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

Round 1 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Given current speculation surrounding various teams prospects in 2026, the BFNL could not have scripted a better grouping of matches for an enthralling start to the season.

League heavyweights Darley and Sunbury are sure to attract a bumper crowd at Darley Park, curious of what the next chapter holds.

The mission for Matthew White’s Lions will be to ‘find a way through’ a frugal Devils defence led by Billy Myers and Matthew Brett.

While the Pride boast an imposing front six more than capable posting a winning score, the weight of expectation will hinge primarily on their midfield and quality of forward 50 entries.

However, such luxuries won’t be easily afforded as the Devils’ star laden midfield look to mark territory with superior gains of their own.

While the prospect of Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Luther Baker is daunting for any opposition, the pre-season form of Joel Cadman and Darcy Matricardi only raises the degree of difficulty for the Lions who were 0-4 against the Devils in 2025.

Despite the recent H2H record, White will be fully aware his Pride have genuine claims turning the tables, having been in three of those games early - in fact the Lions led at 1/4 time in their two previous visits to Darley Park by 19 & 26 points.

The Lions have added a few soldiers to the cause ‘finding a way through’ Dan Jordan’s Devils, unbeaten in their last 20 BFNL games. 

Josh Guthrie (ankle) returns from a lengthy lay off to bolster the midfield while Hamish Pierce (North Melbourne VFL) fills the void across half back in the absence of Jack Hannett (Ocean Grove).

The mail is reigning Tony Lockett Medallist Jake Sutton will take his place despite relocating to Sydney and will lead a three pronged attack alongside Daniel Johnston and Pat Scanlon.

Given the VFL bye this week, Jake Egan (Essendon), Jake Lever (Essendon) and Pierce will be available for another crack at the Devils.

How Jordan and his crew manage ‘the hunted’ tag will be a season long reference point given rival teams have sought after list builds, to usurp the reigning premiers as the competition benchmark.

Scoop’s tip: Darley by 24 points

Melton host brow-raising Good Friday winners Bacchus Marsh in one of five bona fide cracking, Round 1 match ups.

While the Bloods have enjoyed a comfortable win/loss advantage over recent times, especially at MacPherson Park, what the Cobras delivered against perennial finalists East Point cannot be ignored.

Future star (if not already) Josh Huxtable may well be the Cobras’ best player, atop the deepest list at Armfield’s disposal in the infancy of his third year.

Experienced key big men Jake Owen and Luke Goetz look sharp, moving freely with a spring in their step, excited for what’s to come.

Bloods’ coach Troy Scoble would have, like many of his rival counterparts, been impressed with the Cobras who played with renewed flair, confidence and accountability capable of troubling any preconceived, superior opposition.

Sure, the jury is out on the credentials of East Point who have conceded a reset approach in 2026, but it was the was the nature of the Cobras’ 51-point win that would’ve provided Dennis Armfield’s group an invaluable boost in the belief space.

And the Cobras will need every bit of that to upset the Bloods who prepare to embark on a mission of their own after falling short in last year’s title defence.

The 2022 and 2024 premiers have lost a few soldiers ahead of their rebound assignment but welcome back underrated defender Riley Walker (year off) and crucial pair Jaycob Hickey and Lachie Watkins free from injury.

You could add Jordy Cotter, Jordy Kight and Ryan Davis to the return mix having endured similar setbacks and frustrations of their own.

Let’s not forget the challenges the Carters, the Kights and the Walkers present and the likelihood of speedster Kyle Borg revelling in one or more of his x-factor moments.

For what it’s worth, the hearsay will mean very little to a Cobras’ camp eager to take the next step - claiming another scalp on the road.

The reality is, Armfield’s men must overcome arguably the competitions most potent front six and a proven premiership defence to earn the spoils.

Big ask! - if the Cobras can reproduce their Good Friday appeal (no pun intended) they will give this more than a shake.

However, I’m leaning to a fresh Bloods outfit at home to hold sway in a seesawing affair.

Scoop’s tip: Melton by 18 points

With two draws head-to-head from their last three meetings and an off-season spruik of various proportions on both sides - anyone who adopts the theory “it’s only Round 1…”, is kidding themselves, when North Ballarat host Ballarat at Mars Stadium.

The race for a prized position in the top six is already underway with Bacchus Marsh staking their early claim on Good Friday.

Which of these two legitimate candidates will put their hands up come 5pm Saturday as the team to watch moving forward?

Let’s not forget it was Ballarat who replaced North Ballarat for a finals berth following the last round of the 2025 home and away season.

If one was to nitpick over their previous four meets, you’re likely to find “advantage North Ballarat” given their recent 2-0 record at Mars Stadium (26 pts and 82 pts). Alfredton Oval, the home of the Swans, played host to the two draws.

However, given the changing landscape in the off-season player movement space, both teams have added key top end talent to boost their finals credentials.

Almost a third of the 44 players to take the field will have VFL/AFL experience to heighten interest and intrigue levels even more heading into the bout.

While those in attendance will be spoilt for choice observing quality stocks, it’s the battle of the two spines that looms the deciding factor.

Roosters’ quintet Jai Lockett, Sam Glover, David Brinker-Ritchie (doubtful), Josh Morris and Denver Grainger-Barrass will ask questions of Swans’ big men Biggie Nyuon, Alex Keith, Rhys Perry and Patrick Graham.

Whether Brad Crouch, Thomas Simpson, Tristan Maple and co can impact at ground level and deny the Roosters will be worth the watch alone as they’re likely to welcome back Port Melbourne trio James Van Ess, Riley Polkinghorne and Josh Sparkman off the VFL bye.

And let’s not forget the x-factor capabilities of small forwards Jamie Quick (Roosters) and Andrew Hooper (Swans) who will pounce on anything that comes their way.

Difficult game to tip on spec given the changes and the impressive make-up of the two sides.

Will this game be won primarily in the air or on the ground/spread?

Efficiency and fitness levels will play defining roles how this game is run and won.

It’s a concern for the Roosters, Glover and Brinker- Ritchie (doubtful) have been relatively unsighted in the lead up practice matches but the broader collective have enough games in together and are at home to worry the Swans out of it in a close one.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat by 6 points

There is more than just the four premiership points at stake when the new look Lakers host Redan at CE Brown Reserve.

The winners will want a party and deservingly so.

What a relief it would be for either camp given the current landscape.

The Lakers have lost 18 games on the trot, won just four of their previous 50 games and are seemingly “chips in” to make an impression on the competition for patient mentor Rohan Brown who has been starved of success on the win front since his appointment in 2024.

On the other hand, Lions new coach Marc Greig is a well-respected footy person in his own right, once as a player, now as an educator of young men.

Greig’s task ahead of the weekend is overcoming the once “easy beats” of the competition as the Lakers list build rivals any in a very productive and exciting off season.

Up to five newbies at the Lakers boast VFL experience and according to one Ovens and Murray coach the two pickups from Wodonga namely Corey Rich and Will Fordham will prove a handful for any opposition.

That’s not including Louis Antonac who remains on Geelong’s VFL list.

Unfortunately, the return of former Werribee VFL listed talent Jake Lohmann (back) is on hold for at least another week.

Former Frankston VFL/Old Brighton wing/half back Alfie Jarnestrom (test - ankle) has also joined the club to consolidate the broader mission, adding further experience to a relatively fledgling group ready to grow and win games of football.

It’s thought the Lions have had their share of struggles in the off-season given the departed but the mail is, if Greigy is at the helm they’re surely to be well versed “standing up” when the going gets tough.

Unfortunately, on spec alone, with little or no sample size, the bar of expectation on the win/loss front for the Lions has been tempered to the point where this particular matchup is no longer a ‘should win’ game.

The availability of top end stocks Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray VFL) and hamstrung Tom Berry (Southport Sharks VFL) would’ve given the Lions a major boost ahead of Saturday, but the Pride will have to find a way under Greig getting the job done without them.

I don’t want to put the ‘mozz’ on Redan but the weight of quality inclusions at the Lakers makes a compelling case that Brown will celebrate in song with his first win since round 18, 2024 – which ironically came against the Lions at this very venue.

Scoop’s tip: Lake Wendouree by 18 points

While East Point embrace the infancy of a “reset”, Sebastopol is not in a position to take the Kangas lightly when the two sides meet on Saturday night (6.15pm) at Marty Busch.

The Kangas’ top end provided enough ball for periods in their Good Friday loss to the slick Cobras in the first half, to be within a couple of goals at the main break before Dennis Armfield’s forecast improvers kicked away enroute to a comfortable win.

The Kangas should be better for the run after coach Joe Carmody had a good look into his relatively new group weighing up the strengths and focus areas for improvement.

Underrated midfielder Jesse Cairns (calf) is expected to return for the Kangas ahead of a belter Round 1 fixture for the BFNL.

Can’t wait to see the impact Burras’ key forward signing Joel Edwards can have working aerially in tandem with Cooper Littlehales and x-factor crumber Adam Forbes, stretching the Kangas defence.

Edwards is one of three off-season pick-ups for the Burra from GFL heavyweights St Joseph’s. Felix Henderson and Jeff Buckley have made the pilgrimage alongside Edwards, joining midfielder and former Burra club best and fairest Bailey Medwell who returns from a stint with Footscray VFL.

Experienced trio Tony Lockyer, Lachie Cassidy and Luke Kiel will be a tough assignment for Carmody to contain if the Burra get on a roll.

Young gun Jack Bambury will add further run and carry for Lockyer’s men in what looms a crucial game (already) in the club’s fortunes moving forward.

Mickijta Rotumah-Onus, Jackson Merrett, Jacob Brown, Joe Dodd and newly appointed Captain Liam Canny will lead the resistance for the Kangas, aiming to deny the Burra faithful a dream start to their 2026 campaign.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol by 14 points

Round 2 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

A flurry of thrilling results from the start of the season sees Round 2 provide another valuable look at the BFNL's senior football competition this weekend.

Expect an invigorated Cobras outfit to relish the opportunity in front of home fans for the first time this season when they host the Roosters at Maddingley Park.

