Buckle in for another mesmerising weekend of finals footy coming up with a Grand Final spot on the line and an all-or-nothing clash at City Oval.

If North Ballarat have any reservations about travelling to Darley to take on the Devils, adopt the glass half full approach knowing a 10-win season (4th) has eventuated with a double chance and two opportunities to book a place into the BFNL Grand Final at home on Mars Stadium.

So enough of the byplay, time to focus on two of the form teams of the competition.

The two sides share a win and a loss from their earlier meetings in 2023. August 5^th, their most recent, where the Devils took care of an undermanned Roosters outfit by 34 points.

On that particular day the Roosters were without Jamie Quick, Jack Riding, Harry Loader, Ryan Hobbs and Reggie Palmer. Saturday will unveil arguably Brendan McCartney's best 22 to greet the paddock this year.

Macca's crew arrives with seven wins from their last 10 games but their one win (over Darley) from five games involving the remaining three sides alive in the BFNL race is cause for concern.

Class will not be a problem for the Roosters who are likely to see Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL) and Brock Leonard return from their 17-point win over Redan in the Elimination Final at the expense of veteran Clay Jenkins (knee) and one other (unlucky).

For the record Glover, Quick and Riding have only featured twice in the same team this year for a win and a loss.

Quick, among a handful of Roosters, looks a priority concern for Dan Jordan's Devils given the illusive forward is yet to be held goalless at BFNL level this year.

Throw Stewart Crameri, big man Cal McCullum, Riley Polkinghorne, Tom Bromley Lynch and key posts Hobbs, Harry Loader and Isaac Lovvison into the mix and it's quite easy to make a case for North Ballarat.

Now Darley.

Their obvious toped talent led by Brett Bewley and Billy Myers are in form. The second tier who would welcome being acknowledged as such is growing in numbers by the week as more and more Devils put their hand up to be a part of something special. Dan Jordan's men have won their last eight games on the trot including wins over Melton (twice), North Ballarat and Sebastopol.

While the frugal, well organised nature of the Roosters defence has been broadly acknowledged, the Devils’ defence are sneaking under the radar averaging just 52 points against for their last eight games compared to North Ballarat's 60.5.

There is an advantage to the Devils for scoring (94 average points per game) over the period (Melton South game removed) compared to North Ballarat's 72 avg ppg.

BUT, when taken into account the likely changes ahead of Saturday, you'll find there's little between the two sides - on paper anyway.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Reigning premiers Melton will have to take the long road if it's to keep their back-to-back flag chances alive with a win over East Point in Sunday's do-or-die First Semi Final at City Oval.

Aaron Tymms, in his last year at the helm of the Bloods, will aim to keep their undefeated season record against all bar Darley alive, hoping to shut out Jackson Merrett's young group early.

The Kangas have answered the call in recent weeks to keep their premiership chances alive with season saving wins over North Ballarat (Rd18) and Sebastopol last week.

And getting it done without their star playmaker Jordy Johnston against Sebastopol with a broken thumb has to be commended.

Their options forward will give the underdog Kangas enough confidence to go toe-to-toe with the Bloods on the scoring front, matching the reigning premiers with eight players inside the top 50 BFNL goalkickers for the season.

Just who can win the midfield battle and provide the greatest number of opportunities will go a long way to validate the result.

The Bloods will look to correct on its failings to capitalise with the aerial dominance around stoppage of ruckman Ben Archard.

For all of the Essendon VFL listed bagman’s returns last week (+88 in the hitouts), the Bloods’ midfield was soundly beaten equating to a landslide inside 50s deficit against the Devils (41-70).

Jackson Merrett will no doubt look to the replay using the Devils’ returns as a blueprint for his side getting it done.

If JJ can make it back, he, Matty Johnston and Joe Dodd are more than capable of matching it with Bloods trio Jono O'Brien, Jack Walker and Lachie Watkins.

The last time these two sides met in Ballarat, albeit on Eastern Oval, the Kangas fell just eight points shy in their Round 7 meet.

While the Kangas led at half time, it was a five-goals-to-two third term that swung momentum back in the Bloods’ favour.

Beating the Bloods is all about playing the minutes, and those minutes well. A lapse as small as the Kangas’ third quarter doings in Round 7 is all that it will take for the Bloods to progress into a preliminary final.

Last week's loss for the Bloods was another reminder they need to find another gear, for the now is shy of their best.

Time to stand up with an emphatic response, call it a rare ‘backs to the wall challenge’ as the no fear Kangas will fancy their own chances despite a third week in a row as pronounced underdogs.  

