Darley FNC

Round 16 saw the top six officially locked in for finals action, but there is still plenty to play out over the remaining two home & away rounds.

The Kangas extended their winning run to 13 games with a hard-fought win over a spirited, undermanned North Ballarat.

Seven unanswered goals in the opening term for the Kangas had this game, albeit on the scoreboard, put to bed.

Sure the 60-point margin validates some degrees of ease but credit to the young Roosters who were able to minimise the damage after half time.

The Kangas led by 56 points at the main break but were denied an ensuing blow out on the back of unquestionable effort.

With all respect to a depleted North Ballarat, the match up resembled boys v men on occasions as the Kangas went to work early.

Bryson McDougall was the beneficiary of the hosts early dominance with seven first half goals before finishing the day with eight.

Progressive forward Strahan Robinson looks well beyond his years with his imposing size, mobility and aerial presence proving a handful for the Roosters’ defence.

Robinson's impressive afternoon ended with four goals.

The bigger bodies of East Point all ended in the best players on a perfect day for football.

Mikitja Rottumah-Onus (Best), Billy Jones, Jordy Johnston, Joel Van Meel (199 games) all featured alongside McDougall and Robinson in a real display of quality depth from the Kangas.

Any number of up to 14-15 players could easily have landed without surprise.

For North Ballarat, there were encouraging signs in defeat.

Newcomer and former Cobra Joel Freeman booted five goals and joined Simon McCartin, Cam McCullum, Isaac Carey, Ned Nash and Taj McMillan at the pointy end for club voting discussions.

Again, the Roosters had just seven players from their 2023 Grand Final side and must be craving the returns of top end, more experienced stocks to support the wave of next gen talent currently flying the flag.

Kangas veteran Drew Murphy celebrated his 200th game in fine style kicking the last goal of the game to send the loyal and faithful social club into a frenzy. Bigman Joel Van Meel will play his 200th game this week against Sunbury.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Simon McCartin (North Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Bryson McDougall (East Point) - 21 disposals, 15 score involvements, 10 marks, 8 goals

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 31 disposals, 9 marks, 7 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Terrific first quarter. We won all the key stats and set up the win. North (Ballarat) kept challenging us throughout the day and will be a handful come finals time."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Hard working and testing day for us. East (Point) are a very good side that make you compete every minute of the game. Our leaders were very good today. Young players are doing a mighty job for us and we are developing quickly. Looking forward to getting some troops back to support them."

Ballarat remains unbeaten since Round 10, following a testing win over Sebastopol at Marty Busch.

The win sees the Swans draw level on premiership points with fifth place North Ballarat.

Melton South (A) and East Point (H) will round out the Swans’ home and away season before a tilt at finals.

North Ballarat are at City Oval with Redan before a bye in Round 18.

The Burra started well, establishing a handy 10-point lead in front of home fans before the Swans used the quarter time break to reset.

The Swans not only regained the lead but went on with it through the middle stages to outscore the hosts 8.10 to 3.4.

Essentially 18 scoring shots to seven.

While the response from the Swans was pleasing for coach Chris Maple, you can't help but revisit the Swans’ inability to get 'bang for buck' on their opportunities despite Zak Rinaldi's game high four goals.

Clearly the young Swans remain a work in progress but when they click, they'll be dangerous, if not already given their leg speed, attack on the footy and greater aerial presence.

Connection is a season long wish for any coach.

For outgoing Maple, let's hope the Swans can find that connection - it could result in winning a final such is the scope and potential of the group.

The Swans’ midfielders are covering the ground and finding a heap of the footy at the right end of the season.

Paddy Simpson, Tristan Maple, Wyatt Squires, the Rinaldi brothers Lewis and Zak all thrived with their run, carry and distribution.

Bigman Marcus Powling, who is crucial in the Swans’ fortunes, was again a mainstay with his aerial combatants.

For the Burra, it was encouraging to see some new faces featuring among the best. Sam Wilkinson, Chase Dummett, Ben Hutt, Lachlan O'Keefe, Jack Bambury and Luke Phillips all earned the nod of approval.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 tackles

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 8 marks, 8 intercept possessions

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 32 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"We started really well but eventually faded in the second half after losing a couple of key midfield rotations in the second quarter. We still could have controlled things a little better after this, however credit to Ballarat who move the ball with pace in the second half and put us under duress. We have come a long way this year and look forward to finishing the year off strong."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"Very proud of our young boys with today's performance. We wasted opportunities early but settled into a consistent four quarter effort. We were solid around the ball. but just need to tidy up some of our basic fundamentals as we move forward."

Melton has flexed its muscles with a dominant win over Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park.

Bloods’ leading goalkicker Braedan Kight was again the beneficiary of a weight of possession and forward 50 entries to be the standout with nine goals.

Usual suspects, more so dangerous support crew, didn't miss out either as Ryan Carter (four goals), Kyle Borg (four), Liam Carter (three) and Jordy Kight (three) added to Braedan's tally to finish with a combined 23 of 27 Bloods goals.

The quintet all feature in the BFNL's top 14 goalkickers for the season.

For the record, East Point are one shy matching the Bloods’ offensive weaponry on the goal front with four of the top 16.

When Bacchus Marsh led a lacklustre Bloods 15-14 midway through the first term something just clicked for the ladder leaders who went into overdrive as they piled on 25 goals to five for the remainder of the game to make yet another compelling 'action' statement to the broader competition.

Since half time of the Bloods emotional fuelled win over Sunbury in Round 10, Troy Scoble’s connected group have lost just one quarter. It was the Bloods’ eighth score of 100 or more, only East Point have done it more in '24 (nine).

The Cobras’ chances were slim at best heading in - the Bloods inclusion of North Melbourne VFL star Jack Watkins didn't help their cause either as he and brother Lachie featured prominently in the best ahead of a host of contributors including Jaykob Hickey, Lachlan Walker and their headache handful of match winning forwards.

Consistent, hardworking Cobra Jake Owen (three goals) was named best for the hosts as Tyson Shea made a safe return from a layoff to lead the overwhelming battle of resistance.

Shea too was prominent as he always is while Cameron Freake (two goals), Ethan McKercher, Will Lalor and Josh Huxtable rated credible mentions.

The Bloods look primed for another 'fill-up' on the road against the Lakers while the Cobras host Darley in their last game at Maddingley Park for the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 36 disposals, 15 score involvements, 12 clearances

Braedan Kight (Melton) - 18 disposals, 15 score involvements, 9 marks, 9 goals

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 87 hitouts, 11 disposals, 7 marks, 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"The scoreboard doesn't fully represent the game. We had some very good patches of play against a top-class team in the comp. Our method works when we can execute. Unfortunately, fumbles and execution of inside 50's hurt us on turnover. Melton were able to make the most of their moments and this is great learnings for our young lads. (I) couldn't question our effort."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Great to play footy in good weather. Much respect for what Bacchus Marsh are building, lots of top end young talent. We were scratchy in all phases early off the bye, our contest got us into the game and remained strong all game. We're a lot more effective in the second half and was pleased with how we ran the game out. Really proud of the club and being part of five sets of brothers playing senior footy. Look forward to another Ballarat trip next week as we build to finals."                 

Redan's run of four straight losses has come to end with an entertaining 24-point win over a plucky Melton South.

Lions’ key forwards Lachie Bond (six goals) and Grant Bell (five) proved the difference, clearly two match ups beyond the Panthers.

Travis Hodgson's touring party can take solace in the fact they won the second half in isolation 9.5 to 9.3 and recorded their highest total score since Round 7, 2022 (vs Sebastopol) some 39 BFNL matches ago.

Regardless of the humble margin, Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth saw the positives in the aftermath paying tribute to Lachie George, Bond and Bell especially for standing up and leading the team in the absence of club leading possession getter, Khy Jess, who left the field early.

Other notables to feature in the best players from the Lions camp were Liam Farnsworth, Jacob Short and Xavier Gleeson.

Jarrod Bibby enjoyed a team high four goals for the Panthers, while Nathan Gemmell, Mitch Fino and Ryder Rousch were the other multiple goal kickers on the day.

Hodgson's young group return home this week to host Ballarat while Redan remain at City Oval and will endeavour to upset North Ballarat who have endured a mounting injury list for the most part of the season.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cody Chapman (Melton South) - 37 disposals, 21 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

Lachlan Bond (Redan) - 16 disposals, 11 marks, 10 score involvements, 6 goals

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"A great day for the footy club celebrating 'Chip Barker's 300th club game. Great to have so many past premiership players back at the club. Proud of the boys against a determined (Melton) South side. We were challenged went Khy Jess went off early. (Lachie) George and (Lachie) Bond led an invested group to sing the song for the first time in a while."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"After our worst performance for the season last week we produced our best on Saturday. We were dominant around stoppage, and we had some really good passages in transition. Although we defended pretty well as a team, we had no answers for Lachie Bond and Grant Bell who combined for 11 goals. They were the clear difference in the four-goal loss. Probably the two youngest teams in the comp with 12 underage kids each running around. Credit to Redan being able to win five games this season with so many kids."

The Devils moved into third place on the BFNL table after a convincing runaway win over Sunbury at Darley Park.

To the eye, it was arguably the reigning premiers most impressive performance since their season opening win over East Point. 

With just two home and away rounds left, the win couldn't have come at a better time for Dan Jordan's men.

Inevitably questions would be answered.

Could Sunbury manufacture the connection in their back half that has been a feature, in the absence of Jack Hannett, Jordan Tentonello and Jack Newitt? The scoreline, to a degree, confirmed the concerns.

The Devils’ score of 121 was the highest of any recorded against the Lions this year.

As for Darley, what was under the bonnet given a host of changes in just their fifth game in 10 weeks?

Could they run out a four-quarter game against a top six opposition and not be overran as they were against the Lions at their previous meet? 

As for the bonnet, that did generate a few surprises.

Wil Johnson booted five goals in his first outing since June 1st while Alex Sweet delivered with four crucial majors to follow his SOS inclusion for Leigh Spiteri (finger).

Furthermore, the Devils silenced any short-term speculation they were vulnerable late with a nine-goals-to-one final quarter blitz. 

Johnson and Sweet duly landed among the best players alongside in form defender Matthew Brett, Vic Metro ruckman Lucas Impey, and the Matricardi brothers Riley and Darcy.

Brett Bewley also returned to finish the leading possession winner on the ground with 42. Ironically, that came as a little surprise.

For Sunbury, leading forwards Jake Sutton (four) and Mitch McLean (two) combined for six of the Lions’ eight goals.

Brock Landt, Cody Bramble, Josh Guthrie, Ben Eales, Riley Miller and Sutton all finished among the best, keeping the visitors within touch up until three quarter time before the flood gates opened.

The Lions have little time to lament as the focus shifts to East Point on Saturday in the BFNL’s Match of the Round with LIVE commentary and vision from 2PM. The Devils face crosstown rivals Bacchus Marsh.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 42 disposals, 11 marks, 10 rebound 50s

Lucas Impey (Darley) - 62 hit outs, 16 disposals, 12 tackles

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 27 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 6 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Very pleased with the boys especially in the second half when we were able to kick away against a quality side."

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Great game to watch for three quarters, then Darley put us away. Disappointing we couldn't finish off the way we did last time but that's footy. We'll regroup and review and get ready for this week."

There have been plenty of twists and turns so far in season 2023 and Round 17 proved no different with a weekend full of upsets, premiership statements and brilliant individual efforts.

Bacchus Marsh validated it's rebuild with a thrilling, come from behind win over finals aspirant Sunbury at the Clarke Oval.

It was the third successive win for Jason Williams' team and their fifth for the season elevating the Cobras to eighth place on the BFNL ladder ahead of the final round of home and away matches.

While many observers had been encouraged by the Cobras recent spike in competitiveness against top six opposition, very few gave them much chance taking care of Travis Hodgson's Lions on their own deck.

The upset loss made it three on the bounce for the enigmatic Lions, who leave the finals door slightly ajar for Redan and East Point to usurp their standing in the top six.

But more on the joyous Cobras, claiming a scalp above them on the ladder after trailing by as much as 23 points midway through the game.

Sixteen-year-old Cody Salmon stole the show with three final quarter goals, looking more and more at home at the level after his seventh senior game. His enviable leg speed and composure around goal was significant.

Premier ruckman Luke Goetz was again pivotal for the winners while Alex Porter continues to build on his reputation on the back of his footy smarts and trusty left foot.

