East Point FNC

A big round of footy was highlight with Anzac Day football while Saturday saw old rivals go head-to-head across the league.

For the second year running, Lake Wendouree and Ballarat came together for their standalone Anzac Day clash.

Both sides united for a touching Anzac Ceremony, standing shoulder to shoulder for the Ode and Last Post – a moving reminder of the privilege of playing footy on such a significant day.

From the first bounce, it was clear it would be a tough slog.

The wet conditions made clean footy tricky, but it was the Lakers who started well, getting the early jump before the Swans found their rhythm with two quick goals.

A late goal to the home side saw them take a 2-point lead at the first break – the first time they’d been in front at quarter time all season.

But from the nine-minute mark of the second quarter onwards, it was all Ballarat. A 30-0 second term from the Swans laid the foundation for the win.

A scrappy third quarter saw both sides kick 2.2 each, but Ballarat managed to edge further ahead in the final term to finish with a 38-point victory.

For Lake Wendouree, Brayden Helyar stood tall across half-back, pulling in several intercept marks in the slippery conditions. Co-captain Angus Gove was another standout for the Lakers, finding plenty of the footy and using it well when the game was at its messiest.

With plenty of stoppages, Tom Zampatti had a day out in the ruck, finishing with 103 hit-outs. Whilst a standout stat, only 9 to advantage will be something the Lakers will look to tidy up moving forward.

For Ballarat, Lewis Rinaldi was at his best, with attack on the footy. There was also plenty to like about the debut of Ethan Drever, who, with the GWV Rebels having the week off, pulled on the Swans jumper and looked right at home with 20 disposals and 11 hard ball gets.

Both sides will welcome the extra day of recovery before tough tasks next week – Ballarat hosting Sunbury, and Lake Wendouree gearing up for Darley at home.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 19 disposals, 6 clearances, 6 rebound 50s

Noah Drever (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 6 rebound 50s

It had been three years since East Point had sung the song after a win over Redan at home — but on Saturday, they got to do just that.

To give themselves a shot at the upset, Redan needed a fast start — and they delivered. The Lions kept East Point to just one point in the opening quarter and took a 24-point lead into the first break.

The momentum continued early into the second term, but once East Point clicked into gear around the 10-minute mark, the game started to shift.

By half-time, the Roos had bounced back and found themselves four points up.

From there, it was all East Point. A dominant 46-14 third quarter saw the home side blow the margin out, eventually cruising to a 44-point win.

Matt Johnston’s move forward was the spark the Roos needed. The skipper booted five goals, giving his side a focal point in attack.

Jackson Merrett was again influential all over the ground, continuing his strong start to the season.

For Redan, Khy Jess led from the front with a strong showing around the ball.

Jake Connolly had a day out statistically, leading the League in contested possessions, groundball gets, and loose ball gets for the round — a huge effort despite the result.

Unfortunately, injuries continue to bite both clubs.

Redan lost the experienced Grant Bell in Round 2, and now East Point have their own concern with youngster Paddy Hannaford going down with a shoulder injury.

Both Joe Carmody and Gary Learmonth will be forced to tinker with their lineups heading into the next few weeks.

East Point will enjoy a well-earned bye this weekend, while Redan face an important clash against fellow winless side Sebastopol — a crucial game for both clubs' seasons.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 5 goals

Jake Connolly (Redan) - 28 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Liam Howard (East Point) - 22 disposals, 9 marks, 7 rebound 50s

The first local derby of the year promised to be a beauty — and while Darley eventually ran away 29-point winners, the contest itself didn’t disappoint.

Leading into Saturday, it had been Bacchus Marsh with the strong first-half form, and Darley known for storming home late.

True to the trend, both sides went toe-to-toe through the first half, with the Devils holding a narrow 7-point lead at the main break.

But once again, it was the third quarter where Darley stamped their authority. A dominant 37-12 third term blew the game open, giving the visitors all the breathing room they needed.

The Cobras fought hard in the last, but couldn’t quite capitalise on their chances, finishing with 2.5 to Darley's 2.2 in the final term.

Tarkyn Findlay was a standout for the Cobras in the loss, with Luke Goetz continuing to be a massive presence around the ground — chalking up 68 hit-outs and 20 disposals.

Up forward, Jake Owen kept his form rolling, slotting another four goals to take his season tally to 17.

For the Devils, skipper Brett Bewley led from the front yet again, named best on ground.

He and Nick Hind were everywhere, combining for a mammoth 81 disposals and 40 contested possessions between them.

Up forward, Will Johnson continued to make life hard for defenders, adding another four majors after booting six the previous week.

The Cobras will want to see some improvement in their contested possessions – an area that Darley were far too strong in. 

Bacchus Marsh will now enjoy a bye to reset, while Darley look to keep their momentum building when they face the winless Lake Wendouree next weekend.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 40 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 68 hit outs, 20 disposals, 8 clearances

Nick Hind (Darley) - 41 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 9 inside 50s

Despite sitting at 0-3, Sebastopol should hold their heads high after giving Melton their biggest scare of the season so far.

The reigning premiers jumped out of the gates early, making the most of the breeze in the first quarter and looking set for a comfortable win up until the 18-minute mark of the second.

A strong start saw the visitors build what looked like a match-winning lead.

Melton's scoring slowed in a scrappy third term, but with a 33-point lead at the final break, the result seemed inevitable.

But the Burra had other ideas.

The home side came out swinging in the last, slotting the first two goals of the quarter and dragging the margin back to just nine points. But the game was too close to the end, with Melton kicking one more to eventually claim a 16-point win.

Jack Bambury was a standout for Sebastopol, racking up 41 disposals and even chiming in for a goal.

Lachlan Cassidy once again did what he does best — working tirelessly around the ground to claim another best-on-ground performance.

It’s another sign that Sebastopol can genuinely match it with the best — already giving East Point and now Melton all they could handle, despite not yet getting a win on the board.

And doing all that with coach and key player Tony Lockyer sidelined early with an arm injury? It shows this Burra side isn’t far off when it all clicks.

For Melton, while their accuracy in front of goal was off compared to usual, their ability to generate scoring shots remained a strength.

After interrupted seasons the past two years, Harrison Hanley impressed on the wing, while Jaycob Hickey was everywhere again — tallying 36 disposals and applying plenty of pressure across the ground.

Sebastopol now prepare for a big clash against fellow winless side Redan, while Melton will look to stay unbeaten when they face North Ballarat, who’ll be desperate for a win.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 36 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 15 clearances

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 11 marks, 6 tackles

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 30 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 6 marks

Once again, when it comes to Sunbury and North Ballarat, it’s the home side that comes out on top.

The Lions absolutely owned the first half, putting on a clinic to lead 61–5 at the main break. For North, being stuck on 0.5 at half time was pretty much a worst-case scenario.

To their credit, Clint Proctor’s Roosters found some fight in the third quarter.

Hugh Trigg needed less than two minutes to finally get a goal on the board, with Nathan Jolly adding another soon after. North even managed to win the third term, but the damage was well and truly done by then.

The home side held their nerve to edge the final quarter and run out comfortable 48-point winners.

Jake Egan was everywhere for the Lions, finishing with plenty of touches and three goals to his name in a best-on-ground performance.

Josh Guthrie also had a huge impact, giving Sunbury plenty of area with his work rate and boot.

For the Roosters, Elliott Lamb stood tall in a tough day to be named their best, while Brock Leonard kept himself busy around the contest.

North Ballarat now turns their attention to a massive test against Melton, with some serious work needed on their efficiency — particularly their kicking in under pressure.

Meanwhile, Sunbury will take a big confidence boost from the win but will need to lift again as they prepare to take on the in-form Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 36 disposals, 9 marks, 6 clearances

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 clearances

A four-point thriller at City Oval caught the eyes over the weekend, while a couple of contenders found themselves on the end of a percentage boost. Scoop reviews all the action from Round 4.

Competition benchmark Melton came from behind at half-time for the second successive week to remain unbeaten after a hard fought 20-point win over North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

Talented Bloods’ forward Liam Carter proved the difference with a game high four goals to arrest momentum away from the home side who led by 15 points at the main break.

So often in recent times have the Bloods asserted their authority in the third term of matches. In this instance it was North Ballarat who wore the brunt, conceding four unanswered goals as the Bloods took the lead and never looked back.

Kudos went to consistent Bloods midfielder Jack Walker and utility bigman Brett McIntyre, whose importance to the structural make-up of the side can be undersold.

Familiar North Ballarat ball winners Simon McCartin and Riley Polkinghorne featured prominently while progressive youngster Joshua Sparkman continues to answer the call across half back in his first genuine season at senior level.

With goals at a premium, Jamie Quick was North's only multiple goal scorer.

Coach Brendan McCartney remained upbeat in the aftermath despite the loss while Aaron Tymms was seemingly content to be in the winner’s circle, with an inkling the Bloods are travelling shy of their best despite an enviable 4-0 start to the season.

Marquee North Ballarat signing, Stewart Crameri, left the field with what appears to be an ongoing groin complaint placing him doubt for Saturday's game against East Point.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton):33 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions.

Adrian Monitto (Melton):28 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, 10 contested possessions.

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat): 39 disposals, 12 clearances, 11 inside 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat): "We did a lot right against a really good footy club. Our pressure and work rate put us in the game. Lots of learning from today and plenty to look forward to."

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "Another great response from the lads after half-time. Pleasing to grind out the win while not at our best. Credit to North, they didn't allow us to play our normal brand."

A nine-goal second term by a rampant Kangas outfit put this game to bed early, as Jackson Merrett's boys raced away to a 58-point lead at the main break.

Jordy Johnston (two goals) was named best afield ahead of brother Matthew, Bryce McDougall, Joel Van Meel, Jordy Taylor and young gun Alex Molan.

Ballarat, while disappointed, can draw some positives having outscored the Kangas in the second half as Chris Maple's young group continue with hard learnings on the job. Clearly, as reiterated by Maple post-match, the gap between the Swans’ best and worst is a red flag for concern and remains firmly on the agenda to minimise as the season progresses.

Swans’ sharpshooter Andrew Hooper finished with an equal game high four goals along with Kangas forward Brad Whittaker while experienced duo Marcus Powling and Keegan Mellington never gave up the fight.

It’s set to be a cracking fixture coming up for these two sides, as the Kangas and the Swans host North Ballarat and Sebastopol respectively.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 42 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 33 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Tom Mooney (Ballarat): 29 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 tackles  

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Chris Maple (Ballarat);"We outscored East for three quarters of the game. Unfortunately, our second quarter was really poor conceding nine goals. We need to reduce the difference between our best and worst (footy), a common trait of young teams."

Jackson Merrett (East Point);"It was really pleasing to see us take another step forward. Our ability to pressure the opposition provided us with some good opportunities going forward."

Pre-match favorites Redan survived an almighty scare from a spirited Bacchus Marsh to hold on and win by four points at City Oval.

The final siren couldn't come quick enough for Gary Learmonth's Lions as momentum swung entirely with the visitors. The Cobras were left lamenting missed opportunities in front of goal, in what was their best quarter for the season to date.

But the Cobras’ 4.6 return to the Lions' 0.3 wasn't enough to reel in the 31-point deficit at the final change.    

Lions’ youngster Marty Boyer starred with five goals showing off his forward craft and footy smarts in a true breakout game by definition. Encouragingly, Boyer was one of 12 players to feature in the game still eligible for Under 19 selection with Redan fielding four and Bacchus Marsh, eight.

Experienced Lions defensive duo Jacob Short and Nick Barker were a constant thorn in the Cobras’ efforts, and more often the beneficiaries of some poor Cobra entries inside 50.

For three quarters, Redan answered every challenge thrown at them, denying the Cobras back-to-back goals for the most part, maintaining an arm’s length advantage at every change in 'no excuse' conditions for football.

Lions’ quartet Will Madden, Lachie George, Isaac Grant and Pat Fitzgibbon were the best of the rest for the winners. The Cobras witnessed Jake Owen's best game for the new season while co-captain Jack Parente was staunch, playing above his years across half back. Jake McCreery was never far away from the action and kept the Cobras in it around stoppage while Ethan McKercher was lively at ground level.

The Cobras slick moving new recruit, Jake Long, made his highly anticipated debut in red, yellow and black colors and will be better for the run. The Collingwood VFL listed product showed glimpses of class which looms exciting for Cobra fans.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 31 disposals, 9 clearances, 6 tackles

Marty Bower (Redan): 17 disposals, 11 marks, 8 score involvements

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 67 hitouts, 16 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Gary Learmonth (Redan);"We were lucky to hold on in the end. Credit to the Marsh they fought the game out for four quarters. We showed some good signs in the main for the first three quarters but turnovers under little or no pressure allowed the Marsh to stay close."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh);"Another step in the right direction today. Unfortunately, we let ourselves down in the first half and Redan put us to the sword. While happy with the improvement, we're disappointed to leave a result out there."

Sunbury kicked its second consecutive score of 170 plus to outclass a young Lakers team on CE Brown Reserve at the weekend. It was essentially a share feast of possession for the Lions who went to work after half time to set up the 124-point win.

The Lions had 11 goalkickers, highlighting the 'share' nature of the performance. Forward pair Cody Brand (five goals) and Jake Sutton (three goals) led the charge while Corey Mobilio (three goals) took advantage of any crumb to hit the deck.

Usual suspects Harrison Minton-Connell, Tyson Lever, Mitch Lewis, Josh Guthrie featured amongst the better players yet again while youngster Jack Newitt and newcomer Josiah Garisto found some nice touch ahead of ‘bigger fish-to-fry’ opposition in the coming weeks.

The Lakers brought some measurable heat early but the longer the game went, the gulf between the two sides became more apparent.

Both sides will look forward to Round 5 for different reasons. A healthy Lions list will relish their opportunity to meet fellow finals aspirant Darley while the Lakers are on the road and would be buoyant about the chance to end an 18-game losing streak against winless Melton South.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 38 disposals, 12 tackles, 12 score involvements 

Jack Newitt (Sunbury): 32 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

Shuan Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 40 hit outs, 10 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree);"For a half we were quite competitive and it was Sunbury's class that had them ahead. We couldn't sustain the effort and they took full advantage. They're a good side!"

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury);"Lakers pressure was super for a half. We had a class advantage and scored heavily as the game opened up. Pleasing road trip."

Dangerous forward Toby Hutt booted 10 goals in the Burras’ demolition job over the struggling Panthers at Marty Busch Reserve.

While the match result for many was deemed inevitable heading in, the extent of the damage and separation on the scoreboard was unknown. But the Burra allayed any fears of not cashing in on a whopping percentage boost opportunity with a 10-goal opening term.

Accuracy on goal was a major plus for the Burra with 21.9 on the scoreboard at three quarter time.

Toby Hutt took field honours with his double figure haul while Bailey Medwell, Tony Lockyer and Riley O'Keefe continued their recent run of good form.

While there wasn't much to write about for the Panthers, coach Jason Hamilton credited the leadership of Cody Chapman, Jack Morrissey and youngster Jarrod Bibby under trying circumstances.

The Panthers have had a horror draw to start 2023 with Melton, East Point, Sunbury and Sebastopol. A meeting with Lake Wendouree in Round 5 should bring some relief despite the likelihood of facing a fifth straight loss.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol):10 goals, 13 marks, 28 disposals

Bailey Midwell (Sebastopol):34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 35 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol); "Solid hit-out. We had a couple of things we wanted to work on and executed them reasonably well. Pleased getting some continuity into players who have been out for long periods. Melton South had some good patches when they were able to get numbers around the contest." 

Jason Hamilton (Melton South);"Burras just way too good. They're a very organised team and skillful. Again, we played great for about 40 minutes, but the Burra had control over the rest of the game."

Round 4 provided plenty of big results across Saturday as a month of football begins to paint a clearer picture in 2024.

North Ballarat continues to show even further promise in the absence of key personnel with a 96-point win over Lake Wendouree.

Jamie Quick, Jack Riding, Ryan Hobbs, Stewart Crameri and Sam Glover are all missing due to injury or unavailability, asking questions of the depth in the Roosters’ ranks under fourth season coach Brendan McCartney.

It must be pleasing for McCartney to see the goal scorers and best players have a different 'ring' to them as fresh faces make an impact.

Hugh Trigg finished with a game high four goals ahead of a list containing another seven contributors on the goal front including newcomers Dakin Morris (three goals), Lam Deering (three goals) and Mal White (two goals) who combined for eight of their own.

Heart and soul players Brock Leonard, Elliot Lamb, Joshua Sparkman and Fletcher Loader were all prominent.

For the visitors, again reward for effort was scarce as a blend of youth and experience filled the Lakers group of major contributors including Tom Zampatti, Joe O'Connell, Phoenix James and Nathan Pring.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 33 disposals,  10 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 48 hit outs, 21 disposals, 14 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Really strong performance in all phases of the game. The basics of our game were in place. Some of the new players to our club made some great progress today. Nice to play well as a club in front of four decades of Premiership reunions."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"We applied ourselves well to our system and all indicators read reasonably well. We continue to give the opposition a look at goals due to fundamental errors and poor decisions - something we will continue to work on. Once we fix this up we will be in games for longer. Our boys cracked in today."

The reigning premiers, Darley, handed league improvers Ballarat a lesson around the ball with a dominant 64-point win at Alfredton Oval.

Despite kicking the first two goals of the game the Swans proved no match for another Brett Bewley led masterclass as the Devils went to work booting 18 of the remaining 24 goals of the game.

Underrated Devils’ small forward Leigh Spiteri (four goals) backed up his three-goal return against the Cobras a week earlier to share best on ground honours with Bewley (one goal).

Star utility Billy Myers also booted four goals for the winners ahead of a number of contributors hitting the scoreboard.

Experienced midfielders Luther Baker and Matt Denham ensured the Devils held a clear advantage at stoppage, especially at centre bounce.  

For the Swans, Andrew Hopper (two goals) looked dangerous early while Footscray VFL listed pair Rhett Montgomerie and Angus Bade shouldered much of the resistance before the Devils hit top gear.

It won’t get any easier for Chris Maple's young Swans this Saturday when they travel to face unbeaten Melton.

Darley host bogie side Redan who have won four of their last six encounters head to head.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomerie (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 12 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 42 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Luther Baker (Darley) - 32 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"We started the game in a really competitive nature. Unfortunately, we were unable to sustain the pressure. Plenty of learning in this game for us, (especially) in the stoppage and territory game. We will review, learn, modify and move on."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Solid effort from our boys where I thought we showed more discipline to execute our plan for four quarters. Full credit to Ballarat who brought great intensity and made us work all day!"

Sebastopol's narrow loss to Redan at City Oval was soured even further following injuries to key playmakers Lachie Cassidy and Riley O'Keefe.

While you can't sense or feel the frustration coming from Burra coach Ton Lockyer, surely it's ever present despite his positive messaging.

Both sides had their opportunities to win this game, but it was Redan who would take their moments to finish with their noses in front, earning a second win of the season.

In form Lions forward Grant Bell booted three goals, joining teammate Marty Boyer as the leading major scorer on the day.

Sebastopol on the other hand struggled for any multiple contributors before Luke Kiel booted his second to become the Burras’ first and only multiple goal scorer.

Seasoned Lion Jacob Short was named best afield in the see-sawing affair ahead of next generation trio Kye Jess, Rory Gunsser and Marty Boyer.

There were some all too familiar names among the Burras’ best as they continue their quest for a broader number of contributors.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 12 marks, 11 contested possessions

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 26 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 marks

Marty Boyer (Redan) - 19 disposals, 11 marks, 10 score involvements

COACHES' VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"(It was a) really even battle and could have gone either way with Sebastopol missing a few chances. Super proud of the even contribution from the group to win some important moments. Great learning experiences for the group. Massive challenge (next week) against the reigning premiers."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Another step forward for our boys. We had great control of the game in the first half, but we let Redan back into it which we will learn from. (We) nearly snatched it back late but credit to Redan for taking their key moments in the second half and getting the win. Looking forward to continuing the progress against Bacchus Marsh next week."

Former Kangas Premiership player Jacob Brown made his much-welcomed return to the club with a best on ground performance against Melton South at the weekend.

While it was all one-way traffic for Joe Carmody's men there was no stopping some 13 individual Kangas players hitting the scoreboard to set up the percentage boosting win.

Strahan Robinson (eight goals) got a much earned bag of majors, while Bryson McDougall (three goals) had to settle for the support role on this occasion. Matty Johnston and brother Jordy typically starred continuing their excellent run of form in more recent times over the Panthers.

Panthers’ newcomer Darby Schilder was named best for the visitors while a deserving shout out must be reserved for their sole goalkicker for the match Daniel Zajac.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 34 disposals, 16 marks, 15 score involvements

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 25 score involvements, 17 contested possessions

Darby Schilder (Melton South) - 30 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES' VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Good overall performance. The pressure was good and created scoring opportunities off turnover. Pleasing to keep an opposition side to three goals last week and one goal this week. The challenge is for our young team to keep working on our consistency throughout each game."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Competed hard in the first half but was really disappointed with our lack of effort in the third quarter. (We) responded well in the last only losing it (the quarter) by a few goals. East's A Grade midfield took us to the cleaners and once again turnover was a killer turning it over 78 times from only 273 disposals."

