See all the winners and Best & Fairest leaderboards from the 2022 McDelivery BFLW Awards.

The McDonald’s Ballarat Football Netball League held its 2022 McDelivery BFLW Presentation Night at the North Ballarat Sports Club on Monday night. Around 300 people celebrated the 2022 BFLW home-and-away season at the Awards, with many others joining us via the event live stream.

Congratulations to all of the 2022 Awards winners, which are listed below:

2022 McDelivery Leading Goal Kicker Awards

• Under 14 Junior Girls - Miah Bradbury - Bacchus Marsh - 27 goals
• Under 16 Youth Girls - Jazmine Dalli - Bacchus Marsh – 26 goals
• Under 18 Youth Girls - Kylah Thompson - North Ballarat & Mollie Tigchelaar - North Ballarat – 17 goals
• Women - Kim Bessell - Darley – 51 goals

2022 McDelivery Under 14 Junior Girls Awards

• Best & Fairest - Lara Johnson – Darley – 25 Votes
• Runner-Up – Anika Tran - Bacchus Marsh – 20 Votes
• Rising Star Award - Miah Bradbury - Bacchus Marsh

BFLW McDelivery Under 14 Junior Girls Team of the Year

2022 McDelivery Under 16 Youth Girls Awards

• Best & Fairest - Isabella Davies - North Ballarat – 25 Votes
• Runner-Up – Elise Cook - Bacchus Marsh – 24 Votes
• Rookie of the Year Award - Grace Morton - Lake Wendouree

BFLW McDelivery Under 16 Youth Girls Team of the Year

2022 McDelivery BFLW Coach of the Year Award

• Simone McNeight – East Point Dragons

2022 McDelivery BFLW Coordinator of the Year Award

• Leanne Bassett – Bacchus Marsh

2022 McDelivery Under 18 Youth Girls Awards

• Best & Fairest - Bindi Crabtree – Redan – 19 Votes
• Runner-Up – Lillee Barendsen – Ballarat
• Rookie of the Year Award - Tara McBean - Carisbrook

BFLW McDelivery Under 18 Youth Girls – Team of the Year

2022 McDelivery Women’s Awards

• Best & Fairest - Lori Stepnell – Redan – 21 Votes
• Runner-Up – Zoe Larkins – Redan – 15 Votes

BFLW McDelivery Women’s – Team of the Year

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the details of Week Three of the Carlton Draught Finals Series. 

After a thrilling one-point victory at City Oval, Ballarat moves through to the Preliminary Final to play Sebastopol in a blockbuster game. The winner will progress to the 2022 Carlton Draught Senior Men's Grand Final to take on Melton. 

In what has been a thrilling A-Grade Netball finals series, Redan will have Darley to contend with as we wait to see who will face North Ballarat in the 2022 Carlton Draught A-Grade Grand Final.

Preliminary Final day will be held at City Oval, Ballarat with, netball to kick off at 9:00AM and football from 9:55AM. 

See all the winners of every award at the 2022 Henderson & McLean Medal Presentation.

It was Ballarat football and netball’s night of nights as the McDonald’s Ballarat FNL celebrated the 2022 Henderson & McLean Medal Presentation. With all clubs represented on the night, The North Ballarat Sports Club saw the very best of our competitions on show.

Congratulations to all the winners on the night, which are listed below: 

2022 Henderson Medal

• Winner: Brett Bewley, Darley FNC
• Runner Up: Jordan Johnston, East Point FNC

Returning to the competition and his home club in 2022, Brett polled in 13 of his 16 games. Finishing the count on a massive 29 votes there was no surprise when Brett was announced as the 2022 Henderson Medallist.

2022 McLean Medal

• Winner: Soli Ropati, Melton South FNC
• Runner Up: Rebecca Hicks, Darley FNC

Soli became the first Melton South player to claim the coveted McLean Medal for the A-Grade Netball Best & Fairest last night. Soli, who also represents the Samoan national team, polled 21 votes in the count.

The Ballarat Courier Player of the Year Award

• Winner: Brett Bewley, Darley FNC 

The Merv & Mary Howard Memorial Senior Club Championship

• Winner: East Point FNC

 2022 Ballarat FNL Netball Team of the Year

2022 Netball Coach of the Year

• Winner: Ruby Parry & Hayley Munro, Redan FNC

2022 Mick Malthouse Coach of the Year

• Winner: Joe Carmody, Ballarat FNC

Ballarat FNL Football Team of the Year

2022 Sportsman’s Association of Australia (Ballarat) Rookie of the Year

• Winner: Riley Constable, Ballarat FNC

2022 Netball Coordinator of the Year Award

• Winner: Tegan LaFranchi, Bacchus Marsh FNC

2022 Harry Harris Memorial Administrator of the Year Award

• Winner: Lorissa Edwards, Darley FNC

2022 Umpire of the Year

• Winner: Brock Reid

The George King Medal – Reserves Football Best & Fairest

• Winner: Ryan Davis, Melton FNC
• Runner Up: Mitchell Trimboli, Sunbury FNC

 B-Grade Netball Best & Fairest

• Winner: Lucy Taylor, Darley FNC
• Runner Ups: Kaylee Smith, Darley FNC & Eliza Bennett, North Ballarat FNC

  Taliyah Andrews, Melton South FNC & Lucy Taylor, Darley FNC

C-Grade Netball Best & Fairest

• Winners: Addison Wright, Darley FNC & Amy Jobling, Sebastopol FNC
• Runner Up: Georgia Pidgeon, Ballarat FNC