Scoop’s tip: Melton

And then there were four. Grand final and prelim spots are on the line this weekend as we enter the second week of finals action.

Keen rivals Melton and Darley meet on Saturday to earn their place in the 2024 McDonald’s BFNL Grand Final.

Forget all the hoo-ha surrounding the venue, the Devils have beaten the Bloods just once on Darley Park in seven years.

The Bloods are a better kicking team on the whole and should relish another opportunity to expose the Devils with their spread as they did in their 67-point demolition job back in Round 7.

Saturday's assignment on the big stage will be a tough ask for Dan Jordan's Devils as the Bloods look to peak after a couple of weeks against top three opposition.

If it's any consolation for Jordan, no team in the BFNL has won three in a row against the Devils over his three-year tenure.

Clutching at straws, I know, but the loyal and faithful will take what they can to build a case.

The Bloods will start deserving favourites given their one loss season and unbeaten run of 12 games, dating back 112 days to Round 6.

Troy Scoble has done a fantastic job in his first season in charge, with the Bloods highly fancied taking out the premiership title by a host of rival coaches - most of whom have been on the wrong end of a Melton thrashing.

However, despite the Bloods near faultless campaign, they do look gettable if the last fortnight is any indication.

Sure, conditions made it difficult to replicate world beaters, but the quarters won were split 4-4 with the Devils and the Kangas.

How Jordan goes about winning the disposal and clearance count will tell its own story in the aftermath, a proven recipe for success in the Bloods’ previous two losses against East Point (Round 6) and Darley (2023 Qualifying Final).

Much of the Devils’ fortunes will rest on the back of their highly talented midfield - their ball use out of clearance and their ability to deny the Bloods an inside 50 count shy of 50.

Comparatively speaking, the numbers in isolation suggest there's not a great deal between the two, giving every indication the result may come down to a battle above the shoulders - who is prepared to work the hardest, execute the basic fundamentals under finals pressure, and have the genuine BELIEF to win a game of significant importance against quality opposition.

Have to lean to the Bloods until proven otherwise in a tight one.

PLAYER WATCH

Defenders
Melton: Adrian Monitto (#45), Riley Walker (#28) and Lachie Phillips (#9)are the genesis in transition for the Bloods. Monitto and Walker especially provide the spread, run, carry and distribution in the absence of Jordy Cotter (#4)and will stretch the ground, making it uncomfortable for the Devils.

Darley: Matthew Brett (#11) -elite for disposals (22.4) and intercept possessions (10.5)

Midfielders
Melton: Jaycob Hickey (#10)averages 27.2 disposals, ranks ninth in the comp for clearances and tenth for goal involvements while Jack Walker (#11)averages 25.9 disposals, ranks 13th for goal assists and 16th for centre clearances.

Darley: Brett Bewley (#2)ranks first in the comp for disposals (39.9) and clearances (10.5), while partner in crime Luther Baker (#7)is rated elite for disposals (25.2), ranks top 10 in the comp for centre clearances, contested possessions, and ground ball gets. 

Forwards
Melton: Braedan Kight (#7)is the league’s leading goalkicker with 76. Ryan Carter (#23)is fifth on the goalkicking table with 41.

Darley: Brady Wright (#15)ranks eight in the comp for contested marks (2.7) and 11th for Marks I50 (2.7) while Will Johnson (#22)as a medium sized, can play tall. Has kicked 24 goals from 12 games.

SCOOP’S TIP
Melton

A spot in the preliminary final beckons for the winner of this matchup between once 'giant killers' East Point and once 'under the radar' Ballarat.

Strangely, the Kangas have lost their last two while the Swans remain unbeaten since Round 10, removing any thoughts of presumed certainty finding a winner.

Joe Carmody's predominately young group have been up for a while and would surely be feeling the effects of a long season having played just 32 players for the season, essentially four less than the Swans, six less of the Devils and seven less of the Bloods.

The watch on Jackson Merrett who left the field in discomfort for a period last week will be a 'watch this space'.

His kicking has been a feature all year, and his inability to take kick-ins late last week in a tight game is a cause for concern.

The Swans come from behind win against Sunbury last week was the topic of conversation as the competition and even the Ballarat Football Netball Club came to terms of what had transpired.

It's been a whirlwind back half season for Chris Maple's Swans and it's about to get serious.

Asleep at the wheel last week for the opening half won't cut it this week against the strength of the Kangas.

What the Swans can take into the game is a spike in self-belief they can win from anywhere and against Sunday's opponent given their recent success over East Point in Round 18.

For the Swans to win, favourable numbers in areas similar to their round 18 meet must be replicated.