Enigmatic Bacchus Marsh were soundly beaten at home to the tune of 53 points by a well organised Sunbury outfit who look to have something to offer when the whips are cracking around September.

The Lions led from go to woe, won every quarter and looked a class above their one-win opponents who struggled for continuity with their ball movement, partly due to the pressure applied by Matt White's new team.

The Lions look fit and healthy to the eye and all on the same page.

The addition of a handful of players in the off-season has certainly boosted the Lions profile, capable of upsetting the likes of Melton, Darley and North Ballarat.

Usual suspects Tyson Lever (one goal), Jake Sutton (four goals), Josh Guthrie (one goal) and Jake Egan (three goals) led from the front to ensure there would not be no repeat of last year’s shenanigans when the Cobras came from behind to pinch the result. 

Newcomers Ben Cameron, Dean Muir and Jordan Tentonello have all impressed in their opening month in Sunbury colors.

For the Cobras, Jake Owen (four goials) was the pick of the hosting party ahead of Jake McCreery and Ethan McKercher (first half) who enjoyed some quality moments in an otherwise tough day at the office.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 13 marks, 90% disposal efficiency

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 52 hit outs, 16 disposals, 9 score involvements

Ben Cameron (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"(It) was a great lesson for us today on what team football looks like. Sunbury were great on turnover to make the ground long and wide. We were unfortunately a little flat footed and reactive today. (There were) some positive patches that we need to replicate for longer."  

Matt White (Sunbury)
"(We) executed the plan really well knowing we would have a battle on our hands, and thought we broke even. Bacchus Marsh came at us in the last quarter like they did against Darley, and we managed to hold them off which was a great sign moving forward."

Round 5 saw a top tier of teams establish themselves towards the pointy end of the ladder, while one side tasted sweet victory for the first time in 18 outings. Scoop reviews all the action from the weekend.

Darley earned the unofficial third seeding in the premiership race behind Melton and Sebastopol with a convincing 56-point win on the road over Sunbury.

Reigning Henderson Medalist and Devils’ captain Brett Bewley capped his best on ground performance with a career high six goals leaving the Sunbury faithful in awe of the former Fremantle Docker.

The 28-year-old was simply sublime, his efficiency unrivalled. Full time addition Billy Myers (five goals) provided Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson with another untimely headache, bereft of options containing the former Williamstown VFL utility.

The task for Hodgson in the lead up was made more difficult by the injury to Tyson Lever (foot) and the unavailability of inform midfielder Harry Minton-Connell following his selection with Essendon VFL.

Lions’ quartet Nathan Wood, Riley Miller, Jake Egan (two goals) and promoted Under 19 product Lachie Urbon tried their hearts out but to no avail.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan had arguably his best result in his two year tenure, implementing a masterstroke plan to strangle the Lions with their want to run and carry.

The Devils had winners all over the ground and looked a class above the longer the game went adding six straight last quarter goals.

Sunbury have a timely bye this week, a chance to reset while the Devils have Melton South (11th) and Lake Wendouree (9th) on the road their next fortnight.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 48 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley): 22 disposals, 7 marks, 4 goals

Jake Egan (Sunbury): 25 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing day, we failed the test. (We) never gave up but were comprehensively outplayed after half time. Our inability to contain genuine superstars in Bewley and Myers added significantly to the pain."

Dan Jordan (Darley): "Good four quarter effort from our boys against a quality side. Starting to see some of the football we can produce but still plenty to work on."

Flag contenders Sebastopol took the best part of a half to shrug off a plucky Ballarat outfit at Alfredton Oval.

The Burra savoured an 11-point lead at the main break before raising the bar adding six goals to one in the second half, shutting out any unlikely thoughts of a major upset.

Tony Lockyer starred again for the Burra alongside returning midfielder Lachie Cassidy, Bailey Medwell, Jack Bambury and dangerous smalls Jai Harvey and Daniel Widgery.

Key forward Toby Hutt (three goals) was matched only by opportunistic teammate Adam Forbes on the goal front to ensure the Burras simply did enough, with a bit in reserve, to get the job done. Twenty-seven shots on goal to nine confirmed the nature of the win.

For Ballarat, Will Liston was again named their best player while the Constable brothers, Riley and Tyler, along with Tristan Maple and Marcus Powling did their utmost to keep the Swans in the game especially to half time.

Ahead, Sebastopol look primed to go 4-1 following a meeting Lake Wendouree on Saturday while the Swans prepare for an outside chance against North Ballarat.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Stats unavailable

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat);"We were very pleased with the determination of our group today. Once again we were very competitive for three quarters, only letting ourselves down for a small period."

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol); "Solid hit out...the Swans came to play early with an eager young group. They had an extra two (players) at the stoppage all day and got numbers back making it hard (for us) to kick a big score."

An Invigorated East Point took care of North Ballarat with an ‘all the way’ 20-point win, confirming their top six credentials under new coach Jackson Merrett.

But for North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney the fallout from a game they expected to win would have the astute mentor at logger heads finding a solution to their woes and inabilities to find the line against similar opposition.

While North remain in touch of the top six at 2-3, the pattern resembles something of greater concern. The Roosters have won just three of their last 11 games and find themselves no "shoe in" to make the six. You can still hold the faith with North but clearly, they're in need of claiming a scalp.

For the Kangas, the Johnston brothers were good again while youngster Liam Howard was named best afield. Brad Whittaker and Jack Jeffrey finished with a game high three goals.

North Ballarat welcomed the return of Werribee VFL listed player Jack Riding who featured prominently with on-ball duo Callum McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 30 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 19 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

Cam McCullum (North Ballarat): 74 hitouts, 14 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT:

Jackson Merrett (East Point);"Really proud of our young group today, we owned the game for three quarters and when challenged in the last. The response the boys gave was really pleasing and something we can build off moving forward."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat);"Poor day for our club. (We were) outplayed and outworked when we had chances to gain control. Disappointing but learnings always come from every game."       

Lake Wendouree ended an 18-game losing streak with a comprehensive win over an embattled Melton South side on Saturday.

It was the fifth straight 100 plus point loss for the Panthers leaving them at the bottom of the table with a paltry percentage of just 18.56%

But the Lakers had some issues of their own to overcome and they were able to do that in emphatic style. Jacob Coxall finished with a game high five goals to feature among the better players along with tireless duo Joel O'Connell and Timmy Collins.

On-field life doesn't get any easier for the struggling Panthers in Round 6, as they are set for a meeting with an unbeaten Darley outfit. The Lakers can take some confidence into their match with Sebastopol but overcoming the flag contenders will be a herculean task.

Coach Jack Fitzpatrick will ask his players for another special effort against the odds to stay in the game for as long as possible for the result for many is deemed inevitable.

Panthers’ newcomer Cassius White was a shining light in an otherwise disappointing result for the home side.

Coaching duo Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy have endured one of the toughest introductions into the BFNL just five rounds in. But they will endeavor to bite the bullet and keep fighting the cause, for in reality, it's all they can ask for at the moment. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 67 hit outs, 13 score involvements, 11 contested possessions

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree): 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 inside 50s

Rhys Lee (Melton South): 25 disposals, 12 tackles, 11 1%ers

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"Disappointing effort today, we played well below our best. Credit to the Lakers, they had a good game and deserved the win."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"Thank goodness!"

Reigning Premiers Melton were simply a class above putting Redan to the sword at City Oval.

The game was over at quarter time as the merciless Bloods piled on eight goals to two to lead by 38 points at the first change.

Experienced quintet Brett McIntyre, Liam Carter, Jack Walker, Jordy Cotter and Ryan Davis shared the spoils to feature among the best players, along with progressive youngster Luke Heaney.

Redan were without star duo Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray VFL) and Lachie George (back). Sam Broadbent and new addition Nicholas Kelson were considered best from the losing side while Isaac Grant and Jacob Short continued with their rich vein of form.

Redan face an uphill battle on Saturday against East Point while Melton will be strong favorites make it six wins on the bounce when they take on Bacchus Marsh to remain on top of the BFNL table.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett McIntyre (Melton): 59 hitouts, 12 score involvements, 10 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 29 disposals, 8 intercept possessions, 7 marks

Izaac Grant (Redan): 27 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 12 clearances

COACHES VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Melton jumped us and we were never in the game. They showed us we are a long way off."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Really happy with the effort today. We addressed our slow starts with probably our best (first) quarter for the year. Some of the things we are working on during the week are starting to click."

Big margin victories were the tale of the round with statement wins and form boosters enjoyed across the league on Saturday by a number of clubs.

The Cobras made it two wins from as many outings in Ballarat with a morale-boosting 72-point win over a disappointing Sebastopol.

After an even first half, the Cobras put together their most complete quarter of the season under new coach Dennis Armfield with seven unanswered goals to set up a match winning 48-point lead at the final change.

Just how the Cobras would go about finishing off their good work in foreign territory and a seemingly unassailable lead became the narrative for Armfield and his staff to implore.

And they weren't about to be let down. A young Cobras outfit full of momentum added a further 4.5 in the final term outscoring the Burra 2.3 to run out comfortable winners.

Isaac Nixon's best on ground performance yielded a game high four goals ahead of experienced campaigners Jake Owen and Armfield who each finished with three.

Usual suspects Jake McCreery and Luke Goetz featured prominently again while live wire Ethan McKercher continued to impress with his clean ball use and explosive pace.

Burra’s quintet Jed Hill, Ryan Noether, Sam Wilkinson, Tony Lockyer and Bailey Medwell were praised for their efforts in arguably the club’s worst loss of the season that nestles them in the bottom three on the back of four consecutive losses.

There seems no end in sight for the Burras run outs next week when they travel to Mars Stadium to front North Ballarat on the rebound. The Cobras will prepare for a fill-up at home against the winless Panthers.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 31 disposals, 11 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 52 hit outs, 19 disposals, 10 score involvements

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"A competitive first half with the game in the balance at half time. (Our) third quarter was extremely poor, gave the ball away too easily and efforts to stop the Marsh were lackluster. (We) simply did not execute what we set out to do for each other. Credit to Dennis and the Marsh, they played some great team footy. Backs against the walls for us, but we won't give up. Still plenty of season to go."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Really positive four quarter performance built off pressure and effort. We came with a willingness to put our teammates first and a drive to compete. Sebastopol were really strong at uncontested marks in the first half, and we had to change the way we played to take this away and force (them to go) long."

League improvers Sunbury have firmed into potential flag conversation following an 81-point routing of North Ballarat at the Clarke Oval.

A very well organised Lions outfit under new coach Matt White stunned the crowd, even their most loyal and faithful, booting nine unanswered goals in the third term to extend a 22-point half time lead to 77 at the final change - game over.

Dangerous Lions’ forward combo Jake Sutton (five goals) and Mitch McLean (five goals) hit the scoreboard to share honours on the goal front, while promising young ruckman Fraser Ampulski was best afield ahead of a host of major contributors including Lachlan Urbon, Ben Eales and Mitch Lewis and McLean.

Popular young Lion Thomas Werner took his opportunity with both hands to feature in BOG discussions following a well-earned recall after a bout in the twos.

For North Ballarat, nothing really went right at all despite the consistent efforts of inform duo Isaac Carey and Joshua Sparkman, Nelson Troon, Riley Polkinghorne, Harry Loader and Hugh Trigg.

The Roosters chances were rendered slim at best ahead of the opening bounce in the absence of Jamie Quick, Mal White, Liam Deering, Tom Bromley-Lynch, Jarrod Curran and Stewart Crameri.

Credit to North Ballarat coach Brendan McCartney for making little excuse in the aftermath for a less than ideal preparation.

Matthew White's Lions remain unbeaten with a healthy list and have another opportunity to frank their current form when they host Darley (4-1) who remain shy of a four quarter best performance since their season opener against East Point. Should be a belter.

North Ballarat are at home to struggling Sebastopol.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 23 disposals, 13 score involvements, 10 marks

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really good four quarter performance. A midfield battle that we were able to get clear from in the second half and capitilise on."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Tough day for us today. Sunbury were very good in all areas of the game and were way too good. They showed us their class and competitiveness as a club. We didn't have our best week of preparation. Good learnings (for us) as a club and we move on."

The powerful Bloods, under new coach Troy Scoble, flexed their muscles in the second and fourth quarters posting 11.5 to the Swans’ 1.1, validating a 70-point separation on the scoreboard at the final siren.

It was the second footy audit in as many weeks for Chris Maple's young Swans who fell 64 points of Darley in Round 4. Their bye in Round 6 rings timely.

Despite the Bloods’ humble 'work in progress' narrative, most would agree they are early flag favorites on exposed form.

They're very strong in all areas and blessed with depth, not dissimilar to Sunbury, with as many as 30 players on the list who could fill a role if/when required.

Versatile X-factor forward and Bloods’ captain Braedan Kight featured with another starring role finishing with seven goals to move five clear in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal. Kight has 25 goals to date from just four games. 

Jaycob Hickey, Jordyn Cotter, Lachlan Phillips, Billy Sullivan and Bailey Mawson earned support role nominations behind Kight to be named among the best players.

For the visitors, it was no surprise to see their top end talent brigade provide the greatest resistance.

Rhett Montgomery was named best once again for the Swans ahead of Lauchie Dalgleish, Marcus Powling and Callan Wellings. Youngsters Zach Maple and Rhys Perry also did enough to earn their name in print.

Melton faces East Point at MacPhersons Park on Saturday who head into the game with big wins over bottom three sides Sebastopol, Melton South and Lake Wendouree.

Will the confidence gained by the Kangas’ hattrick of wins prove enough to override their questionable form line and challenge the Bloods?

We shall see.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomerie (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 13 contested possessions

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 31 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Terrific contest, no side could get away from the other in the first 30 minutes. (The) contest was even and both defences strong. We were able to capitilise on turnover in the second quarter to gain some separation on the scoreboard. We were happy with our planning going into the game against a really talented team. (The) scoreboard did not reflect the competitiveness of the game. When you play top teams, you have to play well and we feel we will learn a lot from the game ahead of the challenge next week against form team East Point. We enjoy playing in the big games each week." 

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"We were really competitive for the majority of the game. Our second quarter let us down when we lost control in the contested side of the game and turnovers really hurt us. (Our) goalkicking was poor throughout the game. Credit to Melton, a big strong side who will be there come September." 

An eight-goal blitz from the Devils in the opening term gave visiting Redan little to no hope repeating an upset result at Darley Park.

The Lions have proven the Devils’ 'bogie side' in recent times having won four of their previous five meetings but this game was all over at quarter time.

The Devils were at their best for a 24-minute period post the six-minute mark led by Harley Inglis (three goals), Brady Wright (two goals) and dominant midfield trio Brett Bewley, Luther Baker and Matt Denham.

The Lions showed some resistance in the second term to win the quarter before the Devils steadied after the main break to extend the lead to 66 points at the final siren.

Billy Myers booted five second half goals to finish with six ahead of Inglis who continued his solid start to the season with a bag of five.

Brett Bewley (three goals), Baker and Denham were the stars of the show despite the Myers, Inglis influence on goal.

Defenders Zane Lehuray and Matthew Brett were sound shutting down Marty Boyer (0 goals) and Grant Bell (two goals).

Lions next gen quartet Rory Gunsser, Zac Mortlock, Kye Jess and Riley Collins continue to show promise while Billy Douglas (ruck) and Lachie George toiled manfully around stoppage despite the unenviable task denying a rampant Devils midfield.

The Devils extend their winning streak at home to 11, usurping their previous average winning margin (62 points) for the period.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 50 disposals, 19 score involvements, 17 clearances

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 33 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 marks

Billy Myers (Darley) - 21 disposals, 14 score involvements, 15 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Solid performance, happy with the result. Again, we saw glimpses of our best but credit to Redan who kept coming at us. Still plenty more to work on as we continue to build into the season."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"We were caught out early by an organised and experienced outfit. For the middle part of the game, we gave good effort but turned the ball over far too often. Lots to learn from the opportunity to play against Bewley and Co."

Joe Carmody's Kangaroos have slung themselves into fourth on the McDonald’s BFNL table with a resounding 65-point win on the road over the winless Lakers.

Despite winning all four quarters the Kangas were made to work their way back in front early before building on their advantage at every change.

Kangas’ duo Bryson McDougall and young gun Strahan Robinson shared game high returns in front of goal alongside Lakers talent Bailey Thompson, each of whom finished the day with four majors.

But it was the sheer overall dominance of the Kangas list that proved too much for the Lakers over the journey.

A four-point quarter time lead was raised incrementally at the breaks as the difference between the two sides was validated by the gulf in scoring shots - some 20 more registered by the winners.

Experienced Kangas’ Jordan Taylor (best), Joel Van Meel, Matthew Johnston (one goal), McDougall and Billy Jones provided most of the damage while progressive youngster and 2023 BFNL Interleague rep Liam Canny (one goal) did enough to be among Henderson Medal vote contention.

The two halves on the score front were essentially a copy paste version of one another as the Kangas near mirrored their advantage in each - 33 points at the main break, 65 at the final siren.

Lakers’ utility Bailey Thompson's four goals were a shining light in the Lakers loss as Joel O'Connell, Kye Anderson, Angus Gove and Tom Zampatti maintained their run of consistent form over recent weeks to feature in the best players. 

If there's any consolation for Rohan Brown's Lakers, they were on the end of the lowest losing margin out of a weekend of big results.

The Lakers are away to Redan at City Oval in Round 6 while the Kangas get their round six update on the road against yardstick Melton.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 33 disposals, 18 score involvements, 17 contested possessions

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 36 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Rinse and repeat for us today. Some of our footy was great, especially in the first quarter. It felt like the game was on our terms early. (Throughout the) middle quarters they took full advantage of our mistakes as our system fell down a bit. Small steps forward once again which is better than going back a couple. Hopefully we get a few players back next week."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(We) played in patches today. All credit to Lakers who really had a crack all day. We dominated forward 50 entries so eventually that translated to scoreboard pressure and the win."

Only one team remains undefeated in our senior men's comp after Round 5 saw statement wins made and first victories on the board.

A slow start has cost North Ballarat greatly, with Bacchus Marsh capitalising to claim a 15-point win on the road and solidify their place inside the top six.

The first ten minutes saw an even contest, but it didn’t take long for the Cobras to take control of the game. Led by a first-quarter hat-trick from Jake Owen, Bacchus Marsh piled on eight consecutive scoring shots to open up a 22-point lead at the first break.

From there, the game remained evenly poised.

Both teams slotted 4.2 in the second term, and North had their chances in the third quarter to close the gap.

But three consecutive behinds from set shots saw them fail to cut into the lead, still trailing by 14 points at the final change.

Despite winning the inside 50 count and edging ahead in clearances, the Roosters couldn’t match the Cobras' efficiency and polish when going forward.

The damage from the opening term ultimately proved too much to reel in.

Sam Artz led the way for the home side with a relentless tackling effort that earned him best on ground honours.

Brock Leonard also impressive, winning key clearances and lifting his pressure game.

For Bacchus Marsh, Luke Goetz dominated in the ruck with a massive 88 hit outs and even chipped in with a goal.

Josh Huxtable was once again a pillar of consistency, linking defence and attack with composure and drive.

North Ballarat now face a critical two-week stretch with clashes against fellow bottom-six sides Redan and Lake Wendouree.

The Cobras, meanwhile, will look to build momentum as they prepare for a clash against sixth placed Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 88 hit outs, 8 score involvements, 5 intercept possessions

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 24 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 10 scoring involvements, 8 tackle 

Sebastopol’s sluggish first-quarter starts had been a talking point in the early rounds—but any concerns of a recurring trend were firmly put to bed on Saturday.

The Burra exploded out of the blocks, piling on a 40-point lead by quarter time in their clash against fellow winless side Lake Wendouree.

Despite the visitors managing to win the second term, the damage was already done.

Sebastopol used the momentum of their premiership reunion at Marty Busch Reserve—and the energy of a blue and gold home crowd—to deliver a complete performance, running away with a 68-point win and their first four points of the season.

Tony Lockyer’s group dominated the stats sheet, winning key areas across contested ball, pressure acts, and inside 50s.

Whilst efficiency had been an area for improvement, the Burra well and truly got their usage back to where it should be. 

Young gun Cooper Littlehales played his best game at senior level to date, booting 5.1 and finishing with 12 score involvements to claim best on ground honours.

Daniel Widgery was also instrumental, bringing heat around the contest and racking up contested possessions.

For the Lakers, Joel O’Connell once again stood tall in tough conditions, leading by example around stoppages.

A positive from the day came in the form of debutant Jackson O’Brien, who showed promise with multiple possessions and a few scoring opportunities.