D-Grade Netball Best & Fairest

• Winner: Taliyah Andrews, Melton South FNC (pictured above)
• Runner Ups: Sarah Rykers, Ballarat FNC & Sophie Lewis, East Point FNC & Jemma Amoore, North Ballarat FNC 

E-Grade Netball Best & Fairest

• Winner: Chelsea Mason, Sebastopol FNC
• Runner Up: Lily McGuinness, East Point FNC

19 & Under Netball Best & Fairest

• Winner: Brydi Hutchinson, North Ballarat FNC
• Runner Up: Isabella Stevens

The Dick Rees Memorial Trophy – Under 19 Football Best & Fairest

• Winner: Blake Quinlan, Ballarat FNC
• Runner Up: Riley Constable, Ballarat FNC

Tony Lockett Medal – Senior Football Leading Goal Kicker Award

• Winner: Ryan Carter, Melton FNC & Nick Rodda, Darley FNC (56 goals)

Will Quinlan & Ryan Carter 

Jim Gull Medal – Reserves Football Leading Goal Kicker

• Winner: Taylor Stewart, Sebastopol FNC

Under 19 Football Leading Goal Kicker Award

• Winner: Will Quinlan, North Ballarat FNC

The extraordinary talent of our junior footballers and netballers across the McDonald's Ballarat FNL was on show last night at the 2022 Robert Allan Medal Awards presentation.

The McDonald’s Ballarat Football Netball League held its 2022 Robert Allan Medal Presentation Night at the North Ballarat Sports Club last night. With all clubs in attendance, around 300 people celebrated the 2022 BFNL Junior Football & Netball home-and-away season. 

Congratulations to all the winners on the night, which are listed below: 

Buxton Ballarat Junior Football Goal Kicking Awards 

2022 McDonald's Ballarat Under 13 Seniors 

• Winner:Emerton Hooper, Ballarat Storm FNC - 31 Goals 

2022 Harmac Homes Under 15 Seniors 

• Winner:Lincoln Koliba, Lake Wendouree FNC - 40 Goals 

2022 McCafé Under 17 Seniors 

• Winner:Strahan Robinson, East Point JFNC - 47 Goals 

Best & Fairest Awards

 13 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest 

• Runner Up:Makayla Wright (Sebastopol) - 25 votes 
• Winner:Jasmine Matthews (Darley) - 30 votes 

Under 13 Football Best & Fairest – The Lloyd Sims Trophy 

• Runners Up:James Sheehan (Storm) - 22 votes 
• Winner:Emerton Hooper (Storm) - 23 votes 

15 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest 

• Runners Up:Mia Hayes (Darley) - 20 votes 
• Winners:Charlotte Cross (Ballarat) - 23 votes 

Under 15 Football Best & Fairest – The Keith Rawle Memorial Trophy 

• Runner Up:Harley Hicks (Lake Wendouree) - 25 votes 
• Winner:Baxter Horsburgh (North Ballarat) - 30 votes

17 & Under Senior Netball B & F 

• Runner Up:Jane McKinnis (Redan) - 22 votes 
• Winner:Addison Wright (Darley) - 24 votes 

Under 17 Senior Football Best & Fairest - The Gordon Wise Memorial Trophy 

• Runner Up:Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 16 votes 
• Winner:Joshua Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 20 votes 

Robert Allan Medals and Netball MVP Presentations 

13 & Under Senior Netball – Most Valuable Player Award 

• Winner:Audrey Murnane (North Ballarat) – 8 Votes 

Under 13 Senior Robert Allan Medal 

• Winner:Emerton Hooper (Storm) – 28 Votes 

15 & Under Senior Netball – Most Valuable Player Award 

• Winners:Ella Litras (Redan) & Maggie Harris (East Point) – 9 Votes 

Under 15 Senior Robert Allan Medal 

• Winner:Harley Hicks (Lake Wendouree) – 22 Votes 

17 & Under Senior Netball – Most Valuable Player Award 

• Winner:Laila Lappin (Redan) – 8 Votes 

Under 17 Senior Robert Allan Medal 

• Winner:Khy Jess (Redan) – 14 Votes 

Coordinator of The Year Awards 

Junior Football Coordinator of The Year Award: 

Shannon Closter – Darley Junior FNC 

Junior Netball Coordinator of The Year Award: 

Jill James - Lake Wendouree FNC 

Coach of The Year Awards 

Junior Football Coach of the Year Award: 

Simon Geljon – East Point Junior FNC 

Junior Netball Coach of the Year Award: 

Meg Porter – North Ballarat FNC 

Ballarat FNL Interleague & Representative Coach Recognition 

Football Interleague Coaches 

• U/13 Coach – Scott Petrie & Simon Geljon 
• U/14 Coach – Michael Dwyer 
• U/15 Coach – Tim Beacham 
• U/16 Coach – Simon Remington 

Netball Representative Coaches 

• 13 & Under Coach – Kate McMahon 
• 15 & Under Coach – Di McCormack 
• 17 & Under Coach – Prue Douglass & Damien Mullane 

The Merv & Mary Howard Memorial Junior Club Championship 

• Winner:Redan JFNC 

Special Presentation to Junior Footballers & Netballers 

2022 NAB AFL National Development Championships - U16 Boys 

• Oliver Hannaford - East Point 
• Archie Caldow - East Point 
• Samuel Lalor - Bacchus Marsh 
• Jonty Faull - Redan 
• Lucca Grego - Bacchus Marsh 
• Jack Ough - East Point 

2022 Victorian Under 15 School Sports Team 

• Dylan Hiscock - East Point 

See all the votes for your club from the 2022 McDonald's Ballarat FNL Junior Netball and Football Best & Fairest.