Jake Sutton was the only real standout for the hosts, proving a headache for the Cobras before finishing with a game high five goals. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh): 46 hit outs, 17 disposals, 10 contested possessions

Jack Parente (Bacchus Marsh): 29 disposals, 9 contested possessions, 8 rebound 50s

Joshua Guthrie (Sunbury): 37 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 12 score involvements,  

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Disappointing day, us and the Marsh play pretty different brands and full credit to them. I felt they got the game on their terms for the majority. We did not work hard enough to get it on ours."

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Today's result is a true reflection of the team we are. The most pleasing thing about today was we didn't play well for the first half, but we owned our moments when it counted. While for most today will seem like an upset, internally we know we've been building into this all year."

It was all one-way traffic at City Oval as the Lions dominated the Panthers to register a massive 187-point win.

Rare is the sequel better than the original, but Lions’ mid/forward Isaac Grant rocketed to the top of Tony Locket Medal calculations with an 11-goal haul making it 21 against the Panthers from their two season meetings.

Grant (49 goals) leads Melton key forward Ryan Carter by one major, with the last round of the home and away season still to come.

The Lions led at every change, setting up the win with 10 unanswered goals in the opening term. It was a fair welcoming for the winless Panthers who can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their struggles are now complete with their second bye set for round 18.

The Panthers forgettable season registered a massive 3000 points against for their 16 games, conceding an average of 187.5 points per game.

Redan on the other hand have bigger fish to fry, needing to win and win well to keep their finals hopes alive. They and cross-town rivals East Point have been fighting out the race for the prized sixth spot on the ladder.

This week the Lions are away to Sebastopol while East Point are off to Mars Stadium for a must win meet against North Ballarat who boast a 16-3 win-loss record under Brendan McCartney at the venue.

The Lions had 10 individual goal scorers led by Grant (11) and Marty Boyer who finished with five.

Nathan Dunstan, Riley Collins, Rory Gunsser (three goals), Lachie George (three goals) and Jacob Short were named in the best players behind Grant who made it an 11th appearance in the best from his 15 games.

John Kovarik, Riley Theo, Jarrod Bibby, Cody Chapman and Broden Collins were named best for the visitors.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan):25 disposals, 20 score involvements, 14 contested possessions

Lachlan George (Redan):31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 16 score involvements

Cody Chapman (Melton South):38 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 13 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"A much more consistent effort across four quarters this week. Was a good spread of contributors."

Ryan Hoy (Melton South): "Competitive in patches. (Our) season is now done, thank god! Redan were too strong and classy - Isaac Grant dominated once again."

Visitors East Point kept their slim finals chances alive with a demolition job over the one win Lakers at CE Brown Reserve.

Chasing some much-needed percentage the ferocious Kangas put the game to bed early opening up a halftime lead of 52 points (55-3).

Henderson Medal chance Jordy Johnston was given the nod once again as the best player on the ground finishing with seven goals ahead of Bryson McDougall who booted six.

The gulf in class was ever apparent as eight of the Kangaroos waltzed in for majors against a Lakers outfit ready to put the cue in the rack.

Lakers’ coach Tim Shearer hinted in the aftermath the motivation for East Point earning a spot in the finals was always going to ask a lot of his young group to contain.

Kangas quartet Joe Dodd, Harry Ganley, Jordan Taylor and Liam Canny were recognised for their support roles behind sharpshooters JJ and McDougall.

While goals for the hosts were a rarity, Bayley Thompson, Michael Foster and Jamie Norton were recognised for their efforts to deny the avalanche.

The Lakers will find little joy ahead of their seasons end, a date with Melton, who are coming off the back of a loss against Darley.

East Point on the other hand face a must win game against North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joe Dodd (East Point): 35 disposals, 12 score involvements, 12 marks

Liam Canny (East Point): 41 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 11 marks

Bayley Thompson (Lake Wendouree): 17 disposals, 9 pressure acts, 8 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"(We) battled away today against a team still motivated by the chance of finals footy. Some small signs of progress there and looking forward to tackling Melton to finish our year."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):“Really strong performance across the board. We had a strong focus on denying Lakers scoring opportunities and to only concede three points in the first half was really pleasing. Some of our younger boys have also started to find their own at senior level.”

Darley confirmed its premiership credentials with a hard fought 21-point win over ladder leaders Melton.

Dan Jordan's men are looking good at the right time of year with a sixth straight win, and their second in as many hitouts against the Bloods this year, extending their season record against fellow Eastern clubs to 7-0.

Those numbers mean very little in the grand scheme of things, more-so a feather in the cap to the Devils.

But there was plenty to like about Darley’s gritty win. Reigning Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley had the ball on a string while Billy Myers looked dangerous forward, finishing with a game high five goals.

There were plenty of contributors for the winners that could lay claim to playing their role and that's exactly the way the Devils would prefer it.

After trailing by one-point at quarter time, the Devils were able to get their noses in front at the half. It was the first time the Bloods had trailed at any break since their previous meeting in Round 8.

Strangely it was only the Bloods sixth game in 77 days and just the second hit-out against a top six opposition for the period.

Given a less than ideal preparation ,there was little surprise finding a few of the Bloods joining the casualty list in this battle of attrition.

Lachie Walker (knee), Lachie Watkins (ill), Ryan Carter (ill) and Brody Sullivan (ankle) will be monitored closely, eyeing a return for week one of the finals.  

The Bloods have one last opportunity for a fine tune ahead of finals when they face the Lakers on Saturday.

Darley meet Sunbury who have lost their last three games on the trot and five of their last eight. Look out for a response from the Lions.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley):33 disposals, 17 tackles, 12 contested possessions

Matt Denham (Darley):22 disposals, 82% disposal efficiency, 8 score involvements

Jordyn Cotter (Melton):33 disposals, 11 marks, 11 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Thought our boys stuck to the task and executed our plan for 120 minutes. Good win against a quality side but lots to improve on."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Difficult day at the office. Effort was ok given we were down on numbers on the bench. but our method lacked polish. Darley better on the day."

The Burra impressed with an all the way, old fashioned thumping of Ballarat at Marty Busch Reserve last Saturday.

Coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro acknowledged the four-quarter effort from their chargers, giving them an outside chance finishing as high as second on the BFNL table but no lower than third.

Fourteen Burras players hit the scoreboard in a game that resembled more of a free for all by nature the further the game went.

A staggering 50 shots on goal were recorded by the hosts who led by 44, 70 and 127 at the breaks before 151 points separated the two sides at the final siren.

The game’s end could not have come quicker for the Swans despite the efforts of usual suspects Daniel Kennedy, Will Garner, Will Liston and Paddy Simpson.

For the winners, their even spread of goalkickers were led by Jacob Wilkinson's four goal haul ahead of James Keeble and big man Arnold Kirby who booted three apiece.

While many of the Burras’ 22 could have ended up in the best given the one-sided nature of the affair, Ben Hutt, Bailey Medwell, Keeble, Toby Hutt, Tony Lockyer and Jacob Fletcher were recognised for their accumulation, compliance and work rate.

The Burras record in Ballarat is a stern warning for the broader competition having won all 12 games  and not trailed once at half time.

Finals aspirant Redan will have an opportunity to buck the trend with an all-important meeting with the Burra on Saturday at Marty Busch Reserve. 

Kiel and Columbro still have Riley O'Keefe, Jay Dalhaus and Jed Hill to return while Lachlan Cassidy got though unscathed with managed minutes returning from a hamstring strain.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jesse Clark (Sebastopol):25 disposals, 14 marks, 88% disposal efficiency

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):26 hit outs, 24 disposals, 12 score involvements

William Liston (Ballarat):25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 12 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Good four quarter effort. We controlled the game from the outset. We were able to execute the aspects of the game that we have been focusing on."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"Credit to Sebastopol, they controlled all phases of the game from the outset. We were disappointed with our execution of the basic fundamentals of the game."

Saturday saw a clean sweep of wins for our away sides as we head towards the final home and away round of the season.

Darley simply did enough to hold off the resistance of crosstown rival Bacchus Marsh at Maddingley Park on the weekend.

The win locks in a prized third place finish for Dan Jordan's men despite a Round 18 meeting with ladder leaders Melton still to come.

While the once highly anticipated showdown is essentially a 'dead rubber' there's a host of narratives on the table for both camps to explore. More later.

The Devils went into the local derby as warm favourites and were made to work hard for their win as the reigning premiers found it difficult to shrug off the young Cobras.

Darley Captain Brett Bewley (three goals) stood up in the big moments to deny the Cobras while Brady Wright made a safe return to finish best on ground honours and equal, game high four goals.

Billy Myers proved a handful posing as another aerial threat alongside Wright.

The three were arguably the difference in the game.

The Devils led at every change winning three and a half quarters but credit to the Cobras who stayed within touch from start to finish.

Cobras’ midfield quartet Luke Goetz, Tyson Shea, Jake McCreery and Josh Huxtable waltzed out of stoppage far too often for the Devils liking, highlighting the absence of compliant clearance king Luther Baker.

Jake Owen provided the aerial target forward for the hosts to match Wright's four goal return while Isaac Nixon looked dangerous with his two majors that could easily have been more.

The Cobras surprised and impressed Devils onlookers, not to mention their own legion of fans with back-to-back goals on more than one occasion, often coast-to-coast ball movement with the aid of separation and predictability to one another - a feature not seen for a while at Cobra land.

For the Devils they ticked the box with an all-important win in the context of their season but clearly on exposed form, they remain a work in progress if they're to match it with the heavy weights at the business end.

The Cobras get some clarity around a potential bright future. The addition of some important top end and targeted role players in the coming off season could see the rise of the Cobras back to finals sooner rather than later.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 32 disposals, 13 score involvements, 12 clearances

Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh) - 21 disposals, 12 marks, 11 score involvements

Andrew Azzopardi (Darley) - 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 10 score involvements 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Very proud of the lads today in a good four quarter game where they kept taking the game on. I felt we played positive footy and showed our brand stands up. Darley made the most of turnovers and stepped up when needed."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Sure, happy with the win - Bacchus Marsh came to play and took the game up to us for the most part. We were able to do enough in key moments to hold them out. There were plenty of learnings to draw from the game, highlighting clear areas we need to work on. Credit to Bacchus Marsh, they hung in and made us work hard for an important win given the context of our season."

The Bloods made it ten wins on the trot with a dominant display over the Lakers at CE Brown Reserve.

It was the ninth occasion the Bloods had registered a score in excess of 100 points and their sixth win of 100 or more for the season.

Extraordinary numbers really.

Troy Scoble's flag fancies have been relentless, their edge over bottom five sides compelling.

In the eight games played against Sebastopol, Redan, Bacchus Marsh (twice), the Lakers (twice) and Melton South (twice) the average winning margin is 20 goals.

Only Bacchus Marsh (once) and Redan have managed to keep the margin under 117 points!

Dangerous Bloods’ quartet Braedyn Kight (six goals), Ryan Carter (six), Liam Carter (five) and Jordy Kight (three) combined for 20 of their goals to rattle the Lakers who really didn't know where to look next.

Bloods’ small forward Ryan Davis (three goals) made a safe return in the absence of speedster Kyle Borg.

Midfielder Jaycob Hickey, a model of consistency, made it a ninth appearance in the best players from his 14 games ahead of Conrad Farrugia, Lachie Phillips, the Carter brothers and Braedan Kight.

For the Lakers, big man Tom Zampatti continued his encouraging season with another quality performance to be named best in front of usual suspects Joel O'Connell, Angus Gove and x-factor forward Bayley Thompson who took his tally to 34 with another three goals (comp rank #8).

The Bloods should welcome the tune up against the Devils in Round 18 as Saturday marks 35 days since their last hit out against any side in the top six.

As for the Lakers, a meeting with Redan gives Rohan Brown one final opportunity to put their learnings and progress into action. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Liam Carter (Melton) - 24 disposals, 18 score involvements, 15 marks

Jaycob Hickey (Melton) - 37 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 11 clearances

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 86 hitouts, 20 disposals, 8 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Melton were very good and used the ball far more efficiently moving forward and gave their forwards great looks at it. I thought for periods of the game we played some good footy even though the margin doesn't recognise that. We let ourselves down and gave opposition goals through fundamental error. Great to give three debutants experience against quality opposition including our U/17s Captain Rawdon Rogers who didn't look out of place. We are looking forward to next week celebrating Nathan Pring's 200th senior game, only the second player in Lakers history to achieve it."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"To go to Ballarat and get the win is always the goal no matter how we are to do it. We were pleased with our ability to run and create opportunities to score through the whole game. Our contest phase was strong too and our defence phase challenged by the Lakers who were really consistent at contest. Credit to Rohan and his group. We are proud of our group being challenged over the last two weeks away from home and a number of young players getting opportunities at senior level. We continue to get the list ready for another top three match up next week before the finals commence."

