fixtures.

The Swans take on the struggling Lakers (3.15pm) eager for a response while the Burra face Redan (6.15pm) under the lights at Marty Busch Reserve.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 24 disposals, 20 hitouts, 19 contested disposals

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 11 tackles, 10 score involvements

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
Well done to Tony and his boys at Sebas - they outplayed us today from the beginning. Their ball movement was impressive and if it wasn’t for some inaccurate kicking on Sebas’ behalf, they could’ve been further in front at quarter time. Plenty to work on from our end as we look to bounce back next weekend.

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
Pleased to come away with 4 points against a high-quality team. Great day for footy with the ball moving end to end in the first half. We put in a strong 4-quarter effort in terms of our input. With some more accurate kicking at goal, we could have controlled the game further. Credit to Ballarat who took their chances and kept coming at us late. Our boys showed maturity and held strong, very proud of them. We look forward to yet another quality opponent in Redan next week.

Melton completely dominated Lake Wendouree enroute to a monster 142-point win at CE Brown Reserve.

The hosts were held goalless in the second half, outscored 10.14 to 0.2.

Twenty-four scoring shots to two was damming for Rohan Brown’s predicted improvers, 49 shots to 9 overall was the difference by the final siren.

And that wasn’t the only indicator validating the Bloods’ dominance.

Marks inside 50 were always going to highlight further disparity but the 44-1 stat recorded by Premier Data is bordering on the ridiculous, simply insane.

The Bloods, without spearhead Ryan Carter, had 12 goal kickers, a spread of contributors that would’ve pleased coach Troy Scoble.

Kyle Borg and Liam Carter matched the Lakers’ return of three goals for the match to equal game high returns.

Jordy Cotter (best) and Harry Hanley maintained their early season form to feature prominently alongside a positive return from sharpshooter Braedan Kight (two goals), and Brodie Sullivan (two goals).

Despite conceding 24 goals for a second week in a row the Lakers did show some individual effort and resistance through Alfred Jarnestrom, Will Fordham, Bailey Ryan and Tom Zampatti.

Kynan Raven and Will Clark maintained their good form from the Lakers’ Round 1 loss to Redan.

Another difficult challenge, this time away from home, presents for the Lakers on Anzac Day v Ballarat (3.15pm start) while the Bloods are on the road again to face Sunbury (5.15pm start) at Clarke Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) -  35 disposals, 17 intercept possessions, 10 score involvements

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 46 hitouts, 14 disposals, 10 tackles

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 28 disposals, 11 score involvements, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
Melton were red hot early and played some pretty slick footy. We played some good footy when we faced the game. Onto a big Anzac Day clash vs Ballarat, it's a hard slog at the moment and our turn will come. Very proud of our club as an entirety to keep showing up.

Troy Scoble (Melton)
Group had a strong focus all week and executed as planned in the first half to establish a strong position. Got to compete strongly at the source against Lakers their contest game always challenges. Credit to Lakers, they played to the final siren and were great hosts all day and post-game. Thanks to Browny, his group and the club. Onto Sunbury next week.

A dominant first half from Sunbury proved the catalyst in the visitor’s 34-point win over an honest Redan at City Oval.

An 11-goal-to-three scoreline at the main break gave Matty White’s men some welcomed separation and breathing space on the back of a gruelling Round 1 hit out with Darley.

Key forward pairing Daniel Johnston and Patrick Scanlon booted four goals for the winners, proving a headache for the hosts to contain while defender Jordan Tentonelllo, star midfielder Jake Egan and winger Riley Miller (best) were prominent in Sunbury’s first win of the season.

Unfortunately for Sunbury, progressive midfielder Zachary Stevens suffered a broken arm joining key pillars Josh Guthrie, Jack Newitt, Mitch McLean and Jake Sutton on the sidelines.

North Melbourne VFL listed half back Hamish Pierce continues to benefit with more time spent around teammates, taking all in his stride.

Redan showed plenty of grit in the second half outscoring their more fancied opponents 51-37 but the bird had flown.

The response from the group would’ve pleased new coach Marc Greig given the first half lessons.

Future Redan stars and BFNL representatives Rory Gunsser and Taj Bond were solid at ground level and in the air, earning the nod from Greig, featuring alongside Sam Kalllio (two goals), Oliver Pittard (one goal), Lachlan McLean and experienced defender Nick Barker among the club’s best players.

The mix of youth and experience at Redan is working favourably at the moment with a big win in Round 1 and a competitive showing against last year’s grand finalist.

Redan are off to Marty Busch Reserve on Saturday night for an Anzac Night (6.15pm) showdown with unbeaten Sebastopol.

Sunbury host Melton, again with a later start to the regular schedule (5.15pm).

Should be a cracking twilight of action across the BFNL on a jam-packed Anzac Day fixture.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Brody Pope (Redan) - 30 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 37 disposals, 8 rebound 50s, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
Great weather for footy. A disappointing period for us in the second quarter allowed 5/6 unanswered goals to Sunbury. They were slick. To our boy’s credit, we stuck to our method and outscored the oppo in the second half. We had 9 lads under 19 out there today and they continued to bring energy and excitement. Sunbury were far more experienced and mature and their organisation on field was a great learning opportunity for where we want to get to.

Matty White (Sunbury)
I called it a gritty win in the end. Played well in the first half in amazing Ballarat conditions. A few injuries early meant the second half was a bit tired with no rotations in the end. A lot to like about what Redan brought. Their youth have some real go about them. Time to recover, regroup and get ready for Melton.

Dan Jordan’s Devils overcame a major scare and fourth quarter deficit to keep their unbeaten run intact with a 28-point win over the young Kangas at Eastern Oval.

Trailing by five points late, the reigning premiers, led by Brett Bewley and Billy Myers, clicked into top gear with five unanswered goals, earning vital scoreboard separation in an otherwise hard-fought afternoon.

The nature of the affair told us more about East Point and where they’re at in the infancy of a rebuild.

Expect Joe Carmody’s group boasting seven players with 10 or less senior games experience to bounce quicker than first thought, from their “reset”.

The organic talent at East Point is relatively untapped given the experienced nature of the group over recent years.

Jarrod Joyce (five goals) is a special player bound for a crack at the higher level according to the Devils’ hierarchy.

New Kangas’ ruckman Thomas Brown highlighted the Devils struggles without a bonafide matchup - an area of interest for Jordan to manage moving forward given quality rival stocks.

While external opinion suggested a big win on the cards for the Devils, the response from the Kangas came as no surprise to Jordan.

The fact the Devils have had to come from behind in both games into the new season is healthy.

“Every team will come with an extra 5% when they play us,” Jordan said.

“It’s the nature of the beast that follows any team winning a premiership.”

Nine Devils hit the scoreboard, a pleasing return for the winners.

Nick Hind, Joel Cadman and fifth gamer Rhys Younger finished with a team high three goals to feature among the best behind Brett Bewley and Myers.

Duncan Cadman made it two from two appearances (in the best) with another versatile display.

The Kangas, without Jacob Brown, were brave, and close to ending the Devils’ 21-0 run since last year’s season opener.

Experienced campaigners Jackson Merrett and Mickijta Rotumah-Onus led the challenge alongside Liam Canny and Liam Howard who play with maturity beyond their years.

When you add Jarrod Joyce’s standout performance into the mix, you can guarantee the Kangas won’t go down without a fight especially at Eastern Oval.

The confidence drawn from the hit out against the competition benchmark should hold the Kangas in good stead.

Sure, they won just one quarter for the match, their first of the season (1/12), but they were in this game up to their eyeballs.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Billy Myers (Darley) - 33 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 13 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 36 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jarrod Joyce (East Point) - 17 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
Darley’s quality got over us in the end. Came up against a well drilled and well coached team but our effort was outstanding. A small step forward towards where we need to get to. Played in patches the first two weeks but a more consistent effort today.

Dan Jordan (Darley)
Hard fought win from the boys, East Point certainly came to play, and it took some of our best late to find the line. Brett (Bewley) and Billy (Myers) were huge for us. East were well drilled and converted their opportunities better than we did, they play their ground so well. Again, plenty to take away from a win we were made to earn from the outset.

In a weekend of statement wins and big blow outs the league's top contenders seperated themselves from the chasing pack in brutal fashion.

The Devils piled on 16 of the last 17 goals of the game in a relentless hour of footy to win big in the annual Anzac Day derby at Darley Park.

Star Devils’ duo Billy Myers (eight goals) and Brett Bewley (48 disposals) were unstoppable earning the plaudits of both Devils and Cobra fans in the aftermath.

The Devils looked to be cruising in time-on of the second term before three unanswered goals from the Cobras narrowed the margin to 17 points at half time.

When the margin was reduced to as low as 10 at the nine-minute mark of the third term, it sparked an emphatic response from Dan Jordan’s men with local bragging rights and a 22-game winning streak in the BFNL under threat.

What transpired thereafter was a sight to behold.

The run, carry and distribution on display from the reigning premiers gave the bumper crowd a firsthand glimpse of what the Devils resemble at their best.

The competition benchmark simply ran riot taking advantage of an ailing Cobras outfit who struggled for 18 fit players at games end.

Despite a landslide of hit outs (85-19) favouring Cobras’ big man Luke Goetz, it was the Devils who had the last laugh posting scores of 10.2 to 3.1 out of stoppage.

The Devils went deep with their number of contributors behind Myers and Bewley.

Unfortunately, the Cobras lost spiritual leader Jack Parente and progressive winger Ashton Craig to injury - both of whom were enjoying impactful games prior to their premature exits.

But in fairness they would’ve struggled to even part stem the avalanche of what was to follow.

It was a timely reminder for the Devils after a month of peak and troughs their best is scary good.

The Cobras will take valuable learnings from the hit out according to coach Dennis Armfield and work on those over their coming bye weekend.

Darley are on the road to Melton, a team who has beaten them in four of their last five meetings. Game on!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 48 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 21 disposals, 9 marks, 8 goals

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh) - 21 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“We took another step forward today and showed what we’re capable of for longer periods. Always a pleasure to be a part of these local derbies and a privilege to recognise the Anzac tradition. The Marsh came at us late in the 2nd quarter and early in the third but credit to our boy’s ability to respond. We played some good footy late, and we’re hopeful that translates to more of the same next week.”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Came up against the best and it showed. Down to 18 players late in the third, and if you’re going to compete with the top, you need 22 contributors. I’ll never question of effort or character and proud of the way we fought it out. Great day, well hosted and great showing of the local crowd on ANZAC day. We move onto a bye and a reset.”

MEDAL WINNERS
Light Medal: Billy Myers (Darley)
Wheelahan Medal: Angus Morgan (Bacchus Marsh)

After overcoming a first half scare, the Swans steadied to down the Lakers comfortably by 57 points.

Strangely, it was the closest of all five BFNL games played at the weekend.

Credit to the Lakers asking questions of the Swans in the opening half to surprise the entire competition with a seven-point lead.

The 4.10 to 4.3 score line indicates the Lakers advantage could well have been greater but nothing in this game comes on a platter.

Swans’ coach Ash Baker would’ve welcomed the main break with a chance to reset and reinforce a process that had been compromised, amounting to a seven-point deficit.

After the break it was all the Swans as the pre-game warm favourites piled on 11 goals to one.

Key Swans tall Biggie Nyuon proved the catalyst with his standout seven goals to be named best ahead of experienced new arrivals Brad Crouch and Alex Keith.

For the Lakers, highly rated recruits Will Fordham and Corey Rich featured prominently to set up the surprise half time lead. But again, Rohan Brown’s group were found wanting late, managing just one goal in the run home.

The Swans are away to Redan this week, the Lakers host unbeaten Sebastopol.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Biggie Nyuon (Ballarat) -23 disposals, 16 marks, 7 goals

Brad Crouch (Ballarat) - 35 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wenoduree) - 36 hitouts, 16 disposals, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Super proud of the boys today. It was a tale of two halves. Lakers brought plenty of pressure early and were clearly fully focussed on the contest, dominating contested ball and clearances. We were able to compose ourselves at half time, make some adjustments and get back to the way we want to play our footy. All eyes forward now on another tough contest next Saturday against Redan.”

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“We had the game on our terms in the 1st half and a chunk of the 3rd. Our pressure, hunt and control of the game was fantastic. If we applied more scoreboard pressure than who knows game would look different if your 7-8 goals in front of the game instead of 2, but we didn't & 30 minutes of footy got us beaten in the end. Asked plenty of questions and got plenty of answers. It's an absolute privilege to be able to play on such a special day, well done to the Ballarat FNC who did the day very well.”

The Roosters maintained the pattern of Round 3 blow-outs, cruising to a 98-point win over East Point at Mars Stadium.

The writing was on the wall early despite just 16 points separating the two sides at quarter time.

The Roosters’ defence led by Josh Morris (best) and Sam Glover were impenetrable, taking intercept marks at will - the clear beneficiaries of the Kangas’ poor entries.

Clearly the Roosters had put some work into containing young gun Jarrod Joyce after his five-goal haul against the Devils in Round 2.

The Roosters’ defence were well organised, denying Joyce any space to impact aerially and with that, the Kangas’ ability to score.

When the game was on the line after the first break it was all North Ballarat.

The Roosters piled on 11 unanswered goals through the middle period, building an insurmountable 84-point lead at the final change.

Forward pairing Denver Grainger-Barras and Jai Lockett shared the honours booting five goals each for the winners.

There were a host of significant contributors across the ground for the Roosters that could’ve made their list of ‘best players’ while it was slim pickings for Joe Carmody’s camp.

Joe Dodd, Jackson Merrett and teenage debutant Albie Cheesman led the resistance but holistically, it was to no avail.

North Ballarat coach Clint Proctor would be thrilled with the compliance of his group, in clearly their most complete performance in the opening month.

The Roosters host a wounded Sunbury outfit in Round 4 while the Kangas will savour the rest after a challenging 0-4 start to their season.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Another physical contest at Mars - I thought we played our way and certainly didn’t allow East any easy time on the ball. It’s always nice to kick away and finish the way we did - happy for the lads to enjoy a win like that. We have been on the other end before.”