Dennis Armfield’s men are 2-0 having secured back-to-back wins on the road against two of last year’s finalists.

A six-month off-season can be a long time in local footy but the Cobras have started with a faultless campaign aided by the addition of no less than six players, four of whom are familiar returns while the acquisition of Zach Vesty (Hoppers Crossing) and Hugh Canning (Corowa) has only strengthened the Cobras’ version of their best 22.

Given injured pair Jamie Fulton (shoulder) and Jack Kovacevic (hand) remain sidelined short term, the future looks bright at Cobra land.

Not dissimilar to last year, the Roosters, under second year coach Clint Proctor have already endured all too familiar frustration with the unavailability of highly touted recruit David Brinker- Richie (knee soreness) who is expected to miss another week, and more importantly the critical match up with dominant Cobras ruckman Luke Goetz.

Nonetheless the Cobras cannot afford to underestimate the spine of the Roosters who arrive with the star power of Sam Glover, Josh Morris, Denver Grainger-Barrass and progressive talent Jai Lockett, all of whom have had an impact at VFL level.

Young 200cm tall Finn Russell and speedster Reggie Palmer are in the mix for a call up after the Roosters fell short in their season opener against Ballarat.

While spoilt for top end talent the Roosters will need to improve on last week to curb the Cobras impressive run and connection.

Armfield’s group are as fit as they’ve ever been under the former Carlton 145 gamer.

The point differential for the Cobras in second halves (111-49) and 4-0 record for second half quarters suggests the Roosters will need to bring their skates to deny the hosts a third win on the trot.

While Proctor’s Roosters failed in their two previous attempts in 2025 to down the Cobras, they do have the cattle both aerially and at ground level to upset the pattern.

Belief is an undervalued commodity; one the Cobras are embracing with aplomb early into the new season.

Over to the Roosters to find a way to curtail that growing momentum with some lasting impressions of their own.

Compliance to Proctor’s instructions is a non-negotiable if the visitors are any chance squaring their win loss ledger.

While Cobra fans need only wish for more of the same, to witness firsthand a 3-0 start would be all the more special.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh by 12 points

The Swans host Sebastopol in the only game across the Round 2 senior football fixture involving two winners from the opening round.

While Sebastopol enjoyed a convincing win at their last visit to the nest, this assignment presents a different set of challengers for Tony Lockyer’s men.

A trio of experienced, 200cm trumpeter Swans will pose an afternoon long threat for the visitors to contain.

Alex Keith, Biggie Nyuon and Patrick Graham will have a large say in the Swans’ fortunes.

Given Keith’s intercept role across half back, compliance to Lockyer’s game plan will be a non-negotiable if the Burra are to find a way around the former Adelaide and Western Bulldog’s defender.

The Burra’s midfield can expect an early audit on their footy smarts given Biggie and Graham have the height advantage and athleticism to control the aerial contest.

Denying a formidable Swans midfield that is likely to include Tristan Maple, Thomas Simpson, Lewis Rinaldi and Fraser Perkins will test the Burra’s brains trust.

Any first use advantage out of stoppage will be significant for these two evenly matched teams at the source.

Unfortunately, recent Burra club best and fairest winners Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell who play key midfield roles, are expected to miss another week.

In this case, it’s advantage Ballarat.

Swans’ second year coach Ash Baker has been busy with the enviable task of shifting the magnets with the freedom to find the right balance given all player types essentially are at his disposal.

On the flipside, if the Swans can be found out early despite the luxuries of the 200cm trio, finding the right balance becomes an ongoing challenge.

While the Swans take another step finding the best version of themselves, the Burra are not dissimilar despite a couple of key figures on the sidelines.

The addition of GFL trio Jack Buckley, Felix Henderson and Joel Edwards is significant - each played an encouraging role in the Burra’s first up win over East Point.

Lockyer will hope for further improvement, a must you would think if the Burra are to secure the premiership points.

Baker on the other hand, would be the first to concede his bevy were ‘ordinary’ at their previous meet against the Burra but pose a completely different proposition in the here and now.

Yes, plenty has gone under the bridge since their last meet and with more games together, expect the Swans to resemble a force to be reckoned with.

No Cassidy or Medwell for the Burra moves the needle in favour of the Swans for one the picks of the round in BFNL action.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat by 10 points

New season Redan coach Marc Greig gets a ‘throw at the stumps’ opportunity to upset league heavyweights Sunbury when they host the Lions of the East at City Oval.

Redan’s relocation for the interim, comes on the back of renovations now in full swing at City Oval.

Greig’s eclectic group surprised a few with the nature of their 92-point demolition job over the Lakers in Round 1 booting ‘the sweep’ (highest score), some 12 goals more than any other club across the BFNL.

That stat alone will have drawn interest from Sunbury coach Matty White following their agonising two-point loss to Darley in the much-anticipated Grand Final replay.

Sunbury haven’t always had their way on the win/loss front up the highway but their four home and away season wins from six trips last year suggests the mental demons have subsided on the back of instilled belief and collective buy-in.

Under White, Sunbury are the genuine real deal having won seven of their last 10 BFNL games.

Only Darley has beaten them (three times) over the period.

White would be the first to concede some, if not all of his boys were sore after their first up outing given the physicality of the affair.

Redan’s case may well be different following their big win, with the occasion running a majority of the group into some early season form.

If Greig’s Lions can hit the ground running and give Whitey’s Pride something to chase, this matchup could get interesting.

The Bond boys will stretch the Sunbury defence ONLY IF the Redan midfield can have their way against a deep Sunbury core led by reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan and more experienced Josh Guthrie.

Sunbury’s midfield will want to make their presence felt early providing some ‘good looks’ of their own for key targets Daniel Johnston and Phil Scanlon.

Sure, their mid-forward connection remains a work in progress when Jake Sutton doesn’t play but you can’t discount their ability to score.

Redan must deny Sunbury at the source and win the “ground ball” battle to be any chance of an upset win but on the small sample size alone, who knows what they’re capable of.

Fond memories should aid a favourable result for Whitey’s Pride but they will be made to earn it if Greig’s Lions can build on their Round 1 heroics.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury by 30 points

Having overcome a major scare in the season opener, the Devils’ next assignment against the Kangas should be a little more comfortable despite the road trip to Eastern Oval.

The Kangas take another step forward in their rebuild against the competition’s benchmark and should embrace the challenge with plenty of learnings to be drawn from the hit out.

East Point coach Joe Carmody and his staff will have other priorities than the scoreboard given their slim chances of an upset were dealt a severe blow following the confirmation of a hamstring injury to Jacob Brown that is expected to sideline the star utility for a couple of weeks.

The midfield battle however will be relatively familiar to both camps with the core of Kangas’ experienced mids including Mickijta Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd and Liam Canny up against gun trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Luther Baker.

Unfortunately (midfield aside) the inexperience of the Kangas is likely to surface at some time and reflect for periods on the scoreboard given up to eight of Carmody’s fledgling group have played less than 10 senior games.

Devils’ clutch defender Billy Myers will welcome the absence of Brown, paving the way for a more offensive role if coach Dan Jordan sees fit, raising the degrees of difficulty for Carmody to contain.

Not to mention the likely return of Mikey Edwards from an eye complaint suffered in the Devils’ 12-point practice match win over GFL club Leopold.

Weather permitting, expect the Devils to hit the scoreboard in waves despite the resistance of a predominantly young group, keen to make an impression.

While Kangas’ forward pair Jack Jeffrey and Jarrod Joyce will keep the frugal Devils defence honest, the visitors look to have too much firepower across the ground to be denied a 22nd BFNL win on the trot.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

After disappointing losses for both sides in the season opener, you can bank on some early heat when the Lakers host Melton at CE Brown Reserve.

Let’s be honest, the Lakers owe their fans more than what was dished up against Redan in Round 1, a 92-point thrashing.

Yes, the Lakers have lost their last 19 BFNL games but given the off-season additions, Rohan Brown’s boys fell well short on external and (surely) internal expectation.

While the Bloods assignment looms tougher again for the Lakers they should not fear Troy Scoble’s visiting party.

Why might you ask?

Since Round 6 last year the once invincible Bloods have lost to every team in the BFNL bar North Ballarat and the Lakers (draw v Ballarat).

The 2024 Premiers (18-1) have less than a 50%-win record from their last 14 home and away games (6.5/7.5) and need a spark albeit being just Round 2.

A trip to CE Brown Reserve is the last dress rehearsal for Scoble ahead of blockbuster meetings with Sunbury (A) and Darley (H).

The Bloods will look to exceed KPI numbers in a number of areas, none more so than goal conversion that has cost them some close ones in recent times.

Highly decorated x-factor forward and proud leader Braedan Kight returns to bolster the mission.

The 2024 Tony Lockett Medallist (3.1) and Sunbury sharpshooter Jake Sutton (3.6) are the only two players in the BFNL to average more than three goals per game from their last 50 outings.

While an historic win for the Lakers is highly unlikely, Brown will be demanding an immediate response from his boys so used to the underdogs tag.

Genuine top end quality has been added to the Lakers list capable of matching any side for periods.

Fingers crossed we bear witness to that and the Lakers Round 1 debacle is looked upon in hindsight as a forgiven run.

On the flipside, look for the Bloods to make a statement of their own.

Scoop’s tip: Melton

Round 3 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Round 3 brings an all star lineup of matches, with local rivalries set to ignite, finals replays back on home turf and action set to take place under lights.

A bumper crowd is expected to descend on Darley Park for the annual Anzac Day clash between proud crosstown rivals Darley and Bacchus Marsh.

With fine conditions forecast, little room will be left for excuses in the aftermath as the improving Cobras attempt to overcome the reigning premiers.

Let’s be honest, the Devils (on spec) look to be ‘just going’ at the moment despite their 2-0 start to the season, having come from behind in both matches to earn the points.

The Cobras on the other hand have shown enough to suggest they can test Dan Jordan’s army, who remain unbeaten in their last 22 BFNL games.

It will be a huge task for Dennis Armfield and his group, a four quarter investment surely a non-negotiable if they’re to inflict what East Point went so close to doing last week, the upset of the season so far.