The Kangas were simply too strong for too long, overpowering a Lions’ outfit at the Clarke Oval on the BFNL ‘Match of the Day’.

In form Kanga Bryson McDougall finished the game with a game high five goals ahead of Jackson Merrett (three) who was important with his cameo drift forward getting under the guard of the Lions’ defence.

Matty White had his pride in the right frame of mind early as they took advantage of the Kangas adjustment to the big ground, opening up a deserved 14-point lead at quarter time.

The Lions matched the physicality of the Kangas and looked every bit dangerous with their ball movement and favourable inside 50 count.

But the response after the break from the visitors was emphatic, six unanswered goals to arrest momentum, obtaining a 20-point lead.

The 8.0-48 to 4.4-28 scoreline served as the barometer for opportunity made and lost.   

Not dissimilar to Melton, East Point are all on the same page with and without the ball.

While their enviable ball movement is something to behold, it's their set up behind play, without the ball, that is strangling opposition.

On countless occasions, Sunbury players (in possession) were left bereft of options as a wall of red, white, and blue stood tall in the distance.

Since Round 9, Kangas’ opposition have managed miserly returns of 25, 44, 24, 57, 24, 20, 65 and 50 points.

Come finals, experienced coaches Troy Scoble, Dan Jordan, Brendan McCartney, Chris Maple and White will have to find a way through or Joe Carmody's Kangas will march on their winning ways, already at 14 wins.

Jacob Brown and Merrett were named best for the winners ahead of a host contributors simply playing their role.

If you want to beat East Point, you have to beat them all - it's not about a select few anymore.

For Sunbury Brock Landt, Nathan Doyle and Josh Guthrie shouldered a lot of the responsibility between the arcs and made solid contributions. Leading forward Jake Sutton finished with three goals.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 30 disposals, 10 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Matt Johnston (East Point) - 33 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 9 marks

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 30 disposals, 14 intercept possessions, 10 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Started the game well and came out after half time to hold well but the second and fourth quarters killed us. East Point turned it up when they needed to and proved why they're a top side."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Sunbury challenged us for most of the day. Young players stood up and complemented our more experienced players with their run and pressure. Always a hard place to win at, so really pleasing to get the points."

Finals bound Ballarat extended their unbeaten run to six games with a big win over the Panthers at Melton Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

The margin could well have been greater if not for some wasted opportunities on goal by the visitors.

Harry Butler booted a game high four goals for the winners ahead of 10 other Swans to hit the scoreboard.

Paddy Simpson, Ben Wardly and GWV Rebels talent Sam McDonald chimed in with three goals, to round out the multiple contributors from the Swans.

Swans midfielder Lewis Rinaldi was named best afield ahead of Butler, ruckman Marcus Powling and fellow mid Paddy Simpson while Bailey Fraser and Rhys Perry rounded out a host of Swans players to have an impact in the percentage building win.

The Panthers started well with Jarrod Bibby, Jesse Muse and Ryder Rousch getting on the scoresheet early.

However, the Panthers were held goalless by the Swans after quarter time as the gears of the game started to grind on the home side.

Tenacious trio Cody Chapman, Broden Collins and Mitch Fino were named amongst the best as the regular contributors put in another mountain of workload for their beloved Panthers.

John Kovarik, Lachlan Peterson and Rhys Lee were also noted for their efforts.

The Swans will face the ultimate test ahead of finals as they host a formidable East Point outfit at Alfredton Recreation Reserve this Saturday.

Melton South will end their season with a trip to Marty Busch Reserve to face off against Sebastopol with the Burra fresh off the bye.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 38 disposals, 28 contested possessions, 19 clearances

Harry Butler (Ballarat) - 20 disposals, 14 score involvements, 8 marks

Broden Collins (Melton South) - 49 hit outs, 27 disposals, 20 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Got off to a pretty good start and lost (Darby) Schilder and (Jarrod) Bibby early. Ballarat were far superior regardless, scoring easily and shrinking the ground on us when we were in offence. They were wasteful in front of goal, otherwise the margin would have been much greater."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A pretty ordinary game of football today. We wasted a lot of opportunities on goal. Credit to Melton South, they brought a lot of pressure."

North Ballarat won the battle of youth over coming Redan at City Oval by 26 points.

The Roosters found themselves under the pump early as the Lions piled on five unanswered goals in the first term before they awoke from their slumber.

To recover and add 12 goals to four for the remainder of the game is a credit to the progressive maturity shown by Brendan McCartney's young group.

Mid-season edition Joel Freeman had four goals from as many kicks at one stage before finishing with a match winning five goals in a low scoring affair.

The former Cobra has booted 18 goals from his last four games with three hauls of five and one game of three.

After a promising start that saw the Lions lead at the first change by 19 points, a recess was all the Roosters needed to kickstart their comeback.

The deficit took little time to reel in after the break as the Roosters arrested back the lead before gaining a handy 16-point lead at half time.

A fairly even second half transpired with a five-goals-to-four conclusion in favour of the Roosters as they extended their advantage to 26 at the final siren.

Josh Sparkman, Cam McCullum, Tom Bromley Lynch and Issac Carey carried the bulk of heavy lifting and supply to aid Freeman with an aerial contest inside 50.

Brayden Purchase also won the nod of approval to be named in the best.

Experienced 200+ gamer Simon McCartin appeared to be hampered with a hamstring issue and will be monitored ahead of a sudden death elimination final in a fortnights time.

For Redan, Coach Gary Learmonth identified Jacob Short, Rudie Forde, Lachie Bond (three goals), Grant Bell (four goals), Lachie George and Liam Farnswoth as the major contributors in a losing side.

The Lions have a chance to end their home and away season on a high with a trip to CE Brown Reserve to take on the Lakers.

North Ballarat have the bye.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joshua Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat) - 60 hitouts, 17 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Rudie Forde (Redan) - 27 hitouts, 24 disposals, 17 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Was a good game of footy between two young sides with lots of players missing. There was lots to like across the day but unfortunately our consistency from contest to contest and skill execution wasn't good enough against a side that held structure for longer. Really proud of the way the boys have continued to dig in. We played our 24th U/19 player for the season so lots to work with and build on. Massive game against the Lakers to finish the season."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
“We were up and down during the game. Our fight after quarter time was great. Gave ourselves a chance to play decent footy with our stoppage and pressure work. It's been a big few months coping with plenty of obstacles. Good chance to train well and fine tune going into finals now."

It all came down to a thrilling final round! With finals right on our doorstep, crowds were treated to finals-like intensity over the weekend with a number of massive do-or-die clashes.

Jackson Merrett's East Point did what only reigning premiers Melton have been able to do in 2023 - beat North Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

It was just the fourth loss at the venue under Brendan McCartney since 2021 and with the Kangas’ season on the line - what a response!

Sure, the Kangas had their way with the Roosters at their first meet on Eastern Oval but this was a different assignment altogether. Seeing how the Kangas would dig in without Matty Johnston (concussion) was always going to ask questions of Merrett's young group.

The visitors trailed at every change but kept themselves within reach ahead of a season defining last ditch effort.

The Kangas trailed by 6, 12 and 5 points before kicking two unanswered goals in the last quarter to earn their place in the top six.

In form Kangas trio Joe Dodd (in best 9/11), Jordy Johnston (14/16) and Cam Lovig (7/16 including 3 of last 4) were crucial for the winners behind youngster Tom Conlan who had arguably his best game for the season.

With goals coming at a premium, promoted Under 17 talent Strahan Robinson finished with a game high five goals.

North Ballarat leading forward Jamie Quick booted four of the clubs seven goals for the afternoon.

Reliable defender Isaac Lovisson (in best 6/16) continued his run of form in a losing side ahead of usual suspects Cam McCullum, Stewart Crameri, Jack Riding and Riley Polkinghorne.

While it was a dead rubber essentially for North Ballarat, there's no denying it was the second loss to East Point in as many games this year. Their record against the other top six sides is more favourable with wins over Darley, Sebastopol and the double over Redan.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Joe Dodd (East Point):25 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 10 tackles

Jordan Johnston (East Point):25 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat):31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions

COACHES' VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We didn't quite get it right when the game was there to be decided. Some real positives and things to work on as well. We have earned our finals spot and everyone is looking forward to next week."

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"Another solid performance by our lads today, particularly from a few of our younger lads. We stuck to our guns and backed in our system to hold up over four quarters."

Darley gave the broader competition a timely reminder their best is very good with a nine-goal-to-one first quarter blitz of a Sunbury outfit fighting to keep their season alive.

The burst came on the back of just 15 inside 50s as forward targets Will Johnson, Billy Myers, Brett Bewley and Darren Leonard went to work.

While Sunbury showed plenty of spirit through the middle stages to reduce the margin to near single figures in the last quarter, another seven-goal pile-on from the Devils would see this game put to bed.

To validate Devils’ coach Dan Jordan's "real game of momentum swings" quote in the post-match, the nature of scoring tells the story.

In the first and last quarters the Devils added 16.2 - 4.5 while the Lions had their way through the 2nd and 3^rd quarters scoring 7.8 -4.2.

Rejuvenated small forward Leigh Spiteri (four goals) and versatile improver Will Johnson (four goals) were named best for the winners ahead of Billy Myers (three goals), Joel Cadman (two goals) and Luther Baker.

While Bewley was not named among the best he seemingly had his own footy in the first half with an eye toward Melton this week.

For Sunbury, the loss was compounded by underdog wins on the road to Redan and East Point that would essentially spell a premature end the Lions’ season.

Big man Cody Brand was an aerial threat all day for the Lions and offered genuine presence forward of the ball while Cody Bramble enjoyed a day out on his wing to feature prominently. The Lions’ leading forward, Jake Sutton, missed with a cork.

Darley meets Melton at Maddingley Park in Saturday's Qualifying Final.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley):34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 pressure acts

Luther Baker (Darley):28 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Harrison Minton-Connell (Sunbury):34 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley):"A real game of momentum swings. Great effort from our boys to dig their heels in and get the game back on our terms when Sunbury threw everything at us. Some great learnings to prepare for finals."

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Poor start as we were totally outworked early. Darley's conversion at quarter time meant we paid the maximum price. (We) lifted our work rate and played some really good footy reducing the margin back to single digits during the last quarter. Other results going against us meant that it was a disappointing way to end the season."

Lions’ matchwinner Izaac Grant consolidated his Henderson Medal credentials with a five-goal haul, leading his pride into an Elimination Final against North Ballarat on Sunday.

Stakes were high, especially for the visitors with their season on the line. Credit to Gary Learmonth and his young group bucking the trend that was the Sebastopol force playing in Ballarat.

In their previous 12 games in Brick City, the Burra had led (11) or were level (once) at halftime and were unbeaten at home.

The pattern was flipped on its head as Redan led at every change to run out deserved winners despite five less scoring shots.

Lions’ ruckman Nathan Dunstan was named best alongside Grant and was well supported by experienced trio Liam Hoy, Lachie George and Jacob Werts.

The focus on the Burra's best and handful contributors on the goal front took a back seat quickly as the attention shifted on the season ending injury to Luke Kiel (broken leg) in the third quarter.

The Burra are obviously devastated with the loss of their inspirational leader and will sweat on the availability of top end duo Toby Hutt (knee) and James Keeble who are rated a 50/50 chance.

Sebastopol meets East Point on Saturday, while Redan have North Ballarat, who have won both of their previous meets in 2023.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan George (Redan):26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 11 inside 50s

Flynn Atchinson (Redan):22 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 7 intercept possessions

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):54 hit outs, 22 disposals, 10 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Luke Kiel/Michael Columbro (Sebastopol):"Redan applied good pressure and controlled the game for longer patches. Our attention turns to the Elimination Final this week."

Gary Learmonth (Redan): "The boys were super across four quarters. Took the game into their own hands and were able to work together and play a consistent brand of footy. Really happy they got reward for effort."

Bacchus Marsh made it four wins on the trot to end their 2023 season under outgoing coach Jason Williams in eighth place with a nail biting two-point win over Ballarat.

The Cobras continued on from their momentous win over Sunbury in Round 17 with a four-goal-to-one opening term to have the visitors on the back foot trailing by 19 points.

But the response from Chris Maple's young group warranted enough to reduce the deficit marginally to 18 at the half and within one point at the final change.