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“We were easy to play against today with a lack of pressure on the opposition and lack of composure with the ball. There was a huge difference between the work rate of the two sides. We understand there will be fluctuations with performance with so many youngsters but there was a stark difference between last week and this week. We have to bridge that gap. We debuted another two players today so we just have to keep getting games and training into this group and develop a squad that will be able to challenge in the future.”

Tony Lockett’s Sebastopol continued their winning ways with a dominant 104-point win over undermanned Redan.

The Burra have validated the theory ‘you can only beat what’s in front of you’ with their 3-0 record and the Lakers to come in Round 4.

Confidence levels at the Burra will be through the roof ahead of a looming ‘big boy’ month, not to mention the returns of key midfield pair Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell.

The Burras’ three newbies from the GFL have warmed to their new club and starting to turn a few heads more broadly across the competition.

Felix Henderson and Jack Buckley are starting to rack up ‘top end’ numbers while Joel Edwards enjoyed the arrival of his first bag of five goals in Sebastopol colours.

The Burra won all four quarters, refusing to take their foot off the pedal.

Separation for the Burra at the breaks increased from 21, 58, 78 before ending at 104 in front at the final siren.

Given the even fight for as many as seven teams in a battle for a top six berth, percentage will play a role at some stage.

Teams are just struggling to avert momentum in the opening month on good decks, aided by the new rules that keep the ball rolling!

While the margin was compelling the Lions did have a handful of triers, namely Lachlan Kroussaratis, Taj Bond, Rory Bell, Flynn Batrouney, Oliver Pittard and Liam Hoy.

Redan host Ballarat in Round 4 while the Burra head to CE Brown to take on the winless Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 34 hitouts, 28 disposals, 11 clearances

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 42 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s

Taj Bond (Redan) - 24 hitouts, 15 disposals, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Happy for the boys to get a convincing result in night conditions. Contest was good early, Redan challenged us. Our boys executed our method and managed to put some great scoreboard pressure on. To Redan’s credit they kept coming and never gave up. A lot to like about their young list who will continue to get better as the year goes on. They’ll be a danger team in the back half of the year. Pleased with our start - focus goes onto Lakers now!”

Marc Greig (Redan)
Positive start to the game, but a disappointing period in the second quarter again allowed the oppo to put a run of goals on the board. Once they had the upper hand Sebas played a very aggressive attacking brand of footy and it paid off for them.”

The Bloods went to town on a wounded Lions’ pride smashing last year’s grand finalists by 83 points in the twilight hours, under lights at Clarke Oval.

Troy Scoble’s ‘Blooderhood’ arrived on a mission missing six of its 2024 premiership side including Ryan Carter, Lachie Watkins, Jordy Kight and Max Scoble, Jack Walker and Ryan Davis.

That seemed only to stir up the Bloods with their backs ‘supposedly’ against the wall.

I use the term loosely given the Lions were missing Jake Sutton, Mitch McLean, Jordan Tentonello, Zachary Stevens, Keenan O’Shea, and Cody Bramble.

The Lions’ chances were dealt another blow in-game losing Josh Guthrie to hamstring.

We savour the winning moments of this great game given Its brutal capabilities when under the pump.

So as the Bloods prepared for unlikely mission according to many, the Lions were dealing with the same, if not more issues come the opening bounce.

And didn’t that play out accordingly.

The Lions were never in it, shut out of the game by a very focussed Bloods outfit who had earmarked the importance of their Round 3 and Round 4 (v Darley) assignments in the lead up.

The Bloods won every quarter and were relentless in their margin build.

Leads of 17, 29 and 46 at the breaks culminated in an 83-point separation at night’s end - a memorable occasion celebrated in heartfelt song by the Bloods.

For the Lions, the end could not have come sooner despite the efforts of Myles Gollant, Jack Newitt and Ben Cameron.

Reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan was also in the mix on an otherwise forgettable night for Matty White’s pride.

For the winners, Braedan Kight announced his arrival in 2026 with a seven goal return to finish among the better players behind Caleb Burquest, Jordy Cotter, Adrian Monitto and Brody Sullivan.

With the Bloods absentees unlikely to feature again this week against the Devils, there’s no doubting the timely confidence boost ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster at MacPherson Park.

Footy life for the wounded Lions looks like hard work for at least another week with a trip to Mars Stadium scheduled. Sunbury are currently 1-2 on the win loss front, 8th on the BFNL ladder.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 29 disposals, 13 marks, 7 intercept marks

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 35 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s 

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 11 marks, 10 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
“A very disappointing night on a special occasion. We were beating in all aspects of the game by an up and about Melton. Kick 4 goals in the first 5 mins and we couldn’t wrestle any momentum our way. Melton super impressive.” 

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Need to acknowledge the performance of the playing group, whole group in their planning and prep and execution in all phases. Quality sides test you in so many ways through a game we were able to adapt and adjust through the night and keep playing to our plan. Been on the wrong side of those games at Clarke Oval for many years so was pleasing for our group to get reward. Some of the young kids playing had never won at the ground through their juniors. On to the biggest test in the BFNL right now!”

Scoop Reviews Round 4

The Round 4 results have caused an all mighty logjam on the BFNL ladder, with the unofficial power rankings within the comp starting to take shape.

The Roosters made it three wins in a row with a comprehensive display over an out of sorts Sunbury at Mars Stadium.

X-factor forward Jamie Quick (six goals) and spearhead Denver Grainger-Barrass (three goals) combined for half of the Roosters majors ahead of another eight contributors to hit the scoreboard.

Isaac Carey and Dominic Penny were named best for the winners ahead of Quick, while Jarrod Curran and spread runners Taj Bowman and Sam Artz continued with their solid start to the season.

While the Roosters begin to resemble more on the promise tipped in the pre-season, it’s a been a horror fortnight for Matty White’s 2025 Grand Finalists.

An 83-point home loss to Melton has been trumped by an 86-point defeat at the hands of the Roosters. The Lions are reeling in 8th place with just one win and poor percentage currently 64.78%.

The absence of Jake Sutton has had a huge impact on the Lions’ 2026 campaign, considering the pride managed just 10 shots on goal at the weekend and 12 in Round 3’s loss to Melton.

Sure, clubs don’t like to blame injuries for loss but there comes a tipping point.

Missing Lions included Sutton, Josh Guthrie, Nathan Wood, Mitch McLean, Nathan Doyle, Zachary Stevens, Brock Landt, Fraser Ampulski, Ben Cameron and Keenan O’Shea.

That’s ten players off the cuff, not to mention eight changes from their Round 1 line up that were narrowly beaten by Darley.

Credit to Matty White in the aftermath making zero reference to the depleted nature of his team.

Riley Miller and Tyson Lever were named best for the Lions, while a safe and impactful return from Cody Bramble (ACL) may well have been the most rewarding part of the day for the embattled pride.

Cracking matchups await these two sides in Round 5.

North Ballarat host Melton while Sunbury are at home taking on undefeated Sebastopol.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) – 34 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 12 inside 50s

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) – 24 disposals, 12 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) – 29 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Sunbury have caused us a lot of headaches in the past! So, it’s nice to get the win this time around. Matty is doing a good job with the amount of injuries they have - never easy for any coach. The lads played our tough and attacking brand today and should be proud of their efforts. We are super excited now to test ourselves against Melton who are one of the form sides of the comp.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Tough day at the office. We were unable to capitalise when we had the wind in the first and couldn’t stop an up and about North. Who to their credit played a great brand of footy. Reload for Sebas and hopefully get a few troops back.”

Sebastopol remain the only undefeated team in the BFNL with a thumping 150-point win over the struggling Lake Wendouree.

Tony Lockyer’s men were relentless on the road piling on the goals with consistent returns across all four quarters of 7,6,6 and 8.

New season recruit Joel Edwards booted 12 goals for the Burra in a dominant display while Adam Forbes maintained his early season form finishing with three.

The monster win sees the Burra flying high on top of the BFNL ladder, a game and percentage clear of four teams including Melton, North Ballarat, Ballarat and Darley.

Experienced Burra trio Tony Lockyer, Luke Kiel and Gedd Hommelhoff were prominent once again finishing among the best behind Edwards and in form ruckman Toby Hutt.

Lockyer will be aware the realities of the draw suggest their toughest run of games are still to come with matchups against Sunbury (A), Darley (H), North Ballarat (H) and Melton (A) over the next four weeks.

The Burra welcomed back Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell (two goals) for a timely hit out ahead of their month-long footy audit.

The Lakers will be scratching their heads finding a way to be more competitive for longer after a third loss in four games north of 15 goals.

Despite an unenviable run of outs, you couldn’t question the handful of Lakers who led the resistance for coach and proud mentor Rohan Brown.

Harley Hicks, Tyson Walsh, Tom Zampatti, Will Clark, Kyle Anderson and Timmy Collins flew the flag for the Lakers on an otherwise disappointing afternoon.

The Lakers mission for that elusive win doesn’t get any easier this week when they’re on the road to face the Devils coming off an upset loss (for many) to the Bloods.

Sebastopol's score (27.18.180), their winning margin of 150 points and Joel Edwards' bag of 12 goals are new Sebastopol records for games against Lake Wendouree, beating their previous bests of 18.24.132 (2006), 81-point winning margin (2019) and 7-goal haul by Michael Powell (2019).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joel Edwards (Sebastopol) – 21 disposals, 17 score involvements, 14 marks

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) – 27 hit outs, 20 disposals, 13 score involvements

Will Fordham (Lake Wendouree) – 25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Outclassed & outplayed, credit to Tony he has his side up and going and very well balanced. A serious threat in the competition. We are all disappointed at Lakers, but we will as always stick together, try and get better.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Solid win in trying conditions. Felt we played the challenging Wendouree wind well and executed the way wanted. Was pleased to hit the scoreboard across all 4 quarters. All the best to Ro and the Lakers over the remainder of the year. Their reward for effort over the off season will come I am sure with some quality senior players to come back into their lineup.”

The Bloods maintained its impressive record against the Devils under Troy Scoble with a deserving 24-point win at MacPherson Park.

It was Scoble’s fifth win in six outings against Dan Jordan’s boys and arguably their most satisfying given the Devils were on a 23-0 run.

Brody Sullivan’s four goals were a standout in the windy conditions making a case for best on ground honours alongside excellent two-way runner and accumulator Jaycob Hickey.

The Bloods had a host of contributors and adjusted far better to the conditions.

The Devils first quarter with the breeze was wasteful and under par and could only match the Bloods’ returns of 2.5.

With scores level, Melton used the conditions with the breeze much better in the second term adding six unanswered goals to lead at halftime by 34 points in Braedan Kight’s 200th game.

The x-factor star looked dangerous every time the Bloods went inside 50 but ended the day with 1.4. Progressive young Devil Mitch Gardiner acquitted himself well in the match up both aerially and at ground level with his takeaway run and carry.

Gardiner ended up among the best in a losing side behind Jayven Tanner and Brett Bewley.

The second half of the match was a grind as the Devils enjoyed periods of control but could not get bang for buck on the scoreboard. Four ‘posters’ didn’t help the cause.

Full credit to the Bloods who were right at home in the conditions and made the Devils pay for any recurring skill errors.

Jordy Cotter and Jack Walker made it look easier than what it was with ball in hand, providing many forays forward for the hosts that led to scores.

Young Blood Austin Thorny-Croft had arguably his best game at the level while the aerial and running power of Liam Carter was a constant feature.

All honours with the Bloods, they were super, despite missing key soldiers Lachie Watkins, Ryan Carter, Jordy Kight, Josh Stewart and Max Scoble and looked the winners from a fair way out.

While the last fortnight of results elevated the Bloods to second on the BFNL ladder it’s not the end of the world for Jordan’s Devils who slip to fifth.

In fact, it may be a timely reminder of their mortality, as more challenging assignments on the road against Sebastopol (Round 6) and North Ballarat (Round 8) loom large.

Consider the race for the BFNL title officially wide open.

It’s game on!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) – 52 disposals, 26 contested possessions 13 score involvements

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) – 38 disposals, 14 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Jack Walker (Melton) – 26 disposals, 9 clearances, 9 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Challenging game as expected, Darley challenge you in so many different ways, pleased with the resilience and mindset of the group through the whole game with what presented. Shout out to Dan and Darley as a club after fierce battle respect shown to our skipper was greatly appreciated post-game.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Credit to Melton they outworked us and took more of their opportunities on goal. Congratulations to Braedan Kight on his 200 games, great effort from a quality, upstanding man of the competition. We tried hard, tried to find a number of ways to get the result but it just wasn’t our day.”

The Swans booted nine goals to two in the second half to earn an all-important third win of the season.

Ash Baker’s Swans are keeping pace amidst a logjam of four teams on three wins behind undefeated Sebastopol.

Again, the start was slow for the Swans, credit to Redan for opening up a handy 14-point lead that was enough to have them within just two points at the main break - game on.

However, not dissimilar to the Swans’ Round 3 exploits, they flexed their muscles and asserted their field dominance to win going away.

The 50-point margin was validated with double the amount of scoring shots 30-15.

Swans’ tall timber Biggie Nyuon (four goals) and Patrick Graham (one goal) challenged the Lions for the most part to land in the best players for the winners ahead of Tyson Richard (three goals), Bailey Fraser and Rhys Perry in his first game for the club since his off-season return.

It was slim pickings for the Lions after halftime but credit to coach Marc Greig and his staff keeping pace with these sides despite dealing with a number of key outs of their own.

Oliver Pittard was named best for Redan ahead of Lachlan McLean, Bailey McKay, Harry Lawson and Daniel Bond.

The Lions are away next week to Bacchus Marsh (live stream with full commentary from 2pm) while the Swans can make it four wins from five when they host East Point.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) – 30 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 12 inside 50s

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) – 51 hitouts, 15 score involvements, 9 1%ers

Oliver Pittard (Redan) – 32 disposals, 12 marks, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“Well done to Bakes and his team. Some good ball movement from both teams during the day despite the conditions. We just needed to kick the first goal at the start of the last to get the boys up and about to give ourselves a chance, but Ballarat controlled the ball well and finished the last quarter strongly. Extremely proud of the young lads for their effort, and again a great learning opportunity for their all-round game.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Redan brought plenty of pressure at the contest all day and were fierce in their attack at the ball. We had a tough ask to work our way back into the contest; however we were able to do so throughout the second quarter and eventually get the game more on our terms during the second half of third quarter and into the fourth.”