The Cobras won’t die wondering, nor do many sides facing the competition benchmark.

It’s a timely, early season footy audit for Bacchus Marsh who will need to find a way without four of their preferred starters in Jamie Fulton (shoulder), Jack Kovacevic (hand), Hamish Coulton (calf) and Billy Griffiths (managed).

One clear disparity favouring the Cobras is the ruck duel with Luke Goetz likely to face a rotation of part timers in the specific role.

While Goetz was dominant with his tap out differential (+22) last week against young North Ballarat tall Finn Russell, the Cobras best and fairest winner ended the afternoon -1 for hit-outs to advantage.

You can back it in Devils’ luxury trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Luther Baker will be waiting feverishly at the fall of the ball, heightening the importance of the Cobras to take more advantage of another predicted landslide in tap outs.

The groundball stat is an interesting one. Sure, we’re only two games in but the Devils have yet to reach the dominant levels of last year.

The Devils ranked one in this space last year (+20 average) but find themselves in ninth (-14) after two games. Ironically, only Bacchus Marsh (-21) trails in differential.

Both sides remain a work in progress with their mid forward connection despite encouraging inside 50 numbers.

The Cobras average 49.7, the Devils 56.5. Just who can “click” with those ample number of entries will tell its own story on the scoreboard at games end.

The Cobras will miss Fulton at the source, but the form of Jack Parente, veteran Tyson Shea and Ethan McKercher has been solid enough aiding the favourable 2-1 win/loss ledger.

Denying the Devils at the source, will pose ‘a new level’ hurdle for the Cobra trio - not to mention Billy Myers who has been arguably the Devils’ most important player from their two wins.

Just on that, it will be interesting to see who Jordan sends to Cobras’ match winner Jake Owen who booted five goals against the Devils in last year’s Anzac Day clash.

Expect the Devils to put some time denying future star Josh Huxtable having an impact - especially in the Cobras front half.

The BFNL representative averages more than a goal per game from his opening three appearances, adding to his impressive 27 disposals and 6.7 score involvements (avg).

While x-factor Devils forward Will Johnson has been relatively quiet on the goal front his work inside 50 has been sound, bordering on the unselfish as the mounting number of crumb goals in the opening two games will attest.

Should be a belter if the Cobras can get into the game early. The Devils will again carry the warm favourites tag into the Derby in front of home fans and will run out the game accordingly after two previous come from behind wins.

An upset win for the Cobras would officially announce their arrival as a genuine contender but I’m tipping we will have to wait until their next meet in the second half of the season to see the Cobras at their best.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

On current form the Swans will look to put this game away early against the Lakers, banking important percentage which could play a crucial role at the business end.

The Swans have the dynamic to stretch the Lakers in areas they haven’t been already despite two 90+ point losses.

This hit out will tell us about the offensive capabilities of the Swans with a predicted game on their own terms for long enough to post an intimidating score.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, albeit a small sample size, their trip to Alfredton Oval looks every bit daunting given star playmaker Jake Lohmann (back) is likely to miss another week. Consistent utility Angus Gove (elbow) is also sidelined.

While there were positive signs from newcomers Alfred Jarnestrom and Will Fordham, the scoreboard in isolation poses a harrowing issue for the Lakers to make an impression.

Containing Swans pair Biggie Nyuon and Patrick Graham in their time spent forward will test the magnet moving ability of Lakers’ coach Rohan Brown and his staff let alone a team defence approach.

Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti is an invaluable asset applying his craft but numbers around the source are in need of a major spike to deny the Swans a copy-paste version of the Lakers’ opening two rounds.

Brown will show up in full swing with his charges expecting to win but the reality is, on the back of two 24-goal concedes in as many matches, it’s hard to envisage the needle moving enough to trouble the Swans.

The improved structure and experience at the Swans has seen continued growth in their spread stocks despite a 15-point loss to the Burra last week.

While the Lakers focus of attention leans to the resting tall timber forward, do not discard the lead up ability of Jack O’Brien who has proven more than capable hitting the scoreboard.

O’Brien on first impressions resembles the old school lead up forward who can take a grab and convert.

So, what’s a par result for the Lakers come the final siren?

Earning the tick of approval from their coach and fellow teammates in the effort and execution space would be a small step forward in the direction many anticipated a given at the start of the season.

Sure, the Lakers are coming from a fair way back but even a hint of the Anzac spirit shown on such a special day will at least ask questions of a Swans outfit who are expected to win and win well.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The “system based” Bloods head to the wide expanses of Clarke Oval for another crack at the Lions in a replay of last year’s preliminary final.

While a repeat of the nail-biting draw witnessed at Marty Busch Reserve at their last outing is improbable, we can at least forecast a close one on present form, acknowledging a small sample size.

Both sides are 1-1 on the win/loss front but something tells me it’s Troy Scoble’s visiting party that have more at stake regarding their early standing in the competition.

Sure, the Bloods beat up on their “bunnies” in the Lakers last week but this well drilled Lions outfit will ask questions of the depth at Scoble’s disposal given up to five premiership players Ryan Carter, Jordy Kight, Ryan Davis, Lachie Watkins and Max Scoble are likely to be sidelined for another week.

There’s rarely any place to hide on Clarke Oval as the Bloods found out at their last visit, beaten comfortably, 100-40.

The Bloods managed just six goals for the afternoon, four coming off the boot of gun, spiritual leader Braedan Kight.

Scoble would be the first to concede they were handed a lesson around the ball, but the return of Jackob Hickey will provide a major boost despite the Lions inclusion of Josh Guthrie who too missed the Round 18 clash.

With the unlikelihood of Jake Sutton taking his part, the onus on the Lions reaping a greater spread of goalkickers remains a work in progress despite obvious dangers, Daniel Johnston and Pat Scanlon.

The once revered, organised, impenetrable defence of the Bloods has shown encouraging signs in the opening couple of weeks with Jordy Cotter, Harry Handley and Adrian Monitto in full flight, and cherry ripe for the challenge.

Sunbury have won eight (twice v Melton) of their last 11 BFNL games, losing only to Darley.

So, this potential classic will tell us more about the Bloods than it will the Lions who are likely to be without Sutton, Mitch McLean (quad), Zach Stephens (broken arm), Jack Newitt (test) and speedster Cody Bramble (test) who is nears a long-awaited return from an ACL.

“Prep” should be familiar for Lions’ coach Matty White in the “oppo” space.

Contain the Carters, the Kights and the rebound of Cotter and Handley - you’re halfway there.

Easier said than done.

Scoop’s tip: Sunbury

The Burra must continue its winning momentum when they host the Lions under the lights at Marty Busch Reserve from 6.15pm.

The equation should hold no ‘left field’ surprises for Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer, but what will be asked of his undefeated charges is consistency.

That alone, given the Burras’ opening two wins, should be enough despite key pairing Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell likely to be sidelined for another week.

Sebastopol’s three GFL gains in the off season are mounting their claim among the top echelon of pickups already, despite the small sample size.

The Burra must be travelling alright if former St Joey’s talent Felix Henderson could not make it into the ‘best’ last week after his brow raising 36 disposal return against Ballarat.

And let’s not forget the Burras organic stocks that have featured prominently in the opening two rounds.

X-factor forward Adam Forbes (nine goals) leads the Tony Lockett Medal tally and is sure to attract the attention of Redan coach Marc Greig in his planning.

Veteran leader Luke Kiel is expected to make a swift return raising the degrees of difficulty for the visitors.

Sure, the Burra downed the highly touted Swans in their last hit out by a modest 15 points but it was the 32 scoring shots to 22 that drew the attention, giving every indication Lockyer’s army will prove the testing material against any opposition moving forward.

Redan however, fairness to them, won’t be rocking up under the lights for a party - in fact Greig’s Pride, a balanced mix of youth and experience will embark on Marty Busch Reserve with every intention of winning.

Following their 92-point win over the Lakers, the Lions showed plenty of grit to outscore 2025 Grand Finalists Sunbury in the second half last week, giving every indication this twilight meet could be closer than once thought.

The Bond boys, Taj and Lachie, pose an aerial threat of concern for the Burras’ back six, especially if ball magnets Brodie Pope and Rory Gunsser can extricate some forward half momentum.

The wealth of experience from both camps will come as no surprise to Lockyer or Greig given their celebrated history. With that comes undeniable, mutual respect.

Just who can settle first under the elements, albeit night footy, and make the most of their opportunities will go a long way determining the result.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Roosters host the next generation talent of the Kangaroos at Mars Stadium on Sunday.

Experienced mentor and Roosters’ coach Clint Proctor will look at putting this game to bed early, fully aware the potential dangers a young group with any momentum present.

The Kangas, despite a 0-3 record, took it up to the all-conquering Devils last week, leading the game until very late, before Brett Bewley and Billy Myers found another level to deny coach Joe Carmody the upset of the season.

Proctor would’ve seen the vision, the buy-in across the board from the Kangas, palpable.

The experienced heads at East Point are leading by example, all have earned the nod of approval featuring prominently in the best players.

Rising star Jarrod Joyce is proving a focal point up forward and surely the attention of the Roosters’ hierarchy for a targeted role.

Match ups aside, North Ballarat needs to reclaim its aura at Mars Stadium. The days of fearing the Roosters on their home deck are feeling like a thing of the past for rival teams.

The Roosters fell short in their season opener against Ballarat making it three losses from their last four home games.

Time to make a statement, a correction on that if they’re to pose a genuine title threat moving forward.

The Roosters have enviable talent, and a more mature mix of youth and experience than, not only the Kangas, but most BFNL sides.

Sam Glover, Josh Morris and Denver Grainger-Barras would stretch any opposition in local footy, let alone Jai Lockett and Jamie Quick on a good day around the sticks.

What you get from Brock Leonard, Elliott Lamb and Isaac Carey is a model of consistency while Sam Artz, Darby McGuigan, Harvey Lewis, Wilbur Shea, Taj Bowman and Will Quinlan are just some of the running types between the arcs capable of impacting games on a weekly basis.