13 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest 

• Runner Up:Makayla Wright (Sebastopol) - 25 votes 
• Winner:Jasmine Matthews (Darley) - 30 votes 

Under 13 Football Best & Fairest – The Lloyd Sims Trophy 

• Runners Up:James Sheehan (Storm) - 22 votes 
• Winner:Emerton Hooper (Storm) - 23 votes 

15 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest 

• Runners Up:Mia Hayes (Darley) - 20 votes 
• Winners:Charlotte Cross (Ballarat) - 23 votes 

Under 15 Football Best & Fairest – The Keith Rawle Memorial Trophy 

• Runner Up:Harley Hicks (Lake Wendouree) - 25 votes 
• Winner:Baxter Horsburgh (North Ballarat) - 30 votes 

17 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest 

• Runner Up:Jane McKinnis (Redan) - 22 votes 
• Winner:Addison Wright (Darley) - 24 votes 

Under 17 Senior Football Best & Fairest - The Gordon Wise Memorial Trophy 

• Runner Up:Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 16 votes 
• Winner:Joshua Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 20 votes 

The McDonald's Ballarat Football Netball League Senior Fixture for 2022 has been released, with a full fixture of 18 rounds plus finals planned.

Media Release

The board is pleased to announce the final fixture for the upcoming 2022 McDonald's Ballarat FNL Senior season. 

This season is hoped to build on the momentum from the 2021 season that was cut short, with a full fixture of 18 rounds plus finals planned. 

In keeping with tradition, all clubs will play 16 games and have two scheduled byes. 

Round One kicks off on Saturday 9thApril, while Round Two is split across the following weekends, with Lake Wendouree to host Redan on Good Friday, being the first Round Two game. 

The Queen's Birthday full competition bye will return after being well received in 2021 with Bacchus Marsh hosting Sunbury this weekend as a Round Nine stand-alone game. 

Details of night and twilight games will be advised after discussions with the clubs as we lead up to the start of the season. 

Photo by Leigh Monk / courtesy AFL Victoria

21 BFNL junior boys and 18 BFLW girls have been named in the GWV Rebels V/Line Cup squad for 2022. Representing the quality and development of the Ballarat FNL as the peak junior competition in the region.

The AFL Commissions of Goldfields, Western District & Wimmera Mallee, in conjunction with the GWV Rebels are delighted to announce the girls and boys squads to be considered to compete in the 2022 VLine Cup in Shepparton.

The VLine Cup will take place between Monday 19^th Sept and Tuesday 20^th Sept 2022 in Shepparton. The GWV Rebels VLine Cup squad was selected from club, representative and trial games held across all 3 regions.

The coaches of both the girls and boys squads are very excited with the assembled talented players that have been selected in the initial squads.

Training sessions will occur Monday 29^th August, Monday 5^th & 12^th September at Alexandra Oval in Ararat.

See the squads:

With pre-season preparations well under way and Round 1 quickly approaching, Scoop has gone one-on-one with all 11 senior football coaches ahead of the 2024 McDonalds BFNL season.

COACH:Chris Maple

Previous Experience/Accolades:2016 Western Bulldogs AFL Premiership Match Day Assistant Coach, 2014 Footscray VFL Premiership Coach.   

ON THE RECORD:

SCOOP: Well Chris, a year down in charge of the Swans - what did you learn about the group and where they're at and more broadly the BFNL given you've come from an elite program in the AFL with the Western Bulldogs?

CHRIS MAPLE: We're a young team like many across the BFNL which is a positive. I just really hope they stay in the competition (not lured elsewhere). The quality of the grounds have improved a lot too since my playing days.

SCOOP: Callum Wellings (25yo, 181cm) was a great pickup ahead of last season but unfortunately he was unsighted for various reasons. Is he good to go this year after a year off?

CM: Yep, he's back in Oz and we look forward to seeing him go around through the midfield.

SCOOP: You often made reference in your post-match comment last season it was essentially a quarter here and there that was costing you dearly from gaining a result. What's the ingredient to go about rectifying that in the new season?

CM: That's the part of having a young group and clearly an area of growth for us. The new additions bring physicality and experience which will help out the younger boys in that space. Expect some speed humps a long way but I’d like to think we're heading in the right direction.

SCOOP: Tell us about Lachie Dalgleish - he reads a more than handy acquisition and the mail is he's a terrific bloke. Elaborate for us on his role...

CM: Yep your mail is right, good fella. He's arrived with an eye toward high level coaching in the future. Lachie (30yo,185cm) is well credentialled and will play a variety of roles.

SCOOP: Andrew Hooper (32yo) has been an ageless contributor for the club for some time. Apart from his forward craft we're privy seeing when he's up and about, what does he offer the young brigade off field regarding preperation and gameday?

CM: Hoops has great aspirations in the coaching space and has really grown as a leader and positive influence for our young group.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

CM: Backline will be stronger, and our midfield should progress.

PROJECTED IMPROVEMENT

CM: Debuted 16 players last year so we're hopeful the youth will progress with a year of senior footy under their belts.

PRE SEASON TRAINING

CM: It has been been good. We had a month block pre-Christmas before returning on January 23.