The road ahead doesn’t look any easier for Lake Wendouree as they take on in-form Sunbury. For Sebastopol, they’ll need to stay with this momentum as they take on Darley.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Ben Hutt (Sebastopol) - 30 disposals, 14 score involvements, 12 tackles

Hugo Papst (Sebastopol) - 19 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 9 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 25 disposals, 10 marks, 9 rebound 50s

An eight-goal final quarter has stamped Sunbury’s authority on the BFNL competition, lifting them to a 45-point win over the previously unbeaten East Point at Clarke Oval.

Both sides entered the clash with strong early season form, and it showed early as the contest remained tight across the first three quarters.

Sunbury’s efficiency in front of goal gave them a narrow 10-point lead at the first break, while East Point’s pressure around the ball disrupted the Lions’ momentum through the middle stages.

But with the game up for grabs early in the final term, it was Jake Sutton who seized the moment. The Sunbury forward exploded with four consecutive goals, opening the floodgates in a dominant final term that saw the Lions pile on eight majors, to East Point’s zero.

Despite East Point having the edge in hit outs and hit outs to advantage, Sunbury won the ball at ground level and used it with far greater purpose.

Captain Tyson Lever was instrumental down back, finishing with 16 intercept possessions and earning best on ground honours.

Josh Guthrie continued his strong season, racking up 33 disposals.

For the Roos, Jackson Merrett provided drive from defence and was named their best, while Billy Jones remained a reliable option for a quick receive, as well as applying plenty of pressure.

The win sees Sunbury climb to third on the ladder, with a Round 6 clash against winless Lake Wendouree offering a chance to further consolidate their spot.

Meanwhile, East Point need to regroup quickly as they prepare to face the undefeated Melton in what looms as a tough test.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 6 1%ers

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Fresh off their first win of the season in Round 4, Redan looked to ride that momentum into a tough assignment against the undefeated Melton—and for a half, they were more than up to the task.

The Lions continued their season trend of fast starts, edging out to a one-goal lead by quarter time and pushing the margin to 10 points at the main break.

Leading the reigning premiers at halftime is no small feat, but Redan may well be left wondering what might have been had their five second-quarter behinds found the middle of the sticks.

That buffer quickly disappeared early in the third term.

Trailing by 17 points just minutes in, Melton swung the game back their way—largely thanks to the reliable hands of Liam Carter, who sparked the Bloods' comeback.

The reigning champs piled on 7 goals in the third quarter alone, while Redan managed just one in response.

Redan’s recurring issue—fading out late—surfaced again, as they were held to just three behinds in the final term.

Inaccuracy saved the margin from ballooning further, with the Bloods booting 8 behinds in the last quarter alone.

Liam Carter was named best on ground, kicking two goals and notching 12 score involvements.

Harrison Hanley also made his mark for Melton, dominating in the air with intercepts and providing forward drive.

For Redan, Taj Bond worked tirelessly across the ground, constantly attacking the contest and doing his best to lift his side.

Rory Gunsser was a standout, collecting a game-high 43 disposals and driving play out of defence with class.

Redan now turn their attention to a winnable clash against North Ballarat, while Melton prepare for the highly anticipated grand final rematch against East Point.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 43 disposals, 16 rebound 50s, 7 marks

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 23 disposals, 8 marks, 8 rebound 50s

It wasn’t a game that hit great heights, but Darley didn’t need it to.

The Devils were in control from the opening bounce to the final siren, cruising to a 50-point win over Ballarat at home.

To Ballarat’s credit, they managed to restrict Darley’s early scoreboard impact – something they’ve struggled to do in previous rounds.

But that resistance didn’t last. The Devils kicked three goals in each quarter, while Ballarat could only manage one per term, unable to break through Darley’s composed and disciplined structure.

While the Swans struggled to generate meaningful forward entries and scoreboard pressure, their tackling intensity was a clear positive.

They led the day for tackles and pressure acts, refusing to let the Devils run unchecked.

Still, there was no stopping Darley’s dominant trio.

Brett Bewley was simply untouchable, collecting 52 disposals and adding three goals in a best-on-ground masterclass.

Nick Hind wasn’t far behind with 36 touches, regularly finding space and delivering clean entries inside 50.

And in the ruck, Lucas Impey impressed not just with his tap work, but with strong second and third efforts around the ground.

For the Swans, Luke Gray offered a shining light, consistently finding space and pulling in uncontested marks to earn best-on honours. Wyatt Squires was also solid through the midfield, finishing with 13 clearances in a strong individual performance.

Darley now roll into Round 6 with a clash against Sebastopol, while Ballarat gear up for a crucial 5th vs 6th battle against Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lucas Impey (Darley) - 56 hit outs, 22 disposals, 16 contested possessions

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 52 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Wyatt Squires (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 13 clearances, 13 contested possessions

Despite some huge results, it was in fact the lowest scoring round on the goal front since the season opener as four of the five losing teams managed just nine goals between them.

Unbeaten Melton (6-0) and Darley (5-0) top the table with Sebastopol (4-1) breathing down their necks in third. Redan (4th) and North Ballarat (7th) consolidated all important wins to remain in touch.

Scoop goes through all the major talking points from last round. 

Flag favorites Melton recorded a major percentage boost with an 82-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Macpherson Park on the weekend.

A clearly undermanned Bacchus Marsh managed to restrict the powerful offence capabilities of the Bloods up until halftime before the floodgates opened in the second. The Bloods kicked away booting 10 goals to one, earning another all too familiar rendition of the victory song, citing an injury free win to be a bonus.

For the record the Bloods points differential for third quarters over their six games is truly frightening. Only once have they conceded more than one goal (five in total) with +159 for the sample size. 76-6 (RD1 v MS), 14-12 (RD2 V SUN), 32-7 (RD3 V SEB), 27-3 (RD4 V NB), 25-5 (RD5 V RED) and 27-9 (RD6 V B/M) - totaling 201-42.

For the winners, Brett McIntyre made it back-to-back best on ground performances and his fourth time to feature in as many games following his return to the side in Round 3. Liam Carter. Jordy Cotter, Luke Heaney, Lachlan Walker and Lachie Watkins did the rest of the damage while for the struggling Cobras, Jake McCreery and Tyson Shea continued their excellent run of form in the opening third of the season. Joshua Onderwater, Callum Smith and Xavier Jenks were amongst the best of the rest.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett McIntyre (Melton): 36 hit outs, 14 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 25 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 9 1%ers

Tyson Shae (Bacchus Marsh): 29 disposals, 12 clearances, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "It was pleasing to bank another win injury-free on the back of a solid defensive effort across four quarters."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Really happy with our first half restricting Melton to 36 points. Outside of Jake McCreery and Tyson Shea it was most pleasing to see our young guys carry the team with really good effort."

North Ballarat capped their encouraging four-quarter performance on the road with a runaway six goals to one final term, downing the young Swans by 71 points. 

The winners welcomed the return of VFL affiliates Sam Glover (five goals) and Josh Chatfield (three goals) to post the highest score of the three games held in Ballarat at the weekend.

Livewire forward Jamie Quick (four goals) added to the separation on the scoreboard virtually shutting the gate on the bottom four teams’ finals chances in the process. The race for the six appears down to seven teams just a third of the way into the season.

While North Ballarat look a completely different proposition with their VFL affiliates on board, credit must go to ever consistent "biggie smalls" midfield duo Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne.

While McCullum has had significant impact in three of his games, Polkinghorne hasn't missed a beat, finishing in the best players in all five games after missing their season opening loss to Sunbury.

For the Swans, finding impact players outside of Marcus Powling, Tristan Maple, Will Liston and Angus Bade poses a season long issue for new coach Chris Maple - not to mention goal scoring options away from Andrew Hooper (two goals).

After six rounds, the Swans rank ninth in attack averaging 58 points per game. It was the third time in six games Maple young group were held to less than 40 points.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat): 33 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Cam McCullum (North Ballarat): 53 hit outs, 14 disposals, 8 score involvements

Tom Mooney (Ballarat): 13 contested possessions, 11 clearances, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "A very disappointing day for our club. They outclassed us all day, both inside and outside the contest. We will need to review, learn and move on."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"The hardest and most disciplined we've been for a while. Everyone contributed and played their roles well.....was good to have some better conversion in front of goal." 

Redan moved into outright fourth on the McDonalds BFNL table after a gutsy 13-point win on the road over pre-game favorites East Point.

The wounded Lions, who were without a bench late in the contest, held off a stirring challenge from the Kangas, holding sway in the clinches as both sides went goal for goal in a very entertaining final quarter that included 11 goals.

Lions’ youngsters Liam Farnsworth and Harry Lawson enjoyed their best days impacting at the level while usual suspects Isaac Grant (four goals) and Daniel Bond helped shoulder the heavy workload next to Cooper Craig-Peters who returned from Footscray VFL.

Dangerous Lions forward Lachie McLean finished with three important goals to aid an underdog road win that saw Redan promoted to fourth place on the BFNL ladder ahead of their bye in round seven.

There could be no excuses for the home side buoyed with the return of playing coach Jackson Merrett (two goals). Young gun Liam Canny landed a career high five goals to finish best for the Kangas ahead of the Johnston brothers and Liam Howard who is building a solid block of form at the level.

Brad Whittaker added another two goals, taking his season tally to 14 from 5 games - a good story for the popular forward having returned this season after a lengthy lay off with injury.

But all honours belong with the visiting Lions - recording an all-important win for debut season coach Gary Learmonth.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 28 disposals, 11 tackles, 4 goals

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan): 16 contested posessions, 12 clearances, 7 tackles

Matt Johnston (East Point): 28 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 6 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point);"Disappointing result for us today. A poor start and our inability to finish off our work with basic fundamental mistakes really hurt us."

Gary Learmonth (Redan);"A really courageous win today from the boys today. We had the game in our control for the most part but were down to no interchange for the majority of the last quarter and held up well. Looking forward to the week off."

Process driven Darley put an undermanned Melton South to the sword for a season high 201-point win, extending their unbeaten run (all on the road) to five in the new season under second year coach Dan Jordan.

Full time addition Billy Myers finished with nine goals for Darley, among 13 individual goalkickers as the visitors monstered the struggling Panthers. While there were brief moments of competitiveness from the home side, the Devils were simply a class above.

Given the offensive nature of the Devils’ win, it's hard to fathom two of their best players would be  defenders Mace Cousins and Matthew Brett.

Cousins made a welcomed returned from Geelong VFL duties, dominating with his rebound that included a Mark of the Year contender. Brett was impenetrable, marking everything, often contested.

His fundamental distribution and organisation of the troops was near faultless and worthy of major vote consideration amid a long list of Darley contributors.         

Embattled Melton South will keep seeking the little wins across the field despite what the scoreboard reads with the efforts of Cassius White, Mitch Fino and Jarrod Bibby all notable against an irresistible Devils' tsunami.

Darley coach Dan Jordan would be soaking up the added bonus of knowing his group made it through unscathed on the injury front. Star mid Brett Bewley (two goals) spent a large portion of the second half rested on the bench. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 23 disposals, 12 marks, 9 goals

Mace Cousins (Darley): 31 disposals, 14 marks, 11 inside 50s

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 24 disposals, 19 tackles, 15 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"Darley is the best team we've played all year. We're very young and inexperienced and will learn a lot from the game. We will keep pushing forward for the rest of the season."

Dan Jordan (Darley):“Pleased with the aptitude to stick to our task all day. (For us it was) a process driven game more so than the result and (we) tried a few things. (We were) happy to come away with the result we did.”

Sebastopol made it a fourth win in five games to kickstart their 2023 campaign following a nine-goal win over Lake Wendouree in slippery conditions at Marty Busch Reserve.

While the Burra won all four quarters it was the first time the Lakers had conceded less than 100 points in any of their four losses to date. However, Burras coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro had every reason to be proud of their defensive effort reducing the Lakers to one solitary goal for the game.

The Burra had to find an unlikely source to goal as underrated utility Hugo Papst answered the call to finish with a game high four goals. Only he and Jed Hill (two goals) could manage multiples in a game that could aptly be described as an underwhelming scrap.

Lakers’ coach Jack Fitzpatrick was reasonably happy with his boy’s intent but were too often let down with simple execution of the fundamentals.

Experienced duo Tony Lockyer and Lachie Cassidy featured prominently for the winners alongside in-form youngsters Jack Bambury and Bailey Medwell.

Lakers quartet Cody and Braydn Helyar, Joel O'Connell and Michael Foster provided the greatest resistance in a losing side but clearly the gulf in class between the two sides was validated by the one-sided nature on the scoreboard.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol): 43 disposals, 17 marks, 16 rebound 50s

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol): 23 disposals, 14 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 52 hitouts, 21 disposals, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):"We got the win and will move on pretty quickly as we enter a very important two weeks. We will have a full list to pick from next week."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree); "We didn't help ourselves with elements of our game but credit to Sebastopol, the better team won on the day."

A number of close finishes proved there is not much seperating the top end of a scintilating football season so far in 2024.

Giantkillers Sunbury remain the only unbeaten team atop of the BFNL ladder after a thrilling come from behind win over Darley at the Clarke Oval.

This game was seeming put to bed after three quarters when the Devils led by 21 points, but someone forgot to tell the Lions to turn off the bedside lamp.

Lions newcomers Brock Landt, Jordan Tentonello, Ben Eales and promoted Jacob Bygate highlighted the club’s enviable depth under Matty White to feature among the best players behind VFL listed defender Jack Newitt and progressive midfielder Jake Egan.

Ironically the sentiment recognising the denfensive contributions was endorsed by Devils’ coach Dan Jordan in the aftermath as Zane Le Huray (best), Jyson Fawcett, Matthew Brett and Jake Ancrum were lauded for their efforts in a losing side led by Luther Baker who was able to get off the hook as the focus of attention leant toward the competition's best player, Brett Bewley.

While the winners were held to their lowest score of the season (previous 99 v Redan Round 1) it was no surprise to see Mitch McLean (three goals) and Jake Sutton (two goals) combine for half of the Lions’ majors.

Heading in they were responsible for 44% of all Sunbury goals in 2024.

Goals came at a premium, only Joel Cadman (two goals) could register multiple goals for the visitors who wrestled their way to nine goals, with eight of those coming in the first three quarters.

The Devils have very little time to lick their wounds ahead of Melton in BFNL Match of the Round fixture, while Sunbury's unbeaten run looks likely to extend to seven on the road against the winless Lakers. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 10 tackles, 10 marks

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 6 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 19 disposals, 13 marks, 13 intercept possessions   

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"(It) was a great win against a class outfit. They had us pinned for three quarters before we were able to break the shackles in the last to be able to run away with it."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"I thought we controlled the game for the most part in the first three quarters. Credit to Sunbury who came back at us and capitilised on a few key moments. Plenty to take away from the game against a quality side."

Redan survived a major scare to hold off a gallant Lake Wendouree outfit at City Oval.

Rohan Brown's winless Lakers simply refused to put the cue in the rack as they took it up to their more fancied rivals establishing a quarter time (17 points) and three-quarter time lead (11 points) before succumbing late to Gary Learmonth's young brigade led by Khy Jess (best) and Zac Mortlock.

Experienced quartet Jacob Short, Lachlan George, Jacob Werts and Stephen Fitzgibbon helped steer the ship ensuring the Lions finished with their noses in front.

Bailey Carroll finished with a game high three goals for the winners, while returning ruckman Taj Bond, midfielder Khy Jess and leading forward Grant Bell finished with two.

Bell has kicked multiple goals in all six games this season and currently sits third in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

The Lakers were brave and gave themselves every chance with eight contributors hitting the scoreboard, four registering multiples.

The clubs leading 'striker' Bailey Thompson, Bailey McKimmie, Jonte Jarrod and exciting up and comer Lincoln Koliba (best) each booted two goals.

Promising recruit Jaydon Wright (one goal) made a safe return after missing a month with an ankle injury.

Goals aside, Joel O'Connell, Phoenix James, Brayden Helyar and Bailey Ryan were all important for the Lakers who fell agonisingly short.

Tough match ups await these two sides in Round 7.

Redan are away at Mars Stadium for an intriguing matchup against North Ballarat while the Lakers get another opportunity to measure their improvement when they host ladder leaders Sunbury.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Khy Jess (Redan) - 36 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Jacob Short (Redan) - 27 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 intercept possessions

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 78 hit outs, 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Happy to win but we were lucky to hold on. Lakers controlled plenty of the game and will be in plenty of games during the year. We need to be better for longer. Great learning opportunity for the squad."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Good game of footy. Super proud of our group once again. We had chances late to win the game but unfortunately, we couldn't capitilise. Our steps are getting bigger. This is the most resilient group I’ve coached - we will show up again and have a crack at it next week."

East Point made huge inroads on their top three credentials with another nail-biting win over healthy rivals Melton.

Not dissimilar to the Kanga’s one-point win over the Bloods in last year’s semi-final, it was Matty Johnston who led his troops with a stand-out display through the midfield.

The see-sawing affair endured many lead changes as both sides looked the winner at stages.

When the Bloods arrested a nine-point quarter time deficit to lead by 11 points at the main break one could not be dragged over the coals assuming Troy Scoble's team would go on with it.

But Joe Carmody's Kangas had other ideas bouncing back to have their noses in front again at the final change.

Again, the Bloods wrestled back the lead and led by as much as 14 points before the never-say-die Kangas fought their way to finish on the right side of the ledger at the final siren.

Kanga’s playmaker Jordy Johnston complemented his brother Matty to feature prominently alongside lesser knowns Deng Lual and Hamish Thompson who highlighted the rich source of progressive young talent coming out of Eastern Oval.

Experienced duo Jordy Taylor and Jacob Brown (two goals) continued their run of recent form as did Jesse Cairns who looks more and more comfortable at the level against any opposition.

Bloods swingman Luke Heaney (four goals) almost won the game off his own boot in a master move forward from Scoble.

Defenders Lachlan Phillips, Jordy Cotter and Bailey Mawson were prominent for the hosts all day while the Kight brothers Braedan and Jordy Kight played the support role to Heaney on the goal front finishing with two goals each.

It's a rarity in more recent times you will see league heavyweights Melton and Darley meet after a loss adding further weight to what was already going to be a season blockbuster on the Round 7 BFNL Match of the Round.

The confident Kangas will fear no-one having claimed the league’s biggest scalp for a second time in as many hit outs.

It's onwards an upwards For Carmody's group as they prepare for Chris Maple's Ballarat in Round 7.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 24 conested possessions, 14 score involvements

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 25 disposals, 9 marks, 8 score involvements

Luke Heaney (Melton) - 13 disposals (9 contested), 8 marks (6 contested), 8 score involvements (6 goal involvements) 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Not good enough over the four quarters today. I thought East controlled the game in contest and in attack, executing their plan really well. Our defence phase was our best component absorbing a lot of the Kanga’s forward entries, but their contest element was better, which allowed them to play the game in their half. Five weeks into the new system, we think we know where we're at and the areas of improvement needed to match it with the best sides in the competition. A metre off here and there today - we will review the same as every week and look forward to playing another top team next week.".

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Great effort to hang in all day as Melton's pressure was excellent. We were able to generate better ball movement in the second half and also score off turnover. (Our) younger players are finding greater consistency and supporting our leaders well."

The Cobras moved into the top six with a comfortable win over the winless Panthers.

If this game wasn't over at quarter time it most certainly was at the half and later at the third as Dennis Armfield's young group piled on 14 goals to two up until the final change to lead by 78 points.

Cobras’ second gamer Kade Hilton finished with a game high five goals ahead of fellow up and comers Josh Huxtable (four goals) and Isaac Nixon (three goals).

Experienced pair Tyson Shea and Jake Owen were in everything as the Cobras welcomed back Rye Penny from Collingwood VFL duties.

Live wire Ethan McKercher and Huxtable continued their solid starts to the season to wind up in the better players conversation.

For the Panthers Daniel Zajac (two goals) never gave up the fight behind a handful of next generation talent Jarrod Bibby, Lachie Pritchard and Ryder Rousch.

New edition, 6'7" big man Darrean Wyatt and Daniel Donaldson also earnt the nod of coach Travis Hodgson and his staff for their efforts.

The Cobras will savour the bye next week, a chance to rest up before a season defining block of games against four of last year’s finalists North Ballarat (H), Melton (A), Redan (H) and East Point (A).

The Panthers will eye the potential to improve next week when they host undermanned Sebastopol who sit in ninth on the BFNL ladder with one win and five losses. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 51 hit outs, 18 disposals, 12 score invovlements

Josh Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh) - 31 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Another good win for the lads. Melton South came with a plan and made us adjust a few things early. I thought our boys adjusted well and took over after half time. We were able to win the balance and our work rate lifted. Happy to get another win before the bye."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Though we were really combative in the contest and had our best day in the midfield battle. (We) had a reasonable number of inside 50's based on improved stoppage numbers and the way we defended which was pleasing. (We) let ourselves down by foot and hand consistently throughout the day which reflected on the scoreboard."

Following a nervous start, North Ballarat booted 18 goals to two after quarter time to runaway convincing winners over Sebastopol.