All bring form into Sunday’s hit out with East Point who is committed to the rebuild naming up to seven players with 10 games or less senior experience.

As brave as the Kangas were last week, the task for a predominantly young group to reproduce those “highs’ will be a tough one.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

With the action heating up, Round 4 supplies some must win clashes already at this point of the season as our clubs look to consolidate their early starts.

While the Swans sit comfortably inside the top six ahead of the ledger (2-1 & 126%), closing the gap between their best and worst remains an ongoing mission for coach Ash Baker.

You could’ve knocked the competition interest over with a feather last week to find the Swans trailing the Lakers at half time on current form.

Credit to the Lakers for showing signs of improvement albeit for a half before the Swans got back to work, going on to win by 57 points.

Unfortunately for Redan, they need everything to go their way on the injury front having witnessed firsthand last week the problems a few key outs can have on a young group with up to 10 players representing, still eligible for the Under 19s.

What we have found, for those that didn’t know already Marc Greig is the ideal mentor for a developing group and is surrounded by some key experience both on and off field.
The Lions at their peak will trouble all sides for periods but for how long separates those inside the six from those who are not.

Another challenge presents for Greig up against the tall timber at the Swans.

Containing Biggie Nyuon and Patrick Graham forward is a tough ask as we refer to every week not to mention Alex Keath across half back.

Swans midfielder Brad Crouch had arguably his best game last week and will look to carry on that form against more challenging opposition as they come to hand.

The Lions are clearly at a loss without Brodie Pope (finger) and Lachlan Bond (suspended).

The Swans are doing enough for periods to find the line; their best is very good.

Harnessing momentum against will be a watch for the Swans given you would expect their time spent with it, will prove more than enough to earn the points.

Scoop’s tip:  Ballarat

The Roosters will look to consolidate their recent form with a third win on the trot when they host a wounded Sunbury at Mars Stadium.

While Clint Proctor’s group made light work of an East Point side four games into a rebuild, it would be bordering on ignorance if you were not impressed with what the Roosters delivered.

Their Round 2 win over Bacchus Marsh a week earlier was essentially the first step into how the Roosters want to look like under Proctor in his second year at the helm.

Any resemblance of further progress from Proctors group will spell trouble for Matty White’s travelling party who sit in 8th place on the ladder and just one win from their opening three games.

Expect at least a handful of Sunbury players from their 2025 grand final side to miss, not to mention Josh Guthrie (hamstring) and newcomer Keenan O’Shea, elevating the hosts to outright favourites.

Nonetheless, Proctor can’t afford to contemplate the ‘have nots’ out of the Sunbury camp, rather continue the build on his own plan that is showing plenty of promise in the opening month.

The organisation and form of Sam Glover and Josh Morris down back, the run and carry of next gen trio Taj Bowman, Will Quinlan and  Reggie Palmer and heavy load shouldered by Brock Leonard, Elliott Lamb and Tom Bromley-Lynch has given forwards Denver Grainger Barrass, Jye Lockett and Jamie Quick a host of entries to capitalise - and that they are!

Sunbury’s makeshift 22 will arrive with a plan, some with an opportunity to cement a spot, proving their worth on the big stage.

I don’t envy White’s mission without the likes of Jake Sutton, Zach Stevens, Jordan Tentonello, Mitch McLean, Guthrie and O’Shea.

On paper, it’s North Ballarat who hold the aces despite the Lions undeniable top end talent led by Jake Egan and Tyson Lever.

However, if the Roosters are slightly off their tucker, beware of the hungry Pride.
White is a proud leader of his men so expect an immediate response from last week’s 83-point drubbing at the hands of Melton.
If the Roosters can withstand the heat early in the name of a hunting Pride, North Ballarat will be well on their way consolidating a spot in the top six (3-1) ahead of another blockbuster home game against the Bloods (2-1).

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

Expect the Devils’ 23-game winning streak to be challenged on Saturday when they head to MacPherson Park to take on the Bloods.

Sure, the Bloods will be a little shy of their best 22 but they have proven a bogie team for Dan Jordan’s all conquering army having won four of the past five meetings.

For the record the Devils last defeat came in Round 1 last year at the hands of the Bloods at this very venue.

Melton coach Troy Scoble will have had this ‘Match of the Round’ on his radar for some time and done his due diligence on the progression of the Devils.

While appreciating the reigning premier’s obvious firepower, you can take it to the bank Scoble will back in his system getting the job done.

You know what you’re going to get from the Devils, the evidence speaks for itself. They’re healthy, on the up into the new season and hunting the complete four quarter performance.

Denying the Devils intent will be an afternoon long battle for the Bloods who returned with a bang on the road last week, thrashing Sunbury by 83 points.

Jordan will have done his homework and plotted his own plan undoing the Bloods in front of their own fans.

Playmakers Braedan Kight, Liam Carter, Kyle Borg and rebound defender Jordy Cotter loom the obvious threats derailing the Devils dream run.

Kight arrives on the back of eight goals last week and will have earned a target match up.

In the last three season’s the x-factor forward has been held goal less just once - extraordinary effort.

But where do you start if you’re Scoble trying to find the right balance between containing the Devils’ mounting star power and etching a plan offensively capable?

While the 2024 premiership coach has found a way in all bar one of his matchups with the Devils, Scoble would be the first to concede a repeat success given the current landscape would be his best yet.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The spirited Burra will look to maintain their early season form with a big win over the Lakers at CE Brown Reserve.

For Tony Lockyer’s men eyeing a 4-0 start, they will want to use Saturday’s hit out as the final tune up ahead of ‘big boy’ month with meetings against Sunbury (A), Darley (H), North Ballarat (H) and Melton (A) to follow.

Sebastopol are flying at the moment - even without key midfielders Lachie Cassidy and Bailey Medwell, who are closing in on a timely return.

In their absence, the Burra have used the opportunity to explore the ‘make-up’ of their midfield and what it looks like moving forward - all at the feet of in-form ruckman Toby Hutt.

Newcomers Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley and Joel Edwards have announced their arrivals at Sebastopol with an impressive opening month.

All have enjoyed either high numbers around the ball or in Edwards’ case, a bag of five goals last week just to loosen the collar.

The former GFL trio have taken some of the attention away from more familiar names in Jack Bambury, Luke Kiel, Hutt and Lockyer himself who continues to pose one of the more difficult match ups in the competition.

While Lockyer would be the first to acknowledge the challenges ahead, the task at hand in the form of the Lakers cannot be underestimated.

A win foremost, getting through unscathed, improving touch, connection and compliance will be high on Lockyer’s wish list for this week, plain and simple.

For Rohan Brown’s Lakers, how encouraging was it to see them lead the Swans at half time last week with spruik recruits Will Fordham and Corey Rich featuring prominently.

Hopefully the first half was replayed to the group during the week as motivation for what buy-in and belief will get you.

“More of the same for longer please”, will not only be Brown’s wish, but that from the competition more broadly.

The BFNL would love to see the Lakers give this a shake, but on form you can’t go passed the Burra making the perfect 4-0 start to their season.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Round 5 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

As the colder weather sets in the action is heating up as we enter a scintillating Round 5 fixture with plenty of questions looking to be answered. 

The Cobras should be fresh and raring to go after a week off ahead of their must win clash against Redan at Maddingley Park.

Coach Dennis Armfield has utilised the time well to work on a few things and will be hopeful a response in the compliance space is restored after their disappointing second half fade out against the Devils in Round 3.

The Cobras impressed winning their opening two games but struggled to maintain the spark for long enough in their previous two.

It’s hoping a timely rest, a reset of sorts, proves the catalyst for a return to the winners list.

While the Cobras will start warm favourites, you can’t put a reservation on the capabilities of a young side like Redan given any momentum.

There are just enough experienced soldiers in the Lions’ camp to help steer the ship if they’re in a position to win.

One thing is for certain; Redan are well coached and will not leave any stone unturned despite having 18 of their 22 last week aged 21 or under.

While out classed against unbeaten Sebastopol, the Lions were in their game at halftime against Ballarat, within five goals of Sunbury and did what they had to when putting away the Lakers.

Greig’s pride will be buoyed with the inclusion of more experienced campaigners Lachlan Bond, Jordy Grant and Jacob Werts (test) while they will have to wait on the availability of Rory Gunsser who debuted for Geelong VFL. Ball magnet Brodie Pope remains sidelined with a work injury.

The Cobras will be made to earn the points, with onus on their mid-forward connection to be a major player determining the length of separation on the scoreboard.

Jake Owen is the obvious focal point, but there are a number of others more than capable impacting the contest in the air or at ground level if the game can be played on the Cobras terms.

Whether silky mover Josh Huxtable attracts the attention of a tag will be a watch out of the Greig camp given his creative influence.

Given the age profile at Greig’s disposal, it’s not about wins and losses but he’ll give them every chance to orchestrate an upset win on the road. Momentum will be the key for their young group.

Big men Lachie and Taj Bond will ask questions of the Cobras’ defence while the progression of young winger Oliver Pittard (in best 4/4) has been encouraging.

Expect the Cobras to bounce back to the winners list and kick away late after an even first half.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

The Swans remain a work in progress despite their impressive 3-1 start to the season and must embrace their next challenge against East Point accordingly.

While Ash Baker’s group have won a respectable 10/16 quarters this season, they have trailed both the Lakers and Redan at the first change in the last fortnight.

Furthermore, the Lakers still led the Swans at the half, while in Redan’s case, the game was still in the balance with just a goal separating the two..

Sure, East Point haven’t won a game in the infancy of their rebuild but a sniff of momentum afforded to the Kangas may be all they need to scare the Swans, chasing the complete four quarter performance.

The Kangas should be fresh after the week off in an otherwise demanding competition, to hit the ground running albeit on the road at Alfredton Oval.

Can the Swans deny the midfield experience still at the Kangas’ first use and minimise their forward half entries?

Expect the contest to be ferocious early, a battle of ‘the first to crack’.

While Baker will be all over the Swans correcting on their slow starts, you can guarantee the Kangas will see that stat in isolation as an opportunity to kickstart momentum, despite the underdogs tag.