Namely disposals (+49), intercept possessions (+15), marks (+54), uncontested marks (+62), tackles (+12).

Winning the clearance and ground ball contest will be a tough ask, a KPI beyond the Swans in Round 18 despite the morale boosting win.

East Point haven't done much wrong, having played for little stakes against the Swans at their last meet and a forgive run loss in tough conditions against the Bloods in the qualifying final.

Somehow, it's now do-or-die and season on the line stuff.

Something tells me the Kangas have scope for more say in what's to play out in season 2024, they're truly in the mix and would start equal favourites in Ballarat if a preliminary final berth was achieved.

Got to get it done against the fearless Swans who arrive full of momentum and without fear.

The Kangas will be tested but should get the job done... shouldn't they?   

PLAYER WATCH

Defenders
East Point: Jackson Merrett (#1) and Jacob Brown (#4)are the experience and cornerstone of the Kangas’ defence. Merrett ranks second in the comp for uncontested marks, seventh for avg marks and ninth for kicks and effective kicks. Merrett is the go-to distributor. Brown, not dissimilar to Merrett ranks fourth in the comp for effective kicks, 15th for kicks, fifth for marks and seventh for intercept marks. What is also worthy of note is Brown ranks 23rd in the comp for handball receives.  

Ballarat: Rhys Perry (#53)is a solid key defender who ranks elite for intercept marks, contested marks, spoils and 1%s while the experienced rebound and distribution of Lachie Dalgleish (#14)will be crucial for the Swans. Dalgleish averages 18 kicks from his 22 disposals @74% efficiency. Also ranks elite for marks, intercept marks and possessions, rebound 50s and spoils.

Midfielders
East Point: Matty Johnston (#7)ranks third in the comp for avg disposals (33.9) and contested possessions. Johnston also features in the top 10 for a host of other KPIs and ranks elite in all areas when the Kangas have possession of the ball. Mikitja Rottumah-Onus (#2)ranks among the top 25 in the comp for clearances, contested possessions, hard ball gets, ground ball, goal assists/involvements and handballs. 

Ballarat: Will Liston (#2)is a two-time Club B&F winner who ranks elite for disposals (23), contested possessions (10.8), clearances (7.1), Tackles (6.9 - comp rank tenth). Tristan Maple (#7)shares his time between half back/mid and knows how to find the footy averaging 30.2 disposals @74% (comp rank ninth). A predominant 'kick'(20.6/9.6) sees him an integral part of the Swans work between the arcs. Maple is also among the elite rankings for intercept possessions and intercept marks and rebound 50s. The Footscray VFL listed product ranks fourth in the comp for handball receives and fifth for effective kicks.

Forwards
East Point: Bryson McDougall (#12)is second in the league for goals with 70. McDougall has taken more marks I50 than other player in the BFNL and ranks second for total contested marks. Strahan Robinson (#30)has 31 goals, ranks elite for contested marks and marks I50 (9th).

Ballarat: Andrew Hooper (#4)is a dangerous small forward with 25 goals from 15 games. Harry Butler (#25)has played 8 games this year for the Swans including seven wins and a draw. The athletic key forward ranks elite for goal (4.9) and score involvements (7.6) as well as contested marks while averaging two goals per game of his own.

SCOOP’S TIP
East Point

The initial Victorian Country boys and girls U18 representative squads have been announced and five young guns from across the McDonald's Ballarat FNL and McDelivery BFL Women's have found themselves under the AFL microscope.

In another show of the strength of the BFNL competitions, the initial squads have been released for the Vic U/18 Country and Metro representative sides for 2022.

The Vic Country squads - selected in partnership with AFL recruiters - converged on Essendon's The Hangar last weekend to undergo medical screenings and fitness tests, and set up individual development plans and training programs in preparation for the 2022 season. 

Congratulations to Aaron Cadman (Darley), Felix Fogarty (East Point) and James Van Es (North Ballarat) on their selection to the boy's squad, along with Kalani Scoullar (Ballarat) and Paige Scott (Carisbrook) for their selection in the girl's squad.

The squads will return for a second three-day camp in January to learn about preparation and recovery, GPS and training loads and football/life balance, and will take part in two full training sessions, another craft-based training program and first official interviews with AFL club recruiters.

Read the full story on AFL.com.au and see the full squads: https://bit.ly/2ZTiPhg

What a final this was back in 2018!

A wet, hard, contested game of finals footy saw East Point & NB City go head to head in what was an epic contest all the way to the final siren!