MOST UNDER AND OVERRATED STAT IN TODAY'S BFNL FOOTY

CM: Possessions – Overrated, Repeat F50 entries - Underrated

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE

Saturday March 23 v Sebastopol (A)

Thursday April 4 v Dunnstown (H, Night Match).

PLAYER INS

Lachie Dalgleish (Drysdale), Harry Butler (Carisbrook), James Carpenter (Uni Blacks, VAFA), Zak Rinaldi (Carisbrook), Bailey Fraser (Returned) 

PLAYER OUTS

Bailey Vander Heuvel (Leopold), Daniel Kennedy (Retired), Lawson Prendergast (Work - Perth), Mitch McGrath (Newlyn). Sam Fisher (SMW Rovers), Tyler Constable (Work-Bendigo)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS

Tristan Maple (Footscray), Angus Bade (Foostscray)

THE DRAW

SCOOP: Even draw for the Swans ranking fourth easiest. Avoid double ups with Darley and Melton who lost just four home and away games between them last year and don't see either of them after Round 5. The Swans have three trips to the east - and just one after Round 5 at Melton South. Maple's young group get 2023 bottom two sides Lake Wendouree and Melton South twice.

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF BALLARAT)

CM: Melton

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF BALLARAT)

CM: North Ballarat

Get excited local footy fans, starting from this weekend every match from every round of the McDonald’s Ballarat Senior Men’s competition will be streamed live and free via Cluch.tv.

You can find the McDonald's Ballarat FNL page on Cluch here: McDonald's Ballarat FNL live in Cluch

You can watch live and on-demand on all connected devices and screens. Simply go to cluch.tv or find the stream links via BFNL.com.au or the Ballarat FNL Facebook page. Stream it to the big screen, track the scores and action across all five games, and replay the goals. Or catch up on all the action on-demand from your phone, screen or TV.

Get ready by downloading the Cluch app on your device or screen.

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL’s streaming activity has increased significantly in recent years and the launch of full competition streaming is the next step in that journey.

We will also continue to bring you the Ballarat Toyota Match of the Round live to Facebook.

About Cluch:

Cluch is an OTT video and platform-as-a-service business dedicated to community sport. Cluch delivers premium on-demand streaming services across all connected devices and screens.

Up next in the 2021 club-by-club draw analysis is the season ahead for Ballarat. BFNL Media’s ‘Scoop’ will serve up an in-depth look at the pros and cons of the fixture for each club over the next two weeks.

Ballarat

Draw rating points: 109
2021 draw ranking: #10

PROS:

• Don't leave Ballarat until Round SIX (v. Sunbury)
• At home FOUR of SEVEN games Rd4 to Rd11 and Rd10 to the bye, only AWAY against Sunbury Rd6 and Melton South Rd8

CONS:

• Play FOUR of 2019 Finalists twice including Grand Final duo East Point and Sebastopol (as well as Darley and Sunbury)
• Finish season with East Point (away), Sunbury (home), Sebastopol (away) - big ask

Comment: 

Can't wait to see Josh Gibson in Ballarat colours, what a coup for the club and competition on the whole. However, the Swans draw on paper has done little to enhance their finals chances. I hope I’m wrong. Coach Joe Carmody is a ripper bloke and his positivity over the group, with the addition of Gibson, will stir upset results.

With preseason preparations well under way and Round 1 fast approaching, Scoops goes one-on-one with all 11 senior coaches ahead of the 2023 McDonalds BFNL season.

CLUB: Ballarat

COACH: Chris Maple (1st Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 2nd (12-4 106.82%)

Scoop: Well Chris, firstly welcome to the BFNL coaching ranks. What were your first impressions of the Swans group?

Chris Maple: There has been a bit of a shift in the age profile. We'll be a lot younger this year. So far, I can tell you they're enthusiastic and eager to learn. Both very encouraging attributes to work with.

S: Is your role primarily to take the group another step beyond a preliminary final or is the focus more on development given some 13 players are expected up from the Under 19s this year?

CM: Well last year we had a much more experienced group and were able to win something in the vicinity of seven games by 10 points or less - all the close ones essentially. My role, given we have a significantly younger list, is to help set up the club, having the right roles in place for sustained future success.

S: Callan Wellings is a welcomed addition from Collingwood VFL. Tell us about him and what we can expect?

CM: He is a good ball user, has excellent leadership skills and is a quality person. Unfortunately for Callan he will miss the first month of the season due to a delayed surgery and travel commitments.

S: Bailey Van de Heuvel joins Geelong's VFL list but remains a Ballarat player. His presence will be a major boost for the group if/when available. What's your preferred position for Bailey given he can play a key role for you across any line?

CM: Defence. You want him where he plays his best footy.

S: You've lost a few impact players from last year, they're never easy to replace. What's a realistic ask for 2023? 12 wins was huge last year given Melton (14 in 2022) and East Point (13 in 2019) are the only other two sides to win 12 or more games in a season over the last 5 years.

CM: As I alluded to earlier, I’m not sure we win as many games last year without the older heads. It's all about getting more games into the younger players - that alone is an improvement wins and losses aside.

S: What are some of the identified strengths of the club?

CM: Quality youth, fit, skilled with healthy blend of experience.

S: Where do you expect to see your projected improvement come from?

CM: Getting more games into younger players.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

CM: The early signs have been encouraging. Enthusiastic bunch all eager to learn.

S: Who do you expect to be the biggest improvers this year? (Outside of your club)

CM: Sunbury or Darley.