There’s many a proud member within the Kangas’ line up who would be frustrated with the reality of a 0-4 ledger that can often translate following a reset.

So, heed the advice Swans, get cracking early or risk these proud Kangas coming for you on your home deck.

Star Kangas’ utility Jacob Brown returns and will champing at the bit to have an immediate impact after what he endured (watching) on the sidelines against North Ballarat.

The Swans have an exciting mix of player type and capabilities. Getting that enviable spread to connect over four quarters would be the testing material for any opposition.

For the immediate task at hand however, another forward showing from Baker’s bevy, a game on their terms for longer, should be enough to hold out a willing and eager Kangas outfit.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The Roosters are beginning to live up to early (external) expectations with three wins on the bounce but must raise the bar again to overcome the Bloods.

North Ballarat coach Clint Proctor is no fool and would have watched the Bloods tape and identified how they were able to get away with the Devils again.

One win over the reigning premiers could be considered a surprise but five of the last six - that’s a pattern.

Proctor must find the ‘solution’ if they’re to deny an underestimated, understrength Bloods’ system.

The Roosters had two cracks at the Bloods last year and could’ve and should’ve won them both!

A failed third attempt, albeit their first meeting in 2026, will shed further light on where the two teams are at.

The Bloods have little to prove given their recent successes and will embrace the underdogs tag for a third week in a row like a duck to water.

However, given the Bloods’ past fortnight and the realities of ongoing injury and unavailability, don’t be surprised if coach Troy Scoble opts for the ‘long game’ or preservation mode for the Mars Stadium assignment.

The ‘Blooderhood’, still a handful shy of their best, will back in their system that withstood all of Sunbury and Darley, roll with their youth and see what that delivers.

No point wasting crucial assets if indeed they’re not ready - in May!

North Ballarat are flying in all areas of the ground at the moment, the buy-in and compliance under captain Elliott Lamb and Proctor is palpable.

The Roosters have won 11 of their previous 12 quarters, including their last two games at home.

Unfortunately for the Bloods, their much-celebrated defence will need to contain Denver Grainger Barras in what will likely be his last game until August due to travel. Also consider dangerous pair Jamie Quick and Jye Lockett who have hit the scoreboard with a bag of six goals and five respectively in the last fortnight.

Despite the Bloods’ unquestionable momentum with wins over both of last year’s grand finalists in successive weeks, surely, they can’t reproduce that level again and deny a fit and fresh Roosters outfit keen to make a statement of their own in front of home fans and the competition more broadly.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

After a taxing month against four of last year’s finalists the Devils get the opportunity to spread their wings on home soil against the winless Lakers.

Sure, their 23-game winning streak came to a surprise end for a few last week, but the reality is the Bloods have won five of their last six meetings head-to-head under Troy Scoble.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan will use the afternoon to work on any areas of their game he has identified needs room for improvement ahead of a huge match up on the road with Sebastopol (currently 4-0) in Round 6.

If I was to be picky the reigning premier’s first quarters are in need of a spark having returned below par numbers of 8.16 on the scoring front, clearly their worst of any term in their opening four rounds.

The Lakers are 6.12 in the same stat for measure.

The form of dual Henderson Medallist and Devils’ captain Brett Bewley sees him in rare air with a collective 100 disposals over the last fortnight.

Touted Lakers’ off-season additions not shy on experience will see first-hand the buy-in the former Fremantle Docker provides leading by example.

Will Fordham, Corey Rich, Alfred Jarnestrom and Louis Antonac are four quality players tipped to have an impact on the Lakers’ fortunes, but a first win still eludes them.

The assignment for Rohan Brown’s group, who concede just shy of 150 points per game on average across the first four rounds, does not get any easier heading into one of the toughest road trips in the BFNL.

The Devils will be hungry to atone for their loss last week and regain the kind of touch that saw them so dominant for the best part of 12 months.

The timing for the Lakers copping the Devils is not ideal.

Expect favourable, compelling numbers to bat deep for Jordan’s men in the aftermath, not to mention on the goal front.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The embattled Sunbury Lions face another gruelling test in more ways than one when they prepare for the undefeated Burra at the weekend.

Six missing staples from the Sunbury line up last week will face fitness tests in a race against time to aid the rebound off two compelling losses to Melton and North Ballarat.

Josh Guthrie, Fraser Ampulski, Tyson Cook, Brock Landt (unlikely), Mitch McLean and Nathan Wood will be put through their paces for a desperate recall.

The timing of the draw didn’t help Matty White’s depleted pride at all, copping the Bloods, the Roosters and now the high-flying Burra.

White, like opposing coach Tony Lockyer, is quite the diplomat in these circumstances.

It’s an “it is what it is” scenario despite the obvious frustrations. From the outside, you have to wonder if the Lions’ interrupted prep with weddings, cricket finals and the like has denied them the ideal preparation with most having missed large periods of games in the pre-season.

Anyway, enough of that. White has made zero reference to the quandary the Lions are in on the casualty front so let’s reason with the ‘what haves’.

Well, what Sebastopol ‘have’ is a thriving list arriving on the back of four wins.

However, the Burra’s next month will tell us more of where they sit in the pecking order having played three of the bottom four sides who have won just one game between them.

Sebastopol’s three recruits from the GFL in Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley and Joel Edwards have been significant - they would be loving their short time in the new colours.

I’m sure Lockyer would’ve advised them of the realities that lay forward despite the week-by-week cliche approach.

Looks like Lockyer will get the Lions well shy of their best 22 but it won’t stop him from reaching higher, asking more of their own capabilities.

Bailey Medwell and Lachie Cassidy returned last week and will be better for the run, timely ahead of a trip to Clarke Oval.

Leading forward Joel Edwards will be brimming with confidence on the back of his 12 goals last week as would Adam Forbes given his consistency around the sticks.

The competition is very even for the most part, the intent on the footy uncompromising regardless of the score line.

If the Burra cannot overcome a vulnerable Lions outfit that would be a disappointing result for Lockyer.

In closing, the Burra have spent too long dealing with their own frustrations over recent times - they’re as fit and as healthy as they’ve been in years.

Lockyer has lived through it all - best make it count!

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

Round 6 Football Preview with Scoop

The Round 6 fixture promises plenty of big blockbusters as teams continue to grapple over the BFNL ladder while looking for valuable wins across the board.

There’s arguably no more important game amidst a blockbuster Round 6 BFNL fixture when the Cobras host the Lions at Maddingley Park.

While we savoured the heroics of Sunbury’s backs-to-the-wall win over Sebastopol last week, Matty White’s pride must stay in the present or risk falling short against a more than capable Cobras outfit under Dennis Armfield.

The Cobras’ 65-point win over Redan last week may have been lost in the wash to a degree given it was not only their biggest win of the season but Redan’s second biggest loss in their opening five rounds.

Armfield’s quiver did a lot right last week at this very venue, their key players were not only significant but the contributions from their next tier were enough to suggest they will take it right up to last year’s grand finalists who may take some time shaking the emotional highs of last week.

The reality is the Cobras are sixth with three wins (99%) and Sunbury seventh on two wins (75%). Given the sample size of the opening five rounds, we can safely assume the race for a spot in the top six is down to seven teams.

Just who can record the best results head-to-head against those seven are likely to feature, adding further weight of importance to this contest.

How will the four players for Sunbury who returned from injury front up on the road second up? The nature of injury can lean to a second up plateau in performance, anything resembling that could spell danger for White’s pride.

If Bacchus Marsh can start on the right foot like they did last week it will go a long way towards claiming a second scalp already this year. Season results so far indicate you don’t want to be chasing the game, arresting momentum.

While both sides have shown they can put together back-to-back goals for periods, similar concedes (goals against) guarantee this game will be decided in the ‘momentum’ space.

Sunbury welcome back reigning Henderson Medallist Jake Egan (Essendon VFL) and is likely to be a thorn in the Cobras’ fortunes for the most part.

Cobras spearhead Jake Owen is a handful at the best of times and will ask questions of a Sunbury defence who thrive on rebound led by Tyson Lever.

Quality of entries aiding that mid-forward connection will also be a telling feature as Lions’ forward pair Daniel Johnston and Pat Scanlon look for any aerial advantage.

Gee, my gut was leaning to Bacchus Marsh to cause an upset until I heard of Egan’s imminent return.

After more thought, the sense of an upset still remains. Ignore the current standings of the McDonald’s BFNL ladder, the Lions are favourites albeit on the road.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

The Swans leave the city of Ballarat for the first time this season for an enthralling meeting with the Bloods.

It’s always a test down the highway given the four sides in the ‘East’ all played finals last year.

Sure, Ballarat enjoyed an afternoon of the finals action themselves but outside of ‘Brick city’ for the touring party, the degrees of difficulty are raised, like it or not.

However, Swans’ coach Ash Baker will arrive confident he has the right mix of experience and talent, not to mention Ballarat’s point of difference.

The reference to the tall timber stocks at the Swans does get a little monotonous but the reality is - they are the significant point of difference.

Expect Biggie Nyuon to return after a rest from general soreness while Patrick Graham and key back Alex Keith should be keen to exploit their vertical advantage over an unsettled Bloods line up.

Yes, the Bloods can’t take a trick at the moment. In fact, ‘the moment’ is extending near the 12-month period with no less than five players missing from their best 22 from week to week.

Just who lines up for the Bloods this week, not even coach Troy Scoble will know until as late as Saturday morning such has been the frustrations of sidelined personnel.

If the Bloods can recapture the form that saw them account for last year’s grand finalists in successive weeks in Rounds 3 and 4, surely that alone makes a genuine case for them getting the job done on their own ‘dung hill’.

The Bloods have proven they can scrap with the best despite ‘men down’, their wins over Sunbury, Darley and last year’s preliminary final near miss will attest.

What version we see of the ‘Bloodahood’ this weekend will tell its own story on the scoreboard come 5pm.

Last week, up and about early before getting smashed. The ‘tipping point’ had finally claimed the Bloods for the last three quarters at Mars Stadium.

Can they bounce back quickly and deny a progressive Swans bevy, potentially vulnerable first up on the road?