Enjoy the extended highlights followed by the nail-biting last quarter all thanks to Buxton Ballarat

With the recent launch of the BFLW, we thought it would be a great idea to go back and visit one of the more exciting finishes to a Grand FInal in recent memory, with Redan taking on the East Point Dragons in the 2018 AFL Goldfields Women's decider.

We hope you enjoy the extended highlights, followed by the tense final quarter, which saw the game decided by less than a kick!

Sit back, relax and enjoy this Flashback all thanks to Buxton Ballarat

Please find below important information for supporters and attendees to be aware of for this Saturdays Carlton Draught Grand Final Day at MARS Stadium.

General Information

• Mars Stadium, Creswick Rd, Ballarat

• Saturday 17th September 2022

Match Schedule

Admission prices:

• Adults $15.00
• Family (2A / 2C) $35.00
• Pensioners $8.00
• 8 - 16 y/o $6.00
• Under 8y/o Free
• Football Record $5.00

EFTPOS is available at all gates

NO DOGS

Gates:

• Main entry - Gate 1 on Creswick Rd
• Beech Ave, Wendouree (Best entry point for netball and carparking)
• North Ballarat Sports Club from 10am

Catering

Full catering is available throughout the day with bar facilities from 12pm.

Live scores

Live scores of all football and netball games are available throughout the day at:

• Football - https://bit.ly/3Q4H8gg
• Netball - https://bit.ly/3KPteh6

Live Streaming

Can't get to the game? Catch the live stream of the Senior Football and A-Grade Netball. The Senior Men's Grand Final will be live on BallaratFNL Facebook and Cluch.tv. The A-Grade Netball will be live on Cluch.tv - links below.

• Melton v Sebastopol Senior Mens Football: https://bit.ly/2022-GF-Melton-vs-Sebastopol
• North Ballarat v Darley A-Grade Netball: https://bit.ly/2022-GF-A-Grade-NorthBallarat-vs-Darley

General Parking:

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

Disabled Parking:

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

East Point's Lachlan Charleson became the latest Ballarat Junior prospect to join the AFL following his selection by the Port Adelaide Football Club with Pick 52 at last night's AFL National Draft.

The lively small forward impressed during his draft year at the Greater Western Victoria Rebels kicking 24 goals for the season, including a haul of eight late in the campaign. 

Charleson was also a member of Victoria Country’s National Championship squad. 

Having made his senior debut at age 16 for East Point in 2021, Charleson's game is known for its immense defensive pressure, speed and ground ball ability. 

The BFNL wishes Lachie all the best in the next stage of his footballing journey, we cannot wait to continue our support from the sidelines during his career. 

They finished the decade as the dominant team of the BFNL winning back to back premierships!

Can East Point go a step further and make it a 3peat in 2021?

The Kangas led the comp in the last two seasons played, and while their draw for 2021 won’t be easy, East Point fans may yet get their ‘three-peat’. Scoop will keep serving up the pros and cons of the fixture for every BFNL club over the next few weeks.

East Point

Draw rating points: 105
2021 draw ranking: #8

PROS:Leave Ballarat just ONCE after round NINE - (Sunbury in Round 14)

CONS:  Back-to-back highway travel with AWAY games against Bacchus Marsh in Round 4 and Melton in Round 5

- Play FOUR of 2019 Finalists TWICE: Sebastopol, Sunbury, Melton, Redan

Comment: The Kangas were the best team in the comp in 2018 and 2019. They will be hard to beat again after retaining nearly all of the 2018 and 2019 Premiership teams in a bid for an amazing 'three-peat'. Their draw will ask enough of them in 2021 and given their number one standing in the competition so it should.

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

CLUB: East Point

COACH: Jackson Merrett (1st Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 5th (10-6, 110.33%)

Scoop: Jackson, congratulations on your coaching appointment at the Kangas for 2023. Where did the interest in the job start, I mean you're still quite young (29) to be a head coach?

Jackson Merrett: When I finished up at Essendon four years ago, I knew I wanted to coach if/when the right opportunity presented.

S: While losing Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Jacob Brown is not ideal - on paper you're still right in the premiership hunt. But it's fair to say the group has been 'up' for a while, including two flags in 2018 and 2019, how are the motivation levels?

JM: I'm confident the group will thrive under a new structured game plan. The young players too will add pressure to the selection table as we look to add more leg speed. It’s exciting times ahead for the club.

S: The Johnston brothers are bona fide A-Graders in the comp. Having seen plenty of footy over your journey, what impresses you most about them?

JM: Their will to win and get the most out of themselves. They drive standards and lead by example.

S: Brad Whittaker missed just about all of 2022 with a freakish leg injury – how is his return tracking?