S: Who is your flag tip? (Outside of your club)

CM: Melton and Sebastopol are the clear benchmarks.

KEY INS:

C. Wellings (Collingwood VFL), M. Bishop (returning).

KEY OUTS:

S. James (Perth), L. Dawson (Brisbane), A. Domic (Buninyong), J. Dunne (CHFL), J. Blackburn (Barwon Heads), A. McPherson, T. Sutton.

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

B. Van de Heuvel (Geelong), T. Maple (Footscray), A. Bade (Footscray)

Scoop's Ballarat prediction - 5th -7th

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

General Information

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

Match Schedule

Admission Fees

Junior Grand Final 2022

Adults - $12

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $26

Age Pensioner - $7

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Footy Record – $4 (Special Edition)

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

Gates

Gates open at 6:45am

Grand Final Filming

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

Live Scores

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

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

Netball - https://bit.ly/3KPteh6

Entry & Parking Information

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

Entry to MARS Stadium:

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

NO DOGS are permitted within the precinct this weekend.

Parking is available at the following locations:

General Parking:

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

Disabled Parking:

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

Preliminary Final Preview with 'Scoop'

One last chance before the big dance. Ballarat has won its past two encounters with Sebastopol, but can the Burras change that this Saturday?

While Ballarat holds the slender advantage head-to-head over Sebastopol (2-0 / 1pt, 3pts) in 2022, the nature of those battles alone suggests we're in store for another epic. It's near impossible to tip a winner with any real degree of confidence so I've expanded on a few areas, purely as a reference point for you to absorb, consider and prioritise order (if any) of relevance. 

Burras forwards their key: I've no doubt the Burras defence will do enough right despite the absence of Tony Lockyer to restrict the Swans to a beatable score. But can their forwards deliver on the club's most important day of the season to date? They're more than capable and (outside of Lachie Cassidy) worth every minute of preparedness from Swans Coach Joe Carmody. But the truth is, despite all their arsenal, eight times this year (47% of games) they've been held to nine goals or less. Somehow, weather permitting I don't see that being enough. Leading Burras goalkickers James Keeble (32 goals - 16 games), Jed Hill (17/16) and Toby Hutt (15/15) must deliver on the scoreboard and rely on a 'chop out' from their rotating mids. And getting it all done against a Bailey Van de Heuvel and Nick Weightman Swans-led defence won't be easy. Matt Austin (3 goals /16 games) can be dangerous around goal but has been utilised higher up the ground this year. He and Jed Hill will be important with their ball use plus their run and carry.

The midfield battle: Both sides have seasoned body midfielders and bona fide ruckmen. The clearance battle at the feet of Marcus Powling (Swans) and James Richards (Burra) will be worth the entry ticket alone, for this game will hinge on maximising opportunity. Gee, the Swans brigade looked like scoring every time they won clearance last week against the Devils - highlighting the importance of Burras quartet Richards, Cassidy, Chase Dummett and Daniel Widgery to be on their metal. The Burras press forward against North Ballarat in week one of the finals once inside 50 was crucial in their 27-point win but were found wanting against the Bloods. The Burras need to lift their intent without the ball because the Swans are coming 'all-in' for a spot in the Grand Final. The accountability and execution of the collective midfield groups with and without the ball will certainly impact the result. Sure the Burras copped Melton last week, but they did concede 12 of the last 13 goals of the game which is a concern.    

Goalkicking mids? - The Swans lead the battle here. I'm leaving out Burras duo James Keeble and Jed Hill who have spent some time on the ball but in fairness most forward. The Burras' most frequent mids if you will, Lachie Cassidy (8 goals - 12 games), Chase Dummett (7/10), Daniel Widgery (6/11), Bailey Veale (6/17) and Luke Kiel (6/6) pale in comparison to Will Liston (15/18), Lachie Dawson (14/15), Aiden Domic (14/17), Sam James (11/17) and Daniel Kennedy (8/16) on the goal front. I understand the Swans group have played more games but there's no denying the habitual nature of their returns. In a nutshell combined Sebastopol mids 33 goals / 56 games, Ballarat mids 62 goals / 83 games. 

Swans' third quarter blues - For a side notorious for their come-from-behind wins in 2022, the Swans' third quarters have become their achilles heel. The Swans have not won a third quarter in their last five games, in fact, they're minus 118 for the period (59-177). While the Swans have every right to dismiss the anomaly, the Burras will give themselves a chance whatever the scoreline come half-time. For the record, the Swans have won just 47.9% of all quarters in 2022 (34.5/72 comp rank #7). Sebastopol (42/72 @58.3% comp rank #2)  

Experience matters - While the Swans on face value are an inexperienced group, you cannot discount the importance of senior statesmen Josh Gibson and Andrew Hooper who were instrumental in getting the Swans over the line after being headed last week. The two combined for the last two goals of the game. Gibson kicked five goals while Hooper (1 goal) was important forward of centre in a 'higher forward' role. The Burras will need strength and support to combat Gibson who (if plays - hammy issues) won't venture any further than 25m from goal. Hooper on the other hand was on his bike and clean below the knees suggesting he should be right for another week at least. Gibson has returns of 2 and 3 goals already this year against the Burras while Hooper kicked five in their Round 7 meet.

What the coaches say...