Scores were level at quarter time as the Roosters struggled to get bang for buck with their weight of possession despite kicking into a two-goal breeze.

But the further this game went, the more it was realised that Brendan McCartney's group at their best is good enough, while on the flipside it confirmed the Burra are a mile off recent year returns.

Local footy can be harsh, as fortunes fluctuate with personnel from year to year and 2024 unfortunately is the season to witness the Burras' slide.

On a more positive note, Burras’ pressure forward Adam Forbes did lay legitimate claim to one of the goals of the year.

Somehow it was that freakish finish that actually triggered an emphatic response from North Ballarat in a game that was merely floating in the underwhelming category until then.

The Roosters went into overdrive with a 13-goals-to-one second half with ten of those coming in the last quarter.

It was a pleasure to see mobile trio Ned Nash (six goals), Jamie Quick (six goals) and Hugh Trigg (1 goal) dominate in the air, at ground level and with their finishing be it in general play or with shots on goal.

While we're familiar with the capabilities of Quick in particular and Nash, it was the aerial presence and footy IQ shown by young forward Hugh Trigg who must have 'clunked' double figure marks in the Roosters’ front half to set up numerous opportunities on goal. Roosters’ midfield trio Elliot Lamb, Brock Leonard and Riley Polkinghorne shared a majority of possession at the feet of big man Cam McCallum who had an enthralling duel with Burras’ ruckman Reece McNally all day.

North Ballarat returns to Mars Stadium for an important match against Redan aiming to keep their top six chances within reach.

Sebastopol will entertain the thought of a morale-boosting win over Melton South. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 14 score invovlements, 10 inside 50s

Elliot Lamb (North Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 12 clearances, 9 tackles

Bailey Medwell (Sebastopol) - 28 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 inside 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Good days work after a scratchy 40 minutes. We thought our system was solid around the contest and in defence which allowed us to score more freely after half time. Some of our younger players made good progress again today. More challenges are coming over the next few weeks."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Always a tough game against North, Proud of our boys efforts in the contest for two and a half quarters, however that won't win you a game of footy. North’s quality came over us after that point. Disappointing it (the margin) blew out so far in the end. We learn and build towards next week."

There were plenty of talking points to come out of Round 6 with statements made across the weekend, as we witness one of the closest starts to a BFNL season in recent history.

It may have taken until Round 6, but North Ballarat finally opened their 2025 account with a performance that served as a reminder of their finals-worthy potential.

Breaking Redan’s trend of strong opening quarters, the Roosters hit the scoreboard within the first five minutes, booting back-to-back goals to set the tone.

From there, it was a consistent and composed display, with North Ballarat extending their lead at every break before running out convincing 42-point winners.

While accuracy in front of goal remains an area to sharpen, the Roosters’ dominance in inside 50s and control of possession proved too much for the young Lions.

Josh Morris was back to his Round 1 best, finishing with three goals, while the return of experienced ruckman Cam McCallum brought stability to the midfield battle.

His presence freed up young Charlie Darbin to push further up the ground, adding versatility to North’s rotations.

But it was Mal White who claimed best-on-ground honours, winning 19 contested possessions and setting the tone through the centre.

Despite the final margin, Redan weren’t without positives.

Rory Gunsser was a rock across half-back, constantly repelling forward entries and finishing with 30 touches, while Lachie George impressed in his return with clean disposal under pressure.

North Ballarat now looks to build momentum with a winnable clash against Lake Wendouree in Round 7, while Redan face the daunting task of a trip to Darley Park to take on the in-form Devils.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mal White (North Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Brody Pope (Redan) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

In what was presented as a defining early-season clash, Ballarat managed to edge out Bacchus Marsh by just six points in a gripping contest that could’ve gone either way.

With both teams entering Round 6 sitting in 5th and 6th respectively, the result would give the winner a vital buffer inside the top six—and the Swans made sure it was theirs.

Breaking a frustrating trend of slow starts, the Swans finally took the early advantage with a composed opening term, heading into the first break with a 12-point lead.

That margin remained largely intact by half time, with the Swans holding a 13-point buffer.

The third quarter saw Bacchus Marsh begin to gain control of the match.

Dominating inside 50s and controlling possession, the Cobras created seven scoring opportunities to Ballarat’s three.

But accuracy proved costly, with the home side only converting two of those chances, while Ballarat made theirs count—slotting all three goals to maintain a 14-point lead heading into the final quarter.

With the game well and truly within reach, the Cobras came out hard in the last.

But the Swans’ defensive pressure in crucial moments and the home side’s continued struggles in front of goal saw Ballarat hold firm and claim a gritty six-point win.

Despite the narrow loss, the Cobras had the edge statistically in several key areas.

But Ballarat’s ability to convert their opportunities and remain composed under pressure proved the difference.

Luke Gray was instrumental for the Swans, constantly driving the ball forward and finishing with two goals to go along with multiple inside 50s.

Wyatt Squires continued his excellent season with 31 disposals and 19 intercept possessions in another commanding midfield display.

For the Cobras, James McDaid led from the front and earned best-on honours for his side, while Luke Goetz once again dominated in the ruck with another commanding hit-out performance.

Both sides remain in the top six after six rounds, but sterner tests await—with Bacchus Marsh heading into a tough Round 7 clash against Melton, and Ballarat preparing to take on an East Point side back to good form.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 37 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 16 clearances

Wyatt Squires (Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 16 tackles

Almost a year to the day since East Point handed Melton their only loss of 2024, the Roos have done it again—ending the Bloods’ unbeaten streak in a gripping grand final rematch at Eastern Oval.

The opening quarter was a high-pressure affair.

Despite East Point dominating contested ball, they struggled to convert on the scoreboard, finishing the term with 1.7 to Melton’s 0.3—Jordy Johnston the sole goal scorer.

Melton responded swiftly in the second quarter, with back-to-back goals within four minutes that gave them momentum and a slender 2-point lead heading into halftime.

The second half turned into a tug-of-war, with both sides trading leads. But a crucial tackle from Alex Molan, resulting in a set shot goal, pushed East Point out to a 13-point lead.

A quick reply from Chase Scoble brought the Bloods back within striking distance, but the Roos held firm in the final minutes to secure a statement win.

Both sides were missing impact players—Jacob Brown for East Point and Ryan Carter for Melton—which added another layer of intrigue to an already tightly contested clash.

Ultimately, it was the Roos' dominance at stoppages and ability to adjust to the drizzly conditions that proved decisive, led by Matt Johnston with a monster performance of 25 intercept possessions and 18 clearances.

Jordan Johnston was named best on ground with four goals, while Micka Rotumah Onus and Sam Cue earned praises for their relentless pressure around the contest.

For the Bloods, Harrison Hanley stood tall in defence and Blake Souter impressed with his work rate with ball in hand.

East Point now look to consolidate their top-four standing with a crucial clash against Ballarat, while Melton will aim to bounce back against sixth-placed Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Matt Johnson (East Point) - 40 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 18 clearance

Jesse Cairns (East Point) - 28 disposals, 8 tackles, 8 score involvements

Blake Souter (Melton) - 29 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 10 tackles

Sunbury’s epic start to the 2025 season rolled on with a dominant 113-point win over Lake Wendouree at CE Brown Reserve, reaffirming their status as one of the teams to beat.

Facing a side renowned for explosive opening terms, the young Lakers were always going to be up against it—and the Lions didn’t disappoint.

Picking up where they left off after a stunning final quarter against East Point last week, Sunbury flew out of the blocks with a seven-goal first quarter and never looked back.

The Lions' ability to maintain scoreboard pressure was relentless, finishing with 22.16 (148) for the day.

While the clearance count remained relatively even, Sunbury’s control over general play and clinical ball use saw them dominate across the board.

In a positive note for Lake Wendouree, the side managed to hit the scoreboard across the first three quarters, showing glimpses of growth—particularly from rising forward Jackson O’Brien, who kicked two goals in just his second Senior appearance.

Co-captain Joel O’Connell continued to lead by example, winning 17 contested possessions in another brave individual effort, while Kynan Raven impressed with his composure and delivery inside 50 when he could.

For Sunbury, Jake Sutton and Daniel Johnston were virtually unstoppable, sharing 12 goals between them.

But it was Fraser Ampulski who claimed best on ground honours, extending his strong season with another classy display.

The win keeps Sunbury in fine form, with a matchup against Sebastopol next.

For the Lakers, they'll look to regroup against North Ballarat, who will be in a much better place after securing their first win of the year.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 29 disposals, 16 score involvements, 15 contested possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 12 marks 

Kynan Raven (Lake Wendouree) - 21 disposals, 8 tackles, 7 clearances

Darley have sent a resounding reminder to the competition that they’re firmly among the premiership contenders, dismantling Sebastopol by 101 points in a dominant display at Marty Busch Reserve.

Coming off their first win of the season, the Burra were hopeful of carrying that momentum into their clash with the in-form Devils—but Darley had other ideas.

From the opening bounce, it was all one-way traffic, with the visitors slamming home eight unanswered goals in the first quarter.

Brett Bewley and Will Johnson each had two majors to their name by the first break.

Sebastopol responded with spirit in the second term, led by a goal from Toby Hutt that sparked some resistance.

The quarter was a tighter affair, with Darley edging it 20–19, but the damage had already been done.

After half time, Darley once again took full control.

With the wind at their backs, the Devils piled on another seven goals in the third and closed the match with four more in the last to complete the defeat.

Statistically, the Devils were dominant across the board.

They led in intercept possessions, clearances and effective disposals.

Luther Baker stood tall with a best-on-ground performance, collecting 36 disposals (18 contested) and showcasing his stellar start to the season.

Sebastopol’s Lach Cassidy worked hard through the midfield with 30 touches and a goal, while Riley O’Keefe was a standout in defence with an impressive 22 intercept possessions to his name to earn best on for the home side.

But in the end, Darley’s ability to win the ball and use it with precision proved the decisive factor.

The Devils now look to continue their hot streak when they face Redan in Round 7.

For the Burra, things don’t get any easier as they prepare to take on the surging Sunbury.

STATS THAT MATTERED

RIley O'Keefe (Sebastopol) - 27 disposals, 22 intercept possessions, 15 marks

Lucas Impey (Darley) - 44 hit outs, 24 disposals, 7 clearances

Nick Hind (Darley) - 37 disposals, 12 score involvements, 11 clearances

A big weekend saw the final's mix shuffled with favourites tested and upsets occuring. After seven rounds there are still plenty of questions left to answer across the senior men's competition!

Scoop has all the updates from Saturday's action.

Pregame favorites Sebastopol made no excuses following a disappointing 30-point loss to a feverish North Ballarat at MARS Stadium.

With the game seemingly in the balance at the main break, the second half stanza was going to be all about work rate and who could execute getting it done on the scoreboard.

The frugal natured North Ballarat defence answered the call, keeping the Burra to just five scores in the second half (4.1) while "biggie smalls” midfield duo Cam McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne combined again, proving the catalyst for an outnumber of forward entries.

Polkinghorne made it six from six appearances in the best players this season while McCullum's form is not be sneezed at either with four appearances from his seven outings.

While Sebastopol had won four out of their five games heading in, all had come against the bottom four teams, raising some concerns of where they're really at, and needing a scalp to consolidate the nature of their economy.

But dual Burra coaching combo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro didn't buy into the theory of a less than ideal preparation, opting to give the deserving North Ballarat all the spoils in victory citing work rate as the major influence.

For all of Sebastopol's talent, they remain a work in progress especially forward of centre with their connection. Call it bang for buck if you will. Hugo Papst was again their leading contributor on the scoreboard with three goals.

North Ballarat enjoyed their best win since Round 13 last year when they toppled eventual premiers Melton.

MARS Stadium clearly plays host to their best footy under Brendan McCartney. The Roosters’ supreme work rate and buy-in ended with 11 individual goalkickers. While it's all smiles and back into the six for North Ballarat, a swift response from the Burra beckons when they host East Point on Saturday.              

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 72 hitouts, 11 clearances, 10 score involvements

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat): 29 disposals, 19 contested possesions, 11 clearances

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol): 27 disposals, 16 marks, 12 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"Good result for the players and club. We did a good job in all phases of the game and got a contribution from everyone. Senior players saw reward for effort and youngsters experienced how consistent and strong behaviours can produce good performances."

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):"We were disappointed with our inability to execute the fundamentals for long enough. (We) played well in patches and need to be better at staying in the game for longer."

Jackson Merrett's Kangas won three quarters but were denied victory against an undefeated Bloods outfit whose sheer 'will to win' earned the plaudits of coach Aaron Tymms in the aftermath.

The Bloods were made to earn it the hard way after trailing at half time for a third occasion already this season. For the record, the Bloods found themselves behind at the main break just four times in 2022 - and won them all!

Questions were asked of the reigning premiers to reaffirm their benchmark status. Yet again, the Bloods’ third term played a pivotal role in the outcome, outscoring the Kangas 5.2 to 2.5, their only 'quarter' win of the afternoon.

Bloods’ captain Braedyn Kight booted a game high four goals for the winners to finish among the better players alongside in-form duo Luke Heaney and Jordyn Cotter.

Influential big man Ben Archard played his first game of the season for the Bloods and will be better for the run while Kyle Borg made it back-to-back games in visitors colors after a return from Port Melbourne VFL duties. 

For Merrett's boys, their effort was brave in defeat, as experienced campaigners Matty and Jordy Johnston, Joel Van Meel, Cam Lovig and Mitch Walsh took it to their more fancied rivals. Liam Howard continues to show progress from week to week with more games in.

The Kangas should hold no fears for any opposition moving forward having near overcome the might of the Bloods.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 23 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

Brett McIntyre (Melton):39 hitouts, 10 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

Matt Johnston (East Point): 25 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 9 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point): "Was super pleasing for our young group to take it up to the (competition) benchmark (Melton) of the past two seasons. We've had 7-8 debutants so far this season and seeing them match it with the best will give them great confidence for the remainder of the year." 

Aaron Tymms (Melton): "Really tough win. Our backline was super against quality forwards and (defending) forward entries. Our forward line worked well together and were able to have lot of shots on goal with good entries. All in all we didn’t play how we wanted to over four quarters but our will to win is very good and got us over the line." 

A sickening neck injury sustained by promoted Lakers’ Under 19 talent Kyle Anderson took the gloss off a competitive game at CE Brown Reserve.

Having flown high for a defensive spoil in the middle of the ground Anderson fell dangerously causing a nervous stay of proceedings in the third term. While clearly disturbed by the nature of the fall, Lakers’ coach Jack Fitzpatrick paid credit to his boys to fight out the game, the result usurped by the primary concerns for the welfare of the youngster.

According to Fitzpatrick, scans on the weekend were positive, clearing Anderson of any permanent damage who was later granted permission to leave the hospital.

A Bewley-less Darley made it a sixth straight win on the road to set up a mouthwatering match-up against fellow undefeated and reigning premiers Melton at MacPhersons Park next round.

Riley Macardi booted four goals for the winners in his best game for his new club behind a best-on-ground performance from midfielder Luther Baker, defender Zane LeHuray and former Williamstown VFL utility Billy Myers.

Joel O'Connell and Angus Bade continued their solid seasons for the one-win Lakers alongside Cody Helyar, Rory O'Keefe and big man Shane Finlayson. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 23 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Matthew Brent (Darley): 29 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, 8 marks

Shaun Finlayson (Lake Wendouree): 52 hitouts, 35 disposals, 25 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"Today really puts things into perspective. I've never seen anything that bad on a footy field before - we just hope 'Ando' (Kyle Anderson) is ok. We need to wrap our arms around some pretty shaken up players. A big thanks to Darley and the help provided by their trainers."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Good to have another win on the road. Lakers cracked in and made us earn it. Good to identify a few areas we can work on moving forward. Our thoughts go out to Kyle Anderson and the Lakers following his injury."

The Swans earned a major percentage boost and their second win of the season, downing bottom side Melton South at the weekend.

The embattled Panthers keep riding the punches, fighting against the odds despite a sixth straight loss of 100 points or more. What more can you say - the Panthers are in dire straits and forecasting a win for them at any stage this season is becoming even more remote from week to week.

Dangerous forward Andrew Hooper finished with a game high six goals to head a list of 13 Swans players to hit the scoreboard. Mitch Bishop was named best afield for the winners confirming the wrap on his potential and importance, voiced by Hooper on last week’s episode of 'The Presser'.

Lawson Prendergast, Will Liston, Marcus Powling, Noah Drever and Hopper provided the greatest headaches for the Panthers to feature prominently, aiding the 126-point margin.

Finding winners for the Panthers doesn’t always come easy but the return of big man Brodie Collins was encouraging while John Kovarik, Ayden Reilly and usual suspects Cody Chapman, Cassius White and Rhys Lee continue with ‘pride in the jumper’ efforts despite the difficult seven rounds to start their season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

William Liston (Ballarat): 32 disposals, 17 tackles, 10 score involvements

Keegan Mellington (Ballarat): 28 disposals, 11 clearances, 7 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South):32 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 13 tackles 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"We had a lot of good ball movement today, but Ballarat were too good for us. We battled hard for most of the day - our best quarter was our last, which is a big positive. We also blooded some more youngsters which is good for the club moving forward."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"We played well for the first three quarters, to Melton South's credit they fought it out and were competitive in the last quarter."

The Lions kicked nine unanswered goals from late in the second term to the final change to shrug off a plucky Bacchus Marsh side who held a surprise four-point lead at the half.

The Cobras conceded the opening two goals of the game before kicking seven of the next nine goals to cling to a slender advantage at the main break.

But a seven-goal third term (7.6) from the visitors after a measured revving from coach Travis Hodgson put pay to any thoughts of an upset and with it, ending a nine year winning drought for the Lions at Maddingley Park.

Lions forward Jake Sutton (4.7) was the star forward of the afternoon and should have finished with eight or nine goals given the minimal degree of difficulty from his set shots, but it wasn't to be. 31 scoring shots on the whole for Sunbury over the Cobras 15 validated the final 41-point nature of the win.

The Cobras were good early, just their inability to sustain meaningful effort and skill execution became their biggest challenge. Credit to them however, bouncing back to win the last quarter after an old-fashioned towelling in the third. Cobras own Spencer Jenks (one goal) became yet another to debutant for the rebuilding club.     

Jake Egan, Josiah Garisto, Jake Sutton and Mitch Lewis were best on for the winners while Jake McReery, Tyson Shea, Jake Owen (three goals) and Jack Parente never gave up the fight for the home side.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury): 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 marks

Jake Sutton (Sunbury): 16 disposals, 7 marks, 4 goals

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 24 disposals, 11 marks, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Again another week trending in the right direction. A really good first half but our (lack of) depth really hurt us again."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"We were pretty average defending in the first half and credit to the Marsh, they played some good footy. We won contested ball and got it to the outside in the third to set up the win."

Round 7 saw a number of defining wins around the grounds as teams continued their fine form while others recorded a much needed bounce back.

North Ballarat continues their climb up the BFNL ladder with a 45-point win over Redan at Mars Stadium.

This game was put to bed early with a dominant eight goals to one opening half from the hosts, which saw the lead blow out to 46 points at the main break.

Progressive young forward Hugh Trigg put the writing on the wall last week that a breakout game at the level was near.

We didn't have to wait long for that to come to fruition as Trigg starred at the weekend with five goals and a best on ground performance.

Collingwood VFL listed Sam Glover (three goals) proved a handful to contain for the young Lions while leading forwards Jamie Quick (two goals) and Ned Nash (one goal) were made to fight hard for any advantage.

Midfield trio Riley Polkinghorne, Brock Leonard and Elliott Lamb featured prominently yet again in a copy paste performance of last week.

Nelson Troon (two goals) continued his upward trajectory giving every indication he's going to be a good player for a long time in North Ballarat colours.

For Redan, there were really two options for them at halftime given the 46-point deficit.

Show some fight or roll over.

Well, the response to Gary Learmonth's messaging after the main break was encouraging as the Lions dug in for the fight, gaining some confidence knowing they won the second half, albeit by a point.

Grant Bell (four goals) extended his run of multiple goals in games to nine to aid the rally in the second half.

While Bell, Jacob Short and Lachie George never gave up leading the response, it was youthful trio Khy Jess, ruck Rudie Forde and Under 17 debutant Bailey McKay (two goals) who caught the eye to finish among the best.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Sam Glover (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 14 marks, 9 score involvements

Lachlan George (Redan) - 27 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"We set the game up in the first half with some organised defending and ground positioning. Not our best in the second half but really pleasing to see our boys regroup and get back to our style of footy late in the game. Like all clubs, each week there were lots of learnings. We are making good progress and will keep looking to get better every day."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"So proud of the group today. Our first half was disappointing with too many skill errors costing us. Our second half was super - the boys were physical and showed a glimpse of what they can do against a very well organised team. Looking forward to a two-week break and getting some boys back. The club has played 18 boys Under 19 in the senior team in the opening seven rounds. Lots of improvement to come."