The Swans’ list of talent rivals the Bloods on paper, however getting it done at Maccy Park gives me a leaning toward the hosts, but I wouldn’t be surprised if mistaken.

In the event of the Swans claiming the points it’s then they will have announced their arrival as a legitimate contender with a tough month ahead post the interleague bye.

If the Swans get the road scalp, three of their next four games are at home despite stiff opposition, a real chance to set up their season already buoyed with a 4-1 start.

For the Bloods, they can’t afford to look too far ahead - just one week at a time given their situation. No win can be considered a ‘lock’ given their current landscape.

Something tells me they might do enough to hold out the Swans in a tight one.

Curious to see how Scoble deals with the trumpeter Swans and how Baker denies the Bloods rebound defence and x-factor forward Braedan Kight an afternoon on their terms.

Should be a ‘biggie’!

Scoop’s tip: Melton

While the timing for the Lions to host red-hot North Ballarat is not ideal, coach Marc Greig will embrace the challenge as another opportunity for his young group to grow.

The Roosters have won their last four games in a row and sit on top of the BFNL table with a superior percentage and will look to build on that ahead of the May 23rd break.

Just to revisit that timing notion mentioned at the top for a second, Saturday will mark the highly anticipated debut of former SANFL ruckman Dave Brinker-Ritchie in Roosters’ colours.

The North Melbourne VFL listed talent has been held back due to ongoing knee soreness but has been cleared to play, adding to the spoil of riches at coach Clint Proctor’s disposal.

In fairness Proctor hasn’t had it all his own way in recent weeks with injuries to Brock Leonard (knee), Wilbur Shea (shoulder - season), Fletcher Loader (foot - season) and the more recent departure of Denver Grainger-Barras who is heading overseas (pre-planned) before a return to finals.

It’s arguably the first time Proctor, now in his second year, can openly cope with losing a few soldiers given the way his team have bought into the structure and execution of a plan.

While there were never any doubts on the Roosters’ a-grade spine, the impact of their spread players was always going to ask questions.

If the opening five rounds are any indication, the buy-in and compliance of the group has been nothing short of impressive as their place on the BFNL ladder will attest.

Sam Glover and Josh Morris have been the cornerstone in defence, rank one in the competition for scores against (46.2) and have yet to play two of the bottom three sides.

Redan will have very little investment in the numbers which does allow them freedoms without reservation.

Greig has his young group building from week to week endeavouring to stay in games for longer or at least fighting it out to the very finish.

That theory was noted last week despite the Lions’ 65-point loss to the Cobras.

The relatively more experienced Bond boys in Lachlan, Taj and Daniel, alongside Lachlan McLean and sprightly young talent Oliver Pittard provide some dangerous offensive presence while the distribution of Harry Lawson was very encouraging.

Unfortunately, the Lions have too many injuries to key players that would’ve at least made a case for mounting an upset.

While it’s not all about win/loss for Greig in his first season at helm of such a young group, rather an eye to ‘keep moving forward’.

However, the requirements of this editorial says I have to make a call regardless.

Scoop’s tip: North Ballarat

This star-studded matchup between the Burra and the Devils has the potential to go down to the wire when the two sides face off at Marty Busch Reserve.

The Burra were disappointing last week on the road to Sunbury but that, in hindsight, should come as no surprise, considering the proud club has NEVER won at Clarke Oval (0-23).

At home against the Devils won’t be an easy assignment by any stretch for Tony Lockyer’s 4-1 outfit but the weekend bares as good as time as any to take down the reigning premiers, despite an imposing 24-1 record from their last 25 BFNL games.

Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer will welcome the challenge in front of home fans despite their recent struggles against the black and white.

Newcomers Joel Edwards, Jack Buckley, Felix Henderson and returning Bailey Medwell complement an already talented and healthy list ready to embrace another footy audit amidst a testing 2026 season.

The failings of the Burra last week may work in Lockyer’s favour, with a greater focus on their own process as opposed to being preoccupied with the long list of enviable, very real challenges within the Devils’ line up.

Sure, Dan Jordan’s army could not have impressed more last week against the Lakers but the reality is the unofficial competition benchmark has had to come from behind in near all of their games this season to get the job done.

While the Devils remain a work in progress, the degrees of difficulty on the road will ask questions of their resilience putting a four-quarter performance together against quality opposition.

Jordan would be the first to concede such comfort has yet to materialise.

Burra key soldiers in Lockyer, Luke Kiel, Toby and Ben Hutt, Lachlan Cassidy, Adam Forbes and Jack Bambury to name a few, will be fully aware what lies in waiting but for the Devils it’s somewhat of a different story given the hosts off season inclusions and rare, full bill of health.

The Devils’ recent record is compelling, too many names to mention but all too familiar for Lockyer given recent history.

Run with roles, targeted match ups or simply a head-to-head approach lies in the trusting hands of the beholders.

While the stakes pale in comparison to what’s to come at the business end, good

luck convincing either of these league heavyweights.

Should be a cracker, here’s hoping expectations live up to the billing.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

While neither side is yet to win a game, expect the Kangas to enter Saturday’s contest at CE Brown Reserve warm favourites.

Unfortunately, key personnel from both camps are expected to miss.

The Lakers’ highly touted recruit Will Fordham (leg-unlikely) joins integral teammates Jake Lohmann (hamstring), Angus Gove (elbow) and Joel O’Connell (leg) on the sidelines while the Kangas prepare without Jarrod Joyce (knee), Jacob Brown (hamstring), Geordie Slater (knee) and the unlikelihood of inside mid Mickijta Rotomuh-Onus (groin).

The Lakers have shown some resistance early in games including a first half win over the Swans and booted three of the first four goals of the game last week against reigning premiers Darley.

On the flipside the Kangas matched it with the Swans for three quarters to be within touch and stretched the Devils into time on before a late rally from Dan Jordan’s men averted the upset of the season.

The concern for the Lakers is their leaky defence who have been extended little favours from their midfield counterparts in the form of low pressured entries.

Last week was the prime example despite an obvious gulf in class and experience.

The Lakers conceded 26 unanswered goals which is enough to suggest they may need to shift a few magnets, minimising the damage moving forward.

If that example in isolation is not enough, the 162-point average concede over the opening 5 rounds rings alarm bells.

The Kangas have endured their own struggles in the rebuild conceding on average 108 points per game but have been more competitive on the offensive front averaging 54 points per game compared to the Lakers’ 41.

Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody has too many potential winners head-to-head across the ground to be troubled by Rohan Brown’s Lakers for long enough to be concerned.

But try telling that to Carmody!

The experienced mentor won’t take anything for granted, acutely aware of the benefits a win can do for the morale of a club in the infancy of a rebuild.

It’s fair to assume Brown is in a similar boat with his boys, desperate for a win and the spoils that come with it.

However, the reality of the Lakers securing the premiership points appears beyond them.

Expect the Kangas to notch up their first win of the season and celebrate in song as if it were a final.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Round 7 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

After the Interleague bye, the action is back on home turf with plenty of big clashes set to take place this Saturday.

The high-flying Swans (5-1) will be without boom recruit Alex Keath (concussion) for Saturday’s enthralling match up against the Cobras (4-2) at Alfredton Oval.

While the former AFL intercept defender’s absence looms as a mini win for the visitors in the build-up, the emergence of Riley Constable as a bonafide key back doesn’t mean its ‘alarm bells’ for Ash Baker’s bevy.

In fact, the Swans’ defence has continued to improve up from rank 5th in the comp last year to 3rd after the opening six rounds.

The Cobras ‘busy’ front half led by Jake Owen will ask questions of a Swans’ defence without Keath but I’m confident they can hold sway under pressure as they did against Melton (albeit with Keath) restricting them to nine goals for the afternoon.

The ruck battle looms a cracker with Cobras’ big man Luke Goetz up against 200cm pairing Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon.

If the Cobras can deny the Swans tall duo, that will go a long way toward claiming a fourth win against a 2025 finalist already this year.

Biggie does his damage forward, it’s as simple as that, and leads the Tony Lockett Medal race averaging four goals a game.

Just who gets that match up will be a ‘watch this space’ given the lack of genuine height among a Cobras’ defence without Wil Lalor.

The centre clearance battle at the feet of the tall timber will surely play its own role given very little separates the two sides on the numbers front.

If you look at the numbers, they compare nicely.

Bacchus Marsh (62) lead Ballarat (58) for hit outs while averaging two more hitouts to advantage per game (11.8 to 9.7) While the Swans lead clearance 20-17 and centre clearances 11-10.7.

The dogfight 1%s are also evenly matched 45-41 in favour of the Swans.

Baker’s boys are currently ranked one in the comp for pressure and handballs so the challenge for Dennis Armfield’s army will be to bring the heat, denying the Swans a spread on their own terms.

If the Cobras can resemble anything close to their recent win over Sunbury, they’re surely in the mix of joining the Swans on five wins.

The numbers suggest there’ll be very little in it, I guess the one that matters most come 5pm will be the scoreboard. The wash up on the numbers front will be reserved for a later day.

Postcode tip for me.

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

The Kangas will host the Bloods minus four of their big guns Jackson Merrett (season - broken arm), Jacob Brown (hamstring), Jarrod Joyce (knee) and Joe Dodd (four weeks suspended but currently contested).

As if the assignment wasn’t hard enough, especially when the Bloods are 3-3 and in desperate need of a win.

Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody will embrace the occasion as another opportunity to grow the next gen talent into the cornerstone of the club’s future.

While the win/loss stat is not everything at East Point, spare a thought for Melton coach Troy Scoble who is in the ‘premiership window’ but like so many can’t get their best version of themselves on the park.

Expect some change of luck for the Bloods this week with the return of premiership duo Lachlan Walker (concussion) and Ryan Davis (leg).

While the result for many is weighted heavily in the Bloods favour it’s fair to say both camps are clearly frustrated with the mounting injury toll and would rather take each other on at full strength.

Sidelined talent helps neither team. Even the Kangas who are invested in the ‘opportunity space’ would rather be developing their players alongside experienced campaigners Merrett, Brown and the like.

