Castlemaine

IT’S second against third as Gisborne plays Castlemaine in Saturday’s 11^th round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Gisborne has home-court advantage at Gardiner Reserve for a crucial match against the Magpies.

When these clubs met in round two it was the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne which won 43-35 at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Both teams had emphatic victories in round 10 going into last weekend’s general bye.

Gisborne won at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park by 22 goals, and Castlemaine marked a 36-goal win at home against Maryborough in the all-Magpies showdown.

The Bulldogs go into this match on an 8-2 record, but wary of the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Magpies who have a win-loss tally of 7-2.

Castlemaine’s match at Kyneton in the sixth round was not played, so a draw was declared.

Separated by just two points this match could be a prelude to a qualifying final, but Kangaroo Flat will be doing all it can to climb into third place.

The Kangaroos could be there by Saturday afternoon, provided they beat South Bendigo and Castlemaine is beaten.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos make their way to Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval to take on South Bendigo.

Both teams are on the rebound from defeat.

Kangaroo Flat will be keen to bounce back from a 19-goal loss to Sandhurst, while South Bendigo’s three-goal loss at Eaglehawk has thrown the race to decide fifth place wide open.

In round two it was the Roos who beat the Bloods by 15 goals at Dower Park.

Past five games for the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo have been a draw, win, and three defeats.

Two of those losses were up against Gisborne and Castlemaine.

South Bendigo holds fifth place, but is under intense pressure from Kyneton and Strathfieldsaye.

After playing the Roos, South Bendigo then heads to Kyneton, is back home to play Golden Square, and then on the road to meet Sandhurst at the QEO, and then play at Strathfieldsaye.

The unbeaten Sandhurst is back at Queen Elizabeth Oval to take on Kyneton.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst welcomes back key defender Imogen Sexton from overseas.

A talented line-up coached by Tamara Gilchrist includes Heather Oliver at goal defence, Bec Smith in attack, and Meg Williams in the centre.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers played well to be within 11 goals of Sandhurst at Kyneton Showgrounds in round two.

Latest hit-out for the yellow and black ended in a 69-20 win at Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval.

Upcoming matches for Kyneton are against South Bendigo at home, then at Maryborough, home against Gisborne, and off to Castlemaine.

A win at Golden Square could put Strathfieldsaye on to the fifth rung, should South Bendigo be beaten.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm will start favourite to beat the blue and gold on the Wade Street court.

In round two, Storm won 78-29 against the Bulldogs at Triple M Park.

It’s a tough run ahead of Storm as it plays at Castlemaine in the 12^th round, Sandhurst at the QEO, at Eaglehawk, and then home to play South Bendigo.

Been a tough run for the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square which has put some fine quarters together, but also been on the end of some high-scoring surges.

Eaglehawk is chasing consecutive wins as it takes to Maryborough’s court at Princes Park.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks played superb netball to beat South Bendigo, 44-41, in the 10^th round at Canterbury Park.

The Two Blues will be determined to prove that result was no fluke, and also to take the points against a Maryborough team which won 60-43 at Eaglehawk in round two.

A Maryborough line-up coached by Jordan Macilwain is equally desperate to end a five-match losing streak.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 203 per cent, 40 points; Gisborne 183, 32; Castlemaine 132, 30; Kangaroo Flat 162, 28; South Bendigo 110, 18; Kyneton 103, 18; Strathfieldsaye 91, 18; Eaglehawk 69, 8; Maryborough 59, 8; Golden Square 36, 0.

GISBORNE overcame a three-goal deficit at the start of the final term to clinch a one-goal victory against Castlemaine in Saturday’s 11^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It was another classic contest between Gisborne and Castlemaine at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

Castlemaine made a great start to lead 10-8 at quarter-time and 21-17 by the main break.

Although the margin was cut by a goal in a low-scoring third term, the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine led 27-24 going into the final quarter.

In the last it was the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne which was able to score five goals in the difficult conditions as the Magpies added just one.

At the final whistle Gisborne led 29-28.

Kangaroo Flat was too strong for South Bendigo at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos marked the trek across to the Bloods’ home in Neale Street to win 61-41.

Defeat pushed the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo from the top five.

Strathfieldsaye has climbed to the fifth rung following a 75-27 win on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye led 21-7 by quarter-time and 41-17 at the main.

Storm went on to win the next two quarters, 17-7 and 17-3 to record a 48-goal victory against the Benita Swatton-coached blue and gold.