Scoop Reviews Round 5

Convincing wins on the weekend told the bigger picture of the BFNL football landscape as the top and bottom ends of the competition become clearer.

The Roosters overcame an early scare to put away a brave undermanned Bloods outfit at Mars Stadium.

The 77-point margin was compelling for Clint Proctor’s men, who are arguably the most inform team of the competition.

While the Bloods would be disappointed with the result, the mounting personnel on the sidelines has reached its tipping point.

But nobody told that to the Bloods early as they raced away to lead by 24 points at the first change, continuing their underdog approach into a third week after two-character building wins over last year’s grand finalists.

After quarter time it was virtually one way traffic as the Roosters piled on an inaccurate albeit convincing 15.23 to 1.6, 38 scoring shots to seven consolidated their claim as one of the heavyweights in the competition.

Progressive half forward Declyn McGuigan finished with a game high four goals ahead of nine other Roosters to hit the scoreboard.

Denver Grainger-Barras booted two in his last game ahead of an overseas trip. Good news for Roosters fans, he will be back for finals.

Jye Lockett impressed with three goals and will shoulder the ‘key forward’ role moving forward. Don’t be surprised if swingman Sam Glover finds his way forward in the absence of DGB.

Reggie Palmer was named best for the winners ahead of a number of possibles that could easily have ended the afternoon with their name in ink alongside the speedster.

The Roosters hierarchy settled on big-bodied quartet Josh Morris, Jarrod Curran, Jye Lockett and impressive newcomer and ruck option Seb Collins from Sandhurst. While it’s expected that big man Dave Brinker-Ritchie will debut as early as this week, their ruck stocks are sound with Collins having shown enough to be included as their bona fide number two.

For the Bloods, it was a struggle after quarter time despite the efforts of Harry Hanley, Chase Scoble, Jaykob Hickey and familiar back three Lachlan Phillips, Jordy Cotter and Adrian Monitto.

Bloods’ 201 gamer Braedan Kight gave the Bloods something to smile about early with his three goals.

While the Bloods embrace for more injury concerns in Brody Sullivan (soft tissue), Austin Thorneycroft (cork) and Alex Robinson (ankle) surely a handful of the missing are nearing a long-awaited return.

Ryan Davis, Lachie Watkins, Lachlan and Riley Walker, Ryan Carter, Oscar Greenshields and Josh Stewart did not play.

North Ballarat coach Clint Proctor will be rapt with the win ahead of their trip to City Oval against Redan and following week off.

Expect the Roosters to remain on top of the BFNL table into the break before two blockbusters against Sebastopol (A) and Darley at home.

Proctor will be all over the situation taking week by week in his stride.

Fingers crossed a suspected leg injury to fearless mid Brock Leonard id not as bad as first thought.

For Troy Scoble’s Bloods, another race against the fitness clock is on the cards ahead of an important home meeting Ballarat (4-1).

Despite the Bloods positive 3-2 win/loss ledger, the May 23^rd bye can’t come quick enough.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 40 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 10 marks

Seb Collins (North Ballarat) - 56 hit outs, 15 score involvements, 12 tackles

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 23 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Melton came to play early and showed why they are such an impressive team - taking territory and field position. Very pleased with the maturity of the group to deal with such a difficult first quarter and work their way back into the game and eventually take back the control of the contest.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Planned well and executed in first quarter. North showed great maturity to get the game back on their terms and we just could not wrestle back momentum or capitalize on any opportunities. Fought the game out well but outplayed.”

The Swans made it three wins in a row by 50+ points, downing East Point at Alfredton Oval.

Despite missing key tall Biggie Nyuon (general soreness) the Swans delivered their first, four quarter win of the season.

Credit to the winless Kangas, staying within touch at the breaks, trailing by seven, nine and 13 points before the dam wall broke and the Swans kicked seven goals to one in the final term.

The Kangas’ slim chances were dealt a crucial blow losing Jacob Brown (four goals) in the third term with a recurring hamstring issue.

Inside mid Mickijta Rotumah-Onus (groin), forward Jarrod Joyce (knee) and utility Geordie Slater (knee) did not play, raising the degrees of difficulty heading in for Joe Carmody’s camp.

But that didn’t stop the Kangas from digging and making it a contest for three quarters.

Experienced trio Jackson Merrett, Joe Dodd and Liam Canny flew the flag for the rebuilding Kangas and proved a solid workout for the Swans ahead of their road trip to Melton.

Ballarat’s recent hattrick of wins have come against the bottom three sides who have just one win between them after five rounds.

That won’t bother Swans coach Ash Baker at all but the realities of what lies ahead cannot be ignored.

Riley Constable and Fraser Perkins were named best for the winners ahead of Tristan Maple, Patrick Graham (three goals), Brad Crouch and Zak Rinaldi.

The next five games are huge for the Swans, Melton (A), Bacchus Marsh (H), Sunbury (H), Darley (A) and North Ballarat (A).

It’s then we will know just where the Swans sit in the pecking order and the potential reach of their ceiling at the halfway mark.

Should be an enthralling period for the Swans, while the Kangas continue to build getting games into their next gen talent.

Unfortunately for Carmody’s group they will be without x-factor forward Jarrod Joyce (eight weeks) and Geordie Slater (five weeks).

The severity of Brown’s hamstring is “not a bad one” according to Carmody while a return for Mickitja Rotumah-Onus after just one week on the sidelines is unlikely.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 40 disposals, 9 marks, 8 tackles

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) - 58 hitouts, 17 disposals, 9 intercept possessions

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 39 disposals, 8 marks, 7 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Well done to Joey and his boys at East. They have plenty of young talent on display that given time, will develop well. Their youth came with plenty of pressure and enthusiasm today and we couldn’t manage to make the most of our opportunities early. Our boys however, stuck to their guns, trusted our processes and were eventually able to grind out a good solid victory.”

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Well done to Bakes and Ballarat. Too polished for us today. Good effort by our players to still be in the game until late in the 3rd quarter. Unfortunately, another four injuries to add to an already large list. A positive is that it will provide opportunities for more youngsters to be exposed to Senior footy.

The Devils returned home booting 26 unanswered goals from the 11-minute mark of the first quarter to the sixth minute of the last, trouncing the Lakers by 165 points.

Experienced recruit Lachie George cashed in to finish with a game high nine goals for the Devils ahead of Will Johnson (seven), Brett Bewley (five) and Andy Azzopardi (fourth) in his 100th senior game.

The Lakers gave the Devils a wakeup call early booting three of the opening four goals before Jordan’s army, off the back of a loss, hit their straps and extended enroute to the highest score posted of any team in the BFNL this season.

Joel Cadman (100 games) thrived in his new role as a starting mid to be named best on ground for the winners ahead of a host of contributors including George, Mickey Edwards, Brett Bewley, Will Johnson and Andy Azzopardi.

Despite encouraging signs early, it was slim pickings for the Lakers who were forced to go about their unenviable task without key midfield recruit Will Fordham in the second half.

Shining-light ruckman Tom Zampatti was named best for the visitors for a fifth time in as many games this season.

Noah Shearer, Will Clark, Geelong VFL listed recruit Lewis Antonac (two goals), Cooper James and Timmy Collins also earned the nod from the Lakers’ hierarchy on an otherwise long afternoon for Rohan Brown’s group.

Three debutants - Kai Watkins, Nic Cadman and Liam Steegstra, complemented the win for the Devils in front of home fans replacing Billy Myers, Jayven Tanner and Jack Bewley who were sidelined from the Round 4 loss to Melton.

Next week, the Devils (third) travel to Marty Busch Reserve to take on Sebastopol (second) in one of the match ups of the round while the Lakers (10th) host East Point (9th) before a well-earned weekend off for the BFNL interleague.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 47 disposals, 31 contested posessions, 15 score involvements

Joel Cadman (Darley) - 39 disposals, 17 score involvements, 9 inside 50s

Lewis Antonac (Lake Wendouree) - 26 disposals, 8 tackles, 7 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“The Lakers gave us a bit of a wake up early before we were able to steady. We had control of the game through the middle part of the game and savoured our milestone games. Congratulations to Joel Cadman and Andy Azzopardi (100 games each) and our three debutants Nick Cadman, Kai Watkins and Liam Steegstra who managed to hit the scoreboard. Credit to the Lakers, losing a few soldiers in the run but kept fighting in the last quarter. Looking ahead to Sebastopol - should be a real test for us.”

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“First 20 minutes our boys were outstanding. Actually, on top of the game. We just give the ball back through error it makes it so hard to defend and a side as clinical as Darley are make you pay every time they enter F50. As always their ability to get to outside and link in transition was just too good! We were never worried about the result on the scoreboard more our effort and will to fight the game out and we made steps forward in this area, very proud of my boys tonight. No rotations in the 2nd half, Fordham, Raven & Jarnestrom all out. Middle quarters we weren't happy with but last quarter we felt like had a few little wins in the last which gives us confidence moving forward. One of these days the footy gods will be smiling on us with the way the ball bounces, injuries and decisions.”

The Cobras returned to the winners list with conviction, taking care of Redan by 65 points on a sun-kissed Maddingley Park.

The stirring win, and first for the Cobras in front of home fans was set up with a seven-goal-to-one opening term.

Dennis Armfield’s group were the clear beneficiaries of a weekend off despite having to make up to six changes from their loss to Darley on Anzac Day.

There was a certain ‘freshness’ about the Cobras in the opening term, resemblant of their free running display over East Point on Good Friday.

The Cobras return on the scoreboard was just two points shy of their best effort against the Kangas.

Spearhead Jake Owen booted six goals for the winners and Isaac Nixon’s three proved to be a difficult match up for the Lions to contain.

While the age profile of the Lions had been well publicised with some 15 players aged 21 or under taking part, you can’t discount the Cobras in that space fielding 13 of their own.

The Cobras welcomed the return of Jamie Fulton, Jack Kovacevic, Billy Griffiths, Simon LaFranchi, Will Lalor and the debut of ferocious small forward Armi Wakefield.

The ins highlight the mounting depth at the Cobras given Rye Penny, Ashton Craig, Kade Hilton, Jaydn Trowsdale, Jude Milburn and Bailey Glascott were sidelined.

Redan were competitive for the most part but were a little shy on size and top end talent experience.

The Bond boys Taj (two goals) Lachlan (two goals) and Daniel did their best to impact while Harry Lawson and Lachlan McLean were the primary source of rebound and distribution.

A 34-point half time lead for the hosts was extended to 55 at the final change, the result inevitable.

Could the Cobras cash in late or would the Lions mount one final challenge?

Neither scenario really panned out as fatigue crept into an otherwise spirited contest.

Credit to the Cobras restricting the Lions to just one goal in the final term while managing three of their own.

The margin felt like 10 goals from a fair way out and ended accordingly.

Competition for spots at the Cobras is healthy, a full list, injury free will pose a welcoming challenge for Armfield fielding his best team ahead of a big three weeks for the club.

The Cobras cling to sixth position, a game and percentage clear of next week’s opponent Sunbury.

After the May 23rd break, the Cobras are on the road to Ballarat for a meeting with the Swans (4-1).

With the likelihood of seven sides fighting for a spot in the top six, every match is crucial.

A slip up missing out on premiership points or percentage when the opportunity presents could be the difference between making finals or not.

Redan under Marc Greig will continue to front up and go about their business, one foot in front of the other.

The Lions’ next two games are against North Ballarat (H) and Darley (A).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 54 hitouts, 21 disposals, 12 score involvements

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh) - 26 disposals, 15 marks, 13 score involvements

Harry Lawson (Redan) - 32 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Great way to welcome a few faces and bounce back after a week off. We knew we needed to start well and to our credit we did. Redan got it back on their terms during the middle of the game. Got through unscathed and plenty to like and hopefully can get some synergy building over the weeks ahead.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“The Baccus lads jumped us in the first quarter and while we kicked five goals in the second quarter, we just couldn’t peg back the margin. The conditions were perfect for footy at the Marsh and their skill level was far superior to our boys. Well played. Every week is providing great learnings for our players, and hopefully we might get 3-4 experienced defenders back next week to help provide the on-field leadership that’s required at present.”

Backs-to-the-wall Sunbury have withstood the challenge from a previously unbeaten Sebastopol outfit to win by 26 points at Clarke Oval.

Sure, the Lions welcomed back four players for the clash from injury, but you couldn’t deny momentum with the visitors in the lead up given results of the last fortnight.

But some forgot about the demons still in the closet at the Burra noting they had never, not once beaten Sunbury at Clarke Oval in 22 attempts!

And that is essentially how the game began with Sunbury putting their ‘home bunnies’ on the back foot early with a four-goal-to-one opening term.

With momentum and belief restored under Lions’ coach Matty White in a potential season defining half hour period, there would be no chance of the ‘Pride’ letting this one slide after a horror fortnight of rare big losses.

The Lions won the opening three quarters building on a quarter time lead of 18 at the first change to 22 at the half.

The defence of the ‘Pride’ was resolute restricting the Burra to just four goals until three quarter time in perfect conditions for football.

In fact, it was the Burras’ second lowest score recorded since Round 10 last year.

Ironically their lowest score for the period (46) came against their next opponents Darley the last time they met.

We all concede, the Burra are a different team now, injury free and buoyed with key arrivals. Coach Tony Lockyer was clearly disappointed falling shy of Sunbury without star trio Jake Egan, Josh Guthrie and Jake Sutton.

Lions’ pressure forward Mitch McLean booted five goals in his return from a troublesome calf to finish in the best alongside in form pair Riley Miller and Harry Power.

Youngster Noah Ryan was prominent earning the nod while Daniel Johnston’s three goals and Sean Reilly’s frugal display in defence was also recognised.

While not the end of the world for the Burra, rather an opportunity gone begging, they did have a crew that took it up to the Lions - namely, Toby Hutt (two goals), Lachlan Cassidy, James Curtin, Jack Bambury, Jack Buckley and Bailey Medwell.

It was the first time in five rounds dangerous Burra forwards Joel Edwards and Adam Forbes were kept goalless.