Michael Searl (Sebastopol): On the whole, we have been starved of success and this is our second finals appearance in the last 20 years. Ballarat provides a huge challenge. They have (an) incredible belief (shown in their ability to win the close games) and both times this year, statistically, we probably should've won but their never-say-die attitude has meant they have beaten us by one point and three points. We will need to be really efficient going forward and take our opportunities in front of goal. Huge task ahead, but excited for the challenge.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat): Will be a lighter week on the track (for us) with a number of players recovering or returning from injury. We've an enormous amount of respect for Sebastopol and (in) the two games we had against them this year we won by one and three points. We need to put four quarters together to beat them and stop them (from) scoring heavily when they have momentum. Our players will have to execute the fundamentals really well to get over the line. Everyone at the club is extremely excited about the opportunity that presents itself.  

By the numbers

Head-to-head in 2022: Sebastopol 0 - Ballarat 2

Sebastopol                                                                                       

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses)                                                   

Record against remaining teams: W0 L4                         

Offence rating (v remaining 3): 3rd (59.5 avg)

Defence rating (v remaining 3): 2nd (81.5 avg)

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (32)                                     

Quarters won (season): 42/72 @ 58.33%                                           

Best (named) in the second final (Week 2): Lachlan Cassidy        

Ballarat

Finished: 2nd (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W2 L2

Offence rating (v remaining 3): 2nd (62.25 avg)

Defence rating (v remaining 3): 3rd (90.75 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (39)

Quarters won (season): 34.5/72 @ 47.92%

Best (named) in the second final (Week 2): Carter Prendergast           

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

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

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

Admission Prices

BFLW Finals 2022

Adults - $10

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25

Age Pensioner - $5

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Grounds Open

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

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

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

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

Admission prices will continue this weekend and are as follows:

Admission Prices:

BFLW Finals 2022

Adults - $10

Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25

Age Pensioner - $5

8 - 16yo - $5

U/8 – Free

Grounds Open:

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

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

Finals Round 1 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

It's finally here, the 2022 Carlton Draught Finals Series begins this weekend.

Ignore the first meeting of these two sides when you're contemplating a tip for this Qualifying Final albeit at the Bloods' home ground, Macpherson Park. The Swans arrive near full strength with solid form having won nine of their last ten. Admittedly, six of the Swans' 12 wins have come by six points or less. You can go even further and realise ten of their season's wins have been by less than 18 points. On the other hand, the Bloods have genuinely been the bullies of the schoolyard, averaging near 108 points per game for the season and conceding a messily 55 points per game getting it done.

Bloods coach Aaron Tymms would have sensed early that a genuine opportunity presents itself. A real chance to claim the prized silverware that has eluded the club since 2005. Melton were unbeaten for 12 rounds before copping a timely reminder of their mortality by North Ballarat in Round 13 and again by a five-win season Sunbury in Round 16. I'm convinced their two-game season losses ahead of the finals will hold them in good stead. They're relatively free of injury and boast unrivalled depth. In a nutshell, cherry ripe, balanced, and without excuse.

Only Joe Carmody's Ballarat truly know how they will fare against the might of the Minor Premiers. Bailey Van de Heuvel is a massive in while the return to peak form of ruckman Marcus Powling after some time out with a hamstring will only enhance belief. Expect Aiden Domic (concussion) who missed last week to return. To put their Round 5 disaster meet into perspective, highlighting its current relevance you need only look at the team sheet. Only 12 Swans took part in last week's nail-biting win over Sebastopol (and loss to Melton). Tymms will be well aware and fully versed in the fact that despite the Bloods' superior season, the Swans' win/loss returns for the last ten weeks are marginally better.

But please Ballarat, on behalf of all Swans fans start well, similar to your last two weeks and spare the faithful heart palpitations for another week. Missing the start here against the Bloods can only mean trouble. The Bloods are 15-1 for leading in first quarters.

The Swans will be nervous, the group is seemingly bereft of finals experience bar Josh Gibson and Andrew Hooper. The two will play a crucial role in calming the mental anxieties that come with a big stage.   

I wish the Swans luck, they'll need every bit.

By the numbers in 2022: Melton 1 - Ballarat 0

Melton                                         

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses) 

Record against top six teams: W6 L1   

Offence team rating (comp): 1st (107.8 avg) 

Defence team rating (comp): 1st (55.1 avg) 

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (56) 

Hendo chance: Lachie Watkins (in best 10/15) 

Will Liston (in best 12/16)

Ballarat

Finished 2nd: (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against top six teams: W5 L3

Offence team rating (comp): 8th (72.4 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 4th (64.1 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (35)

Hendo chance: Will Liston (in best 12/16)

I'm not sure who had either of these teams bowing out in week one of the finals but it will happen.

Finding a winner, like many involving top six games this year has been difficult. But what Sebastopol have over North Ballarat are two wins already this year. I know North Ballarat Coach Brendan McCartney has said what has happened before stands for very little in the new season but the confidence the Burras drive from those two outings should give them confidence. Unfortunately for North Ballarat they have lost four of their last five home and away games and won't have the luxury of getting the job done on Mars Stadium, the venue they play so well. Six of the club's eighth-season wins this year were at home (North Ballarat 2-6 on the road).

Sebastopol coach Michael Searl, while fully respectful, has no reason to fear North Ballarat. The Burras' best is certainly good enough to edge out McCartney's boys but it's going to take that - their best to get it done.

Containing dangerous North Ballarat forward trio Jamie Quick (39 goals), Jack Riding (35) and Josh Chatfield (11 in six games) looms the Burras' greatest challenge. You don't have to be Einstein to work out the likely match-ups, but it's nice knowing you have the cattle to minimise their influence.