Melton returned to the winners list in emphatic style with a dominant 68-point win over a lacklustre Darley.

X-factor Bloods’ forward and captain, Braedan Kight, starred with seven goals, four of those coming in the first quarter, as the visitors stunned the reigning premiers with six unanswered goals.

The Bloods were airborne early, their work rate, pressure and disposal efficiency a feature, panels ahead of the Devils, who suffered their biggest loss under Dan Jordan since Round 11, 2022 (69 points v North Ballarat).

The well organised Bloods’ defence had midfield numbers on the back of their relentless work rate and will to assist teammates creating the outnumber and overlap in transition.

Poor Devils’ entries aided the Bloods’ intercept and turnover cause on a disappointing day for the black and white who were held goalless in three quarters in front of a big crowd.

All of the Devils’ five goals came in the second term, reducing the margin to 23 points at the main break. But either side of the Devils 'push' was an old school thrashing as the Bloods piled on 13.8 to 0.6 - and all on Darley Park, ending an 11-game winning streak for Jordan's men dating back to Round 10, 2023 (v Redan).

The result told us more of the gulf between the two sides after seven rounds. The Bloods (W5L1) are on track and play a solid, trusting brand of footy giving every indication they're a team on a mission - the buy-in is palpable.

Darley (W4L3) may have just become the unofficial fifth seed in the title race behind Sunbury, Melton, East Point and North Ballarat.

Leaving too much for too few is not sustainable even with the best player in the competition.

While Brett Bewley's numbers won't surprise, he was denied his usual time and space. Also, the once tedious conversation regarding Darley's slim title chances without a bona fide ruckman were confirmed.

All honours with Melton, special mentions to host of impactful Bloods in no particular order - Braedan Kight, Jono O'Brien, Riley Walker, Adrian Monitto, Jordy Cotter, Jaycob Hickey and Lachlan Walker.

The Bloods host Lake Wendouree in Round 8 while the Devils will endeavour to regroup quickly ahead of a road trip to Sebastopol.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 30 disposals, 12 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Billy Myers (Darley) - 24 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

Riley Walker (Melton) - 28 disposals, 13 marks, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Disappointing day for us. We were outplayed in all facets of the game. Full credit to Melton, they're a very good side. Clearly, we've a lot of work to do."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really pleased with a four-quarter performance based on effort against absolute quality. We learned from last week’s performance and were able to execute our attack phase more efficiently. Darley are such a strong contest team so to compete in that area was important for us to get territory and try to play a forward half game. Darley is so well coached and disciplined, today gave us some confidence in what we are trying to build."

The Kangas made it five wins on the trot under new coach Joe Carmody to move into third place on the BFNL ladder.

Talented brother pairing Jordy Johnston (six goals) and Matthew Johnston (three goals) dominated the young Swans, who managed to stay in the game up until half time as East Point took a 17-point lead at the main break.

But an 11 goals to four second half in favour of East Point highlighted the difference between the two sides the further the game went.

The Swans were again made to pay full toll for their frustrating number of turnovers.

Bryson McDougall booted five goals for the winners to feature prominently alongside the Johnston's while the season build of Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Billy Jones continues in the right direction. Geordy Slater was the pick of the promising 'next gen' stocks out of Eastern Oval.

Veteran sharpshooter Andrew Hooper booted three of the Swans eight goals with limited opportunities.

Chris Maple's young group missed star rebound defender Rhett Montgomery who has departed for the SANFL.

Lauchie Dalgleish, Callan Wellings and Will Liston were required to pick up the slack and attempt to give the Swans a pulse, but in the end the Kangas were simply too strong.

The Kangas get their biggest challenge since Round 1 when they host ladder leaders Sunbury this Saturday.

Ballarat are at home looking to end a three-game losing streak when they face Melton South.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 45 disposals, 19 score involvements, 15 clearances

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 22 disposals, 15 score involvements, 10 marks

Lauchlan Dalgleish (Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 rebound 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"(It) was a tight first half. Ballarat challenged us to defend. We won more contested ball in the third quarter and was able to capitilise up forward with greater territory. Another pleasing result with 22 contributors."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"After a reasonable start we kept ourselves in the game until half time. Our turnovers throughout the day were costly, and our inability to match East Point in the territory side of the game hurt us. Our levels of consistency of individuals and the team need to improve to match it against the top teams."

Sebastopol ended a five-game losing streak with a comfortable 73-point win on the road over winless Melton South.

The Burra certainly came to play, on a mission to eradicate their ways of recent weeks with a dominant opening term that saw the visitors earn a match winning 40-point lead.

While the Panthers showed some resistance in the second term to keep the Burra in check the was no denying Tony Lockyer's men a four-quarter winning performance.

The margin extended from 49 points at half time, 57 at the final break before 73 at the end of play.

The Burra had eight goalkickers contribute to their 15 goal scoreline led by James McDonald and Daniel Widgery who finished with three.

Defender Riley O'Keefe made a sound return from injury to be named best ahead of Luke Kiel (two goals), Adam Forbes (two goals), McDonald and Widgery.

For the Panthers Jarrod Bibby got the nod of approval from coach Travis Hodgson to be named best and not for the first time.

Again, goals came at a premium for the struggling club with Mitch Fino (two goals) their only multiple goal scorer.

Ex-AFL talent Tom Phillips (Melton South debut) and Jeff Garlett (2nd gamer) provided a major boost to the Panthers’ stocks but it wasn't enough to buck the run of outs for the struggling club.

Jayden Welch, Lachie Pritchard, Ryder Rousch and Fino made up the balance of players named in the best for the hosts.

The Panthers are away to Ballarat in Round e8 while the Burra host enigmatic Darley who are battling to find their best after back-to-back losses.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 39 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 rebound 50s

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 20 marks, 13 intercept possessions

Tom Phillips (Melton South) - 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"(it) was a relatively even contest after quarter time. Full credit to Sebastopol, when the game was there to be set up early they were proactive and aggressive. (It) was disappointing that we took 20 minutes to get going considering they had a tough start to the season. Pleasing to have 44 inside 50s and we could've had substantially more than 14 scoring shots if the last kick inside 50 had been executed better."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Very pleased with our first quarter especially which set up the day. Twenty-two contributors with some boys coming into the side playing their role perfectly. Credit to Melton South who never gave up and kept coming at us for four quarters. Look forward to the challenge vs Darley next week."

Sunbury continued on their merry way with a 128-point demolition job on the road over Lake Wendouree.

The Lions led at every change after a lightning start to the game with a seven-goals-to-one opening quarter blitz.

From there it was a matter of how far the Lions, as Matty White's unbeaten outfit showed little mercy piling on a further 18 goals to four to see their greatest advantage at the final siren.

It was more than a solid days work for the Lions despite every expectations on them winning the game.

The Lions running ability proved once again too overwhelming for their opposition, providing countless opportunities for in form Lions’ duo Jake Sutton (six goals) and Mitch McLean (five goals) to strut their stuff inside 50.

Again, the Lions were efficient hitting the scoreboard. Not once this year have the Lions ended the day with more behinds than goals.

Check out these returns - 15.9, 26.8, 17.12, 17.9, 10.10 and 25.12 (near 65% - comp average 52%)- truly remarkable and clearly the number one ranked team in the competition for conversion.

The reward speaks for itself. The Lions are flying, unbeaten in all six of their games. 

Lions’ utility Jacob Bygate did his selection credentials no harm with a best on ground performance ahead of purple patch defenders Nathan Wood, Dean Muir and Jack Newitt.

McLean was rightly lauded for his returns while Josh Guthrie was the pick of the Lions’ mids who enjoyed a day out.

For the Lakers, the tale of the tape was all too familiar as staple contributors Angus Gove, Joel O'Connell, Will Clark, Tom Zampatti, Kyle Anderson and Nathan Pring were made to shoulder more than their fair share of the load.

It doesn't get any easier for the Lakers next week on the road to Melton while Sunbury endure it's second trip to Ballarat in as many weeks to meet East Point who are on a five game winning streak of their own.

Looking forward to that one! 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 52 disposals, 90% disposal efficiency, 19 score involvements

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 25 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 28 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Outclassed by a very sharp side who were much cleaner and played a very good style of footy. Again, we cracked in and our effort was there but Sunbury were far too good today."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Another really good win. (I) knew we would have to come out strong against the Lakers. They have been starting games really well so it was nice to get off to a good start and finish the game strong."

With seven rounds down in the home and away season, there is still little separating the top contenders as they all enjoyed victories across the weekend.

North Ballarat have continued their charge toward a top six spot with a commanding 97-point win over Lake Wendouree.

Despite the lopsided final scoreline, the Lakers started with intent.

They matched North Ballarat for effort early, and while the visitors had one extra scoring shot in the opening term, it was North’s accuracy—five straight goals—that made the difference.

The Lakers couldn’t capitalise at the other end, registering just two goals in the first half.

From there, it was all North Ballarat.

The Roosters piled on 99 points to 11 after quarter time, taking full control of the game and stamping their authority across the game.

The Lakers were able to hold their own in clearance numbers, but the Roosters dominated the possession game—both contested and uncontested—and used the ball far more effectively.

Their forward entries were frequent and deep, giving their attacking unit plenty of opportunity to convert.

Brock Leonard had a standout performance for the home side, collecting a game-high 37 disposals and posting elite pressure numbers.

A forward-line switch for Denver Grainger-Barras proved effective, with the tall utility booting five goals.

For the Lakers, Angus Gove continued to lead from the front.

He topped the round for intercept possessions with 16 and gathered 33 disposals in a tireless display.

Jaydo Wright and Joel O’Connell also battled hard, combining for nearly 40 contested possessions and trying to lift their side through the middle.

The Lakers face another tough ask next week as they meet an in-form East Point.

Meanwhile, North Ballarat—now with back-to-back wins and rising confidence—gear up for a crucial showdown with ladder leaders Darley.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brock Leonard (North Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 12 tackles, 9 clearances

Josh Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 32 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 33 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 15 rebound 50s

The last two meetings between East Point and Ballarat produced defining moments in the competition—but this time, any hint of another classic was snuffed out before quarter time.

The Roos exploded out of the gates with a dominant 51-point opening term, keeping Ballarat scoreless and without a single shot on goal.

While the strong breeze at Alfredton Oval played its part, East Point made it count—something Ballarat failed to replicate.

Even when the Swans had the wind in the second, they could only match East Point’s 2.2 for the term.

After a wasteful start to the third quarter, the Roos clicked again—adding five quick goals to surge even further ahead.

Ballarat struggled into the breeze once more, registering just three points for the quarter.

A handful of late goals in junk time made the scoreboard appear slightly more respectable, but the damage was long done.

East Point’s 79-point win cements their position in the top bracket—and significantly boosted their percentage.

East Point dominated possession all day, combining quantity with exceptional ball use.

While Ballarat held their own in the clearance battle, their inefficiency was ruthlessly exposed by a Roos side that used the ball far better.

Micka Rotumah-Onus was unstoppable through the middle, finishing with 36 disposals, 23 contested possessions, and 11 clearances.

Young gun Brodie Willems enjoyed a breakout performance up forward, slotting four straight goals and providing constant pressure to be named best on.

For the Swans, Wyatt Squires found himself with far too much freedom, with no clear opponent paying him close attention,

Whilst he capitalised with 28 touches and a goal, it would not play favourable to the home side.

Despite the flood of Roos entries, Ballarat’s Bailey Fraser kept battling, finishing with 29 disposals and several key intercepts.

Next up, East Point will be looking to further boost their percentage against the winless Lakers.

Ballarat, meanwhile, will be desperate for a much-needed win as they face Redan in a vital clash for the top six race.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 36 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 27 disposals, 13 score involvements, 12 intercept possessions

Bailey Fraser (Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions

It was a battle of composure in the conditions at MacPherson Park, as Melton and Bacchus Marsh faced off in blowy conditions.

Ultimately, it was the home side who handled the breeze better to claim a 31-point win.

Both sides made the most of the wind advantage early, with Melton controlling the opening stages before Cody Salmon found space to kick the Cobras’ first.

Bacchus Marsh then wrestled back momentum in the second, with Jake Owen and Josh Huxtable converting crucial chances to close the gap to just six points at the main break.

Huxtable’s third early in the third term looked like it might spark a Cobra surge, but from there, it was all Melton.

The Bloods piled on 11 scoring shots to none for the rest of the quarter, converting five and regaining full control of the match.

Needing a huge final term to stay in touch, Bacchus Marsh couldn’t find the breakthrough, with Melton locking the game down and securing a solid win.

Possession was shared relatively evenly, with Melton dominating in contested ball, while the Cobras edged the uncontested stats.

But it was Melton’s ability to drive the ball inside 50 and make the most of their opportunities that proved decisive.

Braedan Kight returned to form in front of goal, kicking four majors and finishing with 11 score involvements to earn best-on-ground honours.

Jaycob Hickey continued his strong form with 34 disposals and excellent work around the loose ball.

For the Cobras, Luke Goetz was again outstanding in the ruck with a round-high 69 hit outs.

Jake McCreery applied relentless pressure and made the most of Goetz’s dominance, collecting 11 clearances.

With North Ballarat breathing down their necks, Bacchus Marsh now prepare for a crucial clash against Sebastopol.

Melton, meanwhile, will turn their focus to the red-hot Sunbury in what sets to shake-up the top three on the ladder.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 69 hitouts, 18 disposals, 12 contested possessions

Blake Souter (Melton) - 28 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 34 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Less than 20 seconds after the opening bounce, it looked like Redan were in for a long afternoon at Darley Park.

Ball up. Impey to Bewley. Loose ball. Bewley gathers. Fends off. Launches from outside 50. All clear. Inhumane.

Darley’s dominance was clear in the first half. While Redan shook off a shaky start and found plenty of the ball in the second quarter, five behinds had them ruing missed opportunities – especially when they surged again in the third.

The Lions made a real push, bringing the margin back to just 15 points at the final break.

But accuracy in front of goal again let them down, with four missed chances in the last quarter stalling their momentum.

Darley stayed composed under pressure and sealed a 24-point win.

Clearances were evenly split across the day, but it was Darley’s ability to find space and control the uncontested ball that made the difference.

While he wasn’t named among the best, Brett Bewley was again monumental – finishing with 47 disposals and a round-high 25 contested possessions.

It was Nick Hind who claimed best-on-ground honours, delivering inside 50 with precision and slotting two goals of his own.

For the visitors, Rory Gunsser continued his stellar form across half back, earning best afield rights for Redan.

Lachie George and Brody Pope worked tirelessly through the middle and up forward, combining for over 60 disposals.

Darley now turn their focus to North Ballarat in Round 8 – a win there will likely see the Devils remain on top of the ladder.

For Redan, a matchup with Ballarat offers the chance to shake up the top six once more.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 47 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Nick Hind (Darley) - 36 disposals, 10 inside 50s, 10 score involvements

Lachlan George (Redan) - 30 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 7 score involvements

Despite Sebastopol managing to counter Sunbury’s trend of fast starts, they couldn’t make the most of their time with the breeze, ultimately falling short against the in-form Lions.

The Burra took a deserved 14-point lead into quarter time, but a dominant 41–0 second term from the Lions quickly flipped the game on its head, handing the hosts a commanding lead at the main break.

Both sides traded inaccurate third quarters, with 3.6 apiece, but it was Sunbury who again controlled territory in the final term, limiting Sebastopol’s opportunities and running out 55-point winners.

While the conditions certainly played a role, the Burra’s missed chances in front of goal proved costly. Improved efficiency could have made the final margin far more respectable.

There were still positives for the visitors. Jack Bambury was everywhere – collecting 35 disposals, helping repel attacks from half back, and contributing to six score involvements.

Toby Hutt earned best-on honours for Sebastopol, impressing during his time in the ruck and driving the ball forward to generate inside 50s.

For the Lions, Josh Guthrie continues to build an impressive season.

He finished with 31 disposals and was clinical in front of goal, going 2 from 2. Harry Power was also key, with clean hands and smart ball use through traffic helping Sunbury maintain their fast-paced game style.

The win not only extends Sunbury’s hot run but also gives their percentage another healthy boost – a handy buffer ahead of three straight games against top-six opposition.

Sebastopol will look to reset quickly as they prepare for another road trip to face Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 35 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 6 clearances

There is a new ladder leader following a hotly contested Saturday and Round 8 marked the week one team would get that elusive win on the board.

Scoop reviews all the action from last round.

The Cobras’ top end brigade has nurtured a largely inexperienced group to its first win of the season under new coach Jason Williams.

Jake Owen (four goals) was the star of the show, claiming best on ground honours ahead of Alex Porter, Jack Parente, Callum Smith, Xavier Jenks and the returning Rhys McNay for his first game at the level this year.

Veteran Tyson Shea had some 20 plus tackles at the coalface while ruckman Luke Goetz recorded in excess of 70 hit-outs to deny Lakers big man Shane Finlayson his way around stoppage.

Scores were level at half time in a low scoring affair before the Cobras added five goals to the Lakers’ three in the second half to finish in front on the final siren much to the delight of the Cobras’ loyal band of travelling supporters.

For the Lakers, it was a game they would consider as one 'let slip' given the nature of the Cobras season on the win, loss front.

Lakers’ Captain Joel O'Connell led the way for the home side alongside youngsters Ethan Preston and Rory O'Keefe. Timmy Collins, Angus Gove and Cody Helyar did all they could but a second win of the season would elude them.

Jubilant scenes of smile and song engulfed the Cobras’ touring party who were just rapt to be walking away with the premiership points.

Just how many Cobras ended up in the nucleus of the victory circle, celebrating a first win is a story for another day.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 75 hit outs, 17 contested possessions, 10 1%ers

Tyson Shae (Bacchus Marsh): 26 tackles, 18 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree): 43 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 inside 50s 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree): "The team that deserved to win, won the game. Well done to Bacchus."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Tough game. We didn't play as well or as clean as weeks gone by. The Lakers threw everything they could at us and in the end it was just a game of effort and some individual moments that went our way. Good to win and proud that we did in the hard way, great reward."

Darley moved to the top of the BFNL table with a drought breaking 11-point win on the road over reigning premiers Melton.

Round 2, 2017 (2226 days) was the last time the Devils celebrated in song with a win over the Bloods.

Despite both sides missing key personnel, the highly anticipated top of the table meet lived up to all expectations with numerous lead changes and a special highlights reel amid ailing conditions.

When the Bloods went 15 points up six minutes into the third term with three unanswered goals, Aaron Tymms boys looked well on their way to a 17th straight win at home.

But a resilient Devils army, led by fearless utility Billy Myers (three goals), progressive mid Adam Azzopardi and rock solid defender Matthew Brett were able to arrest momentum into the breeze before the visitors were duly rewarded with back-to-back goals late cutting deficit to just five points.

In essence, the Devils kicked the last five goals of the game while the Bloods were lamenting their misfortunes in front of goal. After their eighth and final goal early in the third term, the Bloods next nine scoring shots were behinds.

Others to make significant contributions for the Devils on Saturday were Billy Sullivan, Shane Page, Will Johnson and Zane Lehuray.

For the Bloods, Blake Souter was tireless and looked everywhere at stages especially in the third term. Big men Ben Archard, Brett McIntyre and Jono O'Brien were never far from the action and looked threatening for the most part.

Dangerous Blood Liam Carter left the field halfway through the game adding to the home side’s woes in the lead up who fell short in the absence of preferred mid combo Jack Walker and Lachie Watkins. In form youngster Adrian Monitto remains on the sidelines with no fixed return date.

Both sides will welcome the King’s Birthday weekend break. Bring on part two of this match-up, set for Round 17 at Darley Park.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Billy Myers (Darley): 22 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 3 goals

Matt Denham (Darley): 14 contested possessions, 10 tackles, 7 clearances

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 32 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 9 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Disappointing to be on the wrong end of the result. Bad kicking is bad footy. Full credit to Darley....was a good, hard game of footy. Looking forward to a couple weeks off to refresh."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"High quality contest against a great side. Good for our boys to execute our plan and stick to it particularly with a few injured. Still plenty to work on."

Sebastopol bounced back to the winners’ list with a hard fought all-the-way win over East Point.

The Burras won all four quarters extending an 18-point half time advantage to 34 at the final siren.

Tony Lockyer kicked three goals for the winners, making another example of his versatility. Both Riley O'Keefe and Luke Kiel highlighted their importance to the make-up of the Burra’s lineup after missing some footy and filling the void left by James Keeble (concussion) who missed at the weekend.

Burra newcomers Arnold Kirby and Liam Latch featured prominently behind Ben Hutt who was named best afield in an encouraging display on the whole by one of the flag fancies.

Despite the loss, Kangas’ experienced quintet Jordy and Matt Johnston, Joe Dodd, Joel Van Meel and playing coach Jackson Merrett (three goals) could hold their heads high after a tough couple of weeks against the competition's benchmarks.