JM: Brad had a setback before Christmas but with a measured build up over the remaining pre-season we're confident he'll be right to Round 1.

S:The Kangas have been blessed with quality juniors for some time now - is this the year we can expect you to experiment with a few more or are you more likely to go with 'the proven' until form says otherwise?

JM: We're keen to continue developing our next generation. I think we had as many as 10 debutants last year from our Under 19s. And look out for the emerging crop up from our Under 17s also (played in Grand Final versus Redan last season) - they haven't missed a session. We're excited about the potential growth of our first and second-year players.

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

JM: The Cohesion and acceptance of the group regardless of age. They have a will to play for one another with a collective buy-in from everyone.

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

JM: Structured game plan across the board. For example, when challenged or under the pump we're all on the same page of what to do next. A couple of times last year we were blown out of the water in a single quarter and couldn't stop the bleeding. Also, an injection of leg speed will sharpen us up, especially in defence and on the wings.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

JM: We had a five-week block before Christmas. Then returned two nights a week since late January.

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

JM: Sunbury

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

JM: Sebastopol will be the benchmark.

KEY INS:

M.Williams (Mt Clear Juniors)

PLAYER OUTS:

M.Rottumah-Onus (Mallee Tigers), J.Brown (Keilor), J.Maher, J.Gallagher, I.Quick.

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Nil

Scoop's East Point prediction: 4th - 6th

With the 2025 season on the horizon, Scoop has caught up with all our senior footy coaches as we build towards an epic Round 1!

Following a rollercoaster of an inaugural season under Joe Carmody, the Kangas will look to bounce back and go one better after a grand final defeat.

SCOOP: Joe, super effort last year to make the grand final and acquit yourselves well against the Bloods. How did the group process the season and grand final loss?

JOE CARMODY: On the whole a very encouraging year for us particularly in the area of individual growth. We were in the grand final up until very late in the game against a quality side in Melton. Plenty of upside to be drawn from the season moving forward.

S: What did you learn about the group in your first year and where you're at in the pecking order?

JC: Hard working with a willingness to get better. There's plenty of talent and quality youth at our club. Just knowing we can compete against any opposition gives us great confidence and belief.

S: East Point remain unbeaten at home since Round 16, 2023 (vs Sebastopol) - your club aside, which team (if any) do you feel has an old school, home ground advantage?

JC: Sunbury! As a player and a coach, I’ve been on the end of a few hidings over the years. You must defend or risk chasing the game on the big ground.

S: More players at East Point (15) averaged 16 or more disposals per game in 2024 - Sunbury (14), Ballarat (14), Melton (13), Darley (10). Is there anything to see here? What do those numbers tell you?

JC: A combination of a few things - the way we play, i.e. controlled possession. It also tells us we can win our own ball, trust the depth and the system.

S: While scoring power at East Point has been a feature for a number of years now - you must be rapt with the way the group embraced your team defence strategy after restricting Melton to 39 inside 50's in the Grand Final? Says a lot for the group's chances ahead of your second year in charge.

JC: The team defence remains a work in progress. While we showed signs of fatigue late in the season we didn't concede numbers of any major concern. It was more so we were unable to score as heavily on the back of that team defence as we would have liked. 

S: You lose promising young forward Strahan Robinson and the experience of Jordy Taylor - who picks up the slack?

JC: On Strahan's replacement option - we do like a fourth marking option forward so we're leaning to Joe Fraser, Ryder Lavery or Joel van Meel as the three (likely) rotating ruck options to spend time forward. If we go small Isaac Hucker or a promoted U/19 player could find their way in a pocket for example. And Jordy's replacement - well Liam Canny (21yo) is ready to go. We're confident he's going to be a super player for us over a long period. Joe Dodd will also see more minutes through the midfield as a result of Taylor's departure.  

S: You had the fewest number of players (32) of all last year’s finalists represent the club at senior level. Do you think it will take a similar "favourable' run with injury that will determine your fate - i.e. another grand final appearance or are you blessed with the luxury of the soldier in, soldier out theory?

JC: Lots of players were stiff to miss out last year but we stuck with the younger group to get more games into them rather than throwing them around. Hopefully that decision has built confidence levels on the back of the faith we have shown in them getting the job done.

S: Tell us about the newbies at the club and their likely roles....

JC: Jack Romeril - fit utility - not sure how much we'll see of Jack given his work commitments. Matt Romeril - Half-back / Mid option. Sam Romeril - Wing option that will allow Liam Canny to move into an on-ball role for us.

S: Given the longer season are you likely to rotate your midfield guns through the bench or stick with the 2024 theory of resting them forward?