With the unofficial title of the BFNL’s eighth ranked team at stake both sides fought out a tense final term that could have gone either way but it was the much improved Cobras who held their nerve to hang on and win a thriller.

Cobras’ wingman Alex Porter made a fourth appearance in the best players from his last six games ahead of tireless midfielder Tyson Shea, match winner Josh Huxtable (two goals) and Jake Owen who finished with a game high four goals taking his season tally to 34 (comp rank #8).

Despite the fact the Swans managed just one goal in the opening term for an eighth occasion this year their response was emphatic outscoring the Cobras nine goals to six through the middle stages but couldn't land a killer blow in the last to steal the points.

Homegrown quartet Paddy Simpson, Will Liston, Rhys Perry and Tristan Maple led the charge for the visitors with significant impact but unfortunately on this occasion, they fell agonisingly short.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tyson Shea (Bacchus Marsh):31 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh):77 hit outs, 21 disposals, 10 clearances

William Liston (Ballarat):34 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Really proud of the boys and the way the club has finished off the season (four wins in o row). Credit to Ballarat who never gave up, coming back to give us a scare late. Rapt the boys were able to hang on."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"After quarter time we played a good brand of football. Centre bounce became the deciding factor. A shame not to get the points after another strong comeback, our lads will be better from the experience.

The Bloods achieved what they wanted from their visit to CE Brown Reserve at the weekend downing a persistent Lakers outfit by 55 points - injury free.

This game was over early as the newly crowned back-to-back minor premiers combined for seven unanswered goals.

Credit to the young Lakers for showing some pride in their performance against the competition's benchmark winning two quarters leaving interim coach Tim Shearer evidently pleased with the effort after quarter time.

Given the young profile of the Lakers’ list it was always going to be a tough ask despite the Bloods missing four or five from their best side.

Expect Blake Souter, Lachie Walker, Brodie Sullivan and Lachie Watkins to return for this week’s qualifying final against Darley.

Both Brentan Payne and Jono O'Brien, who missed Round 17's 21-point loss to Darley, are expected to play.

Bloods’ captain Braedan Kight (four goals) and Payne (three goals) were the major contributors on the scoreboard while best afield honours went to in-form trio Kyle Borg, Jordy Cotter and Adrian Monitto.

For the hosts, bigman Tom Zampatti impressed ahead of the Lakers’ sole interleague representative Flynn Loader with Joel O'Connell, Michael Foster and Nathan Pring also being named. Their five-goal match returns were all singles.

The Bloods will prepare for a back-to-back flag mission this week kicking off against the Devils. Both sides are expected to be just one or two shy off their best 22.

Should be a belter given the Devils are the only side to beat the Bloods this year, achieving the feat on two occasions.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Braedan Kight (Melton):27 disposals, 9 marks, 8 score involvements

Riley Walker (Melton):27 disposals, 12 rebound 50s, 9 marks

Michael Foster (Lake Wendouree):22 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 7 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Tim Shearer (Lake Wendouree):"Pleased with our guys today. Won two quarters, outscored by three points after quarter time. Plenty of boys under 21, had a crack. Expect to see Melton show their class in the next month. For mine, they remain flag favourites.”

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"Got the job done, starting the way we wanted. To the Lakers credit they adjusted and made it a real slog for the rest of the day. Happy to get through unscathed."

The last home & away round saw tentative upsets, some pre-finals sparring and enjoyable wins to savour over the summer. 

Sunbury led by as much as 39 points with the breeze at quarter time before hanging on to beat a spirited Cobras outfit by 13 points at the Clarke Oval.

The Cobras won each of the remaining three quarters to eat into the deficit but the assignment proved a bridge too far.

Speedster Harry Power was named best for the Lions ahead of Mitch McLean (four goals), Ben Cameron, Blake Watson and recalled big men Fraser Ampulski (two goals) and Leigh Brennan (two goals).

Leading forward Jake Sutton (two goals) was well held by Cobras’ defender Colby Piggott.

The visitors were aiming for a repeat of last year’s come from behind win, but it wasn't to be, in one of their most connected performances of the year post quarter time.

Jake Owen was again the star finishing with a game high five goals for the Cobras to feature among Henderson Medal vote contention ahead of Piggott, and consistent quartet Jake McCreery, Josh Huxtable, Luke Goetz and Rye Penny.  

The Lions gain an all-important morale boosting win ahead of an elimination final showdown with Ballarat, who remain unbeaten since Round 10, while the Cobras look to bounce strongly in the coming off-season with an eye to improve on a four game winning season (9th).

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 48 hit outs, 19 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Cody Bramble (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 9 score involvements, 7 marks 

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 31 disposals, 94% disposal efficiency, 7 marks 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Matt White (Sunbury)
"Was a good, hard-fought win in the end. Got off to a flying start and had to battle a fired-up Bacchus Marsh outfit to win in the last. Got through with minimal pain but it looks like we've lost (Jake) Egan to another hamstring injury."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Was very proud of the character and belief of the lads. Forty points down at quarter time and we were able to work our way back into the game and finish the year off with positive football and connection."

The Swans gave us a timely reminder they're not in the BFNL finals series to make up the numbers with a thrilling seven-point win over East Point at Alfredton Oval.

The upset win ended the Kangas’ unbeaten run of 14 straight games.

In a seesawing affair, the Swans started well to lead by 16 points at the first change before a four-goals-to-one second term response from the Kangas gave them the half time lead, albeit narrowly by three points.

The Swans made another push in the third term to restore the lead at the final change before it was game on in the last, a classic that went down to the wire.

But in the end, it was Chris Maple's Swans who held on to defeat Joe Carmody's men, a feat not achieved by any club since the season opener.

The Swans’ top end stood up under the heat with Tristan Maple, Rhys Perry, Harry Butler, Lachie Dalgleish, Andrew Hooper and Will Liston all featuring among the best players in arguably the club’s best win since the 2022 semi final victory over Darley.

Hardworking Swans’ forward Harry Butler finished with a game high four goals, three of those coming in the third term to keep the hosts in the game with some telling marks.

Butler has played just seven games this year including six wins and a draw. His agility and presence in the air and at ground level has been significant, not mentioning his 16-goal tally at 2.43 goals per game. 

Veteran Andrew Hooper chimed in with three invaluable goals.

The Kangas, while warm favorites, were brave and lost no admirers with clearly bigger fish to fry as a qualifying final lies in waiting this Saturday against Melton.

The Johnston brothers Jordy (three goals) and Matty featured prominently once again, alongside in form defenders Jacob Brown and Jackson Merrett.

Sam Cue and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus were next best.

Forwards Bryson McDougall (three goals) and Strahan Robinson (two goals) combined for half of the Kangas’ ten goal afternoon.

Ballarat remains unbeaten since Round 10 and as a result of their weekend success were promoted to fourth with an elimination final against Sunbury now on the radar.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 40 disposals, 12 marks, 10 intercept possessions

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 25 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 10 rebound 50s

Lauchlan Dalgleish (Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 11 marks, 11 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A good effort from our lads. We were pretty consistent in all phases of the game. We will reflect, educate and get ready for next week."

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Outworked by Ballarat who beat us comprehensively in uncontested ball. No injuries were a positive and we were able to get games into Joe Dodd and Geordie Slater after long layoffs. Excited to prepare for a big finals series."

The Bloods secured back-to-back minor premierships with a 15-point win over the Devils at MacPherson Park.

Both sides were happy to get through relatively unscathed ahead of a challenging finals series.

The Devils kicked with the aid of a two or three goal breeze in the opening term but could only manufacture a six-point advantage.

For the record it was the Bloods’ first 'quarter' loss since half time of their Round 10 win over Sunbury.

The Bloods arrested back the lead in the second quarter on the back of two Jordy Kight goals.

While it looked as though both sides were simply 'playing time' for periods in the second half there was no discounting the performances of a number of individuals.

For the winners, Adrian Monitto, Lachie Phillips, Riley Walker, Jaykob Hickey, Kyle Borg and Conrad Farrugia (three goals) were the standouts while for the Devils, Adam Azzopardi, Harley Inglis, Mitch Hovey, Brady Wright, Leigh Spiteri and Joel Cadman (two goals) showed enough to suggest they've hit form at the right time of year.

Bloods’ quartet Lachie Watkins, Blake Souter, Max Scoble and Bailey Mawson will be in the mix for a return next week while Jordy Cotter faces a race against time to be available at all throughout September.

The Devils are expected to recall Luther Baker, Matt Denham and key back Matthew Brett for their do or die Elimination Final against North Ballarat as the availability of Lucas Impey and Jayven Tanner remains up in the air.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Adam Azzopardi (Darley) - 29 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 9 score involvements

Riley Walker (Melton) - 29 disposals, 13 marks, 11 contested possessions

Lachlan Phillips (Melton) - 22 disposals, 14 marks, 10 intercept possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Troy Scoble (Melton)
"A good day for both clubs I would have thought. Solid hit out against a finals team we respect greatly that has set the standard in the competition in the last 18 months. We were inconsistent in all phases today, however we experienced a strong contest team in tricky conditions and both clubs got through the game managing their playing groups. We built on a few key focus areas and will focus on working on other areas we know will need to be at a high level to be successful in the next few weeks. Home and away done and we look forward to playing in a finals game next week. Proud of our group!" 

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Clearly a bit more to play out from the two sides given the context of both respective seasons. I think we weren't on our own trying a few things. We saw things that we liked and clearly identified areas of further improvement. Wishing Melton all the best for their finals campaign."

The Lakers overcame a 12-point deficit at half time to win an entertaining shoot-out at CE Brown Reserve.

The result gave Rohan Brown's group a thoroughly deserved third win, and positive way to exit to the home and away season.

Livewire Lakers’ forward Bayley Thompson finished with a game high four goals and best on ground honours to lead as many as six multiple contributors for the hosts on their way to a second score of the season beyond the 100 mark.

Veteran Laker Nathan Pring booted three goals in his 200th game to aid the cause ahead of Jaydo Wright, Timmy Collins, Cooper James and Rory O'Keefe who each finished with two.

Among the best players named behind Thompson were Bailey Ryan, Joel O'Connell, Tom Zampatti, Lewis Gilbert and Cooper James.

For Gary Learmonth's Redan it was disappointing back half of the season losing six of their last seven games by an average of 44 points.

Lachie George (three goals), Rudie Forde, Marty Boyer (three goals), Khy Jess, Liam Farnsworth and second gamer Lachlan Kroussoratis were named best for the losing side.

While it was disappointing for the Lions to end the season on just five wins, there's no denying the mountain of promising youth stocks at Learmonth's disposal looking forward.

On the other hand, the Lakers just need to add some top end class to a group on the rise under Rohan Brown.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rudie Forde (Redan) - 41 hit outs, 21 disposals, 17 contested possessions

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 49 hit outs, 19 disposals, 8 score involvements

Bailey Ryan (Lake Wendouree) - 31 disposals, 9 rebound 50s, 8 intercept possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT
Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Good game of footy. Nathan Pring even showed he's still more than capable in his 200th (game). Really rapt for our group to get a win, thought our contest work was fantastic, and we played a solid four quarters of footy. Credit to Gaz and Redan for doing what they have done this year with injuries etc, their future looks bright, as does ours. We believe we have taken steps forward this year and are already looking forward to next."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Credit to Lakers, they played a solid four quarters. Rohan has done a good job. We played some good footy but as has happened a lot during the year, fundamental mistakes hurt us. Our pressure was super but we didn't make the most of our opportunities. Looking forward to 2025."

An inaccurate Sebastopol did what they had to, notching up a sixth win of the season to finish outside the top six in seventh.

The Burra won every quarter but were wasteful with their opportunities on goal recording 4.15 to 1.5 in the second half to extend a 43-point half time lead to 71 at the final siren.

Adam Forbes (two goals) was named best afield for the winners ahead of Ben Hutt, Liam Mason (two goals), Daniel Widgery, Jacob Wilkinson and William Deans.

Panthers big man Broden Collins made it a tenth appearance in the best players from his 16 games alongside Lachlan Peterson, Riley Theo, Mitch Fino and ever consistent Jarrod Bibby.

The Burra will look for a return to finals next year after an indifferent season starved of continuity.

For the Panthers, it was another tough year on the field, but gradual improvement would have been one of Travis Hodgson’s goals for 2024.

The struggling club averaged just 30 points per game in 2024, a slight uptick from 2023.