Expect Burras mids Lachie Cassidy, Daniel Widgery and Chase Dummett to match the physicality early of North Ballarat who are the immediate beneficiaries of Cam McCallum's dominance in the ruck. Just how many hits to advantage in the direction of Riley Polkinghorne, Tim Spiers and Brock Leonard will tell its own story at the game's end. The defence of North Ballarat has been a pillar of strength for the most part but they did cough up their highest individual (quarter) score against the Devils last week. And when you consider the plentiful options forward of centre for the Burras, you can safely assume they're more than capable of posting a winning score.

Both sides will have benefitted from further learnings during the week on the back of their Round 18 losses.  There won't be much in this, just who settles the quickest and can execute on the fundamentals especially early will be hard to catch.

By the numbers in 2022: Sebastopol 2 - North Ballarat 0

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses) 

Record against top six teams: W4 L4   

Offence team rating (comp): 6th (74.2 avg)         

Defence team rating (comp): 3rd (63.5 avg) 

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (29) 

Hendo chance: Tony Lockyer (in best 11/16)                                   

North Ballarat

Finished: 6th (8 wins, 8 losses)

Record against top six teams: W3 L7

Offence team rating (comp): 4th (82.4 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 2nd (63.4 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Jamie Quick (39)

Hendo chance: Jack Riding (in best 8/15)         

Both teams will be well versed in each other's strengths and weaknesses given this will be their third meeting in 10 weeks. If they weren't rivals already, I'm near certain one is building as these east vs west combatants face off in another highly anticipated showdown. The two sides share four of the last five (completed) BFNL Premierships and the reality tells us, that one of these club's seasons is coming to an end. But on the flip side, what a way to progress. In Darley's case, under new Coach Dan Jordan (a former East Point star) - getting the result would be a monumental achievement for the club after a winless 2021. For East Point, to be riding high near the top with an interrupted three-peat still well and truly alive is a credit to the Kangas. Footy post covid has proven a difficult landscape to negotiate but we've made it, especially these two, albeit separate journeys. So hats off to Kangas coach Jake Bridges and the Devils' Dan Jordan for leading their respective sides back to the business end. And we won't be shy on talent for this version of the Elimination Final I guarantee you. Expect a massive crowd for this stand-alone BFNL final as all and sundry flock to the stands for their piece of the action.

Both sides finished with 10 wins separated by just .87% and share a win apiece from their two hit-outs thus far. It's only fair the winner progresses in a game that looms as the ideal decider.

The fourth-placed Devils boast top-end talent Brett Bewley, Dylan Landt, Nick Rodda, Matthew Brett and the experience of Darren Leonard, Shane Page and Luther Baker. Throw some of their progressive youth into the mix with nothing to fear, and Darley has a genuine chance of winning in Ballarat.

Not to be outdone, the fifth-placed Kangas top end has proven more than capable. Jordy Johnston, Matty Johnston, Mickitja Rotumah Onus, Jackson Merrett, Joe Dodd and Jacob Brown are just a half dozen players that can decide the game given a sniff on their terms. The depth goes beyond that for the Kangas, a line-up laden with been-there-done-that Premiership players. Can they over-awe a less experienced Devils coming to terms with a return to finals?

I think we'll know the answer as early as halftime. The Devils will be up against it mentally and physically but if granted liberty to become the best version of themselves, a spot in the remaining four and week two of the finals awaits.

By the numbers in 2022: Darley 1 - East Point 1 

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against top six teams:  W4 L4

Offence team rating (comp): 3rd (83.8 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 6th (75.3 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (56)

Hendo chance: Brett Bewley (in best 11/16)

East Point

Finished: 4th 5th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against top six teams: W4 L6

Offence team rating (comp): 2nd (90.8 avg)

Defence team rating (comp): 9th (82.3 avg)

Leading goalkicker: Jordy Johnston (51)

Hendo chance: Jordy Johnston (in best 9/16)

Finals Week 2 Preview with 'Scoop'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melton                                                                               

Finished: 1st (14 wins, 2 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W4 L0             

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

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

Leading goalkicker: Ryan Carter (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Jack Walker

Sebastopol

Finished: 3rd (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W0 L4

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

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

Leading goalkicker: James Keeble (31)

Best in first final (Week 1): Lachlan Cassidy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ballarat                                                                         

Finished 2nd (12 wins, 4 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W3 L2

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

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

Leading goalkicker: Andrew Hooper (38)

Best in first final (Week 1): Will Liston

Darley

Finished: 4th (10 wins, 6 losses)

Record against remaining teams: W1 L2

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

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

Leading goalkicker: Nick Rodda (57)

Best in first final (Week 1): Bailey Young         

Scoop Reviews Finals Week 2

Melton has punched in their ticket to the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Grand Final after a dominant win over Sebastopol. As for Ballarat, they just managed to escape a rampaging Darley.

Minor Premiers Melton remains the team to beat for this year's title after storming into the Grand Final with a win over Sebastopol.

Aaron Tymms' boys booted 12 of the last 13 goals of the game to win convincingly. His calm address at quarter-time proved significant given the Burras, with the aid of a four-goal breeze, led by 26 points. With alarm bells ringing of an unlikely upset, Tymms simply absorbed the moment.

While it took the Bloods nine and a half minutes into the second quarter to post their first major through key forward Ryan Carter (3 goals), five more unanswered would follow, including one after the half-time siren to give the Bloods a 12-point lead.