The Burras first loss may well work in their favour given a timely reminder of their mortality ahead of the reigning premiers.

Coach Tony Lockyer has gone on the record noting his respect for the Devils so expect his boys to get back to work.

For the winners, Lions’ coach Matty White enjoyed one of his proudest wins in charge. We’ll let him savour the moment for a couple of days before another tough challenge presents on the road against Bacchus Marsh.

The two sides are currently sixth and seventh (Sunbury) on the BFNL ladder separated by percentage.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 30 hitouts, 26 disposals, 10 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 12 marks, 7 intercept possessions

Riley Miller (Sunbury) - 18 disposals, 8 intercept possessions, 5 1%ers

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Was a great result today. We got back to us, in a game that was a worry with a very inform Sebas. To have McLean included after his calf and for him to kick 5 while DJ started us with 3 as well was a brilliant effort. We got back to our DNA which is my favourite bit. Credit to Sebas who kept fighting to the end.”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Very disappointed with that one when we know we can deliver far better. With the quality in this league you just can’t have an off day and expect a positive outcome. Huge credit to Matty and Sunbury who came out roaring and set the tone. Really impressive response by them after what has been a challenging month. They absolutely deserved the 4 points and they’ll continue to get better! Some good learnings for us to take out of the day. We look forward to reloading vs Darley next week.”

Scoop Reviews Round 6

A weekend of big results and gruelling intensity will see our clubs relish the break ahead of the Interleague Bye this Saturday.

North Ballarat kicked away from a plucky Redan after halftime to win comfortably by 44 points at City Oval.

The ladder leaders were made to work hard for an eight-point lead at the half that could’ve been closer if not for the Lions’ 5.9 score line.

Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor praised the effort and pressure from a young Lions outfit, especially in the second quarter.

A seven-goal-to-two second half helped steady the Roosters and secure the prized premiership points.

Without spearhead Denver Grainger-Barras until finals, the Roosters remain a work in progress finding that new connection forward capable of posting big scores.

Jye Lockett and inform half forward Declyn McGuigan booted a team high three goals for the winners ahead of an even spread of five other contributors.

Gun utility Sam Glover continues his stellar return to the local level to be named best on ground ahead of Henry Shea, Harvey Lewis, speedster Reggie Palmer and debut recruit ruckman Dave Brinker-Ritchie.

For Redan, coach Marc Greig was relatively upbeat around the Lions’ performance ahead of their road trip to Darley on May 30.

The Lions were buoyed with the returns of Geelong VFL listed talent Rory Gunsser and experienced campaigner Liam Hoy.

Lachlan Bond (four goals), Oliver Pittard, Harry Lawson maintained their good form asking questions of a North Ballarat combination now on a five-game winning streak.

The Roosters (5-1) are away in Round 7 for their top of the table blockbuster against the high flying Burra (5-1).

STATS THAT MATTERED

David Brinker-Ritchie (North Ballarat) - 45 hitouts, 22 disposals, 12 clearances

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 10 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 29 disposals, 7 intercept possessions, 6 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“I don’t very often praise “good efforts” but I was really happy with our lads today. Against a benchmark team we had some pleasing numbers in the key areas we wanted to work on. Unfortunately, we gave up 7/8 goals from simple basic skill errors in the back half when not under pressure. Well done to Clint and his players.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Redan are such a dangerous team - pressure was really high today full credit to them for bringing the intensity. Their energy and contest challenged us in the second quarter - but we were able to adjust and get the game back on our terms when it mattered. It’s great to witness the development of our young lads - every week we keep finding new PB for different individuals which is exciting for the club. We will enjoy a well-earned break”

Star tall Biggie Nyuon booted five second half goals to lead the Swans to a spirited, come from behind win over the Bloods at MacPherson Park.

The Swans failed to flatter early and struggled with their ball use in the breezy conditions, playing into the hands of the Bloods’ renowned rebounding defence.

Troy Scoble’s group, still a handful of shy of their best 22, led comfortably at the main break, four goals to one, before the arrival of the ‘Biggie show’.

Three crucial goals into the breeze for the 200cm target and two in the last was enough to prove the difference in the game.

Biggie’s accuracy on goal from range was also a feature in the tricky conditions.

Ruckman Patrick Graham hardly lost a centre tap-out in the second half, providing midfielders Fraser Perkins, Lewis Rinaldi and Wyatt Squires with some much-needed supply to eat into the deficit.

Werribee VFL listed talent Thomas Simpson was the ‘metres gained’ master by foot for the Swans while Adrian Monitto was at his best for the Bloods with his run and carry from defence.

While Swans trio Alex Keath, Biggie and Graham attract a lot of the key attention, enter Riley Constable - part of the next wave of organic Ballarat talent who was superb at the weekend.

The Swans move to into third place on the BFNL ladder (5-1) percentage shy of North Ballarat and Sebastopol.

Ash Baker’s bevy are travelling well and will look to capitalise with three of their next four games at home.

Round 7’s meeting at Alfredton Oval is with Bacchus Marsh on May 30.

Melton (3-3), like many, will welcome the interleague break before a road trip to Eastern Oval to take on injury hit East Point (1-5).

Despite the loss, some encouraging signs for the Bloods with the form of Jaycob Hickey and Jack Walker who look fit and healthy with their two way running between the arcs.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 38 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 12 rebound 50s

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Thomas Simpson (Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 8 makrs, 8 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Really pleased with our first half today. We set the game up as planned, credits to Ballarat. They were able to shift the momentum, and it became a struggle in the end. Biggie was too big. Well done, Ballarat.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Super proud of the boys today. Melton are a very well organised team who brought plenty of bedsore to the contest today. We were able to stick at it through the first half, in an arm wrestle before the game opened up towards the end of the second half. We were able to move the ball with more conviction in the second half, giving ourselves better looks inside 50 and giving our forwards a chance to get on the end of the ball.”

A dangerous landing for Lakers’ utility Josh Canny brought a premature end to this bottom of the table clash at CE Brown Reserve.

East Point were afforded their first win of the season when the game was officially abandoned in the third quarter as medical staff and paramedics treated Canny on the ground.

Good news for Josh, having been discharged from hospital late on Saturday night clear of any structural damage.

Concussion and “one sore boy” was the unofficial diagnosis, a relief for the Canny family and the broader football community.

The Lakers’ injury problems were not restricted to Canny, as star mid combo Tom Zampatti and Will Fordham were sent for knee scans.

Kangas’ ball magnet Jackson Merrett is also expected for a period on the sidelines having suffered a broken arm in a game marred by injury.

East Point deserved their first win for the season despite its abbreviated form with their mounting control and close to twice as many scoring shots.

Sam McDonald finished with a game high three goals for the winners while Archie Todd was the only multiple goal scorer for the hosts with two.

Kangas’ next gen talent Cooper Glenwright-McGuane was named best ahead of Liam Canny, Liam Howard and McDonald.

Coach Joe Carmody is hopeful a few missing soldiers will be available for their next assignment at home on May 30 against the 3-3 Bloods.

For the Lakers, Canny and Fordham featured prominently before their injuries alongside Cooper James, Lewis Antonac and spiritual leader Joel O’Connell who made a safe return in his first game of the season.

Rohan Brown’s group are on the road in Round 7 for a meeting with Sunbury (2-4).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Joe Dodd (East Point) - 17 disposals, 11 tackles, 6 score involvements

Liam Canny (East Point) - 19 disposals, 7 clearances, 6 intercept possessions

Bailey Ryan (Lake Wendouree) - 28 disposals, 8 rebound 50s, 6 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Bit of a whirlwind day. We had opportunities but just couldn't finish our work in the 1st half. East Point controlled the game and did it well. Thought our 3rd quarter was pretty good, and we played some good brave footy. Zampatti scans during the week, we hold our breath but doesn't look good, same with Fordham. Latest report on Josh they were worried about collarbone and obviously concussion. I want to thank East Point & Lakers medical staff for all their care & professionalism, as well as Joey and his players. We will be ok; our group & club won't roll over.”

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Firstly we all hope Josh Canny is okay. A number of injuries for both sides out of the game. We are happy to get the four points but obviously feel for Lakers and the injuries they sustained. We had a good contribution across the ground and can really build from today. We are hopeful of having two or three more players available after the interleague weekend.”

The Cobras impressed with an all-the-way win over last year’s grand finalist Sunbury at Maddingley Park.

The intent from Dennis Armfield’s quiver was validated on the scoreboard early with six unanswered goals in the first term with the aid of a three to four goal breeze.

Credit to the Cobras, benefiting from any weather advantage is not linear - you still have to demonstrate the fundamentals with and without the ball to get full reward.

Sunbury coach Matty White lauded the nature of the Cobras’ performance in the aftermath conceding the catch-up game after quarter time was not ideal despite any wind advantage that followed.

Clearly, the former Richmond and Port Adelaide dasher was impressed with the attitude and commitment of the Cobras.

With three wins already over last year’s finalists, the Cobras will prepare for their next challenge against Ballarat (5-1) on May 30 at Alfredton Oval.

Gun Cobras’ forward Jake Owen was at his best finishing with a game high five goals alongside Joel Freeman who chimed in with three to hold the pressing Lions at bay.

While the forwards often soak up their contributions from week to week in review - a huge tick must go to the Cobras’ defence who held the Lions to just seven goals.

Looking across the ground more broadly, experienced campaigners Luke Goetz, Owen and Shea led from the front while off-season recruits Zach Vesty, Sam Griffiths and second gamer Armi Wakefield were prominent executing their roles.

It was a disappointing afternoon for White, and his pride given the promise and potential of their 22 on paper.

Reigning Tony Lockett Medallist and dangerous forward Jake Sutton made the trip down from Sydney for his first game but could not get any periods of the hit-out on his own terms.

Cody Bramble was one good story to be drawn for the Lions after he was named best for the visitors ahead of Daniel Johnston (three goals), Ben Cameron, Pat Scanlon, Joel Muir and Ben Eales.

White touched on how much his group will enjoy the week off ahead of a Round 7 clash at home against the Lakers who are likely to be without Tom Zampatti and Will Fordham after knee injuries sustained at the weekend.

What we did learn from the weekend is the Cobras, while not littered with stars, are a very even group and will challenge any opposition right down to the 22nd player picked on their day.

The fact the Lions had their best team on paper selected for the clash is testament to the Cobras who were able to reveal what was under the bonnet of a Sunbury outfit struggling for full fitness.

The Lions are not on their own welcoming the break after a high octane six week start to a very even season.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Cody Bramble (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 7 intercept possessions, 6 inside 50s

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 43 hitouts, 18 disposals, 6 marks

Ethan McKercher (Bacchus Marsh) - 22 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 6 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“A great day for the club, 3 good wins against a highly respected Sunbury outfit. Then able to celebrate and recognise our past players, specifically the 2016 premiers. We come out of the blocks with an aligned purpose, setting the standard. We knew Sunbury would come and can score quick, so proud of the group to never give up more than 2 consecutive goals and finish the game full of run.”

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Too much praise to put into words with what Bacchus brought to us today. 6 goal first quarter set them up and we chased all day. Even contest for the rest of the game but they didn’t allow us to get our game going at all. Week off comes at a good time for the group.”

The Burra has staked an early claim as genuine flag contenders with a morale boosting 22-point win over the Devils at Marty Busch Reserve.

Fans bared witness to one of the best games of the season as both coaches made reference to a ‘finals like’ performance in the aftermath.

The Burra kicked with the aid of a three or four goal breeze in the first term and took advantage of a rarely rattled and ‘unaccountable’ Darley defence piling on six goals to set up a handy 23-point lead.

The two occasions this year the Devils have conceded six goals in a quarter have ended in a loss.

Forget the breeze for a second, the Devils starts have been a concern for coach Dan Jordan since the season opener and was the first to concede “catch up” footy is not ideal in the current climate.

This contest however was more about the Burra than the mortality of the reigning premiers.

Burra’s coach Tony Lockyer would be loving the freedoms and versatility a healthy list can provide after a previous run of bad luck in his time in charge.

Familiar names such as Luke Kiel, the Hutt brothers (Toby, Ben), Lachlan Cassidy, Bailey Medwell and Lockyer himself led the charge and showed enough character to fight back after surrendering the lead.

When Nick Hind put the Devils up by 16 points in the last quarter it became a line in the sand moment for the Lockyer stable.

Sink or swim.

The response was emphatic as the hosts ran out the game all guns blazing with six unanswered goals to earn the points and the mounting belief that comes with it.

As many as ten of the Burra hit the scoreboard with Toby Hutt and Adam Forbes ending the major contributors with three goals apiece.

The Devils were brave after quarter time to work their way back into the game having trailed by four or five goals early to win back the lead at the final change.

Jayven Tanner (four goals), Nick Hind, Brett Bewley, Mikey Edwards, Lachie George and the Cadman brothers (Joel, Duncan) led the resistance but collectively the broader group were found wanting late as momentum swung back in favour of the blue and gold.

The Burra have another blockbuster ahead of them at home against North Ballarat while the Devils will look to shrug the intent and pressure of a young Lions brigade keen to pinch a scalp.

Despite Sebastopol and Darley losing no admirers at the weekend what was realised is the once all conquering Devils are very gettable.

Look for a mounting response after the break from Jordan’s army while it’s fair to concede the Burra are back!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 29 hitouts, 25 disposals, 10 marks

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 8 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 33 dispoals, 19 contested possessions, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Cracking contest and great game of Ballarat footy. We have a huge amount of respect for Darley, and our games are always played in great spirit. Wish DJ and the boys all the best going forward. Very pleased to get the result on the rebound from last week. We wanted to bring intensity we knew we were capable of and we did that early. Darley then showed their class and started to take the game away from us. Very happy our boys responded to the challenge in the last quarter and dug deep to get it done. Huge win for our Sebas community. Looking forward to the recharge/reset this week ahead of North after the bye.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Ripper game of footy - resembled finals like intensity. Tony’s boys were super, we always knew they were going to bring the heat. We were disappointing early but managed to correct our ways after quarter time into a winning position. Unfortunately, we finished on the wrong end of the result today, but we regroup and go again aware our best is good enough in a very even competition.”