However, in defence the club conceded an average of 143 points against, down from 187.5 in last year’s campaign.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 42 disposals, 13 marks, 13 tackles

Broden Collins (Melton South) - 40 hit outs, 28 disposals, 22 contested possessions

Adam Forbes (Sebastopol) - 29 disposals, 13 score involvements, 8 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Good to finish off the season with a win. Will review and assess as per usual but now all eyes are on 2025 and taking a big step forward with this exciting young group. Wishing Melton South all the best with their 2025 campaign. They are in excellent hands with Trav at the top."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
Beaten comprehensively in most areas with the inside 50 count of 67-26 highlighting the gap between the two sides. Although nowhere near the level of the opposition, credit to the boys for persisting with what we wanted all day and having some really good passages of play because of it. Sebas have improved considerably after starting the season 1-5 and then winning five of their last 10 and I’ve no doubt they will bounce hard next season, so we were well out of our depth. But as they have most of the season our boys showed plenty of spirit and kept the heat on all day making it harder for Sebas to convert in front of goal.

Round 2 saw finals aspirants flex their muscles and key contenders set themselves above the rest. Scoop takes us through all the key games from the weekend.

North Ballarat arrested an 11-point half time deficit to overrun a determined Redan at MARS Stadium. Coach Brendan McCartney has been bullish about the running capacity and pressure of his boys and would be a relieved man to survive the scare. In fact, it was just the second win for the club in eight games since last year’s Round 13 upset win over eventual premiers, Melton.   

Cam McCullum won the battle in the ruck to be arguably North Ballarat's best while the return impact of Riley Polkinghorne was immediate. Harry Loader builds from strength-to-strength across halfback while Jamie Quick was lively forward with two goals.

Redan forward Izaac Grant kicked four of the Lions seven goals to keep the visitors in the game up to three-quarter time before they were held scoreless in the final term by a more desperate North Ballarat in the clinches. Marquee Roosters’ recruit Stewart Crameri confirmed his 'more than a handful' status with three valuable goals.

For the Lions, experienced quintet Jacob Werts, Nic Barker, Patty Fitzgibbon, Jacob Short and Lachie George flew the flag with Grant but fell short, made to pay for skill errors, especially goalkicking. Redan's return of 7 goals and 14 behinds highlights their woes.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cam McCallum (North Ballarat): 80 hit outs, 9 clearances, 7 inside 50s

Riley Polkinghorn (North Ballarat): 21 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Izaac Grant (Redan): 25 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 8 marks

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"We're really pleased with how we continued to run, pressure and compete. Good experience for our young group to win in a tight game after a number of recent good losses."

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"We had our opportunities across the day to win but made too many fundamental skill errors including missing gettable shots at goal. North (Ballarat) structured better around the ball (but despite more inside 50s) we were unable to capitalise on our weight of forward 50 entries."  

The Swans booted six goals to one in the last quarter to runaway 46-point winners over Lake Wendouree at Alfredton Oval, giving Chris Maple his first win as coach.

It was essentially a 'copy paste' version of the Swans best players as Paddy Simpson, Will Liston, Wyatt Squires, Matt Powling, Noah Drever and Angus Bade made it back-to-back solid performances. The reward this time however all the more sweet, four premiership points and a rendition of the Swans victory theme song.

Sharpshooter Andrew Hooper finished with four goals as the Swans again struggled to get bang for buck from their forward opportunities. The Swans managed to correct their errant ways in front of goal booting 6.1 in the final term to validate the separation on the scoreboard.

The Lakers were within 15 points at the final change but couldn't find a way back despite the efforts of Angus Gove, Jacob Coxall (two goals) and Joel O'Connell. Another 14-day break awaits the Lakers who have the bye this week. While not ideal, this scenario may be a timely one for the Lakers, a chance for the troops to recover fully ahead of a Round 4 return at home against Sunbury. Ballarat will face Redan.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat): 37 disposals, 12 clearances, 7 inside 50s

Bailey Van De Heuvel (Ballarat): 21 disposals, 12 marks, 7 intercept marks

Angus Grove (Lake Wendouree): 30 disposals, 4 intercept marks, 3 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"While consistent (with our output), unfortunately we didn't capitalise on our opportunities once again, but it was good for our young side to do well and get a win.”

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree):"We were far more competitive which was positive, unfortunately losing a number of soldiers saw the score blow out late and did not reflect the better effort from my boys. Re Ballarat - I can see what "Mapes" is trying to implement with his young group, some exciting times ahead for them."

East Point maintained its dominate recent record over Melton South, trouncing the young Panthers by 148 points at Eastern Oval.

A new look Kangas outfit gave debut coach Jackson Merrett the perfect start with 12 players hitting the scoreboard in an impressive display. The visitors were slow to start for the second week in a row conceding nine first quarter goals to trail by 54 points at the break and 79 points at the half.

Kangas forward Brad Whittaker finished with five goals in his return game after a lengthy lay-off with injury. Johnston pair Matthew and Jordy featured prominently for the Kangas while progressive youngster Isaac Hucker (four goals) was named best afield.

It's been a tough opening fortnight for new Panthers coach combo Jason Hamilton and Ryan Hoy, beaten soundly on the road by the Bloods (161 points) and now East Point (148 points). It won't be any easier next week when they host Sunbury.

There was some merit (no pun intended) in the Panthers season high six-goal final term but greater consistency across four quarters remains an ongoing challenge. Panthers’ captain Cody Chapman and youngster Jarrod Bibby were solid contributors again in a losing side.

Four unbeaten sides in the BFNL will become two next week after the Kangas (1-0) host Darley (2-0) and Sebastopol (1-0) head to Melton (2-0).    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Matt Johnston (East Point): 37 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Jordan Johnston (East Point):35 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 9 inside 50s

Cassius White (Melton South): 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 5 clearances 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"I was really proud of the boy’s effort for four quarters. The buy-in from all 22 players to implement all the aspects of the game we have worked on over the off-season really came out today."

Jason Hamilton / Ryan Hoy (Melton South):"Very tough day, East Point are a very skillful team and well drilled. We played two quarters (well) and got blown away in the other (two quarters). Full credit to East Point, I think they'll be right up there this year."

A wasteful Darley did enough to make it a 2-0 start to their season downing cross town rival Bacchus Marsh by 50 points.

Despite winning every quarter, Devils fans were left scratching their heads at the final siren wondering how their form stacks up against the more fancied and unbeaten rivals in Melton, Sebastopol and East Point.

A six-goal-to-two opening quarter helped set up the Devils’ win after a moving Anzac ceremony had anticipation levels on high alert. After young Cobra Josh Huxtable snapped truly to kickstart proceedings, the Devils responded in style with six unanswered goals, clearly their best period of the game.

Debutant Devils ruckman Lucas Impey impressed, nullifying Cobras big man Luke Goetz after his 67 hit-out game in Round 1. The 19-year-old capped his dream start in the Black and White in fine style with an unlikely crumbing goal in the first term.

Reigning Henderson Medallist Brett Bewley finished with a game high three goals and was often the 'go to man’, restoring polish for the Devils. While it was a 'choppy' display of the basic fundamentals for the most part, both coaches opted the glass half full approach in the aftermath.

Cobras’ coach Jason Williams, buoyed with the injection of sprightly youth was bullish acknowledging their effort and contribution while Devils coach Dan Jordan was seemingly pleased going 2-0, taking nothing for granted.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 34 disposals, 10 marks, 6 tackles

Mace Cousins (Darley):  28 disposals, 11 one-percenters, 9 marks

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh): 24 disposals, 12 clearances, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh):"Super happy with our young players, we must have had 10 players aged under 20 who tried all day and at times played a really exciting brand (of football)."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"Happy with the consistent effort across the board, credit to Bacchus Marsh and the pressure they applied. It’s always good to get a win in the local derby."

Reigning premiers Melton reaffirmed their competition 'benchmark' status with a 20-point win on the road over an honest Sunbury. The Lions were left lamenting a disappointing second quarter, outscored six goals, with five unanswered, to two, surrendering a seven-point advantage in the process.

Bloods elite running duo Jordy Kight and Jack Walker lapped up the wide expanses of the BFNL's biggest ground to feature prominently in vote calculations. Youngsters Harrison Hanley and Adrian Monitto provided the additional run on a day where goals came at a premium.

Key Bloods forward Ryan Carter booted three goals while Ryan Davis (two goals) was busy at ground level. Another eight individual Bloods players hit the scoreboard.

For Sunbury, new addition Bryce Caldone was named best for his all-round performance, capped by his team high three goals. Returning Essendon VFL listed forward Jake Sutton finished with two majors.

Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson has had the early footy audit and will gain some confidence knowing they're not far away from the reigning premiers who are expected to close again in 2023. Away trips to Lake Wendouree and Melton South should equate to wins and a build on what Hodgson thinks can work when it counts most.

For Aaron Tymms, there is no doubt there would be some relief for him getting through and landing the 'W', passing their first real acid test of the season and fragmenting some of the 'spruik' around a determined Lions outfit.

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Pretty good performance for three and a half quarters of footy. We had a 15 minute period before half-time where we went away from what works for us. Melton stamped us with five unanswered goals and that was the difference. We should be better for it."

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"We got some good footy forward of stoppage at the back end of the second quarter and kicked quick goals which really was the difference in the game."

Statement wins and grand final revenge was all part of the script to come out of Round 2.

Undermanned North Ballarat ended Darley's run of 11 unbeaten BFNL games, winning a thriller by three points under lights at Mars Stadium.

While the spectacle was rendered 'a hard watch' for many onlookers, the endeavour on display from both sides under tough conditions could not be questioned.

To put into perspective the nature of the arm wrestle, there were two goals kicked for the entire second half! 

Furthermore, North Ballarat won the game adding just two goals to their tally after quarter time.

The level of free-flowing football you would like to see from a grand final rematch was denied by the evening dew, minimising any genuine aerial impact or efficiency in transition.

The last quarter especially was dour in its purest form, included 17 boundary throw ins and 14 ball-ups in general play.

Neither camp were prepared to make any excuses in the event of a loss as Devils’ coach Dan Jordan conceded in the aftermath. "Conditions are the same for both sides,” he said. "You have to win a game of footy in a number of different ways, especially with two very organised sides."

Despite the struggles of both teams, another grandstand finish played out as North Ballarat newcomer Malachi White broke free in the dying seconds to kick his second goal of the night and the sealer, sending the Roosters faithful, who braved the cold night air into raptures.

Off season North Ballarat additions Noah Cockerill (best), Liam Deering (two goals) and White played pivotal roles swinging the pendulum in the hosts favour who were brave and resolute without top end talent Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL), Jack Riding (Werribee VFL), big man Cam McCullum (knee), Ryan Hobbs (hamstring) and Stewart Crameri (hamstring).

Billy Myers was clearly best for the Devils, while Jack Bewley finished with a game high three goals. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 51 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 13 clearances

Joshus Sparkman (North Ballarat) - 29 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 12 contested possessions

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 26 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"We want to be a resilient, organised and connected group. We were last night. Very proud of the players’ grit to keep working through a really tough contest. Good day for our club. Looking forward to seeing us growing as a club."

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"The little amount of scoring did not reflect the effort of both sides. The game was a pure physical, arm wrestle (type) affair that went down to the wire. Unfortunately for us it was North Ballarat who had their noses in front at the final siren. I was proud of our effort. We butter up and look ahead to the local derby with Bacchus Marsh."  

Ballarat made it back-to-back wins under coach Chris Maple, now in his second season, with a nail-biting three-point win over Redan.

Both sides split the 'quarter wins' as an exciting mix of experienced and progressive talent dominated the narrative.

For the second time in as many weeks VFL listed affiliated Swan Rhett Montgomerie heightened the degree of difficulty for opposition sides overcoming the red and white.

Experienced duo Andrew Hooper (three goals) and Grant Bell (five goals) looked ominous around goal for their respective teams sounding alarm bells of the 'attention required' variety for future opposition.

Montgomerie, Rhys Perry, Lewis Rinaldi, Tristan Maple and Will Garner were all named in the best providing Maple's group with an encouraging, albeit different look in that space and every indication the rebuild is on track with more and more players by the week capable of having a significant impact on game day.

Twice the Swans were asked to come from behind to earn the win after trailing at quarter time (13 points) and three-quarter time (12 points).

Unfortunately, there was always going to be a team on the wrong end of this entertaining stoush and in this case, it was Gary Learmonth's Redan. 