For Scoble at the Bloods, while their situation resembles more like Groundhog Day for another week, it’s time crack in and be grateful for the ‘what have’s’.

While they’re shy on a few soldiers, those standing have proven more than capable and will get the job done again.

Looking for a day out on the road in front of goal for Bloods forward pair Braedan Kight (6 goals from 5 games) and Liam Carter (11 goals from 6 games).

Scoop’s tip: Melton

All roads lead to Marty Busch Reserve for Saturday’s top of the table clash between the Burra and the Roosters.

The hosts have arguably the healthiest list in the comp and will enter the clash near full strength with only Sam Wilkinson likely to miss.

The Roosters have not been as fortunate with speedster Reggie Palmer (broken arm) their latest casualty, set for a period on the sidelines.

Brock Leonard (ACL), Wilbur Shea (shoulder) and Fletcher Loader (foot) are already done for the season while Simon McCartin (calf) and Isaac Carey (knee) are still three and four weeks away respectively.

Some good news however for the Roosters with the likely return of journeyman, key defender Isaac Lovisson who has played just one game since the 2023 grand final.

Lovisson has been in the US plying his trade as a punter in the American football system and was named best on ground in his return game with the Roosters’ Reserves in Round 6.

On the numbers front, very little separates these two sides. Overall pressure (NB+4), hard ball gets (NB+1) and intercept possessions (NB+3) are just three key areas validating the even nature of the match up.

Despite the Roosters slight edge, five game winning streak, and (current) number one ranked defence, my gut feel is somehow with the Burra.

Their dominance to kick away from Darley early in Round 6 and later respond when challenged is an ideal prep for a similar challenge.

Tony Lockyer’s boys have had a chance to rest up, identify the positives, and take learnings from a season defining win.

The mature heads at Sebastopol just may be enough to worry Clint Proctor’s crew out of it in the clinches.

Proctor would be the first to concede his group are on a journey while it feels like the Burra are playing with an edge, making up for lost time.

While a win for either of these big Improvers will do wonders in the belief space moving to 6-1 on top of the BFNL ladder, it’s not the end of the world for the loser.

Should be a belter, a true test of depth stocks for both camps.

Time to kick back and enjoy the show!

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

The Lions get the perfect opportunity at home against the Lakers to work on areas of their game, with an eye toward resembling some of the habits and enjoyment levels that led them to a berth in last year’s grand final.

Sunbury are 2-4 from their opening six games and like many, haven’t had the best run on the injury or availability front.

Coach Matty White is a proud leader of his pride so look for a compliant response on Saturday that equates to a big win on the scoreboard.

Unfortunately for the Lakers they can’t take a trick at the moment both on and off the field. Winless and an injury list to key personnel that would impact any side let alone one who has struggled to just four wins from their last 56 games.

Tireless ruckman Tom Zampatti (ACL) and midfield recruit Will Fordham (awaiting knee scans) are the latest casualties compounding an already difficult season for coach Rohan Brown and his group.

Knowing the character of Brown, expect the Lakers to embrace the road trip and plan on delivering one thing above all else at the weekend - effort.

That at least would appease the frustrations to some degree in the aftermath.

Lions star forward Jake Sutton is likely to return to Sydney while Jake Egan is in line for an Essendon VFL recall.

Key staples Josh Guthrie, Fraser Ampulski, Nathan Doyle and Dean Muir all missed the Lions Round 6 loss to Bacchus Marsh and face fitness tests ahead of their highly anticipated returns.

While a certain inevitability looms around the result, expect both camps to arrive with a number of KPIs they’ll want ticked off within game to validate any further progress.

Four-time premiership player Luther Baker prepares for his 200th game on Saturday when his beloved Devils host Redan at Darley Park.

The reigning premiers will look to assert their authority early having won just one game in May after away losses to Melton and Sebastopol.

But they will be made to earn it.

Redan coach Marc Greig was proud of his fledgling groups effort against ladder leaders North Ballarat at their last outing having pushed to be within eight points at half time.

Unfortunately, the reality is the Lions have struggled to score on relatively good decks since their Round 1 win over the Lakers. In fact, the Lions have just won three of 20 quarters since and are 0-5 for last quarters.

Returns on the goal front since their season opener (10,9,7,9,7) have been modest and Saturdays assignment finding a way through the Devils’ defence looms another tough challenge.

The proud high end of Devils talent will be raring to go, Jordan hopeful they can be ‘in the present’ having put their two recent losses behind them.

For the depth charges, a greater response in the compliance space, that was found wanting against the Burra, would be high on Jordan’s agenda.

For some reason the Lions, regardless of ladder position, have always enjoyed periods of momentum (in games) against the Devils.

However, despite the obvious aerial threats of Lachie and Taj Bond forward of the ball, the Lions inability to keep opposition scores under 100 is compelling 107, 164, 100, 126, 98 last five games.

So, expect the Devils to build on their scoreboard separation the longer this game goes.

What the Lions can hope for is denying the slow starting Devils a game on their own terms.

Darley (excluding Lake Wendouree) has split their first quarter win/losses for the sample size averaging just 16 points for the term. Expect Saturday to be part of the correction from the Jordan camp.

While every team was rapt to have last week off after a high octane start to the season - a spike in the Devils’ hunger levels would not surprise as they look to raise the bar amidst a very challenging title defence for the black and white.

Result aside, you can count on the unofficial ‘Lachie George Cup’ to generate its own point of interest!

Scoop’s tip: Darley

Round 8 Football Preview with 'Scoop'

Round 8 presents some massive road trips as clashes up and down the highway will set the tone of the BFNL's current power rankings.

Bacchus Marsh face an ideal opportunity to atone for last week’s disappointment when they host the Lakers at Maddingley Park.

Dennis Armfield’s group cling to fifth spot on the BFNL table, a game clear of Melton and Sunbury who are sure to mount a challenge on the rise at some stage.

The Cobras, while expected to win, will have to get the job done without prime mover Jake Owen (hamstring).

Evidently Owen’s aerial prowess makes up one of just two key areas the Cobras rank in the ‘elite’ space according to Premier Data.

The other, hitouts - enter Luke Goetz.

The standout ruckman endured a tough afternoon last week, like many of his teammates, up against 200cm mobile Swans pair Patrick Graham and Biggie Nyuon.

Goetz task on Saturday has been made relatively easier in the absence of well-respected Lakers’ ruckman Tom Zampatti who succumbed to a repeat ACL injury three weeks ago.

More broadly the numbers don’t lie for the Cobras. Closing the gap between their best and worst is symptomatic of a young team striving for greater consistency.

Essentially, we’ve seen firsthand how good the Cobras can be and what that looks like but on the flipside for periods against the Devils and the Swans they’ve been found wanting.

In fairness to the Cobras, they are yet to field their best 22 all season and that will remain the case for as long as trump card Jake Owen is sidelined.

Armfield is a positive voice and has the ability to get his boys to lift on the back of disappointment so expect a correction from the Cobras in front of home fans on Saturday.

Given the ‘outs’ at the Cobras, personnel are essentially auditioning on the run to be a part of their best 22 moving forward. That motivation alone should warrant a spike response.

The Cobras would be rapt with the last month from Sam Griffiths and Isaac Nixon and the consistent effort of tireless mid Jack Parente who seems to come up against players out of the VFL and AFL system from week to week.

For Rohan Brown’s Lakers mini wins will again forefront the agenda. Like it or not it’s just the reality of where they’re at.

It’s the second away trip in as many weeks down the highway for the Lakers and their third in five weeks. For the opening half of last week’s loss to Sunbury, Brown’s boys look to be enjoying the bonding nature of footy on the road to be within 11 points.

Clutching at straws I know but the Lakers also kicked three of the opening four goals of the game against the Devils in Round 5.

Can the clear underdogs click early once again and ask questions of a Cobras outfit potentially on the back foot from last week and the injury to Owen?

In the mini win stakes, the Lakers have a chance pinching a first or second quarter, catching the Cobras napping but expect the longer this game goes the hosts will do enough to secure the points and strive for any percentage advantages that come up with it.

The scoreboard will surely reflect the fruits of the Cobras labour as the Lakers endeavour to deny them an afternoon on their own terms.

Scoop’s tip: Bacchus Marsh

Melton (6th) face the difficult task of ladder leaders Sebastopol at MacPherson Park in Saturday’s match of the round in the ‘East’.

While the clearance stat in isolation carries varying degrees of weight from coach to coach, the Bloods will need to address their ‘average’ returns (-7.4 avg) against a deep Burra’s midfield or contemplate the prospect of “chasing the game”.

Furthermore, the Burra rank #1 in the comp for inside 50s with an average of 60 per game, exceeding the previous two dominant premiers in Darley and Melton who were around the mid-50s.

A healthy Bloods outfit would have no reason to fear Tony Lockyer’s flock given they’re prominent in a host of key areas and lead the competition for pressure and intercept possessions.

However, the unwelcomed, overwhelming stat the Bloods have over the Burra is a casualty list they can’t shake leaving them exposed in the ‘bottom six’ conversation.

Lachie Watkins, Ryan Carter, Riley Walker, Brodie Sullivan and latest casualty Adrian Monitto are five players the Bloods missed in last week’s four-point loss to East Point.

All are unlikely to return for this all important stoush against the Burra who could push them outside the six for the first time in a longtime under Troy Scoble.

Sebastopol are seemingly a band of brothers at the moment, healthy and embracing their challenges under Lockyer from week to week.

Lockyer is not getting ahead of himself nor engaging in the potential ceiling of his group just yet.

The ‘flag favourites’ tag was put to the veteran playing coach midweek and duly deflected with a straight bat.

“Settle down mate, settle down!”

When the likes of Lockyer, Toby and Ben Hutt, Lachie Cassidy, Luke Kiel, Jack Bambury, Felix Henderson, Jack Buckley are healthy, streaming up and down the ground as we’ve seen over the last month especially, why wouldn’t you have them in the mix.

Just don’t tell Tony!

Much will be asked of the Bloods core to hold out the Burra. They’ve proven more than capable on their day and having dragged themselves off the canvas on a number of occasions to win games many believe they couldn’t.