Sebastopol move to third place on the BFNL ladder behind Darley and Melton. East Point sit nervously outside the six, in seventh place. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 56 hit outs, 20 disposals, 13 score involvements

Riley O'Keefe (Sebastopol): 21 disposals, 12 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 26 disposals, 16 contest possessions, 13 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Tight contest across the board. We were able to play our roles and manage the game throughout. East (Point) never went away, credit to them. We had 22 contributors and players pushing through adversity. Team effort."

Jackson Merrett (East Point): “That was as disappointing as we have been all season. We really got beaten on the outside and conceded goals far too easily.”

Sunbury suffered an opening half scare for a second straight week before steadying to win 'going away' by 27 points.

Jake Sutton and Leigh Brennan proved the difference in the end with a game high four goals each.

After trailing by five points at the half, Sunbury outscored Redan eight goals to three to secure a fifth win of the season to move one game clear of the visitors in sixth spot.

Essendon VFL listed midfielder Harry Minton-Connell was a major inclusion for Travis Hodgson's Lions in the absence of Mitch Lewis (overseas) and inspirational leader Tyson Lever.

Newcomer Rivva Karpany had arguably his best game in Sunbury colors and featured among the better players alongside Corey Mobilio, Patrick Scanlon and Jacob Bygate.

Redan duo Grant Bell and youngster Marty Boyer gave the hosts something to think about forward of centre finishing with a team high three goals.

Big body mid Daniel Bond was named best for the visitors while Declan Phillips, Harry Lawson and Patrick Fitzgibbon thrived on the big ground.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury):31 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury): 24 disposals, 8 score involvements, 8 inside 50s

Daniel Bond (Redan):29 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 7 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury);"(We) wasted some chances early in the game and Redan got on top in the second quarter and looked sharp in transition. (We) pegged a few back just before half time and played some very good footy in the second half."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"We played our best footy for the year during the second quarter but gave up three late goals before half time allowing Sunbury back into the game. We weren't able to control the ball or pressure for long enough in the end. Lots of great signs with the young but lots to learn and improve on."

Dangerous forward duo Jamie Quick and Jack Riding enjoyed a picnic in front of 'the big sticks' against the struggling Panthers combining for 15 goals in a major percentage boosting win for the Roosters.

If not for an inaccurate return of 4.11 in the final term, Brendan McCartney's boys could well have ended with 40 goals given their 61 attempts (29.32) for the afternoon.

Quick stole bragging rights with his eight-goal haul while the Werribee VFL listed Riding finished with seven. Marquee Roosters recruit Stewart Crameri did not play due to soreness.

In form Roosters midfield combo Callum McCullum and Riley Polkinghorne dominated proceedings once again and were often the catalyst behind a very lopsided inside 50 count. Isaac Lovisson and Max Faulkner's contributions were also recognised, featuring in the best players.

The Panthers conceded it was another tough day at the office and were looking forward to a rest and reset of sorts this week as the competition breaks for the King's BIrthday weekend.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 15 score involvements

Jamie Quick (North Ballarat): 30 disposals, 13 score involvements, 10 marks

Jarrod Bibby (Melton South): 24 disposals, 12 pressure acts, 11 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendon McCartney (North Ballarat):"We competed hard again in all phases of the game. Our players have worked hard as a group over the last three weeks and are seeing some good rewards. Football can be a tough business sometimes, Melton South are doing it hard but they keep fronting up. They have some incredible people working their hardest."

Jason Hamilton / Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"North Ballarat played really good footy and were very strong all over the ground. We had our moments, but it was a tough day. We also got a couple of bad injuries which didn't help our cause. We are looking forward to the break and moving into the second half of the season."

The top of the BFNL Senior Football ladder could barely get any tighter after Round 8 produced inaugural defeats, big wins and steadying victories.

East Point made it five wins in a row toppling undefeated Sunbury by 20 points in a cracker of a game at Eastern Oval.

This finals like see-sawing affair had everything. All the traits that make the game of Aussie Rules so unique and a staple in our everyday lives were on show in front of a large crowd unsure which team could outlast the other.

The Kangas booted the opening four goals of the game, the Lions the next five, before a response from the Kangas saw them score another four unanswered.

There was really not much in it for the most part as the Lions arrested a 24-point deficit early to regain the lead before the Kangas steadied late to lead by four points at half time.

All the big guns came out to play and didn't let the show down.

All had their moments of brilliance and unique impact on the game.

The Kangas’ efficiency on goal in the second half was arguably the difference in the game as Joe Carmody's crew added 10.2 to the Lions 7.4. You could also argue that the Lions last three goals of the game flattered the scoreline. But I’m in the 'nothing between them' camp.

The Lions, somewhat shy of their best 22, missing Mitch Lewis, Jake Egan, Nathan Doyle all injured and Ben Cameron to VFL duties with Coburg lost no admirers.

On the flipside, the result confirms East Point's status as the real deal after their win on the road over Melton.

Matty Johnston (three goals) starred for the winners while ever reliable forward Bryson McDougall got the job done forward with a game high five goals.

X-factor talent Jordy Johnston (three goals) bobbed up when the Kangas needed it most including a miracle goal from the boundary line.

There were many good players in this game for both sides as the 'Match of the Round' billing lived up to all expectations.

Lions forward pairing Mitch McLean (four goals) and Jake Sutton (three goals) looked dangerous all day and provided a target combining for seven goals.

Tyson Lever was stoic with his familiar intercept mark game while the run and carry out of defence from Dean Muir and Jack Hannett continued to threaten.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 42 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 17 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 19 disposals, 9 tackles, 9 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 20 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 9 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Quality game of footy. We were able to withstand Sunbury's pressure which was high quality. We were able to capitilise on our forward entries in the second half. (We) defended well to limit their dangerous forwards."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"We were beaten by a class outfit. Ten goals, two behinds for them in the second half doesn't help when they kick that straight. So we'll rest and review and go again after the bye."

Ballarat returned inside the top six following a big win over Melton South at Alfredton Oval.

The Swans opened up their shoulders after quarter time piling on 19 goals to one, highlighting the gulf between the two sides. In fairness, the Panthers were undermanned, missing seven players from their Round 7 loss to Sebastopol.

Given the landscape that saw the visiting Panthers have no less than seven under 19 representatives it was more a matter of how far for the Swans on their own deck given the touring party's lack of experience and season form.

The win was emphatic for Chris Maple's group after building on a hard fought 14-point lead at quarter time.

The game opened up as the Swans put their foot down extending the margin to 48 at the half, 88 at the three-quarter mark before 128 at the final siren. Convincing to say the least.

As many as half of the Swans hit the scoreboard led by Zak Rinaldi (four goals), Andrew Hooper and Tom Mooney, who both finished with three apiece.

Amid the rout, Tristan Maple, Zak Rinaldi, Callan Wellings, Will Liston, Paddy Simpson and Keegan Mellington received the Swans’ hierarchy nod of approval to finish in the best players.

While it was another tough day at the office for Travis Hodgson's group, one could not deny the contributions of Panthers’ organic bunch Cody Chapman, John Kovarick, Broden Collins, Lachie Pritchard, Mitch Fino and Jesse Geddes.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 42 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 marks

Callan Wellings (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 13 tackles, 11 clearances

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 28 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Our boys were pretty consistent in all phases throughout the game. Credit to Melton South, they continued to front up for the fight every contest."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
We went in with a pretty undermanned side and I thought we defended pretty well in the first quarter, and it kept us in the contest. Ballarat had good shape and balance around stoppage and once they got outside of us, they really got hold of us.

Melton returned to the top of the table with a big win over Lake Wendouree at MacPherson Park.

Braedan Kight was the star once again with seven goals, moving to 41 for the season, 10 clear of his nearest rival Jake Sutton (Sunbury) in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal.

Troy Scoble's men were super-efficient converting 23 of their 32 shots on goal, to leave visiting coach Rohan Brown scratching his head at the extent of the final margin.

That's very much like the Bloods - blink and you'll miss it!

One minute the Bloods are mopping up in defence, before Braedan Kight is having a shot on goal the next. Clinical. 

A thirty-point lead at quarter time grew to 52 at the half, 82 at the final change before 117 points separated the two sides at game’s end. 

Versatile Bloods quintet Lachlan Walker (two goals), Brodie Sullivan, Lachie Watkins (two goals), Jack Walker (one goal) and Lachlan Phillips were recognised for their support roles aiding Kight's star of the show performance.

Credit to the Lakers for their competitiveness during the game for long periods.

Unlike the Bloods, the Lakers struggled to score and cost them dearly in the wash-up. 

Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti was stoic in the ruck, while in form trio Lincoln Koliba, Angus Gove and Joel O'Connell enjoyed their fair share of ball.

Bailey Thompson booted two goals, taking his season tally to 16 - impressive given his side hasn't won a game. The wiry, run and carry forward is responsible for near 30% of the Lakers season goals (16/54).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 38 disposals, 11 score involvements, 11 marks

Jack Walker (Melton) - 41 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 39 hitouts, 10 contested possessions, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Good competitive game going into the bye. We were a bit inconsistent in all phases today. Our defence was strong and we were able to implement our defensive system. However, full credit to the Lakers, their contest phase was very competitive and challenged us today.Our attack phase was ok at times - we lacked a bit of synergy going forward but overall going into the bye to get through the last four weeks W3L1 gives us a platform to now build into the season. Like all weeks, plenty to learn and improve on, and we welcome that."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"(I) thought we were well and truly in the game - just the end of chains we would give the ball back to Melton and them being slick and cleaner, would capitilise. Effort and pressure was season high for us today. I walked away a bit bemused that the score ended up being the margin it was. Melton are very good and will be there at the end. Looking forward to the break."

North Ballarat banked an all-important four points on the road to deny Bacchus Marsh at the weekend.

Despite leading at every change Brendan McCartney's men were made to work hard for their reward as very little separated the two sides at the breaks with the margin sitting at 6, 1, 12 and 19 respectively.

The Cobras made a couple of 'runs' at the visitors who led comfortably before Dennis Armfield's group swung into action.

The hosts enjoyed some time in front in the third term but were unable to sustain the levels of consistency and efficiency required to overcome a team like North Ballarat who pride themselves on the 'contest'.

Three late goals to North Ballarat in the third quarter restored the visitors the lead and with it, a healthy momentum push into the final stanza. Game over.

The Roosters essentially shut up shop, denying the Cobras another sniff holding them goalless, an anti-climax of sorts to a game that was entertaining for three quarters.

The Loader brothers Harry (one goal) and Fletcher were named best for the winners ahead of Will Quinlan (four goals), Malachi White and Ned Nash who did the job again for the Roosters in the absence of Jamie Quick, finishing with four goals.

Nash has been a real find forward for the Roosters this year in a real masterstroke by McCartney and his staff. The former defender now has 17 goals (comp rank #7) to his name.

For the Cobras, there were varying opinions on the make-up of their major contributors.

The coaching group, however, settled with Jake McCreery (two goals), Ashton Craig, Ethan McKercher, Jacob Pawlowicz, Luke Goetz and Simon Lafranchi.

Jake Owen was their leading goalscorer finishing with three.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 26 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat) - 41 hitouts, 12 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"We had our chances....North were able to wrestle back momentum and out worked us. We let in three, third quarter, red time goals which hindered our momentum. Credit to North who were able to squeeze us and force us long and create a contest. Good battle all day which North won at the end of the day."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Really proud of our players today against a club having a crack and developing quickly. Good day for what we are about as a club. Under pressure we were organised and super competitive. Another good step forward in our development."

A more fancied Darley outfit were forced to dig deep on the road to hold off a gallant Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve.

The Devils led by eight points at three quarter time and were kicking into the breeze for the last quarter, asking questions of Dan Jordan's group, who have been struggling to find their best.

But, as good teams often do, the Devils found away, not for a moment taking the result for granted as Jordan praised the efforts of an undermanned Burra outfit in the aftermath.

Devils’ key defender Matthew Brett was named best on ground ahead of the Cadman brothers Joel and Duncan, Brady Wright and midfielders Adam Azzopardi and Matt Denham.

On a day where goals came at a premium, it was Wright and Wil Johnson (three goals each) that proved the difference on the scoreboard.

For the Burra, selfless leader Tony Locker (one goal) was lauded for his effort on Brett Bewley ahead of an experienced group of contributors who went down despite ‘pride in the jumper' performances - namely Luke Kiel (two goals), Bailey Medwell, Ryan Noether, Daniel Widgery and Ryan Birthesel.

Both sides will welcome not only this weekend off, but their upcoming byes in Round 9 (Darley) and round 11 (Sebastopol). A chance to regroup and replenish ahead of a season defining conclusion.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Ben Hutt (Sebastopol) - 34 disposals, 12 tackles, 10 marks

Joel Cadman (Darley) - 31 disposals, 14 contested posessions, 13 marks

Adam Azzopardi (Darley) - 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 12 pressure acts

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Extremely proud of the boys today. A great contest against a quality side played in great spirit. Darley took their chances going forward in the second half and we missed a few that could have impacted the result. Credit to them getting it done after a couple of losses. Looking forward to a week off after a big eight game stretch."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Proud of our boys today. Credit to Sebastopol, they really came to play and challenged us in all areas. The Burra will test a few sides above them on the way home for sure. Our boys showed some 'ticker' into the breeze in the last quarter to get the points."

With crucial wins secured in Round 8, and one match to play out until the official halfway mark of the home and away season, there is still plenty of intrigue around the landscape of the senior footy competition. 

Darley have cemented their place atop the BFNL ladder following a consistent and composed four-quarter effort over North Ballarat at Mars Stadium, finishing 31-point victors.

The contest got off to a tough start for the Roosters, with key ruckman Cam McCallum going down early in the opening term.

His absence was a significant blow, with third-gamer Ryan Luke moving into guts to take on Lucas Impey – a difficult task for even the most experienced campaigners.

Despite the setback, North Ballarat remained in touch, with a late second quarter push keeping the deficit to just 17 points at halftime.

However, Darley stamped their authority in the third, dominating field position and inside 50s to register nine scoring shots to just two.

Their inaccuracy in front of goal spared the Roosters a heavier margin, but the pressure was beginning to tell.

Heading into the final term 42 points down, North launched a brief surge midway through the quarter, registering six consecutive scoring shots.

Unfortunately for the home side, only two of those translated into goals.

The Devils responded by slotting the final major of the day, sealing a 31-point win that not only extended their unbeaten streak, but reinforced their credentials as a premiership favourite.

Darley again showed why they are competition leaders – efficient with the ball, dominant in possession, and ruthless at generating forward entries.

The pairing of Brett Bewley and Will Johnson proved lethal, each kicking four goals and accounting for three-quarters of the team’s total score. Bewley was a class above and was named best on.

For North Ballarat, Josh Sparkman earned best on ground honours for his tough work around the contest, while Isaac Carey played arguably his best game of the season, consistently providing clean ball and linking defence to attack.

The Roosters now sit just two points outside the top six, with their upcoming clash against fellow finals hopeful Sebastopol shaping as season-defining.

Darley, meanwhile, will enjoy a well-earned rest before a top-of-the-table clash against East Point in Round 11.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 38 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 score involvements

Billy Myers (Darley) - 35 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 12 marks

Ned Nash (North Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 11 marks, 11 rebound 50s

East Point have bounced into second on the BFNL ladder after a commanding 89-point win over Lake Wendouree, delivering a much-needed percentage boost in a congested top-four race.

The Kangaroos were in control from the outset at Eastern Oval, more than doubling the Lakers' inside 50 count and dominating contested ball.

While East Point’s accuracy wavered in the third term – kicking 2.8 – the damage had already been done, and the margin could easily have crept into triple figures.

Despite the blowout, the Lakers found some positives.

For the first time this season, they registered a goal in every quarter – a small but notable milestone in a year short on scoreboard success.

Micka Rotumah-Onus continued his standout season with another best-on-ground performance, powering through the midfield to drive his side forward.

Joel Van Meel also impressed, neutralising the influence of Lakers ruckman Tom Zampatti to be named second best.

Young Roo Kyle Anderson shone in his second year at senior level, producing arguably his most complete game yet.

Teammate Noah Shearer also had a breakout performance, using the ball with precision and adding a goal to his name.

For the Lakers, Lincoln Koliba provided a moment of brilliance with a mark-of-the-year contender in the third quarter – a soaring grab over Joe Fraser that brought the crowd to life.

East Point now enjoy a much needed break ahead of a huge 1 v 2 clash with ladder-leaders Darley.

Lake Wendouree will look to build on their small wins when they face Redan in a bottom-of-the-table clash after the break.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 36 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 14 score involvements

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 20 disposals, 17 score involvements, 12 marks

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 31 disposals, 9 marks, 9 rebound 50s

It was billed as a potential preview of finals football – and Saturday’s clash between Melton and Sunbury at Macpherson Park delivered a high-quality battle, with the Bloods emerging 23-point victors in a game that further cemented their status as a big-game performer.

All eyes were on the final term, with Sunbury’s league-best last quarters pitted against Melton’s season-long struggle to finish strongly.

The Lions, epic in fourth quarters, were well-positioned to break a seven-year drought at Melton’s home ground, trailing by just one goal at three-quarter time.

But when it mattered most, the Bloods delivered.

They produced six scoring shots to four in the final term, converting five of them to outplay and outlast a fast-finishing Sunbury outfit.

Their efficiency in front of goal and composure under pressure proved the difference, turning a tight contest into a 23-point win.

While the Lions had the edge in possession and contested ball across the match, it was Melton’s superior ball use and structure inside 50 that set them apart.

Their forward entries were cleaner, more dangerous, and ultimately more rewarding.

The Carter brothers were instrumental in getting the job done. Liam stepped up in the final term with two clutch goals (three total), while Ryan was everywhere – hauling in 14 marks and recording 13 score involvements in a dominant display.

Jaycob Hickey celebrated his 100th game in fine fashion, posting a game-high 39 disposals, including 20 contested possessions and 14 clearances in another solid performance for the Bloods.

For the visitors, Jack Newitt made the most of his time forward to be named Sunbury’s best, while Josh Guthrie continued his outstanding 2025 form with 33 disposals and relentless tackling pressure through the midfield.

The result sees Sunbury slip outside the top three, with a crucial clash against Bacchus Marsh to come after the break. Melton, meanwhile, move within striking distance of a top-two berth and will look to continue their momentum when they face Ballarat next.

STATS THAT MATTERED 

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 39 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 38 disposals, 17 intercept possessions, 14 rebound 50s

Ryan Carter (Melton) - 20 disposals, 14 marks, 13 score involvements

In their 200th Ballarat Football Netball League meeting, it was Ballarat who held firm under late-game pressure to edge out Redan by the slimmest of margins—securing a sixth consecutive win over their rivals.

With the game shaped by pre-match narratives around starts and finishes, it was the Swans who answered the first challenge forcefully.

After a tight opening, it was Biggie Nyuon and Andrew Hooper who lit up in the latter part of the first quarter, each slotting two goals to give the visitors a four-goal lead at the first break.

Ballarat held the upper hand through the middle stages of the contest, maintaining scoreboard pressure and managing to keep the Lions at bay.

But the game’s final act would deliver one of the most dramatic finishes of the season.

With Ballarat leading by 30 points deep into the final quarter, it looked all but over. But Redan, winless in final terms until now, flipped the script.

The Lions exploded with a five-goal blitz in under ten minutes—led by the Bond duo, Lachlan and Taj, who combined for four of them—to amazingly hit the front.

With the clock ticking into the 34th minute, the ball landed in Luke Gray’s hands 30 metres out. It may have been a point but one of the best of his career—nudging Ballarat back into the lead just moments before the final siren sounded.

From there, the Swans’ defence locked down to secure a vital one-point win.

Rudie Forde was instrumental, controlling the ruck and winning vital contested possessions to swing momentum Redan’s way when needed most.

Taj Bond was equally impressive in tandem, with his two fourth-quarter goals nearly flipping the result.

Tristan Maple’s return to the senior side proved timely, collecting 30 disposals in just his second game this year.

Down back, Bailey Fraser stood tall again, repelling repeated Redan forward entries when the game was on the line.

The win keeps Ballarat in the top six and provides breathing space ahead of a tough clash with Melton next round.

For Redan, it’s another close call that slipped away—but with the winless Lakers awaiting after the break, there's still life in their finals push yet.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lachlan Bond (Redan) - 10 marks, 9 intercept possessions, 7 score involvement

Bailey Fraser (Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 12 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Fraser Perkins (Ballarat) - 24 disposals, 15 tackles, 7 score involvements

Sebastopol have reignited their finals hopes, claiming a crucial 29-point win over Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

In a game that could very well define the trajectory of both teams’ seasons, the Burra stood tall under pressure, with the return of coach Tony Lockyer providing the perfect boost.

The opening quarter was a tightly contested affair, with just one point separating the sides at the first break.

Bacchus Marsh struck early in the second through Jake Owen, but it would be their only major for the term.

Sebastopol found their rhythm shortly after, going on a run that gave them a 15-point buffer at halftime.

The Cobras came out of the major break firing, with Owen again sparking life into the contest by kicking two quick goals to regain the lead.