Lions’ half dozen Kye Jess, Lachie George, Grant Bell, Patrick Fitgibbon, Harry Lawson and Taj Bond were the pick of the visitors, doing plenty right for a group that fell agonisingly short.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Rhett Montgomery (Ballarat) - 24 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 11 intercept possessions

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

Harry Lawson (Redan) - 18 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 10 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"(The game) was an even contest for four quarters. Again (we) did a lot right across the game but let ourselves down late which allowed Ballarat to get up. Lots of pleasing signs but (we) need to be better for longer to get some reward for effort."

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
"A really tight contest all day. Credit to Redan, they played a tough contested game. Happy to get the points in the end but we have a lot to improve on in all facets of the game."

Sunbury recorded an efficient dismantling of league strugglers Melton South to the tune of 144 points under lights at the Clarke Oval.

As many as 13 Lions joined the party on the goal front led by dangerous forward Jake Sutton (six goals) and utility Mitch McLean who finished with four.

While the phrase 'a game of two halves' did not apply to this one-sided affair. In fact, it was the similarities that caught the eye.

Twelve goals to two for the opening half, and 14 goals to one in the second highlighted the drive of Matt White's Sunbury ahead of their bye in Round 3.

A 2-0 start and healthy percentage is all Lions fans could have asked for under their new coach.

With Sutton and McLean posting most of the damage on the goal front, Lions quartet Ben Cameron, Jack Newitt, Harry Power and Fraser Ampulski were named in the best players for their mountain of work in general play that was one way traffic for the most part.

The Panthers lost star recruits Patrick Veszpremi (hand) and Anthony Wilson (hamstring) but welcomed the return of captain Cody Chapman and newcomer Stuart Hojein-Allen for their first hit out of the season.

Former Sunbury young gun come Panther Ryder Rousch was named best for his new club for the second week in a row. The Panthers have averaged 187.5 points against in their opening two games, identical to their 2023 season returns.

Melton South are at home to meet Redan in Round 3.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Josh Guthrie (Sunbury) - 38 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Nathan Doyle (Sunbury) - 37 disposals, 13 score involvements, 11 contested possessions

Daniel Donaldson (Melton South) - 19 disposals, 9 pressure acts, 9 contested possessions 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Matt White (Sunbury)
"Really pleased the way the boys went about it. It was a shortened game due to an unfortunate incident in the reserves game, but the boys settled and started the game strong. We have a week off now, so we'll start focusing on Bacchus Marsh the week after."

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"The boys tried hard and competed well in periods. We were better in some areas than we were last week. Poor execution of basic fundamentals hurt us consistently throughout the night."

A seven-goal second term from the Lakers wasn't enough to deny Cobras’ new coach Dennis Armfield his first win in charge.

Despite heading into the game as favorites, the visiting Cobras found themselves behind at the main break on the back of a wasteful opening term kicking 2.8.

With the door of opportunity left seemingly ajar, the hosts pounced and were rewarded for their accuracy as they kicked 7.1, earning Rohan Brown's young group an eight-point lead.

Both sides struggled for any periods of momentum in the second half as the degree of difficulty to get the ball on the outside and into clear air fell into the 'easier said than done' basket.

A spike in ground ball pressure led to more stoppages, raising the value of any goal to premium status. Eventually it would be the Cobras who would correct their errant ways on, and defending goal, outscoring a gallant Lakers outfit six goals to three in the second half to win by seven points.

Cobras veteran Tyson Shea was judged the best player on the ground by many observers while Lakers’ defender Brayden Helyar was recognised for his efforts on key target Jake Owen (three goals).

While Lakers’ pair Timmy Collins and Bailey Thompson finished with a game high four goals, it was the spread of Cobras contributors that would prove the difference in this see-sawing affair.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 70 hit outs, 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions

Jack Parente (Bacchus Marsh) - 25 disposals, 9 marks, 6 score involvements

Will Clark (Lake Wendouree) - 34 disposals, 17 rebound 50s, 6 marks   

COACHES’ VERDICT

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
"Whilst always disappointing to lose, I’m very proud of the way the boys competed today. (It) was a great game of footy to be a part of. Koliba and Hicks gave us a great view into our future. Bacchus Marsh handled the big moments late just a little better. Can't wait for our club to be a part of Anzac Day footy next week."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"We came with a real positive attack on the ball but couldn't finish off our work early. Lakers were very accurate and were able to wrestle back momentum. We were able to fight back, slowing their ball movement and winning more 1v1's. Credit to the Lakers they were very impressive and lively all day. We were very happy to come away with a hard fought four points."

Sebastopol were completely outplayed by competition yardstick Melton, thrashed by 119 points, leaving home fans stunned in the process.

While most pundits outside of Sebastopol gave the Burra little chance of ending a five-year run of outs against the mighty Bloods, the final margin was compelling.

Key Bloods’ trio Ryan Carter (7), Braedyn Kight (7) and Kyle Borg (5) combined for 17 goals in a rampant display, a game that was near over at quarter time.

A 29-point lead extended to 51 at the main break, 87 at the last change before the final siren served as the unofficial white flag for Tony Lockyer's men.

Even the Bloods faithful had every reason to ponder "what just happened there" such was the nature of the one sided affair..

Recently returned Blood Jaykob Hickey was named best for the winners ahead of a handful of top end talent that has inadvertently put the competition on notice.

Jordy Cotter, Jack Walker, Ryan Carter, Braedyn Kight and Ryan Davis were a constant thorn in the Burras’ side, and relentless with their intent. Liam Carter, Blake Souter and Brett McIntyre did not play. 

For the Burra on a forgettable day if not for the learnings, Tony Lockyer, Riley O'Keefe and Ben Hutt led the charge of resistance on home soil but the tsunami that was the visiting Bloods proved all too overwhelming.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jack Walker (Melton) - 33 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 36 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 12 tackles

Ryan Davis (Melton) - 29 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 score involvements

COACHES' VERDICT

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"Disaster of a day where we simply did not get going at all. We take full responsibility for the performance, learn as much as we can and look forward. Full credit to Melton who were really a class above today and punished us. This won't define our season."

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"Really pleased to travel 'away' and be able to perform against a quality side. We were able to execute our contest method throughout the day which was a major focus leading in. A step in the right direction in how we're trying to play ahead of another test next week against potential top two side North Ballarat."

Catch up on all the action of the weekend as Round 2 saw a full roster of games back on the fixture with plenty of enthralling contests all across the league.

Two of the competitions better contested ball winning teams fronted up at Mars Stadium on Saturday in a hotly fought battle.

It was East Point (130 contested possessions) though who were able to get the better of North Ballarat (129 contested possessions) in the latter half of the game.

Whilst North Ballarat slightly had the upper hand for clearances, Mikitija Rotumah-Onus was a standout for the Roos through the middle. Meanwhile, Paddy Hannaford was solid in repelling attacks out of defence, named as his sides best on ground for the day.

East Point’s Joel Van Meel topped the hit outs across Round 2 games, contributing 57 to the Roos’ 81 total for the day.

Denver Grainger-Barrass’s work in the backline limited the impact of East Point’s forward line, taking nine intercept marks as a loose intercept backman.

Hugh Trigg and Brock Leonard had control of the play in the first half of the game as North entered the half time break down by just 5-points. However, it was Jackson Merrett and Jordan Johnston who swung control back to the Roos, pushing out to a 22-point win.

North will enter the Easter Break with full focus on their tough ask of meeting Sunbury at Clarke Oval.

East Point on the other hand will no doubt have a light week on the track after Saturday’s gruelling conditions, as they suit up against Bacchus Marsh in one of two Good Friday blockbusters. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Brown (East Point) - 27 disposals, 11 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Jordan Johnston (East Point) - 23 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 8 clearances

Denver Grainger-Barass (North Ballarat) 16 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 11 marks 

It was a big ask for the young Lake Wendouree side to face an experienced Melton outfit in their second game for the year.

But credit to the Lakers crew, who besides a third quarter blow out, remained quite competitive with the reigning premiers.

A handy inclusion in Jake Lohman was a huge boost for home side.

In his return to the BFNL, the speedster was influential around loose balls and in the contest. His appearance was useful for young ruckman Tom Zampatti, who after a tough ask in the season opener was solid in the ruck with 49 hit outs to his name and best on ground honours.

Despite the effort from the home side, I was Melton’s day from the start of the second quarter onwards. In the tough conditions the Bloods piled on 20 goals for the day, half of which were contributed by faithfuls Braeden Kight (6 goals) and Jordan Kight (5 goals).

After featuring in Footscray’s first two VFL games of the season, Billy Crofts (27 disposals, 17 contested possessions) had a day out in his first game for the Bloods since 2022 to be named the away sides best on.

Both sides will enjoy the Easter break this weekend before looking ahead to their Round 3 clashes.

The Lakers will have all eyes on their first win of the season against the off to a good start Ballarat Swans and in contrast, Melton will take on the not so off to a good start Sebastopol.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jacob Lohmann (Lake Wendouree) - 32 disposals, 20 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Blake Souter (Melton) - 26 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 10 score involvements

Billy Crofts (Melton) - 27 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 8 score involvements

It looked to be on track for the perfect start to the season for Sunbury at Darley Park.

However, an impressive second half of football saw Darley bounce back from their first round defeat to secure the win.

The home side trailed by 26-points at quarter time with only 3-points to their name, shortening the margin to 19-points at half-time thanks to three goals.

Dan Jordan’s Devils came alive in the third quarter to put themselves four-points up heading into the fourth and the push didn’t stop there for the Devils who managed to keep the burners on and grow the margin out to 17-points at the final siren.

Will Johnson earnt best on ground honours after slotting 6 goals for the home side.

Billy Myers showed his impact across the ground to be named the side’s second best, followed by the ever so reliable Brett Bewley.

For the Lions it was Jordan Tentonello who made the biggest impact in his second year at the Club.

In addition, Sunbury faithfuls Harry Power and Cody Bramble were able to provide the side some consistency throughout the gruelling conditions.

Sunbury will too be doing everything they can to get their squad right for their Good Friday clash against Redan.

Darley will breathe a sigh of relief as they have the weekend off, before looking to tackle Bacchus Marsh who sit 2-0.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 38 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 9 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 29 disposals, 12 marks, 11 intercept possessions

Tyson Lever (Sunbury) - 24 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 10 marks

A strong start and even stronger finish was the point of difference in Bacchus Marsh taking back-to-back wins to start the season.

The Cobras jumped out to a 21-point lead at quarter time, before Redan brought the margin back to just 1-point at three quarter time.

Jake McCreery was again influential on the stats sheet with plenty of ball in hand (34 disposals), while 200-game veteran Simon Lafranchi showed consistency across the entire game though to be named his side’s best.

In just his fourth Senior game, youngster Zach Lang was a standout at half back for the Lions, alongside Rory Gunsser (32 disposals), the duo were crucial in keeping the game within reach.

With the last quarter exceeding a whopping 38-minutes, it was the Cobras who ran away with the 19-point win thanks to a 42 – 24 last term.

Both teams will have just five days turnaround before their next matches, with the two clubs playing in Good Friday games.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh) - 34 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 14 tackles

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 42 hit outs, 18 disposals, 14 contested possessions

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 32 disposals, 8 rebound 50s. 8 score involvements

Sebastopol will be entering the Easter Break in the least bit ideal situation after they start 0-2 for the 2025 season.

After a competitive and promising opener against East Point, Sebastopol were anticipated to take confidence into their second game of the season.

It looked like just that after the first quarter, where the Burra flew out to a 10-point lead.

It was soon an hour of footy the Burra will want to forget after scoring just 21-points throughout the second and third quarter to Ballarat’s 70. Sebastopol managed just 7 marks inside 50 for the game, whilst Ballarat notched up an impressive 24.

Lachlan Cassidy was well and truly a standout for the Burra, topping the leader board for the round across five areas. 40 disposals to his name along with 23 contested possessions, it was Cassidy and coach Tony Lockyer (30 disposals) who kept their side in the game.

After sending a message with their season opening draw against a quality North line up, Ballarat have continued to make their mark early on the competition.

Paddy Simpson enjoyed another impressive day out racking up 37 disposals and getting plenty of boot to ball. In his second full season of Senior football, Ben Wardley was a highlight for the Swans, as well as Tristan Maple who was a very handy addition to the side after two weeks in the VFL.

Ballarat will enjoy sitting fourth on the ladder and divert all attention to their Anzac Day clash against Lake Wendouree. Meanwhile, the road for Sebas may not get any easier as they gear up to take on Melton after the break.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 40 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 12 clearances

Paddy Simpson (Ballarat) - 37 disposals, 13 marks, 10 inside 50s

Tristan Maple (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 9 intercept possessions 

A grand final rematch highlighted the Round 3 action with a handful of contenders this year also claiming their stake in the premiership race. Scoop takes us through all the key games from the weekend.