The Bloods just aren’t travelling well enough for mine at the moment, but a peak performance would certainly stretch the Burra regardless of their absentees.

However, I’m tipping the wave of the Burra to maintain its momentum for another week in a physical affair.

Scoop’s tip: Sebastopol

2025 Grand Finalists Sunbury will need to bring their best if they’re to trouble the high-flying Swans (6-1) on the road at Alfredton Oval.

The Lions will be required to do it without Sydney Swans VFL, and reigning Tony Locket Medallist Jake Sutton.

Matty White’s Pride are a far cry from their high achieving exploits of 2025 but injuries and inadvertent departures have stalled their progress.

While the inclusions for the Lions have shown encouraging returns, the progressive nature of the Swans has been something to behold - to take up and notice.

Furthermore, their chances can only be improved with the return of former AFL intercept defender Alex Keath. More recent addition, Luke Dunstan’s (ex-AFL St Kilda and Melbourne) is expected to debut in Swans colours next week against Darley.

Ash Baker’s bevy have been able to achieve high end numbers in the ‘keeping off’ space, an area we normally associate with Sunbury and Melton.

Adding further weight to the ‘marks’ conversation in particular, only Sebastopol average more marks inside 50 per game.

For the record, there’s more to the bevy than high profile trio Biggie Nyuon, Alex Keath and Brad Crouch - and the numbers will agree.

The organic growth of the Swans is not dissimilar to the Bloods of yesteryear and the Lions of last season - the impact is palpable.

Pigeonhole the Swans’ top-end at your end peril - they ‘bat deep’, down to their 22nd man, all of whom would get a game in any BFNL team .

What you get with Sunbury, is what you see, what you’re familiar with.

While you can’t underestimate the Lions ceiling on any given day, White was one of the first opposition coaches noting the Swans were on the up.

And that they are, proving that again last week after dominating Bacchus Marsh from the outset.

Sure, the depth stocks at Sunbury are staking their claims to be part of their best 22 moving forward but it’s going to take more, taming the Swans.

I get there’s a certain feel among many, the Lions will do enough to return to finals but don’t count on the ‘hurry up’ with a win over the Swans in Ballarat at the weekend.

Ash Baker’s bevy are the real deal.

Lions beware!

Scoop’s tip: Ballarat

North Ballarat has been decimated with injury and unavailability of 11 front line starters ahead of its match of the round meeting with Darley at Mars Stadium.

Star utility Sam Glover (internal bleeding), Isaac Lovisson (hamstring), Jarrod Curran (hamstring) and Declyn McGuigan (concussion) are the latest casualties from the Roosters camp to be ruled out of the Round 8 blockbuster.

Both sides enter the clash with solid home and away form, locked together on five wins, third (Darley) and fourth (North) on the BFNL ladder.

While the external appetite for this bout has been soured by the mounting casualty list at the Roosters, the same cannot be said for the anticipation held inside both camps as yet another of many on-field footy audits in season 2026 presents.

While this contest is morphing into a throw at the stumps game for Clint Proctor’s Roosters, try telling that to Devils’ mentor Dan Jordan!

The two-time premiership coach will be taking nothing for granted fully aware of the Devils own struggles peaking on the road this year.

The reigning premiers have just one win from three outings in the white shorts and were in trouble during their only success on the road against East Point.

It’s the Roosters’ number one ranked defence vs the Devils’ number one ranked offence if scores for and against are the barometer.

In 13/28 quarters this season, the Roosters have held their opposition to one goal or less which will ask questions of the Devils forward connection.

Only once this season have the Roosters lost the inside 50 count, centre clearance and groundball stat which is validation for their improvement.

Unfortunately for Proctor, there were telling signs last week his group had reached their tipping point.

Gee they’ve been brave and competitive despite the setbacks, and you can count on them leaving it all out there again on Saturday regardless of the result.

The undermanned Roosters will need to find a way curtailing a host of Devils talent well aware of this game’s importance in the context of a very even season.

Gun trio Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Billy Myers arrive in scary touch, while the form of Luther Baker, Mickey Edwards, Joel Cadman and current BFNL leading goal kicker Wil Johnson is on the upward trend which would be music to the ears of Devils fans.

Despite the absentees, the Roosters still carry enough armoury including a home deck to challenge Bewley’s entourage.

It’s advantage North Ballarat in the ruck stocks with newcomers Dave Brinker-Ritchie and Seb Collins while the form of Josh Morris and ‘Glover prodigy’ Dominic Penny in defence has been first class.

Just what the Roosters can manufacture out of dangerous forward pair Jye Lockett and Jamie Quick will tell its own story around the result in the aftermath.

The Devils have been dealt all the favours ahead of their all-important road trip against a Roosters outfit virtually on their knees. It’s up to Jordan and his on-field leaders to ensure they don’t stand up.

Scoop’s tip: Darley

The rebuilding Kangas could find themselves just percentage outside the six with a win over the Lions at Easten Oval on Saturday.

Their chances of a third win of the season will be aided by the potential return of x-factor swing man Jacob Brown who must get through a fitness test on his troublesome hamstring to earn a recall.

Experienced Kangas defender Sam Cue returns from his suspension to bolster stocks against a Redan outfit hopeful of a few inclusions of their own - namely Brodie Pope, Jake Connolly, Oscar Henderson and Liam Hoy

While it was no surprise to see the Lions outclassed against a more seasoned Devils unit last week, the Kangas win over the Bloods certainly raised a few eyebrows across the competition AND at home.

Despite their eighth placing on the BFNL table the Kangas have managed to maintain their reputation as an above average side in clearance and groundball numbers according to Premier data.

Ruckman Thomas Brown, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Joe Dodd (suspended) and Liam Canny have proven the catalyst around stoppage, while the safe return of Alex Molan and Jarrod Joyce (three goals) last week, saw the Kangas resemble something closer to the best version of themselves.

Just what to expect from a young Redan side is a difficult proposition despite just one win separating the two sides.

Not dissimilar to East Point, Redan coach Marc Greig has enjoyed little luck on the injury front in his first season in charge with Taj Bond (broken foot) their latest casualty.

A return date for the key ruck/forward has not been confirmed and I can’t see the Lions pinching a result without him.

Lions revelation Oliver Pittard continues to take steps forward in the infancy of his senior career and remains the only player in the BFNL to be named in the best in all seven games.

Unfortunately for Redan however, excluding their big win over the Lakers in Round 1, they have won just three quarters and are 0-6 for last quarters.

If Joe Carmody’s Kangas can find some separation through the middle part of the game the likes of Joyce and Brown (test) could have a day out.

While Redan usual suspects Lachie Bond, Rory Gunsser, Jacob Werts and Pittard loom the four players to lead the resistance, the Kangas can’t afford to underestimate impact returns from Pope, Connolly, Henderson and Hoy.

The challenge for Greig and his pride will be denying the hosts an afternoon on their own terms.

I’m not sure they can for long enough at Eastern Oval to sway opinion.

Scoop’s tip: East Point

Redan started it's 2023 campaign under new coach Gary Learmonth with an emphatic 92 point win over a disappointing Lakers outfit in Good Friday's stand alone fixture at City Oval.

IN A NUTSHELL

Experienced Lions’ big guns stole the show with midfielder Lachie George named best afield and Grant Bell finishing with a game high five goals.

Reigning Club best and fairest and rising star Isaac Grant joined in bagging four majors while Jack Fitzpatrick's Lakers could manage just one of their own for the entire afternoon coming via the boot of Nathan Pring.

Learmonth and Lions fans would have been all smiles over the Easter weekend before a birds-eye view opportunity, scoping future opponents presents at the conclusion of round one matches this coming Saturday.

For the Lakers, a 15-day break ahead of their round two meeting with Ballarat provides some valuable time to work on the fundamentals and improve connection.

Redan (Goals); G.Bell 5, I.Grant 4, L.McLean 2, H.Lawson, D.Phillips, L.Hoy, D.Bond, L.George.

Lakers (Goals); N.Pring.

Redan (Best); L.George, G.Bell, W.Madden, I.Grant, L.Phillips, J.Werts.

Lakers (Best); P.James, E.Preston, L.O'Connell.

COACHES VERDICT

Gary Learmonth (Redan); "I was really happy with our commitment. Our pressure around the ball was excellent and our willingness to share the ball gave us plenty of forward entries to kick a winning score."

Jack Fitzpatrick (Lake Wendouree); "The fact we went from 5 goals down at the 21-minute mark of the third quarter to losing by just under 100 is incredibly disappointing. Redan played very well, credit to them. “They belted us up around the ball and used it better than we did."

The BFLW is proud to announce Federation University as the inaugural BFLW Finals Series naming rights partner.

Federation has today been announced as the naming partner of the upcoming BFLWomens finals series and grand finals, commencing this Sunday the 14th of August 2022. 

The partnership will see Federation not only as naming partner of the now Federation BFLW Finals Series and Federation BFLW Grand Finals but will provide valued support to grow female football in Ballarat and regional Victoria. 

Since its inception in 2021, BFLWomens has continued to grow and be the home of female football participation across regional Victoria from Melton, Maryborough and across the wider Ballarat district. 

Support from Federation will ensure the McDonald's Ballarat FNL, as custodians of female football in the region, can continue to build on the current competition with the stated aim of maximising female sports participation. 

Ballarat FNL General Manager, Shane Anwyl 

“The partnership with Federation is an exciting step in the growth of female football, and more broadly participation across Ballarat. The Ballarat FNL is committed to the growth of female sport and an 'access for all' priority”. 

Federation is Victoria’s leading regional university focused on transforming lives and enhancing communities. They have a 152-year history of partnering with community, industry and government to meet the needs of the regions they serve. 

Federation University Vice-Chancellor, Liam Sloan 

“We are proud to be partnering with BFLW in the inaugural finals series for the League and look forward to enjoying the competition during the Federation Finals Series and supporting the growth of women in sport in Ballarat and surrounding areas. This collaboration between Federation and BFLW is driven by our shared value of inclusion and common goal of equality in sport."