Luke Goetz followed up moments later, capping off a dominant stretch for the home side.

But just as the momentum looked to swing permanently, Sebastopol responded— Lockyer himself hitting the scoreboard before a pair of vital goals turned the game once more.

From there, the Burra did what they’ve done well at times this season: finish strong.

With calm heads and smart ball use, they piled on late goals to run out comfortable winners.

Sebastopol’s win was built on a lift in inside 50s and a much more efficient use of possession.

Despite the Cobras winning the clearance count, the Burra’s ability to control the contested ball and hit targets forward of centre gave forwards like Lachie Sheridan and Cooper Littlehayes every chance to impact the scoreboard.

Luke Goetz continued his stellar form, dominating the ruck and being named Bacchus Marsh’s best. For Sebastopol, Toby Hutt was a standout in the pocket, consistently applying pressure and finishing opportunities when they arose.

The win sees Sebastopol climb to 7th and right back in the finals frame.

For Bacchus Marsh, the pressure now mounts — just two points clear inside the top six, with a tough clash against in-form Sunbury awaiting them after the bye.

The Burra now prepare for another must-win against 8th-placed North Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 47 disposals, 24 contested possessions, 15 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 73 hitouts, 21 disposals, 15 contested possessions

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 30 disposals, 12 marks, 12 score involvements

There were a number of big results in Round 9 that proved there is still plenty to unfold as we head into the second half of the season.

Scoop reviews all the major talking points from last round.

A dominant seven-goal performance from Roosters’ forward Jamie Quick led Brendan McCartney's men to a comprehensive 57-point win over ladder leaders Darley.

The four-quarter win sees North Ballarat just percentage shy of third placed Sebastopol and a game clear of Sunbury in fifth.

Despite a drop of some 50 percent from their first loss of the season, the Devils remain on top of the McDonald's BFNL table, albeit with less certainty than a week ago.

For the winners, usual suspects Riley Polkinghorne and ruckman Callum McCullum were significant contributors, creating the drive forward enabling the likes of Quick to 'get off the hook' with repeat forward 50 opportunities.

Polkinghorne has now been named in the bests from all eight of his appearances this year.

Tom Bromley-Lynch and Fletcher Loader had arguably their best games of the season while progressive young defender Joshua Sparkman is living up to the promise McCartney has spoken of him.

Saturday's win extended McCartney's imposing record at home to 15-3, proving the force the Roosters are when at MARS Stadium.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan made no excuses in the aftermath, but it was clear, they were undermanned. Injury, ill-health, and unavailability has crept into the Devils quality stocks, with Saturday's loss confirming their level of importance.

Danger games await the Black and White in coming weeks against Redan and Sebastopol. Brett Bewley and Shane Page were clearly the Devils best two players.   

North Ballarat will travel away to CE Brown Reserve to take on Lake Wendouree.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 57 hitouts, 12 contested possessions, 6 clearances

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat): 43 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Brett Bewley (Darley): 40 disposals, 29 contested possessions, 17 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We did a good job with the difficult parts of the game today. Our contest, pressure and defending was very good. (We) took our chances when the game opened up. Darley undermanned pre and during the game. They're a very good club."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"(We were) outplayed around the contest and how to enter the ball into forward 50 in windy conditions. Great to come away with plenty to work on. Full credit to North Ballarat and the pressure they applied all day in a four-quarter effort."

Ballarat caused arguably the biggest upset of the season date, downing finals aspirant Sunbury by 26 points.

The nature of the Swans’ win was something to behold given they trailed by four goals to one at quarter time. The fact they ended with 28 scoring shots to 17 gives every indication they won 'going away' to give coach Chris Maple his most satisfying win in charge of the young group.

Sure, the Swans best players needed to stand up, and the response was overwhelming.

Will Liston, Paddy Simpson (back from a shoulder injury), the Drever boys, Noah and Jake, along with Marcus Powling and Tyler Constable not only had the Swans within four points at half time but carried the momentum, shutting out their more fancied rivals.

Alfredton Oval doesn't usually lend itself to big scores in June, but the Swans would rapt with their return. Andrew Hooper, Rhys Perry, Jake Drever and Paddy Simpson all hit the scoreboard with two goals apiece. Lions pair Jake Sutton and Leigh Brennan also kicked two.

But what to make of Sunbury? "Disappointing performance..." was how coach Travis Hodgson summed up the loss.

It's back to the drawing board for the fifth placed Lions with a focus on work rate and physicality around the ball on the radar. Mitch Trimboli was a shining light for the Lions despite the loss, while defenders Patrick Scanlon and Josiah Garisto did their best to quell the hungry Swans.

A loss for Sunbury this week against Sebastopol could see them cling to a spot inside the top six, solely on percentage. Ballarat is away to Melton, who had the week off with the bye.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Will Liston (Ballarat): 36 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 24 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 6 tackles

Cody Brand (Sunbury): 30 disposals, 13 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat): "We played all phases of the game far better. Our ability to withstand Sunbury's pressure in the last quarter showed some maturity. A pleasing result for our young group."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing performance. Decision making was poor and execution not much better. Ballarat deserved to win, congratulations to Chris and his young side - they were better for longer."

Sebastopol hung on in a close one to deny popular Lion Jarret Giampaolo the perfect ending in his milestone 250th game.

After losing Tony Lockyer (cork) early the visitors were on the back foot despite kicking the opening four goals of the game.

The plucky Lions refused to give in all day and flew home with three late goals to give the flag contenders an almighty scare. It was interesting to note the Burra thought they controlled the game for the most part despite winning only the first quarter.

Crucial Burras’ duo, Lachie Cassidy and James Keeble, returned with immediate impact while Chase Dummett's interrupted season resembled some more welcomed continuity.

Toby Hutt was named best on ground for the winners in one of those low scoring Wintery battles on City Oval.

For the Lions, ruckman Nathan Dunstan led the challenge and was supported at ground level by Daniel Bond and Izaac Grant who played through an achilles complaint that had him in some doubt for the game.

Youngster Harry Lawson gave his all to be recognised while Tom Lamb and Giampaolo fought it out to the final siren.

While they fell agonisingly short, Redan should hold no fears on the road facing Darley having got it done there last year, just as the Devils were seemingly on the up and finals bound.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 68 hitouts, 16 disposals, 7 score involvements

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol):34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Cooper Craig-Peters (Redan):25 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 10 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel / Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Was a hard-fought gutsy win after losing a quality player in the first minute. (We) felt we had control of the game for the majority. Redan kicked three late goals to get within a kick. Plenty of young talent at Redan."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Really proud of the effort today. We gave up four goals at the start which ultimately cost us. Was a great day for the club honouring great Jarret Gimpaolo's 250th game."

Bacchus Marsh overcame a slow start to run away with a comfortable 98-point win over Melton South.

Despite a one-win season heading in, the Cobras started warm favorites and asserted their authority on the game in the second half booting 14 goals to one giving new season coach Jason Williams his first taste of back-to-back wins.

The home side was made to work hard for any early ascendancy after the Panthers led at the first change, their only quarter win of the season.

The Cobras, led by Jake Owen (4 goals) and Joel Freeman (5 goals), arrested the game onto something more resembling their own terms. The Cobras kicked eight goals to one in the third term earning some belated separation on the scoreboard.

The Cobras key forward targets were the welcoming beneficiaries of the work rate shown by Tyson Shea, Josh Huxtable and Alex Porter. The further the game went, the further the Cobras went ahead. Evidently, the final margin was the greatest of the game.

Despite a ninth consecutive loss, the Panthers weren't shy on effort, doing their best against the challenges that come with little or no depth. Riley Theo, Cody Chapman, Mitch Fino, Ayden Reilly and Rhys Lee kept the Cobras honest ensuring they were made to work for the premiership points.

The Cobras host East Point this weekend while the Panthers will savour the bye.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 64 hitouts, 18 disposals, 11 score involvements

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh): 23 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 15 marks

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 30 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Unfortunately we didn't apply ourselves well early but credit to our guys and our leaders, they came out mentally ready after half time. We produced a very good third quarter and responded well to end with 10 different goalkickers. Very exciting to see our young talent on display again."

Jason Hoy (Melton South):"Tale of two halves. (We) won the inside ball in the first, Bacchus Marsh opened us up in the second. A lot of positives to take out of the first half. Credit to Bacchus Marsh for lifting the intensity in the second half. They had a good spread of young guns who beat us with their leg speed."

The Kangas simply did what they had to do, seeing off a 'clean slate' Lakers outfit under new coach Tim Shearer.

So often with the appointment of a new coach mid-season, we see a spike in performance and the Lakers certainly did bring the heat in the opening term to be level with 2018, 2019 premiers.

Kangas coach Jackson Merrett was wary of the likely surge in effort, especially early and was grounded at quarter time in his response.

The home side was able to absorb the Lakers’ heat in the opening stanza before kicking away in the second term to lead by 25 points at half time and 50 points at the final change.

There's your game, job done. Credit to the Lakers for winning the last quarter but the nature of footy tells me the Kangas cue had returned to the rack.

Jordy Johnston was named best on ground yet again for the winners for his exploits through the midfield alone.

The once x-factor star forward has featured in the best in seven games out of eight, and strangely just seven goals next his name.

Credit goes to Merrett and Johnston for further evolve an already great game. Clearly it is working for them, given his midfield returns.

Mitch Walsh, Patrick Hannaford, Joel Van Meel and Bryce McDougall played the support role behind Johnston ensuring the convincing nature of the win, with all important percentage thrown in.

For the Lakers, season newcomers Michael Foster (returned) and Tom Zampatti enjoyed their best games while Rory O'Keefe, Cody Helyar, Brayden Helyar and Nathan Pring fought for their team mates and new voice, Tim Shearer.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 15 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point): 35 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 marks

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree):35 disposals, 18 rebound 50s, 82% disposal efficency 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackon Merrett (East Point): "We expected the Lakers to come out early and apply great pressure. They certainly did that! It was pleasing that we were able to absorb that pressure, and when the game opened up, we owned it on the outside."

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"We were pleased with our commitment to how we wanted to play. Some execution errors and positional mistakes hurt on the scoreboard, but our pressure was good all day. We ran out of legs late but overall we felt the positives outweighed the negatives."

Strong wins were the order for the day when it came to the Round 9 action across the Ballarat Football Netball League.

North Ballarat continues to progress under the radar with a convincing win over Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

The win moves Brendan McCartney's men into fourth place on the BFNL table ahead of their mouthwatering Round 10 meeting with East Point.

The Roosters’ young brigade continue to produce as Riley Polkinghorne (Best), Joshua Sparkman, Elliot Lamb, Hugh Trigg (three goals), Mal White and Fletcher Loader gave the visitors a headache for the most part, restricting the Swans to just three goals.

Just on the visitors, while clearly disappointed, it was their fourth attempt against top five opposition this season and again they've fallen well short.

Eighty-two points separated the Swans and the Roosters, 64 points the Swans and the Devils, 78 points the Swans and the Kangas and 70 points the Swans and the Bloods.

It's clearly a level above for Chris Maple's young group giving every indication they're another 12 months away from bucking the trend.

Such was the conviction of the Swans’ most recent defeat at the weekend, only two players featured in the best players - Angus Bade and Lachie Dalgleish.  

This game was still in the balance at half time despite the Swans having just two goals on the board.

The assignment for the Swans was always going to be a stretch after the main break reeling in a 26-point deficit but the ball was in their court to deliver a response worthy of an unofficial sixth seed given their four wins to date. But that didn't eventuate at all.

The Roosters kicked 10 goals to one after half time to run out deserved, comfortable winners.

Youngster Will Quinlan matched his four goal effort against the Cobras in Round 8 with a game high four goals, filling the void with aplomb in the absence of Jamie Quick (ankle).

Next week the Roosters host East Point in a battle of fourth versus third. Ballarat will welcome their Round 10 assignment when they host Sebastopol (W2 L7) in what looms a flip of the coin match up.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 marks

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 36 disposals, 19 contsted possessions, 11 clearances

Marcus Powling (Ballarat) - 51 hit outs, 16 disposals, 14 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Our way of playing is coming along pretty well. The players are investing into the testing parts of the game as a group. Spirit and energy is strong and they are playing for one another. It's been super pleasing to see young players come into the team and develop in their positions."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"After a competitive start, it was a very disappointing day. North Ballarat pressed hard and created a lot off turnover. They won a territory game from stoppage far too easily. We will review and look forward to next week."

While the result did not surprise, the Lakers certainly turned a few heads posting the second highest score of the season en route to a belated first win under new coach Rohan Brown.

The Lakers dominated the listless Panthers from the outset with seven unanswered goals while kicking with the breeze, setting the tone for the remainder of the afternoon.

As many as 13 Lakers players hit the scoreboard with damaging effect, especially in the second half registering 18.3 to the visitors’ 1.6 in a dazzling display.

Sure, the Panthers have struggled all year having not won a single quarter in their opening nine games but the way the spirited Lakers went about it resembled more of a side in top six contention.

Their efficiency levels by foot and their ability to create the overlap with their run and carry handball chains was a feature.

On that performance alone it's hard to believe it was just their first win of the season.

The Lakers had arguably the best dozen or so players on the ground, taking full advantage of the struggling Panthers who were hampered with the loss of key movers Tom Phillips (broken hand) and Jeff Garlett (hamstring). To add insult to injury, no pun intended - the Panthers were dealt no favours the longer the game went losing another three players resulting in 'no bench' for the most part of the second half.

Take nothing away from the Lakers, they were impressive, and well worth the watch.

Boom recruit Jaydo Wright arrived in the BFNL with five goals, matched only by teammate Bailey Thompson (five goals) who moved to sixth in the pecking order for the Tony Locket Medal.

Tom Zampatti, Timmy Collins, Angus Gove and Joel O'Connell essentially 'brought their own footy' amassing huge numbers between the arcs while the efforts of Kyle Anderson across half back topped off a huge day for the club.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Angus Gove (Lake Wendouree) - 42 disposals, 10 score involvements, 10 rebound 50s

Jaydo Wright (Lake Wendouree) - 26 disposals, 20 score involvements, 14 contested possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 21 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 7 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"The club and players were rewarded today for the effort and the resilience they have shown since pre-season since last October. Absolutely rapt for them. Thought our attitude and attack on the footy early set the scene for the game. We go into the back half of the season with confidence that our brand and system will get us some more wins. Melton South down to no bench and injuries hurt them early."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"First 30 minutes were horrible. We were poor and the Lakers were outstanding and scored heavily wind assisted. Nothing went right for us from that point on unfortunately and we finished the game short of players."

Melton continued their winning ways, outclassing visiting party Bacchus Marsh.

The Bloods’ complete four quarter winning performance was highlighted by another seven-goal return from co-captain Braedan Kight.

For the record it was the x-factor forward’s sixth bag of seven goals in eight games, extending his lead in the race for the Tony Lockett Medal to 12. Kight has 48 goals, averaging six per game and is in rare air.

The Tony Lockett Medal may not be the only accolade within his reach in 2024 having featured in the Bloods’ best players on six of eight occasions.

Kight's impact on games has been significant, unrivalled at least on the goal front while averaging 16 disposals per game.

Jack Walker continued his run of stellar games against the Cobras, his run and carry a feature again to be named best afield in front of a host of Bloods including Lachlan Walker, Lachlan Phillips, Lachlan Watkins and Ryan Davis (four goals).

The Bloods kicked the first five goals of the game before extending to a match winning 52-point advantage at the main break. Game Over.

Despite not winning a quarter the Cobras saw positive progress in next gen duo Joel Freeman (best) and Cody Gates, who weren't intimidated by the might of the Bloods.

Experienced quartet Tyson Shea, Jake McCreery, Jake Owen (two goals) and playing coach Dennis Armfield ensured the Cobras had their moments, denying the Bloods a contest entirely on their own terms despite being held to their lowest score of the season.

Next week's games carry their own weight of interest and expectation as the two sides prepare for like-for-like opponents having won the same number of games.

The Bloods are on the road to Sunbury (W7 L1) while the Cobras host Redan (W3 L5).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachie Watkins (Melton) - 32 disposals, 13 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Braedan Kight (Melton) - 23 disposals, 18 score involvements, 13 marks

Jack Kovacevic (Bacchus Marsh) - 27 disposals, 12 marks, 5 rebound 50s

COACHES VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really well pleased with our response off the bye. We had to be competitive in the contest phase today, a strength of Bacchus Marsh. While we were patchy for periods, lots of the game was fairly even - the Marsh are a very talented young team. Overall, happy with our players application under duress with a couple of rotations down and our ability to make the most of our opportunities forward of the ball. We look forward to playing one of the best performed teams on their home ground in Round 10."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
(It) was a great learning against arguably the best. Got jumped, five goals down in the first 15 minutes and from there I thought it was an evenly fought game except for another ten-minute patch in the third quarter. They are well drilled, clean and hurt us big time on our mistakes. Tough game and proud of our lads to give it their all a couple of men down."

Joe Carmody's rampant Kangas made it seven wins on the trot, embarrassing a disappointing Lions outfit in front of their home fans at City Oval.

The visitors put their foot to the floor for the opening three quarters and had this game put to bed by half time with an unassailable 60-point lead.

The nature of the 12.5 to 2.5 scoreline highlighted the gulf between these two sides, especially when East are at their best.

The merciless Kangas went on to add a further 7.4 to just 0.1 in the third term consolidating their authority over the contest.

Redan's final score was the lowest recorded under Gary Learmonth, now in his second season.  

Kangas forwards Strahan Robinson and Bryson McDougall shared the honours in front of the sticks with a game high four goals ahead of seven others to hit the scoreboard.

Alex Molan (three goals) made a welcoming return from Essendon VFL duties to add to the firepower that clearly overwhelmed the Lions.

Jack Jeffrey (two goals) was named best afield ahead of a host of impacting Kangas - Joel Van Meel, The Johnston brothers, Jesse Cairns and Deng Lual to name a few.

There was little to smile about for the Lions in the aftermath, but it was encouraging to see star recruit Lachie Bond (two goals) make a safe debut after an ankle complaint delayed his gameday arrival in Redan colors.

Midfielder Khy Jess continued with his rich vein of form to be named in the best for a sixth time in eight games.

Cracking Round 10 match-ups await these two sides as the Lions head to Maddingley Park to face the Cobras - both have three season wins to date.

East Point are off to Mars Stadium to meet North Ballarat who have an imposing home record under Brendan McCartney having won 22/26 at the venue including 11 of their last 13 since the start of 2023.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 score involvements

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 score invovlements

Daniel Bond (Redan) - 22 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 6 intercept possessions 

COACHES VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"We were terrible. (We) put it behind us and focus on Bacchus Marsh next week."              

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"We had 22 contributors today. (We) defended really well and were able to capitilise with the high amount of forward 50 entries we created."

Sunbury remain level on points with Melton and East Point atop of the BFNL table after nine rounds. The trio have lost just one game, each averaging over 100 points (for) per game.

If it's any consolation for Sebastopol they did deny Matty White's Lions recording a fifth ton of the season despite a 59-point loss.

Strangely, the margin was the closest of any BFNL game at the weekend - make of that what you will.

After a relatively even start to the game, the Lions raised the bar after half time with an impressive defensive display restricting the visitors to just one goal while adding six majors of their own to earn the separation on the scoreboard.

Josh Guthrie was named best afield for the winners ahead of recalled Harry Power and recently promoted Murphy Boyd who answered the call from White. Dean Muir and Jordan Tentonello provided plenty of drive out of the Lions’ defence while spearhead Jake Sutton reaped the rewards of a favourable inside 50 count with five goals.

Offsider Mitch McLean continued his breakout season adding another two goals, taking his tally to 27 (comp rank #3).

For the travelling Burra, effort wasn't lost but their failings to convert opportunities in any event of scoring was palpable. Unfortunately for Tony Lockyer's men it was the third time this season his chargers were kept to under 30 points.

Usual suspects Tony Lockyer, Bailey Medwell, Luke Kiel (two goals), Ben Hutt, Riley O'Keefe and Ryan Birthisel featured prominently again to minimise the difference at the final siren.

The Burra remain in ninth place on the BFNL table with two wins.

Sunbury look threatening in second place ahead of their top of the table clash against Melton.

Sebastopol will consider themselves a live chance when they travel to Alfredton Oval to take on Ballarat (W4 L4).    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol) - 45 disposals, 9 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 16 intercept possessions, 10 marks

Jake Sutton (Sunbury) - 26 disposals, 10 score invovlements, 7 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really good defensive game. (We) held Sebastopol to a low score and low inside 50 count. We broke even in the midfield battle and came away on top which is great after a week off."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Credit to Sunbury who are quality side and always tough to beat at home. Very even contest especially in the first half. Unfortunate we didn't make the most of our chances, which could have changed the trajectory of the game. We regroup and look forward to Ballarat next week."

At the halfway mark of the home and away season, the competition is still wide open with finals spots and double chances all on the line in the run home.