Reigning premiers Melton arrested an 18-point deficit at half time to overrun a gallant Sebastopol in Saturday's grand final rematch.

The Bloods were indeed the hunted as Burra coaching duo Luke Kiel and Michael Columbro went about ending a 1313 day winning drought against Aaron Tymms’ boys dating all the way back to their 2019 preliminary final clash.

Tymms conceded they "didn't cope as well as we would have liked", as the hungry Burra unsettled the league's benchmark to lead by 19 points at quarter time. The main break proved a timely reset for the Bloods, enough to restore the confidence and belief required to mount a match winning comeback. Despite winning just the one quarter, the Burra are coming but will have to wait until finals for another crack at their nemesis.

Bloods youngsters Harrison Hanley, Adrian Monitto and Lachlan Phillips were named amongst the bests with Ryan Carter and Brodie Sullivan booting two goals. For the visitors, Bailey Medwell, Riley O'Keefe and newcomer Liam Latch were dangerous, while mobile forward Toby Hutt finished with a game high three goals.   

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jordyn Cotter (Melton): 39 disposals, 13 marks, 11 rebound 50s

Adrian Monitto (Melton): 36 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 9 marks

Arnold Kirby (Sebastopol):34 hitouts, 27 disposals, 14 clearances, 

COACHES’ VERDICT

Aaron Tymms (Melton):"It was a really tough game and we’re proud of the boys’ response to a below par first quarter. Credit to Sebastopol, they brought the heat early and we didn't cope as well as we would have liked. Our second half was back to what we do best, outstanding efforts by individuals to play the team role."

Luke Kiel (Sebastopol):"We were on top in the first half, but they opened us up and kept the ball moving in the second. We still had opportunities but turned the ball over going inside 50. Melton are still the benchmark, and we need to be better for longer to beat them."

Redan recorded an important all-the-way win over a wasteful Ballarat at City Oval at the weekend.

The Swans were made to pay this time for their errant ways in front of goal, after trailing by 25 points at half time despite having the same amount of scoring shots as the Lions (5.7 vs 10.2).

While the Swans won the last quarter, the damage was already done.

Lions’ sharpshooter Izaac Grant starred with a best on ground performance that included six goals. Grant has bags of 4,4 and now 6 goals from his opening three games - a memo indeed for Cobras’ coach Jason Williams, who meets the Lions this week at City Oval.

Despite Redan having some young talent of their own it would pale in comparison to the numbers the Swans are fronting up within the early rounds. The 'average games' stat would tell its own story of experience separation between the sides which can play a role in sealing moments in games.

Unfortunately for the Swans it wasn't their first example of missed opportunity, and it won't be their last, but they're in no better hands to see them through.

New Lions’ coach Gary Learmonth would be rapt taking care of a 'thereabouts' challenger for a prized spot in the top six.

With Sunbury seemingly on the rise eyeing a finals berth, eight does not go into six. Saturday's win adds currency to the Lions credentials at the expense of the Swans who are clearly in a rebuild.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Izaac Grant (Redan): 25 disposals, 8 marks, 6 goals

Lachlan George (Redan): 22 disposals, 10 score involvements, 8 inside 50s

William Liston (Ballarat): 29 disposals, 16 tackles, 8 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan):"Really happy with the effort from the group after being down two (players) at quarter time. We've got lots to work on moving forward with the progressive improvement of our young players."

Chris Maple (Ballarat):"Once again we didn't make the most of our opportunities in the first half. We were happy with our contest in the second half, and were competitive on the scoreboard, with far better ball use and goalkicking."

Darley remains one of two unbeaten BFNL teams following a 39-point win on the road over East Point. The Devils came to play early, delivering the heat to unsettle the young Kangas, opening up a 27-point lead at quarter time.

The 4.9 to 1.0 scoreline suggested the separation could easily have been greater. What transpired thereafter was considerably more even on the scoring front but again the Devils held sway with some late goals to win going their way.

New Kangas coach Jackson Merrett is under no illusions where his team is at, and quite conscious of their age profile.

Merrett conceded the game was put to bed in the first quarter but gave credit to his boys for the remaining three quarters despite being outscored 10.7 to 8.7.

Liam Canny and Matty Johnston were named their best.

For the winners, Devils coach Dan Jordan would just be happy to claim the premiership points to make it a hattrick of road wins to start 2023, ahead of a bye in round 4.

Full-time Devils addition Billy Myers (four goals) is building into some form that resembles what he is capable of at his best. while Shane Page and Brett Bewley (three goals) continued their good form to start the season. 

The Kangas meet the Swans at Alfredton Oval this week in a battle of the young guns while the Devils enjoy the week off ahead of a Match of the Round billing with Sunbury in Round 5.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Brett Bewley (Darley): 48 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 8 tackles

Mace Cousins (Darley): 28 disposals, 11 tackles, 10 marks

Matt Johnson (East Point): 35 disposals, 19 clearances, 9 inside 50s

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jackson Merrett (East Point):"The game was won in the first quarter. Our ability to apply pressure across the ground wasn't at the level we expect of ourselves. (However) super proud of the young groups response after quarter time to keep us in the game before we conceded late goals."

Dan Jordan (Darley):"(I) thought we executed our game plan well in the first half all bar some finishing. East Point came at us hard in the second half, but we were able to adjust and get the win."

'Season smokey' Sunbury inflicted Melton South with a third successive loss in excess of 100 points at the Melton Recreation Reserve on the weekend.

Lions’ coach Travis Hodgson was most pleased with the convincing nature of the result given the Panthers had won two of their past three encounters. In fairness, only the brave would have tipped the Panthers to extend on that record.

Lions’ key forward Cody Brand booted a game high six goals and found some nice touch around goal proving he's going to be a handful for all opposition defenders moving forward. Nathan Wood, Harrison Minton-Connell and Tyson Lever were named best amid a 'share fest' of possession despite the efforts of a willing Panthers group clearly shy of depth and top end experience.

Despite another heavy loss for the undermanned Panthers there's no denying the commitment of inspirational captain Cody Chapman who battles the odds every week taking pride in his performance. Riley Theo continued with his run of good form in a losing side.

It doesn't get any easier for the Panthers in Round 4, a road trip meeting with Sebastopol awaits.  Sunbury too are on the road to face Lake Wendouree off the bye. All five games in Round 4 are scheduled in Ballarat. 

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Cody Brand (Sunbury): 10 marks, 8 score involements, 6 goals

Tyson Lever (Sunbury): 31 disposals, 10 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Cody Chapman (Melton South): 30 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 9 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Hamilton (Melton South):"I don't think the scoreboard told the full story to be honest. (I'll) give Sunbury credit, they stuck to their guns and plans to have a convincing win in the end. (It's) back to the drawing board for us but pleasing to see we are improving every week." 

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):"Credit to our boys, they stuck to how we want to play all day and it eventually shone on the scoreboard. Melton South were honest and deserve credit for cracking in all day."

North Ballarat made a successful trip to Maddingley Park to defeat Bacchus Marsh by 68 points.

The 'Crameri-less' Roosters were inadvertently compensated with the inclusion of Collingwood VFL listed player Sam Glover - and didn't he look the part, running a merry dance on occasions to finish with a game high five goals.

Glover's laconic nature gives the indication he's rarely out of second gear but his footy smarts, and ability to read the play proved a handful for the Cobras to contain.

North Ballarat midfielder Riley Polkinghorne was clearly the best man on the ground, his two way running and possession accumulation was a feature. Isaac Lovison and Harry Loader look right at home at their key posts in defence confirming a bright future lay ahead for the former powerhouse club.

When North Ballarat gets their running game going, look out! Their will to take the game on by hand especially ran rings around the trying Cobras and led to scores in transition often out of defence.

If there were any reservations on North Ballarat and their dare, it's with their field kicking. Coach Brendan McCartney conceded his boys remain a work in progress, becoming an exciting team to watch.

For the Cobras, Western Jets addition Joel Freeman (four goals) looked dangerous with limited opportunity while ruckman Luke Goetz had the better of North Ballarat giant Cam McCullum.      

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Riley Polkinghorn (North Ballarat): 38 disposals, 11 score involvements, 10 clearances

Simon McCartin (North Ballarat): 30 disposals, 8 score involvements, 4 tackles

Jake McCreery (Bacchus Marsh): 27 disposals, 8 clearances, 6 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Jason Williams (Bacchus Marsh): "Disappointing day at the office, really let down in attitude early and transition all day."

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):"A good days work against a really young Bacchus Marsh team. We are a bit clunky at times but also really exciting at times. We are doing our best to develop into a good team and be good to watch."

We saw Round 3 kick off with a big Anzac Day clash on Thursday before the action kept on rolling all the way through Saturday.

The Swans extended their impressive, unbeaten start to the season with a 68-point win over Lake Wendouree at Alfredton Oval.

The frugal nature of the win, restricting the Lakers to just two goals will have pleased Swans’ coach Chris Maple ahead of a timely exam against the reigning premiers this Saturday.

As for the Anzac Day clash, well this game was over at half time as the speedy Swans opened up a 16-point advantage at quarter time with six unanswered goals in the second to lead by 54 points at the main break.

The nature of the scoreline was telling as the Lakers remained goal less at the final change despite periods of an even natured affair through the first and third terms that saw the Swans manage just four goals of their own.

Tristan Maple and Lauchlan Dalgleish starred for the winners as ten Swans hit the scoreboard on the goals front. While scoreboard contributions were scarce for the Lakers, there was no denying duo Kyle Anderson and Brayden Helyar recognition from the coach in the aftermath.

The Lakers challenges do not get any easier with a Round 4 meeting scheduled at Mars Stadium against a stingy North Ballarat outfit who won't give an inch.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Gray (Ballarat) - 34 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 12 marks

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 16 contest possessions, 8 clearances

Michael Foster (Lake Wendouree) - 25 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 tackles

COACHES’ VERDICT

Chris Maple (Ballarat)
The game was certainly closer than the scoreboard indicated. We thought we moved the ball better at times and defended the ground well at times. It was great to be able to play on such an important day and see so many people there."

Rohan Brown (Lake Wendouree)
(We were) beaten comprehensively by a very well drilled side who played very good footy - (Lachie) Dalgliesh outstanding. Whilst happy with the first quarter we can't keep giving the opposition chances through error, falling down structurally and give them momentum. We will regroup and go again after what was a disappointing performance. That's what I like about our group - their willingness to pick themselves up and go again, we have too."

The reigning premiers set up a hard fought 12-point win with a nine-goals-to-three opening half to secure local derby honours in front of a big crowd at Darley Park.

‘A tale of two halves’ fits the narrative as the Cobras came back from 40 points down in the third quarter to finish as close as they did on the final siren.

The Devils had many contributors sharing time in the spotlight without 'getting off the hook' for too long.

Leigh Spiteri (three goals), Will Johnson (three goals) and Harley Inglis (three goals) were clean around goal with their opportunities while key forward Brady Wright (one goal, five behinds) monstered the Cobras in the air but couldn't finish off his aerial dominance.

Midfielders Luther Baker, Matt Denham and Brett Bewley were solider-like with their heavy work inside the contest and distribution on the outer to ensure the Devils did enough to hang on.

For the Cobras, it was not the first time in recent derbies they have been made to do the chasing after half time.

Collingwood VFL listed player Rye Penny and ruckman Luke Goetz were the standout contributors for the Cobras that should take plenty of positives out of the game ahead of an interesting Round 4 clash with Sunbury at Maddingley Park.  

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Luke Goetz (Bacchus Marsh) - 71 hit outs, 19 disposals, 12 clearances

Brett Bewley (Darley) - 33 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 10 clearances

Billy Myers (Darley) - 27 disposals, 19 hit outs, 13 contested possessions

COACHES VERDICT

Dan Jordan (Darley)
"Came away with a win where we saw patches of our best footy. Plenty to work on as we move forward. Full credit to Bacchus Marsh for a great challenge and running out the game."

Dennis Armfield (Bacchus Marsh)
"Solid hit-out against a quality side. We had our chances but missed them and you can't do that against Darley. They were able to react to turnover quicker. To our credit, we fought it out hard and had the run late. A positive finish against last year’s top team. (We) just need to focus on our inside 50 connection."

Travelling North Ballarat gave unofficial flag favorites Melton an almighty scare before falling short by six points.