JC: Well Matty and Jordy (Johnston), Jacko (Merrett) and Jacob (Brown) work it out between themselves if and when they decide to come off. Matty has proven how dangerous he can be resting forward with seven goals against the Lakers last year.

S: Who is likely to give Joel Van Meel a lending hand with the ruck duties this season? His output and willingness to compete in 2024 was something else....

JC: Yes, Joel's contribution played a large part in us making it as far we did. As for relief, Ryder Lavery (19yo) and Joe Fraser (21yo) will be given an opportunity when Joel needs a spell resting forward or off the bench.

PLAYER INS:

J. Romeril (Skipton), S. Romeril (Skipton), M. Romeril (Skipton)

PLAYER OUTS:

J. Taylor (Qld), S. Robinson (Port Fairy), T. Conlan (VAFA)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

N/A

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 22- vs Strathfieldsaye (A)

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF EAST):

JC: Redan

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF EAST):

JC: Darley

The 2022 Federation BFLW Grand Finals will take over Mars Stadium tomorrow. Find all the Grand Final details below, including match times, parking information, entry details and match vision.

Watch the 2022 Federation BFLW Senior Grand Final LIVE from 1:20pm here: https://bit.ly/3KEBMY2

Federation BFLW Grand Finals – Event Information

Ahead of the first Federation BFLW Grand Final Day at Mars Stadium, please see some important information for supporters and attendees to be aware of:

General Information

• MARS Stadium – Creswick Road, Wendouree VIC
• Saturday 3rd September 2022
• The Federation BFLW Grand Finals will be an Alcohol-Free event.

Match Schedule

Admission Fees

BFLW Grand Final 2022

• Adults - $12
• Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $26
• Age Pensioner - $7
• 8 - 16yo - $5
• U/8 – Free
• Footy Record – $2

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

Gates & Parking

• Gates open at 7:00am
• Entry into MARS Stadium via Gate 1 (only) located on Creswick Road.

Parking is available at the following locations:

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

• Disabled Parking:
  • Designated disabled parking can be accessed through North Ballarat Sports Club Entry.
  • PARKING MUST ONLY OCCUR IN DESIGNATED AREA AND IS FOR DISABLED PARKING ONLY.

Grand Final Filming

• All matches will be filmed with the Senior Women’s match being live streamed - link via Facebook and this website on the day.
• Matches will be available for purchase following the Grand Finals and further information will be provided around this in the coming weeks.

Live Scores

• All matches will be live scored on the day for those that are unable to attend the match. Scores can be accessed through specific competitions on the BFNL public results pages here - https://bit.ly/3Q4H8gg

Scoop' Reviews Finals Week 1

Melton, Sebastopol and Darley all claimed wins in Week 1 of the 2022 Carlton Draught BNFL Finals Series.

Minor Premiers and flag favourite Melton took the best part of three quarters to shrug off an honest Ballarat to win by 23 points. 

After trailing at the half (by 1 point), the Bloods added six goals to two in the third term to set up a match-winning 31-point lead at the final change. Ironically the Bloods won just one and a half quarters for the game on their home deck but it was enough to get the job done.

Bloods midfielders Jack Walker (3 goals) and Jacob Hickey (1 goal) were named best for the winners while the outside run and carry of wingman Kyle Borg (2 goals) proved significant. Defenders Jordy Cotter, Brenton Payne and Riley Walker were recognised as key contributors as the underdog Swannies took it up to their more fancied opponents in the first half. Dangerous Bloods forwards Braedan Kight (2 goals), Liam Carter (2 goals) and Ryan Carter (1 goal) were three of nine Bloods players to hit the scoreboard.

There's no doubting plenty of positives for Joe Carmody's Swans to draw from the game despite the loss after testing the Bloods. Clearly, their third quarter alone cost them a genuine crack at the finish. Carmody recognised the efforts of his midfield Will Liston, Sam James and Marcus Powling by naming the in-form trio among the best players with Footscray VFL affiliate Bailey Van de Heuvel and defenders Austin McPherson and Nick Swain. Swans sharpshooter Andrew Hooper finished with three goals. Josh Gibson (hamstring tightness) did not play but is expected to return next week. 

What the coaches said...

Aaron Tymms (Melton):We held strong in the first half when Ballarat had some territory dominance before we were able to get the game back on our terms in the second (half). (We were) really pleased with the contributions from across all lines.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):We defended really well in the first half and probably didn't get the reward on the scoreboard. Melton outworked us in the third (quarter) and used the ball really well. That was the difference in the end.