Scoop Reviews Round 7

Home was a happy hunting ground across the board this week as all five hosts claimed victory in Round 7.

The slick Swans notched their sixth win of the season with a comfortable 55-point win over the Cobras at Alfredton Oval.

Home fans were treated to a clinic from Ash Baker’s bevy in relatively fine conditions for the most part, leaving little or no excuses for the visitors.

The superior work rate of the Swans was palpable. Their ability to outnumber the Cobras at the contest, create the overlap and impact on the spread was an afternoon constant.

Their number one ranked pressure rating without the ball was also validated.

The Swans had arguably 15 of the best 20 players on the ground while the Cobras struggled for any periods of connection.

While the win elevates the Swans into second place on the ladder, percentage shy of Sebastopol, the Cobras cling to fifth with a vulnerable percentage.

The disappointing loss for Armfield’s quiver was compounded even further with a hamstring strain to key forward Jake Owen who missed a large chunk of the second half. Scans will tell us more during the week.

Swans running machines Thomas Simpson, Fraser Perkins and Lewis Rinaldi did most of the damage between the arcs while Biggie Nyuon was once again the leading goal scorer on the ground finishing with three.

Cobras’ half forward Isaac Nixon and Owen were the only two that looked like threatening in their front half, while the territory gains from the boot of Sam Griffiths helped minimise the damage.

Second and third gamers Adam Blain and Jonas Cukavac showed enough to earn another crack at it next week against the Lakers.

In a nutshell, this hit out told us more about the Swans staking their early premiership claims.

Ballarat host Sunbury (7th) next week while the Cobras host the winless Lakers at Maddingley Park.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 9 marks, 7 tackles

Thomas Simpson (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 13 score involvements, 10 tackles

Jack Parente (Bacchus Marsh) - 28 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
Really pleased with our effort today. In trying conditions early, I was pleased with our pressure and contest numbers. I thought this set us up well across the first three quarters of football. To Bacchus Marsh’s credit, they kept coming and challenged us early in the last, however we were able to respond late in the game. Overall- really pleased with our game as we now turn our attention to another home game next week against Sunbury.

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
We just couldn’t click today, Ash and his boys are very well drilled unit. They play a real team brand of footy. We had our chances but just couldn’t score. At one stage 10-12 entries for 1 point. I liked the fact we kept fighting yet beaten by a quality squad. We will recover and focus on a visiting Lakers who have shown they can play a good brand.

An inaccurate Sunbury kicked away after halftime to break the shackles of a very determined Lakers outfit to win by 46 points at Clarke Oval.

The second half yielded 21 scoring shots to five (6.15 to 2.3) in favour of Matty White’s Pride, and both coaches identified some progress in the aftermath.

Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown promised his undermanned group would bring effort and that they did to be within 10 points at the main break - a mini win for the struggling club.

Most had Sunbury winning by 100+ points or at least bringing up the ton on the scoreboard. Both predictions fell well short.

Credit to Brown, who paid particular homage to the contributions of Tyson Walsh and Archie Todd.

For the winners, the judges couldn’t split Cody Bramble and Daniel Johnston (five goals) for best on ground honours.

While White was happy of the response from his boys in the second half, the impact of Josh Guthrie, Brock Landt (two goals) and Bramble in particular was a shining light given the three have missed a bit of footy.

The Lions would have been thrilled for Liam Spiteri and Joel Muir who endeavour to cement their place in a team on the road back to full health.

For the visitors, Round 7 marked the second game in a row the Lakers restricted their opposition to below 100 points and be within a respectable 7-8 goals at the finish.

Walsh and Todd aside, Logan Clark, Corey Rich, Joel O’Connell and Timmy Collins were also prominent.

With goals at a premium, only Lions pair Daniel Johnston (5) and Brock Landt (2) ended with multiples.

Sunbury will start underdogs on the road in their next match against Ballarat.

Looking forward to seeing how White goes about denying the number one pressure and handball team in the comp.

The Lakers are down the highway again at the weekend to take on the Cobras at Maddingley Park.

Effort and in-house mini wins will be high on the Lakers’ agenda while the Cobras aim to go big despite the (potential) absence of key prime movers Jake Owen (hamstring) and Josh Huxtable (Williamstown VFL).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Daniel Johnston (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 17 score involvements, 10 marks

Benjamin Cameron (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 11 score involvements, 8 inside 50s

Bailey Ryan (Lake Wendouree) - 39 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
Hard win in the end. Lakers came with a plan, and we got a jump but got sucked into playing a dead way and Lakers played well off that in the first half and especially in the 2nd term. Which made the game close at half time. A few positional changes at half time got us going in the 3rd and we were able to finish the game off well in the soaking conditions. 21 scoring shots to 5 in the second half got our guys going. Still room for improvements especially with our goal kicking but some good signs going forward.

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
Very proud of our group especially in the 1st half. Asked for effort, connection and belief and we got all of it. Our kids are being exposed to some of the best and showing what the future of the Lakers will be like. Tyson Walsh & Archie Tood exceptional. Taking the little wins and we had a fair few yesterday which was great for our group.

The Kangas made it two wins in a row after a thrilling four-point victory over more fancied rivals Melton.

Coach Joe Catmody’s rebuild is beginning to see some rewards on the scoreboard already as they led at every change to hold out a desperate Bloods unit in a highly contested affair.

The win sees the Kangas just one game and percentage outside the top six with a winnable game against Redan (9th) up next.

Both sides were shy on a few stars for this battle that went down to the wire. Could a less experienced player show maturity beyond their years to feature in a hard-fought struggle?

You bet!

Kangas’ trio Copper Glenwright-McGuane, Luca Geue and Deng Lual played significant support roles to finish in the best behind captain Liam Canny and inside mid Mickitja Rotumah-Onus.

Alex Molan and Jarrod Joyce (three goals) made their highly anticipated returns with immediate impact.

For the Bloods, who cling to sixth place on the ladder with three wins, percentage clear of Sunbury - this result has not gone to plan despite the obvious dangers the Kangas present on their own deck.

While Troy Scoble’s visiting party fell agonisingly short - it was one they were meant to win despite glowing efforts from Josh Stewart (best), Liam Carter (three goals), Harry Hanley, Braedan Kight (two goals), Ryan Davis and Lachlan Phillips. So close for the Bloods, but no cigar.

The Bloods will look to bounce back at home this week, but they’ll have to do it against ladder leaders Sebastopol.

The Kangas would surely have savoured Saturday’s win in celebration and song - and deservingly so. An interesting challenge in the form of Redan presents in Round 8 at Eastern Oval.

Expect the Redan Lions to get a handful of players back, raising the degree of difficulty making it a third win on the trot for Carmody’s young men.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 26 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Liam Howard (East Point) - 18 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 10 1%ers

Josh Stewart (Melton) - 54 hitouts, 12 tackles, 5 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
Really contested game. Credit to both teams that cracked in hard all day. The games we play against Melton are always tough battles and we are grateful we could get the result today.

Troy Scoble (Melton)
Terrific reconciliation week celebration well done and thanks to East Point. Typical Melton east point game from recent years, tough conditions contested unfortunately for us we could not capitalise when we needed. We are very good at close losses. East earned there win today well done.

The Devils returned to the winner’s list, overpowering a young Lions outfit by 89 points at Darley Park.

The reigning premiers looked in control from the outset and were rarely troubled having kept the Lions goalless in the second and final terms.

While the Devils were inaccurate on goal in the opening half with 8.13 to their name, a correction saw Dan Jordan’s army earn some bang for buck in the second squaring the ledger 17.17 at the final siren.

X-factor forward Wil Johnson booted a game high five goals while big guns Brett Bewley and Nick Hind chimed in with three apiece.

Former Lion Lachie George continues to build in his new colours adding two of his own.

Progressive utility Mickey Edwards was named best for the winners ahead of midfield duo Bewley and milestone 200 gamer Luther Baker who had arguably his best game of the season.

Zane Le Huray was the pick of the defenders to be recognised alongside Johnson and George among the best.

For Redan, the assignment was always going to be tough, but they must be commended on their effort.

While it was slim pickings on the goal front, the contributions of Zac Mortlock, Jacob Werts and Lachie Bond were recognised by the Lions hierarchy.

Ever consistent youngster Oliver Pittard made it a seventh appearance in the best players in as many outings. Super effort.

The challenge for the Devils gets very real next week on the road for a meeting with North Ballarat (4th). Jordan will be looking to build on their modest away record in 2026 (1-2).

Redan should welcome back up to five players ahead of their trip to Eastern Oval to take on the Kangas (8th) who have won their last two games.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 40 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 inside 50s

Billy Myers (Darley) - 31 disposals, 8 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Harry Lawson (Redan) - 32 disposals, 8 marks, 7 rebound 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
Pleasing effort against a spirited Redan team who made us earn our dues to the very end. Happy to see a response from our boys off the break in a few areas we have been working on.

Marc Greig (Redan)
Experienced opposition played a very attacking brand and were too good. Our young fellas learnt lots from the game, from a physical, verbal and mindset point of view.

League improvers Sebastopol continued their impressive start to the 2026 season with an emphatic 59-point win over North Ballarat at Marty Busch Reserve.

It was the Burra’s sixth win in seven rounds, just one victory shy of their total success from last season.

Tony Lockyer’s men are making a fortress of Marty Busch this season, unbeaten in four games (East Point, Redan, Darley, North Ballarat) by an average winning margin of 57.5 points. Impressive.

There’s little doubt Sebastopol have the healthiest list in the comp, thriving with an enviable number of top end midfield options. The depth in rotations is enabling a clear edge over all rivals when the whips are cracking.

The four quarter, dominant win has put the rest of the competition on notice despite the Roosters being without a bench for the final term.

Sam Glover (hip), Declyn McGuigan (concussion), Isaac Lovisson (quad), Jarrod Curran (hamstring) are all in doubt for the Roosters’ Round  8 clash with Darley (3rd) joining Isaac Carey (knee - 3 weeks), Reggie Palmer (arm - 6 weeks), Simon McCartin (calf - 2 weeks), Brock Leonard (ACL - season), Fletcher Loader (foot - season) and Wilbur Shea (shoulder - season) on the sidelines.

Clint Proctor named half a dozen next gen players in the best, led by Dominic Penny, Jye Lockett and Taj Bowman.

The Burra had a host of contributors across the ground before settling on Jacob Fletcher as the pick of the bunch ahead of inform quintet Toby Hutt (two goals), Luke Kiel, Bailey Medwell, Jack Bambury and Jack Buckley.

Sebastopol are on the road this week for a meeting with sixth placed Melton.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 26 disposals, 18 hitouts, 8 marks

Jack Buckley (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 8 marks

Joshua Morris (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 8 rebound 50s, 6 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
Pleased with that one. We wanted to bring our pressure/contest game to a form team in North and felt we did that right from the start. Given North’s spread of contributors we knew it was critical everyone played their role and stepped up to the challenge. Again, it was another strong contested BFNL game played in great spirits. The competition is in great shape right now. Huge credit to Clint and his boys who have taken some big steps forward since last year. They’ll be a dangerous side come September.

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
Hard day at the office, Sebastopol were a class above today; organised and difficult to play against - it felt like we were beaten in the contest and spread as-well which is not really our way! Struggled to defend the ground and gain any ball movement. All is not lost; a time to reflect and move onto the next contest.

Scoop Reviews Round 8

The intriguing BFNL football season continued on Saturday with crucial home victories and massive away trips unfolding.

The Cobras simply did enough to earn an all-important fifth win of the season with a 65-point victory over the Lakers at Maddingley Park.

The percentage builder helps consolidate the Cobras’ position inside the top six, now two games clear of Melton (6th), Sunbury (7th) and East Point (8th).

Dennis Armfield’s group had to get the job done without bookends Jake Owen and Wil Lalor.

Unlikely goal source, Jack Kovacevic, finished with a game high four goals to answer the call ahead of nine other Cobras to hit the scoreboard.

Opportunists Ethan McKercher and Billy Griffiths were the beneficiaries of the crumb chiming in with three apiece.

There were some new faces named among the best for the Cobras - Hunter Tudball, James McDaid (Western Jets) and season additions Zach Vesty and Billy Griffiths joined Kovacevic and Josh Huxtable to be in the BOG conversation.

The Lakers were honest once again with five fourth-quarter goals to register their highest score in 12 months.

Rohan Brown’s boys would have enjoyed the spread of seven goalkickers hitting the scoreboard.

New recruits Corey Rich and Alfred Jarnestrom were considered best for the Lakers ahead of Kynan Raven who made it a third appearance in eight games.

The winless Lakers will fight on chasing an elusive maiden win in 2026 when they host North Ballarat in Round 9.

The Cobras are away to ladder leaders Sebastopol this week and are likely to be without Owen and Lalor for another week.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Corey Rich (Lake Wendouree) - 45 disposals, 16 marks, 11 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 50 hitouts, 22 disposals, 9 score involvements

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh) - 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Thank you to Rohan and the rest of the Lakers for helping make our Big Freeze a huge day for our community. They came hungry and full of energy. Their speed and ability to attack from turnover was great. I thought our boys executed well in parts and great to bounce back on the winners list. We saw some boys in new roles which is still exciting for our team. We look forward now to #1 Sebas.”

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Rinse and repeat message for me. Thought we were great all day, we left a few goals out there especially in the 2nd quarter. Credit to Dennis and his boys they opened the game up and got control and took opportunity to score. We kicked our highest score for the year. Baz Ryan & Antonac late outs, no bench after half time & at times played with 17 on ground to add to an already massive injury list (not complaining that's footy!). To nearly win the last quarter is a mini win for our boys and as always, we walk away very proud of our group. Credit to Bacchus Marsh FNC and all the work they did for The Big Freeze in the Marsh.”

The ‘real deal’ Swans made it six wins in a row accounting for 2025 grand finalists Sunbury by 19 points at Alfredton Oval.

Given the enviable depth and health of Ash Baker’s list, it would be no surprise to see them continue on their impressive run with a win over the Devils at Darley Park this weekend.

The Swans have travelled just once away from Ballarat this season with a 12-point win over Melton after a slow start - so the challenge is out there to consolidate their credentials this week away from home.