When the Burras had been outscored three goals to one with the breeze in the third term, it felt for the on-looker as though the game was just playing for time. There was a sense of inevitability about the likely conclusion.

The crowd, seeking an upset, were silenced as the Bloods faithful buckled up for another 30 minutes of grinding football. While the Bloods managed just 3.4 with the breeze in the final term, the visiting Burras were held scoreless. So, for all the promise and speculation of the Burras closing the gap on a 41-point loss to the Bloods in Round 11, the margin was increased to 43 at the weekend with the visitors returning the same score (6.7) as their first hit-out.     

For the winners, Riley Walker (defence), Brett Mcintyre (ruck) and Kyle Borg (wing & 2 goals) were terrific, the barometer if you like. Liam Carter (3 goals), Lachlan Hickey (1 goal) and Jack Walker (1 goal) threatened forward of centre for the most part in difficult breezy conditions.

Unfortunately for the Burras, there was no Tony Lockyer (ankle) or late-out Hugo Papst (illness) which didn't help their chances heading in, but kudos to Lachlan Cassidy (mid), Riley O'Keefe (defence), Jack Richards (Ruck) and Connor O'Shea who flew the flag and took it up to their more fancied rival for the most part but couldn't get it done. In fairness, only two teams in 18 attempts have this season.

The next attempt to overcome the Bloods will be on the BFNL's biggest stage, the 2022 Carlton Draught Grand Final.

Sebastopol meets Ballarat in Saturday's Preliminary Final at Mars Stadium.  

What the coaches said...

Aaron Tymms (Melton): Sebastopol presented a really tough challenge all day but I thought we withstood the barrage and remained patient once they were in front of the scoreboard. Our boys stood up to the adversity and were able to get reward for effort after quarter time to build the ascendancy and get the win.

Michael Searl (Sebastopol): They were simply a class above. Their ball movement was more efficient. Their work rate to outnumber (us) was superior. (I was) pleased with our start to put the first five goals on but weren't able to be as effective in the next three. (A) good learning opportunity and still grateful for another crack at it next week.

The Swans survived a barnstorming Devils finish to progress to the Preliminary Final for a meeting with Sebastopol.

The game looked shot to pieces when the Swans led the Devils a 'merry dance' by 43 points at half-time after six unanswered goals blew the game open. But the Devils had other ideas, launching an inspirational fightback as they piled on nine goals to two in the third term, stunning the Swans in the process, and reducing the lead to just three points at the final change.

Devils Coach Dan Jordan and his support crew nearly pulled off the masterstroke of the season as the willing Devils responded to a significant shuffling of the magnets.

The final stanza went goal for goal before the Devils hit the front by as much as 10 points, 20 minutes into the last quarter. But as the Swans have done so often this season, they showed the poise, resilience and character to arrest the deficit, before hanging on to win by one point.

Former Hawthorn champion Josh Gibson (five goals) was instrumental in the clutch moments for the Swans with three telling one-on-one marks in the goalsquare to assure the narrowest of margins and, with it, progress to the penultimate week of the season. And what a game it was, almost matched by the drama witnessed in the hours and minutes ahead of the opening bounce. 

Illness to valuable Devils trio Matthew Brett, Shane Page and Will Johnson proved a major blow for Jordan's camp before extraordinary scenes in the warm-up saw young defender Duncan Cadman withdrawn after a blindsided head collision with umpire Semmens who would also take no part.

The game itself lived up to the billing despite a dominant opening half from the bigger-bodied Swans.

The six-point advantage to the Swans at quarter-time felt like more and was confirmed in the second term as Joe Carmody's boys went to work. Marcus Powling, Sam James (2 goals), Aiden Domic (2 goals), and Lachie Dawson (2 goals) were influential in setting up the 43-point half-time lead while Gibson and Andrew Hooper (1 goal) looked threatening each time the ball went inside 50.

The weight of forward 50 Swans entries in the second term amounted to six goals, while the Devils could manage just one point.

Game over? Not quite.

Jordan moved Darren Leonard (3 goals) and Mace Cousins (2 goals) forward, Nick Rodda (1 goal) into the ruck and asked more of his top-end players to impact. Dylan Landt (3 goals) and Brett Bewley (1 goal) led the revival and found some aerial presence with Brady Wright (3 goals), Joel Cadman and Leonard.

While the Devils courageously fought back to hit the front, full credit must be given to the Swans who were able to respond. Another belter was witnessed in Week Two of the 2022 Carlton Draught BFNL Finals Series.

The Devils fell on the wrong side of a close one while the Swans hung on for their third win by one point and seventh win by seven points or less in 2022.

There's every indication we can expect a close one again on Saturday. Both Swans and Burras meetings this year have been decided by one and three points - in favour of Carmody's men.

For Jordan's exiting Devils, they lost no admirers and will bounce back in 2023. Their young group will be a pre-season older and hungry for another crack at the business end after an agonising sample in 2022.

What the coaches said...

Joe Carmody (Ballarat): It was a crazy game. In the first half, our contest and ball movement was very good. Darley dominated those areas in the third. The players responded well and kept at it in the last quarter to will ourselves over the line.

Dan Jordan (Darley): Probably the most bizarre preparation I've been involved in, losing four (players) to illness and then the incident in the warm-up. I couldn't be more proud of our boys and their effort. Full of courage and heart. Full credit to Ballarat. They are a very good side and all the best to Joe and his troops for the rest of their season.