Sebastopol has secured a prized double chance, ending North Ballarat's season in the process with a hard-fought 33-point win on the weekend. It was the third straight win for the 'Burras over Brendan McCartney's Roosters in season 2022.

The 'Burras won every quarter and kicked six of the last seven goals to run out deserved winners and progress to a semi-final meeting with Melton. Much of the discussion during the week will be on the progress of 'Burras inspirational leader Tony Lockyer (ankle) who left the field in the second term and did not return. 

Toby Hutt (4 goals) broke the game open in the third term with three goals as the 'Burras added six straight to North Ballarat's 3.4 to lead by 26 points at the final change. Unfortunately for North, 'the tape' will tell a story of wasted/missed opportunity and inferior ball use. Essentially, the right team won, the 'Burras used the ball much better, and made more of their opportunities. But you couldn't shame the Roosters for effort. Their intensity matched the 'Burras but again, their execution of the fundamentals proved their undoing.

'Burras defenders Riley O'Keefe, Ben Trew and Connor O'Shea were named best for the winners while the run and line-breaking carry of Matt Austin and Jed Hill was a highlight in a game played on the inside for the most part. Reigning Henderson Medalist Lachlan Cassidy was solid for four quarters but wasn't alone. Hugo Papst again proved his versatility at either end, answering the call to whatever the coach's needs. Papst is very important to the 'Burras fortunes moving forward, that I'm sure of.

For North Ballarat, forward trio Josh Chatfield, Jamie Quick (1 goal) and Jack Riding (2 goals) were given little time and space to get the game on their terms. In fairness, their influence wasn't helped by poor forward entries. Quick and Riding were more often forced to win their own ball at ground level making it easier for the 'Burras to defend.

Cam McCallum (1 goal) won the majority of hit-outs yet again and slotted a much-needed goal 20 minutes into the third term to get North Ballarat within three points. But that's as close as they would be for the remainder. Isaac Carey, Brock Leonard, and Riley Polkinghorne never gave up the effort while Harry Loader, Ryan Hobbs (before moving forward) and Ned Nash were solid distributors from defence.

A 'throw at the stumps' opportunity against Melton to make the Grand Final awaits Sebastopol this week. For the record, 12 of the 'Burras line-up that featured on Saturday were part of the 2019 Grand Final side.

North Ballarat exits after a tough year, a difficult draw and the untimely injury to key players. McCartney's boys lost five of their last six games after beating Melton in Round 13 - who would have thought? North Ballarat will find some comfort knowing McCartney has signed on to lead the group in 2023.        

What the coaches said...

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):Super proud of the group. We needed to match them on the contested footy and felt we did that well. The belief in the group is important and we have a great opportunity in front of us.

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat):We worked hard and gave ourselves numerous opportunities but weren't able to convert when we had chances. Sebastopol are well organised and well coached.

Darley withstood an avalanche of inside 50's from East Point in the last quarter to progress through to a Semi-Final meeting with Ballarat. Sure, the Kangas would lament their inaccuracies (1.7 in the last qtr) 

but credit to the Devils' back six and support crew for holding on under immense finals pressure. Players from both sides had barely enough energy to celebrate or commiserate at the final siren. Any last efforts in the immediate aftermath were spent purely on a handshake or embrace -recognition and respect for an old-fashioned battle that went down to the wire.

Kangas Captain Matty Johnston and Mickitja Rotumah-Onus led the charge in the second half, either waltzing out of stoppage or with their run and carry just as the Devils looked to be tiring. But the 'Brett Bewley-less' Devils' blend of youth and experience down back, combined with some Kangas wasted opportunities on goal, amounted to a wholesale, morale-boosting win for one, with heartbreak and disappointment for the other. 

The highlights reel will be a tough assignment for the techs. So where do we start? 

For the winners, Bailey Young was arguably best-on-ground for his four-quarter effort ahead of a host of defenders led by Matthew Brett and Mace Cousins. Bigman Trent Angwin was terrific in the air and was influential between the arcs providing a target for the Devils all day. The Devils' match-winning return of seven goals was shared among seven players.

For East Point, finishing near plus 20 for inside 50's in a game they won just one quarter, says a lot for their final quarter dominance. But alas, couldn't it get done and lost no admirers for their effort.

Kangas youngsters Jesse Cairns and Jack Jeffrey were lively and had their share of the ball while experienced campaigners Joel Van Meel, Clay Bilney and Mitch Walsh were never far from the action. On a tough day for forwards in unassuming breezy conditions, the Kangas managed just five goals, shared among five individual players. Evidently, it was the Kangas' lowest score of the season.