Sunbury coach Matty White was typically honest with his assessment of the Swans in the post-match indicating the margin may have flattered his Pride.

The Swans, not unlike the Burra and the Roosters have been the story of the year so far.

Their effort at the weekend was solid again, every bit of a side in the mix for a top seed come the business end.

There was very little separating the Swans and Sunbury at each of the breaks in a seesawing affair before the well drilled bevy kicked away in the final term adding 3.5 to the Lions’ 1.1 to win ‘going away’.

200cm Swans trio Patrick Graham (best), Alex Keath and Biggie Nyuon (four goals) featured prominently once again, sounding alarm bells for the Devils moving forward given their clear lack of height options.

Swans mid/half back Tristan Maple returned with Keath to bolster stocks with immediate effect.

In form midfield combo Lewis Rinaldi, Thomas Simpson and Brad Crouch were good again, copy and paste impact from the previous week’s win over the Cobras.

All of the Swans growing stable of big guns are in form and are being well supported by a progressive depth pool who would get a game in any other team in the BFNL.

Hard to beat moving forward.

Sunbury did plenty right on the road against one of the new flag fancies and should take plenty of learnings from the contest ahead of their next meeting scheduled for Clarke Oval in Round 18. Given what we know of the opening eight rounds, expect a fallout from the Round 18 rematch ahead of finals.

Looking for Lions who made it difficult for the Swans getting a game in their own terms for long enough, one couldn’t ignore the efforts of Josh Guthrie (best), Jack Newitt and Daniel Johnston (three goals).

Next gen talent Cody Bramble continues his successful return from an ACL tear that sidelined the speedster for 12 months.

Sunbury host East Point for a must win game in Round 9 while the Swans are primed to inflict the Devils with their fourth loss of the season and their first at home since the 2024 second semi-final.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Thomas Simpson (Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 10 inside 50s 

Patrick Graham (Ballarat) - 51 hitouts, 17 disposals, 11 contested possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 28 disposals, 10 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Great contested game of football today between two super competitive teams. Credit to Matt and his Sunbury side - they came with plenty of intent and pressure and proved why they are the number 1 ranked team for contested possession. In trying conditions, Sunbury certainly brought plenty of pressure early and in an arm wrestle, there wasn’t much separating the teams at half time. Our boys were able to re-assess at half time, steady and get the game more on our terms late in the second half. Pleased with our ability to stick at it and pleased that our two debutants - both 16 years of age - were able to experience a top-level game of BFNL senior football.”

Matt White (Sunbury)
“Great game of footy and a heap of positives to take away from it. Got some top end guys in some form at the moment which is great but we weren’t able to hold on against one of the top teams in the league. Put it down to around 15 mins of footy from Ballarat that we just couldn’t stop. Probably lucky the missed a few shots that makes the scoreline look a bit better. Recover and get ourselves ready for a big game at home now!”

The Kangas find themselves just percentage outside of the six following a comfortable 60-point win over an inaccurate Redan.

Forward pair Jack Jeffrey (four) and Jarrod Joyce (three) combined for seven goals to earn some needed separation on the scoreboard given the Kangas’ inferior percentage.

Midfielders Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Jesse Cairns enjoyed another productive day at the source while Deng Lual and Liam Howard continue to build on some mid-season form.

Redan did themselves no favours on the scoreboard in the opening half with 1.9 next to their name. It was 10 shots on goal apiece at the main break but a 20-point lead to the hosts - real break your heart stuff on the conversion front.

The bird had flown for the Lions as they struggled in the second half adding just 2.2 to the Kangas’ 8.6. Game over.

The young Lions have not won a last quarter since their season opening win over the Lakers.

While disappointed with the outcome, it wasn’t without admirable effort from a handful of Lions including Rory Gunsser, Jake Connolly, Oscar Henderson, Billy Douglass and Harry Lawson.

The Lions host a vulnerable Bloods out for next week while the Kangas prepare for a genuine throw at the stumps opportunity against Sunbury.

Both sides are locked on three wins and sit seventh and eighth on the table.

Should be another cracking round of BFNL action this weekend.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 32 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 15 clearances

Thomas Brown (East Point) - 41 hitouts, 17 disposals, 5 marks

Zach Lang (Redan) - 23 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 10 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“We were a bit reactionary early and took a while to adjust to the conditions. Midfielders got to work from the second quarter onwards and were able to gain territory. Good spread of contributors across the ground.”

Marc Greig (Redan)
“1 goal 9 behinds until half time told the story. A trend over the last 3 games where we have had plenty of opportunities in the first quarters to put some scoreboard pressure on but can’t nail our shots. It allowed the oppo momentum when the kicked a couple in a row.”

Four goals from Roosters match winner Jamie Quick has given coach Clint Proctor arguably his most satisfying win from his 26 games in charge.

Under trying conditions that resembled more of an arm wrestle, the hosts were expected to be up against it given a host of key outs.

The Roosters had nine players aged 18 or younger to worry the reigning premiers out of a game that went down to the wire.

The Devils never looked comfortable in the conditions nor at the venue that has yielded just one win from their last six visits.

All kudos to Proctor and his Roosters getting the job done with 12 players sidelined with injury and unavailability.

Quick’s four goals were the difference in a low scoring game.

Seb Collins, Finn Russell and Josh Morris stood up alongside Quick to aid the cause and win as underdogs.

North Ballarat will feature prominently at the business end, wins like these are invaluable as the missing troops stagger their returns.

While Darley coach Dan Jordan was relatively positive in the aftermath it really was one game that got away.

The once enviable aura of the Devils is diminishing by the week despite stellar seasons from big three Brett Bewley, Billy Myers and Nick Hind who featured prominently again in the narrow loss.

The week ahead does not get any easier for the Devils as they prepare to take on the high-flying Swans (2nd) at Darley Park.

North Ballarat are away to the Lakers.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Billy Myers (Darley) - 34 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

Josh Morris (North Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 10 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Oscar Stone (North Ballarat) - 18 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Unreal win! On the canvas atm with injuries so credit must go to the lads who played today. Conditions helped us no doubt - Darely such a powerful team around stoppages and are always the benchmark. We were able to apply enough pressure to keep the match in tight and eventually take our moments late.”

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Proud of the boy’s effort today in difficult conditions - we had a crack. Credit to North Ballarat who ended on the right side of an arm wrestle. Jamie Quick was the difference.”

Ladder leaders Sebastopol overcame a scare to earn the premiership points against a brave Melton in perfect conditions at MacPherson Park.

The Bloods led at every change, as their pressure and effort wound the clock back despite a handful of key outs. But it was the Burra who refused to give in, hell bent on securing an all-important road win.

Not all went right for Tony Lockyer’s men - while you couldn’t doubt their effort and intent, they were scratchy with their ball use and decision making early on.

Credit to the Burra staying the course booting 10 goals to five in the second half to overrun the Bloods, validating their position at the top of the BFNL table.

Ash Munari booted four goals for the winners and Adam Forbes two, while Bloods forward Braedan Kight returned his biggest haul of the season to match Munari’s day out with four majors.

There were a host of impact contributors from both sides - coaches Lockyer and Troy Scoble would’ve been proud of their groups output. Quality game.

The Burra hierarchy settled on smooth mover Luke Kiel and ball magnet Felix Henderson as their best while the Bloods recognised Caleb Burquest in a break-out game for the youngster and the x-factor display from Kight inside forward 50.

Sebastopol host Bacchus Marsh (5th) in Round 9 as the Bloods prepare for a trip down the highway to meet Redan (9th) at City Oval.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 30 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 30 disposals, 8 marks, 7 score involvements

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 26 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 6 1%ers

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“We continue to show resilience, our effort and commitment to execute the plan today nearly got us there. Did a lot right for majority of game, 2.4 to 5.1 in the third shifted momentum. Went to the wire and on the wrong side again. We will soldier on!”

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Well done to Melton who came to play and were a much better side early. They were clean, worked really hard and deserved to be in front. We were disappointed with our own input early but showed some grit to stay in the contest when things weren’t going our way. We started to connect better in the second half and gather some momentum. Few lessons to take away but super proud of the boys/club to get the job done in the end. Melton showed they have what it takes to be contending at the business end of the year. Well done to Troy and the club for hosting another great day of footy. Quality on and off field.”

Scoop Reviews Round 9

Wet, wild and Wintery conditions made it tough going around the grounds yet still provided plenty of thrilling results in Round 9.

High flying Sebastopol continued to impress with a comfortable 40-point win over the Cobras at Marty Busch Reserve.

It was the Burra’s fourth win on the trot and eighth for the season at the halfway mark.

Finally, a full bill of health for Tony Lockyer’s outfit and we have been fortunate to get a front row seat along for the ride.

The usual suspects did it again - Lachlan Cassidy (in best 3/6), Luke Kiel (5/9) Lockyer (4/9) and co while the recent form of Felix Henderson (3/9) and forward Ash Munari (two goals) has been encouraging.

By definition, the Cobras were undermanned and will struggle claiming a scalp without Jake Owen, Will Lalor and, in Saturday’s case, Isaac Nixon (flu).

If it’s any consolation for their coach Dennis Armfield, they did win the highly anticipated ruck dual between Luke Goetz and Toby Hutt.

Other mini wins on the road included a second quarter response of five goals to have them with 20 points at halftime and the effort of Michael Ktona (two goals) who was a late call up into the side.

Despite the Wintery conditions both sides provided loyal fans a forward showing on the basic fundamentals - which is not always easy in Ballarat.

While there’s been injury aplenty at Cobra land this season, they must be rapt with the development of Cody Gates who made it a fourth appearance in the bests from his nine games in 2026.

The Burra are away to danger team East Point this week while the Cobras prepare for a very winnable assignment at home against three-win Melton (7th).

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 35 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 94 hit outs, 16 disposals, 10 clearances

Felix Henderson (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 14 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
“Quality performance for most of the game from the boys. We wanted to start well and felt we controlled the game early. Bacchus Marsh responded well midway through the second as we knew they would and our boys didn’t adjust to their intensity. Was pleased our boys responded to the challenge in the second half to regain control. Skill level from both sides in the wet showed the quality in the comp. A great first half of the season. We now look forward to the second half of the year now starting with East.”

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
“Can’t allow a quality side a 48-point head start in a wet weather game of footy. Proud that the group fought back and made it a contest and can hold our head up losing the last two and a half quarters by 2 points. We now regroup, get a couple back to take on Melton at home.”

The Roosters continue making an impression with their depth following a 50-point win over Lake Wendouree at CE Brown Reserve.

With double digit absentees pitted on the sidelines it was up to key utility Josh Morris (two goals) and Sam Glover prodigy Dominic Penny to lead the way.

Roosters coach Clint Proctor will welcome any win given the current landscape while his soldiers mend from week to week.

Simon McCartin and Max Faulkner made welcomed returns and will be better for the run.

Samuel Artz and Elliot Lamb were at their honest best while the form of Jye Lockett (four goals) and Taj Bowman remains in the favourable space.

An encouraging opening half from the Lakers, while without a win, their form is trending upwards.

Newcomers Alfred Jarnestrom and Corey Rich featured prominently again to land in the best.

Scoring won’t get any easier for the Lakers as Winter hits - they just need to take their opportunities.

Logan Clark (two goals) was the Lakers only multiple goal scorer that saw them in touch at the half just 10 points shy of the 7-2 Roosters.

The Lakers venture to City Oval on Saturday to face Redan who would still be riding high after their upset win over Melton.

North Ballarat are away to Alfredton Oval this week to take on the Swans who will be looking to bounce back quickly from their narrow loss to Darley.

Another test for North Ballarat’s depth awaits.

Surely the Swans can upset the Roosters, still 10-11 soldiers shy of their best 22.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Alfred Jarnestrom (Lake Wendouree) - 41 disposals, 17 rebound 50s, 14 intercept possessions

Joshua Morris (North Ballarat) - 19 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Dominic Penny (North Ballarat) - 23 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
“Very difficult conditions for footy, thought we had the 1st half on our terms, very good 2nd quarter. Well done to Proc and his team they made a few changes at the break which worked, Morris changed the game in the 3rd and goals being hard to come by the game was gone. Stuck to task again and battled away which we always do, couple of bad injuries again with a concussion and Fordham looks to be season over. Pick ourselves up and get stuck into the back half of the season.”

Clint Proctor (North Ballarat)
“Very difficult conditions - such a territory contested day. Impressed with Lakers’ tactics and system - they tested us with some different looks around the field. I thought we adjusted well after half time and got the game on our terms. Nice to kick a score today considering.”

Sunbury moved into the top six with a solid win over a brave East Point side at Clarke Oval.

The Kangas arrived full of spirit with every intent of bucking the trend of a 0-8 record at the venue for Ballarat sides spanning the best part of 2 years.

Joe Carmody’s boys gave it an almighty shake having led at every change, but a goalless final term would prove their undoing.

Sunbury’s Jack Newitt was named best ahead of midfield pair Harry Power and Josh Guthrie.

Youngster Blake Walker was earning the nod of hierarchy while the one constant for the Lions in Tyson Lever was never far from the action.

Worth noting the Lions were missing few - Jake Egan, Jake Sutton, Daniel Johnston, Fraser Ampulski, Mitch McLean, Brock Landt, Dean Muir, Lewis Tudor, Zach Stevens, Keenan O’Shea, Myles Gollant and Tyson Cook.

Take those 12 players out of your preferred team and you’re vulnerable, especially against a hungry Kangas outfit that could smell a fourth win on the trot.

Goals were always going to come at a premium for the Lions given the reliability of their outs.

Newitt and Nathan Doyle chimed in with three ‘better than handy’ ones apiece while Kangas’ warrior Jacob Brown finished with a game high four majors, nearly dragging the visitors over the line.

Known defender Sam Lucas was sent forward and kicked three to aid the Kangas’ cause who had a number of good players.

Encouraging to see Deng Lual and Cooper Glenwright-McGuane recognised for their effort on the road ahead of Joe Dodd, Joe Fraser, Jessie Cairns and of course, Brown.

Gee Sunbury will be tough to beat again at home this week against the Devils, with up to a dozen likely to miss.