Sunbury’s explosive first quarter proved too much for Bacchus Marsh to claw back, as the Lions secured a 39-point win and maintained their push for a top-two finish.

In typical fashion, Sunbury came out firing.

The opening term saw them pile on 8.5 (53) to the Cobras’ 2.1 (13), with Daniel Johnston slotting three majors to help set the tone.

The early dominance laid the groundwork for the rest of the contest, forcing Bacchus Marsh to play catch-up.

While the second term was even, the Cobras needed a big third quarter to mount a comeback.

But with both defences locking down, it took nearly 10 minutes for Isaac Nixon to register the first goal of the half.

A late pair of goals allowed Bacchus Marsh to narrowly win the quarter, but they still faced a 27-point deficit heading into the final term.

Sunbury’s defensive control continued into the last, where just two goals were scored – both by the Lions – as they cruised to 39-point victory.

Despite the overall disposal numbers (409 to 344), it was the Lions who dominated the contest and transition game, winning both contested and uncontested possessions and edging out Bacchus Marsh in clearances and inside 50s.

Josh Guthrie was brilliant for the home side, collecting 40 disposals, 11 clearances, and three goals.

Jake Egan brought immense pressure, tallying 13 tackles across the ground.

For the Cobras, Will Lalor played one of his best games of the season, leading with defensive intensity, while Luke Goetz was a key presence in the ruck with 60 hit-outs and influential follow-up work.

The loss sees Bacchus Marsh fall out of the top six for the first time in 2025, making their Round 10 clash with Redan a must-win to stay in finals contention.

Sunbury, meanwhile, face their biggest test yet against ladder-leaders Darley.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 60 hit outs, 25 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 36 disposals, 13 tackles, 11 intercept possessions

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 40 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 11 clearances

A dominant second quarter has proved decisive for Melton, securing a 24-point win over Ballarat and pushing the Bloods into second spot on the ladder at the halfway point of the 2025 season.

Ballarat had their chances early but couldn’t convert inside 50 – managing just one goal, courtesy of Andrew Hooper, and three rushed behinds in the opening term.

The second quarter would prove costly, as the Swans went goalless while Melton slammed on 5.2 – including two of Braedan Kight’s eventual three goals – to build a 33-point buffer by halftime.

The Swans outscored the Bloods in the second half but couldn’t claw back the deficit, with Melton holding firm to bank a valuable four points.

Despite Ballarat leading key stats – including disposals, clearances, and inside 50s – their forward-half efficiency was lacking, while Melton made the most of their opportunities.

Tristan Maple, in just his third game for Ballarat this season, was a standout.

The Footscray-listed midfielder gathered 41 disposals and 13 intercept possessions to be named best on ground for the Swans.

Andrew Hooper continued to be a reliable target in front of goal when goals were hard to come by, kicking three of the Swans five for the day.

For the Bloods, Liam Carter earned best-on honours with strong forward 50 efficiency and a goal, while Jordyn Cotter was a rock in defence, collecting 13 intercepts to keep the Swans at bay.

The win sets up Melton for a strong run into the second half of the season, starting with a favourable matchup against Lake Wendouree.

Meanwhile, Ballarat face a crucial clash with a finals-hungry Sebastopol, needing to convert dominance into scoreboard pressure.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 41 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 9 marks

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 27 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 10 marks

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 33 disposals, 12 marks, 8 rebound 50s

An epic eight-goal-to-none second quarter proved decisive as Darley stormed to a 54-point win over East Point, securing top spot at the halfway mark of the 2025 season.

The game started with a flurry of goals from both sides, and by quarter time, Darley held a slight two-point lead.

But the match turned dramatically in the second term as the Devils piled on eight unanswered goals, capitalising on every opportunity and leaving the Roos scoreless for the quarter.

East Point rallied after the main break, winning the third quarter 27-8 and showing signs of a potential comeback, just as coach Dan Jordan had flagged in his half time address.

But Darley extinguished any hopes of a Roos revival with an accurate final quarter (6.2 to 1.6), sealing the result and reinforcing their dominance at home.

Despite East Point’s advantage in inside 50s (54–41) and clearances (52–32), their inefficiency in front of goal and inability to convert opportunities proved costly.

Darley’s ball use and ability to find uncontested targets set the tone for the win.

Billy Myers was a standout for the Devils, racking up 39 disposals, 15 marks (14 uncontested), 12 intercepts, and two goals.

Will Johnson continued his consistent form, kicking four goals to climb the Tony Lockett Medal leaderboard.

For East Point, Jordan Johnston stood out with relentless pressure and four goals, while Bryson McDougall added three majors in a strong showing up forward.

The result drops East Point to fourth on the ladder, now trailing third-placed Sunbury by nearly 40%.

Darley’s win places them well clear of Melton, with nearly 50% more in percentage.

Round 10 looms as another important game for the top four, with Darley to face Sunbury and East Point up against the rising North Ballarat.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Billy Myers (Darley) - 39 disposals, 15 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Nick Hind (Darley) - 31 disposals, 11 goal involvements, 8 clearances

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 32 disposals, 8 1%ers, 7 tackles

Redan has held off a determined Lake Wendouree to secure their second win of the season, running out 28-point winners in a gritty encounter.

The Lakers showed strong intent early, kicking 3.2 in the opening term to take a slender two-point lead into quarter-time – with Cooper James nailing two of his eventual three goals.

But the Lions responded with composure in the second quarter, spreading their scoring options and heading into the main break 19 points clear.

Lake Wendouree refused to go away, winning the third term and trimming the margin to 13 points.

But in tough conditions, Redan found composure and targets up forward in the final quarter – particularly Harry Lawson, who stepped up in just his second game for the season to boot four goals and be named best on ground.

Despite falling short in both clearances and inside 50s by 10, Lake Wendouree showed improved effort around the contest.

Coach Rohan Brown will take positives from the team's ability to compete in the midfield and push a more experienced Redan outfit for much of the game.

Redan’s ability to capitalise on forward entries and win the contested ball ultimately set them apart.

Brody Pope and Khy Jess continued to be pillars for the Lions, combining for 56 disposals and driving the team’s high-pressure approach.

For the Lakers, Tom Zampatti impressed with his ruck work and follow-up efforts, while Cooper James continued to make the most of his opportunities in front of goal.

Lake Wendouree now face the daunting task of travelling to Macpherson Park to take on Melton, while Redan will look to keep faint finals hopes alive in a must-win clash with 7th-placed Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Brody Pope (Redan) - 34 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Khy Jess (Redan) - 22 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 tackles

Joel O'Connell (Lake Wendouree) - 27 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 7 clearances

Sebastopol v North Ballarat

A crucial four points sees North Ballarat break into the top six for the first time this season, after a composed 34-point win over Sebastopol.

With both teams clinging to realistic finals hopes, the match delivered a physical, high-pressure contest.

North Ballarat edged ahead early, taking a narrow 4-point lead into quarter-time.

But it was Jamie Quick who set the tone in the second term, wasting no time to open his account within 90 seconds and adding a second soon after.

The Roosters took a 22-point lead into half time and kept their composure from there, outscoring the Burra 4.2 to 2.2 in the second half to seal the win, 10.11 (71) to 5.7 (37).

While Sebastopol had the upper hand in clearances, it was North Ballarat’s efficiency with the footy and +12 inside 50s that proved decisive.

They made their entries count and restricted Sebastopol’s forward momentum for much of the match.

Toby Hutt was the standout performer the home side.

Splitting his time between the ruck and midfield, he racked up 40 disposals (26 contested), 31 hit outs, and was a key driver in winning the ball.

Luke Phillips added valuable grunt with a high-pressure performance, including seven 1%ers and relentless defensive efforts.

Returning for just his second game of the year, Riley Polkinghorne added 30 disposals (21 contested), while Dom Penny, listed with the Rebels, earned best-on-ground honours for his efficient ball use and impact around the contest.

The win lifts North Ballarat into sixth spot, two points ahead of Bacchus Marsh.

For Sebastopol, the path to finals becomes steeper, with their upcoming clash against Ballarat now looming as a must-win if they hope to stay in the race.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Toby Hutt (Sebastopol) - 40 disposals, 31 hit outs, 26 contested possessions

RIley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 30 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Ned Nash (North Ballarat) - 23 disposals, 8 intercept possessions, 8 rebound 50s

The first week of finals treated BFNL fans to a number of enthralling contests. With all the ups and downs finals can bring, recap all the excitement from the weekend.

Darley is one win away from booking its place in the 2023 BFNL Grand Final following a well-deserved 14-point win over Melton at Maddingley Park.

The Brett Bewley (two goals) inspired win was the third in as many encounters against the reigning premiers this year, as the Devils went to work, aiding a landslide advantage of inside 50's (70-41) despite the aerial dominance of Bloods’ ruckman Ben Archard around stoppage (+88 hit-outs).

If not for Melton's efficiency on goal after quarter time (9.0) the margin could easily have been greater.

A high stoppage, low scoring opening half nearly mirrored the two sides Round 17 meeting a fortnight ago. Ironically, the Bloods finished with exactly the same number of scoring shots (14) at games end - a stat Dan Jordan's staff would be happy to see again.

Devils’ midfielders Luther Baker, Matt Denham and Adam Azzopardi were significant contributors yet again alongside Bewley, while their underrated defence led by Matthew Brett were able to keep the competitions’ number one ranked forward combination in check.

Devils key Billy Myers (three goals) looked dangerous with his aerial presence while veteran Darren Leonard (two goals) wound the clock back to be instrumental with his versatility.

For the Bloods, speedsters Kyle Borg (four goals) and Adrian Monitto threatened all day to keep the reigning premiers within reach despite the margin blowing out to 30 points at one stage late in the last quarter. Ruckman Ben Archard was super, winning nearly every tap out but unfortunately for the minor premiers, the Essendon VFL affiliates’ powers did not translate to wins at ground level.

The Devils meet North Ballarat on Saturday for a spot in the Grand Final. The loser will face the winner of Melton and East Point in the Preliminary Final on Saturday September 16.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 48 disposals, 25 contested possessions, 14 inside 50s

Billy Myers (Darley): 19 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 marks

Ben Archard (Melton): 95 hit outs, 18 disposals, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Happy with our effort and intensity for four quarters despite losing a few to injury. Good finals win but plenty to work on."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"(Our) decision making and execution was very poor. Darley were too good. (We) thought their mids controlled the game."

Jackson Merrett's Kangas are riding high after surviving a late scare to upset pregame favorites Sebastopol at Eastern Oval on Saturday.

Scores were levelled by the Burra in time-on of the last quarter after they trailed by 18 points at the final change before the Kangas steadied late to progress.

It was as recent as Round 18 that Kangas fans were contemplating a September without finals but here they are, well and truly alive and down to the last four with reigning premiers Melton their next assignment.

Star Kangas mid/forward Jordy Johnston (broken thumb) was a late out after surgery adding further merit to the galvanising win.

Experienced quartet Joe Dodd (named best), Joel Van Meel, Jordy Taylor and Bryson McDougall (three goals) were super for the winners and were well support by next generation players Jack Jeffrey (three goals) and Liam Canny (one goal).

Under 17 Kangas rising star Strahan Robinson (17 goals from 9 games) hit the scoreboard again posting three timely majors. No doubt his profile is seen to be, beyond his years. 

Sure, the Kangas were buoyed by the elephant in the room (Eastern Oval) but in fairness we've known the finals schedule for some time now and the Burra camp refused to make any excuses. Good on them.

The Burra looked flat. Strange when you consider the stakes but full credit to East Point embracing the moment and the 'catch me if you can' nature of the contest, to lead at every change and ask questions of Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro's group.

Not for the first week has the talent laden Burra been wayward in front of goal. Back-to-back returns of 17 behinds (near doubling their goal returns) has proven costly - and maybe their season. You would have to go back to Round 9 (9.8 v Redan) to find the last time the Burra kicked more goals than points in a match involving top six opposition.

Lachlan Cassidy, Tony Lockyer, Hugo Papst, Toby Hutt (two goals), Jay Dahlhaus and Jacob Fletcher were named best for the Burra in a disappointing end to a season that promised so much.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Joel Van Meel (East Point): 42 hit outs, 16 disposals, 9 contested possessions

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol): 61 hit outs, 16 disposals, 12 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"East Point jumped us early. We didn't apply enough pressure on the ball carrier and couldn't put any scoreboard pressure on. Disappointing to go out like that."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"The group showed a lot of character. Credit to Sebastopol, they pushed us and got back level and for our young guys to keep their heads and run away with it late was really pleasing."

X-factor North Ballarat forward Jamie Quick (five goals) proved the difference between the two sides sending Brendan McCartney's boys into a Semi Final showdown with Darley on Saturday.

The Geelong VFL listed Quick delivered star power to a match that was dour and defensive, amid blustery conditions for the most part.

His influence was not restricted to his 5.3 heroics, as he often brought the ball to the ground against two opponents, inadvertently creating a plus one at ground level that led to more than one of the remaining six goals posted by the Roosters.

Redan led narrowly at half time before the Roosters raised the bar in the second to challenge the plucky Lions.

Bigman Callum McCullum dominated the ruck the further the game went, aiding the influence of Riley Polkinghorne who had plenty of the ball to be instrumental between the arcs driving the Roosters forward.

The heat map would indicate up to 80% of the play was orchestrated on one side of the ground making it difficult for both sides to penetrate through traffic.

Unfortunately for the Lions they could barely register a mark inside 50 in the second half to impact the scoreboard unlike the Roosters at the other end who had Quick thriving in his dancing shoes. Quality act.

North Ballarat's defence were well organised, giving very little away in the second half to hold sway, denying the Lions any effective entries.

Each had their moments - Ryan Hobbs, Isaac Lovisson and Josh Sparkman were at their stingy best while Stewart Crameri was damaging early and Polkinghorne was significant aiding a run of five unanswered goals for the Roosters from midway through the third term.

Dangerous mid/forward Jack Riding endured an 'almost game' in a contest fought primarily on the inside.

He, Jamie Quick, Ryan Hobbs and Harry Loader all missed their 34-point loss to the Devils in Round 15. Game on.

The win was bittersweet for McCartney's army after veteran Clay Jenkins left the field on a stretcher with a season ending knee injury.

For Redan, whilst brave, they just couldn't get the game on their terms for long enough and had little time on the outside to generate any significant run and finish from their prime movers.

Nathan Dunstan fought tirelessly in the ruck despite being shaded by McCullum while Declan Phillips, Flynn Atchison, Jarrett Giampaolo, Grant Bell and Pat Fitzgibbon were given the nod by the Lions hierarchy to be named among their best in a losing side.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 55 hit outs, 21 disposals, 18 contested possessions

Jack Riding (North Ballarat): 18 disposals, 10 tackles,8 score involvements

William Madden (Redan): 24 disposals, 10 marks, 6 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"A tough and honest performance against a very talented opponent. We have been building steadily over the year and we believe there is improvement to come."

Gary Learmonth (Redan): "A disappointing result but I thought for a good part of the game we were in control of the match. Losing (Daniel) Bond just before half time hurt us and the 10 minutes in the third quarter, we were disappointing where we lost our outside cover. Proud of the effort and the boys showed again what they're capable of. They will improve again next year as I need to as a coach."

The weekend saw two very different games play out as Melton booked its spot in the 2024 grand final, while Darley and East Point will face off in a preliminary final showdown on Saturday.

Minor premiers Melton booked their place in the McDonald’s BFNL Grand Final with a dominant 43-point win over Darley.

An even spread of Bloods contributors proved too overwhelming for the Devils who were no match for a third time this year.

Troy Scoble's well-connected group set up a handy 25-point lead at half time after keeping the Devils goalless with the breeze in the second term.

A four-goal-to-one third quarter essentially put this game to bed as the Bloods drained the Devils of virtually any hope, with a 47-point advantage at the final change.

The Devils looked slow at times, often labouring in their endeavours to cover the ground.

Repeat turnovers were a four-quarter long struggle for Dan Jordan's group, making the game more difficult to play and a constant strain on energy levels.

Execution of the basic fundamentals we often take for granted at the level remain a work in progress for Jordan's men.

Put simply, they're not a good kicking team which makes it harder for the Devils to score against the competition's benchmark.

The Devils’ 0-3 record against the Bloods this year has yielded returns of just five, nine and six goals. It's not enough.

For the record the Bloods have registered 24 scoring shots in each of their three meetings, the Devils, 11, 14 and 11.

Fluency and connection levels of these two sides are poles apart and remains one of the Bloods’ greatest assets.

The evenness and depth of talent at the Bloods disposal across all three lines is the very reason they're deserving flag favourites.

Given what transpired in the First Semi Final and East Point's struggles to overcome Ballarat, this year’s cup can be seen as Melton's to lose.

That's the pressure that comes with an impressive 'one loss' season.

How they cope with such lofty expectations, time will tell.

The Bloods had 22 contributors at the weekend, seven of whom hit the scoreboard. The Kights (Braedan and Jordy), Ryan Carter, Jack Walker and Ryan Davis booted two goals each while Devils’ key forward Brady Wright (two goals) was the only multiple goal scorer on a tough day at the office for the Black and White army.

Bloods’ midfielder Jaycob Hickey was named best ahead of a host of team mates that could easily of featured in the 'best players' conversation.

The Devils had less than half their group considered for recognition in loss, but you couldn't deny the efforts of Brett Bewley who carried much of his team (and Lachlan Walker) from stoppage to stoppage, more often in the Devils’ back half. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 44 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 12 rebound 50s

Jack Walker (Melton) - 28 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 tackles

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 9 clearances  

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Very proud of the group, really locked into our planning and preparation going in. We feel our third game in a row against top opposition has enabled us to get into finals mode and adjust well. Under a lot of pressure defensively throughout the game so to restrict scoring was pleasing. We struggled to convert opportunities in attack at times, Darley’s formation behind the ball can be impenetrable. We hung in the contest and scrambled quite well. The midfield battle was a great spectacle. We got through unscathed so now have two weeks to get the players prepared for a grand final. Good luck to the quality teams that remain - it's been a great finals series so far with plenty more to play out yet."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Disappointing result for us today, beaten by a much better side. Congratulations to Melton who thoroughly deserved the win and a spot in the Grand Final. We've got some regrouping to do (quickly) ahead of a Preliminary Final next Saturday. The reality is we're still in it, but time is running out finding our best."

East Point survived a late scare holding out a determined Ballarat to progress into a preliminary final showdown with Darley.

The Swans drew level with the breeze in the last quarter before a late goal against the run of play saw the Kangas win a thriller in trying conditions at City Oval.

Chris Maple's young group, while proud of their achievements in 2024, rising from ninth to fourth would be lamenting missed opportunity, reflective on a scoreline that read 0.8 at halftime, yet seemingly within reach of the Kangas’ more accurate 2.3.

The result essentially came down to the comparative scores with the aid of the breeze. The Swans second and final quarters yielded 3.10 while the Kangas manufactured 5.6 with their opportunity in the first and third terms.

As a result of kicking into the breeze in the opening term, the Swans were essentially chasing the game having trailed at every change and needing to overcome a 14-point deficit at the final break.

With goals coming at a premium and the Swans’ scoreline sitting at 2.10, it was always going to be a tough ask.

Unbeaten since Round 10 including a win over the Kangas in Round 18, the Swans proved their impressive second half of the season was no fluke and they were in fact the real deal but unable to capitalise on their +5 advantage in scoring opportunities.

The game had plenty of heroes, with the difference between winning and losing as cruel as it gets given the do-or-die nature of the stakes.

For the winners Jackson Merrett (one goal) reassured Kangas fans his concerning foot complaint was behind him to be named best afield ahead of Liam Canny (one goal), Sam Cue, Joe Dodd (one goal), and consistent pair Matthew Johnston and Jacob Brown.

The Swans were brave, their best players on the day resembling a common theme of 'bigger body' profiles - the kind it takes getting the job done against formidable opponents like the Kangas.

Quartet Rhys Perry, Angus Bade, Lachie Dalgleish and Marcus Powling led the charge while Paddy Simpson and Wil Liston provided the drive at ground level in a game that only Swans fans could dream of progressing.

Outgoing Swans Coach Chris Maple summed it up well in the aftermath with two choice words.

"So close."

We're down to three sides who remain in the race but only one seems to be free of the ill effects of a long arduous season - and they'll be watching on this week as East Point and Darley go head-to-head, an all-in moment for an opportunity to take on the Bloods in the BFNL's version of the big dance.     

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 39 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 27 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 7 intercept possessions  

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Tough conditions and a highly contested game all day. Our boys found something extra in the last 10 minutes against the wind and manufactured a goal. Congratulations to Mapes on his time at Ballarat. We move on quickly to face Darley on Saturday."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"So proud of our players, they gave their all. So close! A goal off the ground, a poster, a soft free kick in front of goal - just little things didn't go our way. I felt we did everything possible to win the game. We have the club heading in the right direction, 9th to 4th a good result. Ash Baker will be great for our group - I’m looking forward to watching them grow further."