The numbers didn't lie heading in, giving every indication this final was going to be a close one. For the record, the Kangas averaged seven more points (FOR) per game while the Devils were conceding seven fewer points (AGST) per game to suggest a draw could be on the cards.

Missed it by that much...!    

What the coaches said...

Dan Jordan (Darley):I thought we were more efficient in key moments during the first three quarters. But full credit to East Point, they kept coming at us in the last. In the end, we were just happy to hang on in a tight one that could've gone either way.

Jake Bridges (East Point):We can't all play a winning game, someone is sure to lose, yet we can play so that our name, no one may dare accuse. That when the Master referee scores against our name, it won't be whether we've won or lost, but how we have played the game.

Next week:

Saturday, September 3 -Melton vs Sebastopol

Sunday, September 4 - Ballarat vs Darley

The Swans secured second spot and a prized double chance with a narrow three-point win over the Burras at Marty Busch Reserve. It was the Swans' sixth win of the season by a goal or less and the tenth win by 18 points or less. How are the heart rates at Ballarat, we're yet to play a final!

What the Swans do have is character - truckloads of it. Despite their narrow successes, only Melton won more games than Joe Carmody's men in 2022. There's no doubting the Swans line-up is buoyed by the return of big man duo Marcus Powling and Bailey Van de Heuvel. Ruckman Powling missed a large chunk of the season with a torn hamstring but returned to his very best with arguably best-on-ground honours. Josh Gibson and Lachie Dawson booted three goals each for the winners while a wasteful Sebastopol were kept in it by Toby Hutt (three goals), James Keeble and Hugo Papst (two goals each).

The Burras trailed the Swans by 37 points at halftime and were just 1% ahead of Darley on the LIVE ladder, looking down the barrel at a fourth-place finish. But credit Michael Searl and his Burras contingent arresting the game back on their terms with five unanswered third-quarter goals.

Grady Snowden, Luke Kiel and Tony Lockyer featured prominently in the Burras revival and will be hopeful restricting dangerous North trio Jamie Quick, Jack Riding and Josh Chatfield.

Four points separated these two heavyweights at the final change as an arm wrestle of sorts (two goals each) prevailed for the duration as the Swans hung on to record another prizefighting win. 

Ballarat head to Melton on Saturday for a Qualifying Final at Maccy Park while the Burras face 2021 Minor Premiers North Ballarat at Eastern Oval.

What the coaches said:

Michael Searl (Sebastopol):Another tough loss for us against the Swans. (We) didn't capitilise on our early dominance in the first quarter. They completely outworked us in the second quarter and really showed us the importance of work rate. (I'm) proud of the group to really dig deep and come at them in the second half. Lots of learnings to take from the match.

Joe Carmody (Ballarat):We set the game up in the second quarter with some good ball movement and excellent pressure. Sebastopol were very good in the contest in the third quarter. We showed a lot of character to hang on.

Sunbury finished their season on a high, surpassing 100% for and against on their way to a resounding 65-point win over Bacchus Marsh in front of a home crowd.

The Lions finished off their season with four wins from their last six games, an encouraging base for next year under Travis Hodgson who will lead the club into a fourth year in 2023. The Cobras, on the other hand, capitulated to a fifth loss in six games ending their season in eighth place with seven wins.

Veteran forward Leigh Brennan (five goals) shows no signs of ageing, leading a charge of eight Lions players to hit the scoreboard. The Lions led from start to finish and virtually put this game to bed by quarter time despite having had the advantage with the breeze.

Lions stand-outs Tyson Lever and Harry Minton-Connell continued their run of good form while the progression of youth trends in the right direction. Jack Hannett and Jack Newitt topped the list for as many as 12 candidates among best-on-ground conversations.

The Cobras, seemingly bereft of the fight we saw earlier in the year could manage just six goals on a quiet day for the visiting forwards. Six individual Cobras' goalkickers represented their major returns on the scoreboard while young combative ruckman Spencer Meagher was named best for the losing side. Defenders Daniel Veldon, Dominic Miesen and Xavier Jenks toiled manfully behind the ball while Tom German and Riley Stuhldreier were again serviceable contributors in the red, yellow and black.

Both are proud clubs and will prepare for their journey back to finals, for an eighth and ninth place finish, simply won't do.

What the coaches said:

Travis Hodgson (Sunbury):(It was) a good way to finish off the season - it's been a positive two-month block. The Marsh tried hard but our ability to stretch them with legs on the outside was obvious and played a significant role in the result. 

Tom German (Bacchus Marsh):They used the ball well around the ground and we didn't execute well as a team.