East Point get a “throw at the stumps” opportunity against Sebastopol (8-1).

Look at it as another chance to measure the rebuild.

Should be a compelling Round 10 of BFNL action. Stay tuned.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Newitt (Sunbury) - 47 disposals, 13 marks, 8 clearances

Cody Bramble (Sunbury) - 37 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 8 intercept possessions

Jack Jeffrey (East Point) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matty White (Sunbury)
“Was a tough contest all day. Got a bit of a jump but kept letting east back in. A few magnets had to swing with a couple of injuries, but we were able to battle through and grind a good win against a hot east team.”

Joe Carmody (East Point)
“Sunbury’s ball movement was too polished for us at times. We did a lot right but not for long enough. We are improving but still have plenty to work on.”

Redan gave new season coach Marc Greig his finest moment over his short time, with a spirited one-point upset win over Melton.

The Lions led at every change, giving loyal fans something to smile about in the aftermath.

It’s the ideal prep for a potential second win in a row and a third for the season when they host the Lakers in Round 10.

What we can draw from the last fortnight is Winter has arrived in Ballarat. Cold wind and rain has seen 40 points in an afternoon prove enough for victory in successive weeks.

Melton clearly struggled to adapt despite multiple goal returns from Braedan Kight (three goals) and Ryan Carter (two goals).

Redan had five individual goalkickers but that was enough to get the job done.

Rory Gunsser was named best for the winners ahead of Nick Barker, Jacob Werts, Daniel Bond and returnees Will Madden and Oscar Henderson.

The result could have gone either way but the fallout for the Bloods cannot be denied.

Just three wins from their first nine games sees them a game outside the top six - a foreign place for the perennial finalists of recent times.

The Bloods were close. In fact, they’re never far away and will front the opportunity ahead against Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park with every bit of intent.

Kyle Borg, Braedan Kight, Caleb Burquest, Ryan Davis, Harry Handley and Lachie Phillips featured in the best for the Bloods who were missing Jordy Kight, Adrian Monitto, Lachie Watkins, Jack, Lachie and Riley Walker.

A loss this week against the Cobras will put their finals chances in jeopardy - so expect them to prepare accordingly for the first of many season defining games we’re sure to bear witness.

A rejuvenated Lions outfit should make it back-to-back wins with a win over the Lakers regardless of the big chill!

STATS THAT MATTERED

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 24 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 24 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Brody Pope (Redan) - 30 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Marc Greig (Redan)
“A wet wintery day where both teams had to make the most of their opportunities and moments throughout the day. In the end it was our boys that hung on but it could have gone either way. I was pleased with our lads to lead all day, then Melton hit the front late, but we stuck to our process, and it gave us the opportunity to kick the goal which gave us back the lead. There’ll be lots of bruised bodies for both sides.”

Troy Scoble (Melton)
“Tough conditions for both teams. 4 quarters of contest by both. For us. Copy and paste of last month. Effort huge, resilience to be admired, had opportunities did not capitalize and beaten by a kick or less. Love the group. It stings!”

The Devils bounced back to the winner’s list with a nail-biting five-point win over Ballarat.

The highly anticipated affair most certainly lived up to the billing giving buoyant fans a front row seat to one of the games of the season.

This matchup had everything.

While as many as seven ex-AFL players were represented it was two former and current VFL listed talents that led the way for their respective teams in a finals like rehearsal.

Devils’ quintessential playmaker Billy Myers (ex-Williamstown) booted seven goals, making light work of a slippery ball both in the air and his pinpoint goalkicking.

Footscray VFL listed accumulator Tristan Maple did his future prospects no harm with a standout display around the ground - his run and distribution was part the catalyst of a Swans comeback in the second half.

Both camps would concede it was a tale of two halves with the Devils exploding out of the blocks with five goals over a scintillating eight minutes to stun Ash Baker’s bevy who arrived on a 6-0 run.

Darley coach Dan Jordan was thrilled with the immediate response after “a chat” during the week.

Relatively dry conditions prevailed for the entire first half as the Devils extended to a 43-point lead at the main break.

Brett Bewley, Nick Hind, Joel Cadman and Adam Azzopardi had the wood over the Swans’ midfield despite the efforts Fraser Perkins who was leading the resistance.

Enter the rain.

The Swans refused to throw in the towel with an inaccurate 5.7 in the third – ex-Western Bulldog Andrew Hooper provided the spark with three goals and challenged the Devils’ defence in slippery conditions.

The reigning premiers looked to have regressed into their shell, as if haunted by their disappointing loss in the wet to North Ballarat seven days earlier.

Surely a 19-point buffer for Darley at the final break would be enough? Well, it was in the end, barely, as the Swans continued to come.

Biggie Nyuon (two goals) was beginning to look dangerous on the back of a spike in supply numbers.

The BFNL’s leading goal scorer had been well held by Matthew Brett for the most part.

Maple, Perkins, Hooper, Luke Gray and Paddy Simpson took it up to the hosts only to fall agonisingly short.

While the Swans lost no admirers, the Devils looked sharp for periods, providing glimpses of their best and were shown the way yet again by led by star duo Brett Bewley and Billy Myers.

Darley extraordinary 16-0 run at home continues.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 41 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 39 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 tackles

Billy Myers (Darley) - 11 disposals, 7 marks, 7 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
“Proud of the response from the boys after some shared realities during the week.
Excellent start to the game against a very good side. We always knew they were going to come, and we were well aware of how important it was to start well. Credit to the Swans they kept coming - we were rapt and relieved to hang on in the end and take plenty of learning from the game. Still a lot for us to work on moving forward.”

Ash Baker (Ballarat)
“Disappointing result for us. We were poor early and given a lesson at contested possession throughout the first half. Darley are a quality outfit and when the game was there to be set up, they proved just that. To our credit, we kept fronting up during the second half and our ability to keep at it got us back in the game late in the contest. Plenty to work on moving forwards.”

Player nominations to trial for the McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball 22/23 Representative Teams are now open on the link below.

Applications close on the 10th of October 2022.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball Representative program is a great experience for our young netball talent. Nominations are now open to trial for the 2022/2023 representative teams.

All BFNL junior netballers who are keen to try out for our rep teams and who were born between 2006 and 2011 are encouraged to nominate via the online link below.

Dates for trials are yet to be finalised, however, trials will be held in  October/November 2022. 

This year we will have two 15 & Under Teams going to Association Champs. This gives more players an opportunity to be a part of this great program which will assist in developing skills.

BFNL Junior Netball 22/23 Representative Teams and Coaches

13 & Under – Coach: Leah Macdonald

Players born in 2010 and 2011

15 & Under – Coach: Meg Porter & Di McCormack (Championship Team) and Lisa Strudwick (Development Team)

Players born in 2008 and 2009

17 & Under –  Coach: Prue Douglass & Damien Mullane

Players born in 2006 and 2007

You must complete the online nomination form to participate in trials: https://forms.gle/7htXhRcYQhPFwxkh6

Applications for trials will close on the 10^th of October.

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the Junior Coaches and Players for this year’s BFNL Junior Netball Representative Program.

The League is thrilled with the knowledge and experience that these appointed coaches bring, and they are certainly putting this into practice when developing our junior players within the representative program. The players and coaches put their hard work into action at the Association Championships on the 5^th of June 2022.

We are pleased to announce the following coaches and squads for each of our age groups:

13 and Under BFNL Representative Squad

Kate McMahon – Coach

Keira McDonald – Ballarat Swans

Brydee Craig-Peters - Redan

Eliza Ashby – Ballarat Swans

Lyla Sheehan – Lake Wendouree

Emmy Holloway – Lake Wendouree

Gabriella Stanley – Mount Clear

Audrey Murnane – North Ballarat

Allie Kirby – East Point

Hayley Jackson – Ballarat Swans

Ashlee Beseler – North Ballarat

Mia Hayne – Storm

Macy Abrams – North Ballarat

15 and Under BFNL Representative Squad

Di McCormack – Coach

Addison Wright – Darley

Rylee Sheridan – Sebastopol

Penny Follett – North Ballarat

Harriet Hodge – East Point

Madison Dixon – Sebastopol

Scarlett Clayton – Darley

Mackenzie Kopke-Veldhuis - Sebastopol

Amarli Minster - Sebastopol

Maia Murphy – Ballarat Swans

Ebony Porter – North Ballarat

Abby Kinnersly- East Point

Kate Aikman – North Ballarat

Charli Ferguson – North Ballarat

17 and Under Representative Team

Prue Douglass – Coach

Damien Mullane – Coach

Katie Jackson - Redan

Rose Pfitzner – North Ballarat

Annabel Hodge – East Point

Sarah Augustine – East Point

Allanah Trevisan – Mount Clear

Jacinta McKenzie – Ballarat Swans

Georgia Bodey – North Ballarat

Chelsea Oellering – Mount Clear

Rose Murnane – North Ballarat

Isabella McNeill – Lake Wendouree

Emily Davies – Redan

Matilda Myers - Redan

Scoop'  Preliminary Final Review

Ballarat are the masters of comeback victories this season, but Sebastopol finally put a halt to the Swans' season. Now, Melton awaits Sebastopol in the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Senior Football Grand Final.

Sebastopol will meet Melton in Saturday's 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Grand Final at Mars Stadium after holding off a spirited Ballarat at the weekend.

The Burras led from the start to progress to the league's version of the big dance. The decider will end a Premiership drought for one of these clubs dating back to 2005 (Melton) and for as long as the time spent in the BFNL for the other (Sebastopol). Ironically, Saturday's game will be fought by the previous two Runners-Ups (2018, 2019) from the last two fully completed seasons.

The Game:

Sebastopol got themselves off to a hot start as the dual between Toby Hutt and Bailey Van de Heuvel gave every indication of living up to its billing. Burras defender Riley O'Keefe went to Swans dangerous forward Josh Gibson (3 goals) and Grady Snowden to Andrew Hooper (1 goal). But for all the Burras territorial dominance in the first term with the breeze, it was Gibson and Hooper who goaled late to keep the Swans within striking distance - 19 points adrift.

Burras ruckman James Richards influence was formidable, while the decision of Michael Searl to swing Luke Kiel to half back was seemingly paying off in dividends as Sebastopol continued with the majority of control, Burras midfield trio Daniel Widgery (2 goals), Chase Dummett (1 goal) and Lachie Cassidy (1 goal) led the way with their power and work rate, especially inside the contest, often outmuscling the younger, less experienced bodies of the Swans.

Van de Heuvel (1 goal) was swung forward by Swans coach Joe Carmody in the second half to generate impetus on a scoreline that was labouring, with 18 points in arrears and just three goals on the board. As a result, Snowden went to the Footscray VFL affiliate, opening the door for Hooper and his chance at getting off the chain. But it would be the returns of unheralded small forward Adam Forbes (2 goals) at the other end who made the most of his opportunity, showcasing his forward craft and potentially his place in the Grand Final side. When the Burras led by as much as 38 points late in the third term you'd have every reason to label the game done and dusted given the Swans were still stranded on three goals. But late goals to Swans Captain Sam James (1 goal) and Van de Heuvel reduced the margin to 26 points at the last break - and within a sniff mounting a memorable comeback. 

Widgery steadied the ship with a goal at the 15-minute mark of the last term, the game looked beyond the plucky Swans who have somehow found a way to win the close ones on numerous occasions this year. But there was to be no repeat of any Swans Houdini acts despite their efforts posting six of the last seven goals of the game. The Burras hung on to win nine points.

Now, for Melton. Good luck! No doubt there will be an eager eye cast to the progress and recovery of inspirational Burras Captain Tony Lockyer from a nasty ankle injury sustained in week one of the finals against North Ballarat. Lockyer can't get back......or can he?

Let the trials and tribulations of Grand Final week begin...  

What the coaches said:

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):(I am) incredibly proud of the group. We defended really well and made it hard for them to score. As always, Ballarat stayed in the game and we weren't able to close out the game. We are onto next week and looking forward to having a crack at Melton again.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):Sebastopol's pressure and clean ball handling was too good. We couldn't get our game going but as the players have done all year they fought hard until the very end.

The Wash-Up

SEBASTOPOL: 5.1-31, 5.8-38, 8.11-59, 9.14-68 def

BALLARAT: 2.0-12, 3.2-20, 5.3-33, 9.5-59

SEBASTOPOL (BEST):J.Richards, L.Cassidy, L.Kiel, J.Hill, J.Keeble, T.Hutt.

BALLARAT (BEST):N.Weightman, W.Liston, N.Swain, B.Fraser, S.James, M.Powling.

SEBASTOPOL (GOALS):A.Forbes 2, D.Widgery 2, J.Hill, L.Cassidy, C.Dummett, B.Veale, T.Hutt

BALLARAT (GOALS):J.Gibson 3, R.Perry, S.James, B.Van de Heuvel, W.Garner, T.Sutton, A.Hooper.

Round 16 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Finals are just three weeks away and the top six is still open for eight clubs. This is where things get really interesting…

A monster crowd is expected to descend on Maddingley Park for the highly anticipated battle between cross-town rivals Bacchus Marsh and Darley. A finals berth is at stake for these two teams but sadly, there's only room for one of them. Put simply, a loss for the Cobras on their home deck will end any finals aspirations while a win keeps their season alive.

For the Devils, a win guarantees them a spot in this year's finals, which would be a significant achievement under new coach Dan Jordan given the club's winless 2021. A loss on the other hand for the Devils does not mean game over entirely on the finals front. But they would need to beat North Ballarat in Round 18 and rely on other results falling their way to sneak in. So, in a nutshell - it is all about this next instalment between the old foe, as they say, that will seal one's fate.

Let's hope the weather holds up and we can be privy to a local derby for the ages. Only the 2018 Elimination Final - and 2017 Grand Final of more recent times - rival the hype and expectation of these two going head-to-head. Needless to say, finals aside - there is no bigger stage. We want to see Brett Bewley (named in the best in 10 out of 14 games) charging out of the middle and hitting Nick Rodda (50 goals) on the lead to hear the roar of the Devils faithful. We want to see Jake Owen (named in the best in 11 out of 13 games) in full flight and Harry King's run and carry on the spread and hear the Cobra fans at home in full voice. We wish for the derby, the best version of itself - unless, of course, you're in in either the Devils or the Cobras camp.