Despite the close margin, the Bloods led all day but couldn't shrug the resistance of Brendan McCartney's North Ballarat who were up and about having defeated Darley just a week earlier.

The Bloods started well, as they so often do to lead by 14 points at quarter time but were outscored for the remainder on the back some efficiency around goal from the travelling party.

The Roosters booted 10.4 to the Bloods 8.12 after the first break but it wasn't enough to inflict new Bloods’ coach Troy Scoble with his first loss in charge.

The spread of 'player type' major contributors for the winners confirmed the Bloods were stretched finding the line.

Lachie Watkins, Jordy Kight and Luke Heaney took the honours ahead of running machines Jack Walker and Kyle Borg.

In form dangerous forward duo Braedyn Kight (four goals) and Ryan Carter (three goals) did the damage in front of the uprights.

For North Ballarat, it's a no frills, hardworking ethos under Macartney that sees them right in the business end conversation already with a host of impact and experienced players still to return.

Plenty of upside for the Roosters to derive from their opening two games.

Ryan Polkinghorne was named best for the losing side while Brock Leonard and Isaac Carey continued their impressive start to the season. Ned Nash finished with a team high three goals.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 39 disposals, 11 marks, 11 rebound 50s

Jordyn Cotter (Melton) - 31 disposals, 12 marks, 12 intercept possessions

Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 12 inside 50s, 11 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Troy Scoble (Melton)
"(It) was a terrific contest, one we really enjoyed. North's contest method is elite and challenged us in all phases of the game. We led all game, were able to capitilise in offence but the game was an arm wrestle and we stayed in front to the end. Two quality teams challenging each other from start to finish - a really enjoyable day.” 

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat)
"Great game of footy. Melton's energy to move the ball and attack the game provided good learnings for us. Loved our fight and willingness to keep playing. Another really good day for our club. Looking forward already to next week on a big reunion day. Our club has a rich history, and we are hoping to play our part continuing that."

Visiting Redan responded to the midweek hype surrounding the Panthers with a convincing 53-point win.

Experienced quartet Sam Darley (best), Jeff Garlett (two goals), Brendan Kantilla (two goals) and Harley Bernell (two goals) made cameo appearances for Melton South, creating a spike of interest in a game otherwise deemed a foregone conclusion.

The Lions won all four quarters as experienced campaigner Lachie George rose to the challenge to be named best afield ahead of Jacob Short and youngsters Sam Broadbent, Zac Mortlock and Rory Gunsser.

Bustling forwards Grant Bell and Brandon Green proved the focal points inside 50 sharing the honours with a bag of five goals each.

Cameos aside for the Panthers, organic trio Jarrod Bibby, Rhys Lee and Cody Chapman featured prominently, thriving in the surrounds provided with the injection (albeit a one off) of top end talent.

Former Western Bulldog and GWS product Sam Darley was the pick of the crop, still in his prime at 30 years old.

The Panthers venture to Eastern Oval this week, a ground that hasn't been kind to them in recent seasons albeit on the scoreboard.

Redan are at home to Sebastopol, with the Burra keen to bounce back after two big losses.

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Sam Darley (Melton South) - 53 disposals, 9 score involvements, 8 clearances

Lachlan George (Redan) - 31 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 14 clearances

Rhys Lee (Melton South) - 23 disposals, 12 intercept possessions, 10 contested possessions

COACHES’ VERDICT

Travis Hodgson (Melton South)
"Super day for the club with the reserves winning and the Under 19's having their first win in 1785 days. (Our) senior group were very competitive and kicking nine goals was a plus. Again, poor execution and turnover hurt us and eliminated any chance of winning. Loved our effort."

Gary Learmonth (Redan)
"Again some good signs. Our young boys had the opportunity to play against some top end players which was a good experience and showed they can mix it with the best, So much to improve on and a great challenge again coming this week. Enjoying our mix of youth and experience."

The Kangaroos booted six goals to one in the second half to run away 47-point winners over a disappointing Sebastopol under lights at Eastern Oval.

From a speculative standpoint the nature of the result says more about the Burra’s struggles than Joe Carmody's first win in charge. 

For the second week in a row Tony Lockyer's Sebastopol has been opened up in the second half. Sure, they won’t be the first team to be on the wrong end of a Melton audit (14 goals to three second half last week) but the six goals to one second half witnessed against the Kangas in trying conditions does prick at least one ear for concern.

Experienced Kangas Jackson Merrett and Mickitja Rottumah-Onus were named best for the winners while Bryson McDougall, Strahan Robinson and newcomer Luke Tebble finished the only multiple scorers in a match where goals came at a premium.

Ever consistent Lachie Cassidy, ruckman Reece MacNally and Lockyer never gave up the fight for the visitors who will look to review and regroup quickly ahead of an important clash with Redan at City Oval.

The outcome surely confirms any early concerns on the Burra’s form or silence the doubters for another week.

East Pont are at home to Melton South.    

STATS THAT CAUGHT THE EYE

Jackson Merrett (East Point) - 38 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, 11 rebound 50s

Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol) - 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 9 tackles

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus (East Point) - 29 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 10 clearances

COACHES’ VERDICT

Joe Carmody (East Point)
"Boys responded well (after the Round 1 loss) as we knew they would. We had 22 contributors who all executed their role. (It) was a very contested game against a quality opposition so to come away with the points was pleasing. The test will be for the young players to find consistency and play well again next week."

Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol)
"A solid game, very even throughout the contest in the night conditions. (We) had some great patches where we were on top but just couldn't convert our ball to the scoreboard. East Point were able to convert and kicked away late which didn't reflect the overall game. Much better performance from the boys. Look forward to next week as we continue to build with the young group."

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

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."

Tight wins over the weekend saw songs sung for the first time this season, while other dominate performances had the contenders flexing their muscles on the competition. 

It had been eight long years since North Ballarat last defeated Melton at Macpherson Park, and for a moment on Saturday, it looked like that record might finally fall — but the Bloods held firm to escape with a tense 3-point win.

Determined to make amends for a poor start in Round 3, the Roosters came out with purpose, leading at both quarter and half-time breaks.

They limited Melton’s usually potent inside 50 output and brought intensity to the contest.

But the reigning premiers showed their class after half-time, taking control with a trademark third-quarter surge.

Taj McMillan sparked the comeback with a goal from just outside 50 early in the final term, before Hugh Trigg’s snap midway through the quarter put the Roosters back in front.

But a turnover, finished cleanly by Luke Heaney, restored Melton’s lead, followed by Braeden Kight’s third goal to give the hosts breathing room.

A sharp finish from Mal White brought the margin back to three points, and while both sides had late chances, neither could land the knockout blow in the final four minutes.

North Ballarat may rue first quarter in front of goal — their five behinds proving the difference in an otherwise even contest.

They successfully reduced Melton’s dominance getting the ball inside 50, but the Bloods’ composure and clean forward craft still shone through when it mattered.

Harrison Hanley provided plenty of defensive pressure to earn best-on honours for the Bloods.

He combined well with Adrian Monitto, who racked up plenty of possessions in the back half.

For the Roosters, Mal White was the standout, with a strong two-way performance and plenty of big moments in the final term.

Melton breathe a sigh of relief to stay unbeaten and now prepare for a Redan side fresh off its first win.

North Ballarat will aim to break through for their first win of the season against a rested Bacchus Marsh outfit.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Mal White (North Ballarat) - 28 disposals, 9 inside 50s, 9 score involvements

Lachlan Watkins (Melton) - 26 disposals, 13 marks. 6 rebound 50s

Adrian Monitto (Melton) - 33 disposals, 11 marks, 9 intercept possessions

Sunbury have flipped the script on Ballarat with a statement 64-point win, fuelled by a dominant third quarter that completely dismantled the Swans’ hopes of an unbeaten run into 2025.

The Lions had some unfinished business after their last clash with Ballarat ended their 2024 finals campaign — and they showed it early.

Capitalising on the Swans’ trend of slow starts, the visitors jumped to a 17-point lead at quarter time.

Ballarat found a brief spark late in the second, with back-to-back goals from Lewis Rinaldi dragging the margin back to within reach at the main break.

But any momentum Ballarat had was utterly crushed after half-time.

With third quarters previously flagged as a concern, Sunbury responded forcefully, delivering a 61-7 demolition in the premiership term.

Their ball use was clean, their pressure relentless, and their forward line on.

By three-quarter time, the game was decided.

Statistically, the two sides weren’t worlds apart in areas like clearances and intercepts — but Sunbury’s advantage in contested possession and inside 50s made it clear what team was in control.

Jake Egan was unstoppable, bagging five goals and leading the round for contested possessions, while showcasing his strength under pressure.

Jake Sutton also added five majors in a commanding forward effort that left Ballarat’s defence scrambling.

For the Swans, Rinaldi continued his strong form with three goals and 31 disposals, while Harry Butler again battled hard in the ruck and across the ground to finish with 24 touches.

The road ahead doesn’t get easier for Ballarat as they face the high-flying Darley. Sunbury, meanwhile, return to Clarke Oval for a blockbuster showdown with East Point.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jake Egan (Sunbury) - 32 disposals, 23 contested possessions, 12 tackles

Harry Power (Sunbury) - 36 disposals, 11 tackles, 11 clearances

Lewis Rinaldi (Ballarat) - 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 14 clearances

It was a clash between two winless sides desperate to get their seasons moving — and in a game that ebbed and flowed, it was Redan who came out on top, holding on for a 2-point win at home.

The lead changed hands across every quarter except the last, with neither side able to break away. Redan held narrow leads at each break, thanks largely to their composure under pressure and an edge in both tackling intensity and inside 50s.

Sebastopol trailed by eight points late in the final term and gave themselves one last chance when Hugo Papst marked strongly inside 50. But the siren sounded seconds later, and his goal after the siren only served to trim the margin.

The Burra led the disposal count and were strong at ground level, but Redan’s pressure game and ability to move the ball forward more consistently proved decisive.

Horsham recruit Brody Pope starred for the Lions, collecting 38 disposals and a goal in a best-on-ground performance.

Rory Gunsser was again influential in transition, and Jake Connolly continued his outstanding form, adding another complete performance to his season tally.

Sebastopol’s Jack Bambury was massive, picking up 39 disposals and showing great reading of the play with multiple intercept marks.

Ash Munari was a much-needed target up forward, finishing with a game-high four goals and multiple scoring involvements to keep the Burra in it.

Redan will look to carry this momentum into their daunting clash with the undefeated Melton next week, while Sebastopol get another chance to notch a win against the fellow winless Lake Wendouree.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Jack Bambury (Sebastopol) - 39 disposals, 15 rebound 50s, 10 intercept possessions

Brody Pope (Redan) - 38 disposals, 9 clearances, 9 score involvements

Rory Gunsser (Redan) - 30 disposals, 9 intercept possessions, 7 rebound 50s

For the opening 25 minutes, it looked like the Lakers might be up for the fight. Both teams traded blows in a balanced first quarter, heading into the first break locked at 3.2 apiece. But from there, Darley flicked the switch — and Lake Wendouree couldn’t keep up.

Dan Jordan’s Devils seized control in the second quarter, pushing out to a 20-point lead before a free kick handed Logan Clark a lifeline goal for the home side. Unfortunately for the Lakers, it would be their last major of the match.

From that point on, it was all Darley. The visitors unleashed a clinical second half, piling on 86 points while keeping the Lakers to just 7. The final scoreboard didn’t just reflect dominance — it exposed inefficiency.

Despite only a four-inside-50 differential (Darley 57, Lakers 53), the hosts couldn’t make their entries count.

Billy Myers was again pivotal for Darley, impacting at both ends of the ground. He finished with 25 disposals, 15 intercept possessions and a goal, continuing his exceptional form.

Young gun Mitch Gardiner stood tall in defence, reading the play beautifully and providing crucial rebound.

Tom Zampatti delivered a monster performance in the ruck, cracking the 200 ranking point mark.

He doubled his hit-outs to advantage from Round 3 and lifted his work rate around the ground in a breakout display.

Joel O’Connell also continued his consistent start to the season, playing a vital role to earn best-on-ground honours.

While Darley march on with momentum into their home clash against Ballarat, Lake Wendouree will look to turn things around in a crucial Round 5 battle with fellow winless side Sebastopol.

STATS THAT MATTERED

Tom Zampatti (Lake Wendouree) - 74 hit outs, 16 disposals, 8 intercept possessions

Billy Myers (Darley) - 25 disposals, 15 intercept possessions, 10 score involvements

Nick Hind (Darley) - 27 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 12 score involvements

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."

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."