Darley understands their finals destiny lay in their own hands and Bacchus Marsh stands very much in the way right now. Jordan will have banked arguably his boys’ best win of the season last week over East Point and done all and sundry to keep the group grounded, in check, essentially reset. For the time is now to deliver when it counts most. While the focus will be on the Devils' mids, Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt (if available) and Luther Baker to generate majority supply forward, questions will be asked of their generals in defence, namely Matty Brett and Darren Leonard to manage a young back six negating Aaron Willetts (25 goals), Rex Hickman (16 goals) and Jake Owen (16 goals) who will likely spend some time in the front half, depending on the state of the game.

For the Cobras, captain Jake Owen is the star and leads by inspirational example. Tom German, Nick Stuhldreier, Harry King, Jack Williams, Michael Culliver and Aaron Willetts head a talented support crew more than capable of getting the job done.

We'll just have to wait and see.

East Point will aim to adopt the no mercy rule approach as they strive for a needed percentage booster against the Lakers. The Kangas gave up their second placing on the BFNL ladder with a 30-point loss on the road to Darley and will want to bounce back the best way they know how - doing damage on the scoreboard.

Last week the Kangas were kept to their second-lowest score of their season (57) and will have eyes on racking up the ton (weather permitting) once this game is put to bed. I can't see the Lakers troubling a Kangas outfit on the rebound, despite honourable efforts against the Swans and the Lions over the last two weeks. The senior bodies at East Point will exploit the determined youth of the Lakers to ensure they get the job done before an enthralling Round 17 meet with Melton.

In hindsight, the Kangas will have had the toughest draw, having played all current six teams twice by the season's end. And, so they should in fairness, given their reigning dual Premiership status. The hit-out with the Lakers ahead of the Melton bout will give the Kangas an opportunity to reflect on last week's loss and to reassert their brand as one of the more ominous combinations in the competition.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, their remaining three Home & Away games are as tough as any with East Point, Sebastopol and Melton. All Lakers coach Jack Fitzpatrick can ask for is a similar effort around the contest that resembles something from their previous two games. Plenty will be asked of the senior players at the Lakers to make sure they stay hungry or risk the likelihood of two or three big defeats at the end of the season. Experienced Lakers Joel and Lachlan O'Connell, Nathan Pring, Jacob Coxall, Timmy Collins and Callum McKay's message will be made clear by their actions. Nobody is expecting them to win, but we're hopeful of another buy-in effort from the undermanned Lakers that can at least make the Kangas earn it. 

Containing dangerous Kangas x-factor forward Jordy Johnston (45 goals - named in the best 9 out of 14 games) would be a good place to start for the Lakers. But that’s easier said than done. 

Not to be denied, this North Ballarat (6th) vs Sebastopol (4th) clash will have ramifications of its own. After a strong win against flag favourites Melton, Brendan McCartney's North find themselves in a position where they need to win to guarantee a place in this year's finals. Who would have thought their two recent slip-ups against East Point and Ballarat would see them vulnerable? If North does happen to lose against the 'Burras I will explore in greater detail the pros and cons for them enroute to finals.

Come season’s end, North Ballarat and East Point will have endured the toughest draws of all having met all remaining top six teams twice throughout the year. In hindsight, it's only fair given the Kangas and North share the 2018, 2019 Premierships (East) and 2021 Minor Premiership (North) between them. But what say of North Ballarat and their chances against a hungry 'Burras keen for some continuity much like their hosts who have been battered by injury?

North is known for bringing the heat early, we've seen that more often than not during McCartney's two-year tenure. Michael Searl's Sebastopol won't want to be playing catch up especially on Saturday because I guarantee McCartney will not have his boys overrun for a third week in a row. The 'Burras, fresh off their bye will hope to hit the ground running and put scoreboard pressure on a North Ballarat outfit who have every right to show some degree of fatigue given their tough run since Round 11. Try this block - Darley, Bye, Melton, East Point, Ballarat and now Sebastopol.

Macca's boys, whilst at home, are cherry ripe for the picking as the 'Burras continue to build as their reinforcements arrive. Reigning Henderson Medalist Lachie Cassidy is one of those who missed the 'Burrass 35-point win over North back in Round 5. However, Searl's gang will have to do it without Luke Kiel (suspended) who was instrumental in their recent wins over Bacchus Marsh and East Point.  

On the home front, North Ballarat looms a different proposition at Mars Stadium where they boast a 5-1 win/loss record. North enter this game with back-to-back losses away from home while the 'Burras are aiming for a fourth straight win.

Expect a stern response from North Ballarat, Macca is of the firm belief another great win for his club is close. Will this be the game? Only the 'Burras’ best can deny them.

While Finals are out of reach for Sunbury, their Round 16 meeting with ladder leaders Melton looms as the ideal opportunity to measure their improvement over recent weeks. In fairness, the Lions' three victories this year have come against the bottom two sides, but most would agree they're one of the better ninth-placed sides around regional Victoria. But they'll need to be better again if they're to take it to the Bloods, who should be fresh from the bye and raring to launch an assault on their last three Home & Away games before a much-anticipated finals campaign.

Expect important Bloods trio Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey and Luke Heeney's return to only bolster the flag favourites line-up as Aaron Tymms and his boys go all-in from here in 2022.

Despite the two teams' separation on the ladder, Tymms will treat this hit-out as one of three remaining [regular-season] Grand Finals. The Lions will aim to restore some pride into a disappointing season with meetings against the Bloods, Ballarat and Bacchus Marsh. How the Lions go about containing the strength and overall evenness of the Bloods across the ground will tell its own story on the scoreboard.

Leading Bloods forwards Ryan Carter (45 goals), Braedan Kight (32) and Liam Carter (28) provide a three-pronged attack unrivalled in the competition. The matchups and support planning will be crucial if Travis Hodgson's Lions are to get within five goals. Comparatively, the Lions have some of their own ability forward of centre that is capable of testing opposition sides. Jake Sutton (23 goals), Leigh Brennan (21) and youngster Jake Egan (16) are proven multiple goal options on their day, but whether they can get the supply inside 50 is another challenge altogether. Both midfields are pretty handy; for the Bloods Mark Orr (ruck), Jack Walker, Jacob Hickey and Lachie Watkins lead a group of ten players that could rotate through the centre if required.

The Lions' options are not as deep, but we should see Harry Minton-Connell return to the coalface if Josh Guthrie (North Melbourne VFL) is unavailable. Minton-Connell has had a stellar year in a (predominantly) losing side and is handy around stoppage but has spent a majority of recent time across half-back. No doubt the Lions benefitted by the inclusion of Port Melbourne affiliate Mitch Lewis last week, but his availability is yet another unknown among many at Sunbury this year. Captain Daniel Toman and Haydn Ross will ensure the Bloods don't have it all their own way but it's clear they'll be up against it.

Round 17 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Could Sunbury pull off another upset? Will North Ballarat escape their losing streak? And can the Cobras keep their finals hopes alive? 

The equation for the Cobras ahead of their Round 17 meeting with Redan is simple: win and your finals hopes remain alive, all be them slim. Get beat, season over.

Sure, there'll be some dialogue around a premature return of star ruckman Daniel Burton, given the stakes, but if they're fair dinkum, waiting another week to face recent giant killer Sunbury may well be the best option.

The Redan Lions aren't the strongest team this year in the ruck, indicating recent addition Spencer Meagher is more than capable of filling the void for another week. The 19-year-old is combative and will prove a handful for 18-year-old opponent Nick Cushing.

The rucks won't determine the result, which I'm sure of as the focus shifts to more pointed areas. The forwards for starters - can Cobras trio Aaron Willetts (26 goals), Rex Hickman (18 goals)and Joel Freeman (15 goals) have their way against a defence that ranks 8th in the comp? They have to be some chance but rest assured the challenges that will come at the other end loom equally as large.

Lions' sharpshooter Izaac Grant (34 goals) and mid/forward Lachie George (23 goals) are the obvious pair Cobras coach Tom German will need to put time into. There's no Jake Owen (concussion) to save the day. Jack Williams and company down back will be asked questions about their ability to restrict the Lions to an inferior score. Despite the Cobras' 10-point loss to the Devils last week, they did concede 106 points for the game, including 31 scoring shots.

So, a tightened backline for the Cobras and a determined midfield cutting supply will be paramount for their chances. Little motivation should be required for the Cobras, for a season on the line is enough.

For Jarrett Giampaolo and his boys, a fourth win in the east beckons in another throw at the stumps game. While they can't make the six, they can most certainly shape it.  

Expect Melton to bring their A-game when they meet flag contenders East Point at Eastern Oval. Luke Heeney and Blake Souter are likely to return to bolster the Bloods stocks and have them near injury free, and ready to launch in the penultimate round of the Home & Away season. Bloods coach Aaron Tymms conceded last week his boys were below their best off the bye for a second time, leaving the door of hope slightly ajar for the daring and willing. And that's what will be asked of Jake Bridges' Kangas on their home deck for their fate is not yet known given their Round 18 bye.

I've no doubt the Kangas' best is good enough but their inability to contain opposition scores has the wider competition questioning whether it can stand up ahead of another finals campaign. A footy audit awaits Bridges' boys and the response will generate a majority of the focus on rival finals contenders. A loss for East Point could see them finish as low as fifth come 5pm August 20 as teams below fight feverishly for a top three finish.

The onus determining the Kangas' chances lies heavily in the performance of their top-end talent. On the flip side, as has been the case against most - the Bloods are not so dependent. In fact, their best three or four players could have a low day and they're still capable of getting the job done. They rank one for defence (55pts AGST avg per game) and one for offence (103 pts for avg per game) and are certain to test the Kangas. While Bridges' boys rank two in offence (91pts FOR pg) their defence rank 9th (79 pts AGST per game). The numbers, weather permitting suggest the Bloods by six goals.

Speaking of danger games, there's no more obvious one than here. Surely Ballarat's 'come from behind' history can't stand up for another month as a free-running Sunbury lob at Alfredton Oval aiming to throw a cat amongst the pigeons.

Travis Hodgson's Lions should be brimming with confidence after their amazing 15-point win over flag favourites Melton. The Lions' best is clearly good enough and would have the Swans worried especially now they have nothing to play for. I'll repeat the earlier adage - while Sunbury are done in a race for a top six position, they can most certainly play a role in shaping it. The Swans have two tough games to finish off - the Lions and later Sebastopol. It's fair to say they're no good things in either given their pattern of play despite a 10-4 season.

If the Lions have VFL affiliates Mitch Lewis, Josh Guthrie and Jack Sutton available, this game looms as a flip of the coin.

The two sides contrasting fortunes are spelled out in the results. Sunbury has lost seven games by 21 points or less, while the Swans have managed to win as many games trailing at halftime, not to mention six of those by seven points or less. It's ridiculous! But in fairness to Joe Carmody's Swans,  good sides find a way to win and their good players are getting it done. How the Swans in form midfield led by Captain Sammy James and young gun Will Liston cope with the experience and growth of the Lions will tell its own story come the final siren.

Both sides have multiple avenues to goal and while the game is not expected to be high scoring given the nature of results at Alfredton Oval, it may take only one to get off the hook and prove the difference.

A win on the road for Sunbury would deliver them kudos and a fifth win of the season while the Swans aim for an all-important top two/three finish. Despite the two team's separation on the ladder, a win for Sunbury would not surprise unless, in fact, they celebrated last week as if it were their Grand Final.   

North Ballarat have the ideal opportunity to end a three-game losing streak at Mars Stadium when they take on Melton South.

Brendan McCartney's boys need to put this game to bed early and strip the visitors of their will, fresh off the bye. The Panthers have shown they can be competitive in games especially early on, so don't expect North to be rolling out the welcome mat.

Panthers coach Heath Pritchard went on the record voicing his respect for North Ballarat and was actually one of a few to tip them to beat the then-undefeated Bloods back in Round 13. No doubt Pritchard will be hoping North are a little flat on the back of recent losses and leave the door slightly ajar for a sniff of an unlikely upset.

It's difficult to forecast anything that will resemble an upset as McCartney's boys go to work, executing their learnings over the last month. Their season depends on it.

Expect Jack Riding (30 goals), Josh Chatfield (if plays) and Jamie Quick (28 goals) to prove a handful and combine for double-figure goals. Just how the Panthers can impact at the other end minus Dylan Conway (retired) and mount a big enough score is an obvious conundrum facing the visitors. I do believe in miracles, just not for this game. North Ballarat simply have too much more to play for.

A win for Sebastopol could see them shoot as high as second place on the BFNL ladder come 5pm Saturday night. And what an achievement that would be given the wretched run of injury to key players they've had to endure.

Put simply, the Burras' destiny lies in their own hands ahead of the penultimate round of the season. Just bank the points and show enough to acquire some needy percentage before an all-out assault against the Swans at Marty Busch next week to determine (likely) a top three finish. But one step at a time.

Let's not forget the Lakers managed to post their second highest score of the season last week against the might of East Point. With that scoreboard bonus despite the loss, I'm sure Jack Fitzpatrick's boys will have derived a lot of confidence in what's been a long season for the club. Again, there's no pressure on the Lakers to deliver given their season - it is all on Sebastopol.

Given the names among the Burras' list, I am surprised they rank just sixth for offence, boasting a modest 71 points per game. Weather permitting, it would be encouraging for Burras coach Michael Searl to earn the game on their own terms and see them go to work. On occasions this year, their ball movement has looked stifled. I don't know how much that comes down to opposition pressure but I'm tipping their execution of the fundamentals has been in part to blame.

On paper, the Burras are capable of booting a ton on any given day, against any opposition, having been successful against East Point and Melton South (both away). But can they do it home with a double chance on the table in front of their 'dare to dream' faithful? The Burras' defence led by Tony Lockyer is a pillar of strength, only Melton has better numbers. It's the forwards turn without Luke Kiel to get it right - and look out if they do

Lakers forward Callum McKay will be up and about after a five-goal haul last week and will give the Burras something to think about. Joel O'Connell, Scotty Carlin and Jacob Coxall will ensure, whatever happens, the Burras will have been made to earn it whatever the outcome.