Sandhurst’s unbeaten run kept rolling.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won every quarter on its way to a 92-38 result against Kyneton at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

A red-hot Dragons line-up led 22-11 at quarter-time and it was the same scoreline in the second.

Sandhurst won the third, 24-6, and the last, 24-10, to complete another emphatic victory against the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers.

Eaglehawk brought up its third win of the season.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk teamed superbly on Maryborough’s court at Princes Park to win 59-28.

Eaglehawk led 15-6 at quarter-time and 28-15 by the main break.

A great run by the Borough kept rolling as it won the third term, 16-6, and the last, 15-7, against the Jordan Macilwain coached-Maryborough.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 207 per cent, 44 points; Gisborne 176, 36; Kangaroo Flat 161, 32; Castlemaine 129, 30; Strathfieldsaye 101, 22; South Bendigo 104, 18; Kyneton 92, 18; Eaglehawk 76, 12; Maryborough 58, 8; Golden Square 36, 0.

Round 11 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 37 d Castlemaine 29, South Bendigo 40 d Kangaroo Flat 36, Golden Square 20 lt Strathfieldsaye 57, Sandhurst 59 d Kyneton 26, Eaglehawk bye.

B-grade:

Gisborne 75 d Castlemaine 18, South Bendigo 36 lt Kangaroo Flat 44, Golden Square 34 d Strathfieldsaye 28, Sandhurst 70 d Kyneton 27, Maryborough 11 lt Eaglehawk 39.

B-reserve:

Gisborne 53 d Castlemaine 15, South Bendigo 42 lt Kangaroo Flat 53, Golden Square 34 lt Strathfieldsaye 40, Sandhurst 79 d Kyneton 9, Maryborough 19 lt Eaglehawk 62.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 41 d Castlemaine 23, South Bendigo 26 lt Kangaroo Flat 43, Golden Square 29 lt Strathfieldsaye 39, Sandhurst 85 d Kyneton 5, Maryborough 56 d Eaglehawk 19.

Ladders after 11 rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 205 per cent, 44 points; Sandhurst 174, 40; South Bendigo 97, 28; Kangaroo Flat 117, 24; Castlemaine 94, 24; Strathfieldsaye 87, 24; Eaglehawk 76, 20; Kyneton 62, 10; Golden Square 59, 6.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 197 per cent, 44 points; Gisborne 180, 36; Kangaroo Flat 130, 36; South Bendigo 101, 24; Strathfieldsaye 95, 22; Eaglehawk 90, 22; Golden Square 94, 20; Kyneton 75, 8; Castlemaine 58, 6; Maryborough 48, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 232 per cent, 40 points; Kangaroo Flat 176, 40; Gisborne 147, 32; Strathfieldsaye 129, 28; Eaglehawk 122, 28; South Bendigo 106, 20; Castlemaine 62, 16; Golden Square 72, 12; Kyneton 39, 4; Maryborough 44, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 187 per cent, 44 points; Sandhurst 201, 40; Golden Square 157, 32; Maryborough 122, 26; Strathfieldsaye 112, 26; Kangaroo Flat 110, 18; Castlemaine 100, 18; Eaglehawk 70, 12; South Bendigo 50, 4; Kyneton 18, 0.

THIRD place on the A-grade netball ladder is up for grabs as Kangaroo Flat faces Castlemaine in Saturday’s 14^th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Separated by just two points, the fourth-placed Kangaroo Flat is on its court at Dower Park to take on the third-placed Castlemaine.

When these teams met in round five it was the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine which controlled most of the play after quarter-time to score a 55-39 victory.

Kangaroo Flat is on the rebound from a 25-32 loss on Gisborne’s court at Gardiner Reserve.

Win and the Roos jump above Castlemaine to the third rung.

Will not be an easy task for the Flat against a Magpies’ line-up which won its latest home game at Camp Reserve against Eaglehawk by nine goals.

It’s the clash of Sandhurst and South Bendigo at the Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Unbeaten in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst takes on its previous co-tenant at the iconic venue.

It’s also “Back To Day” for Sandhurst FNC where it thanks all those who have contributed to the club’s success since it formed in 1861, and also welcomes the next generation of footballers and netballers.

There are thousands who have links to the Dragons as players, supporters, administrators, volunteers, sponsors, or friend of the club.

The day includes complimentary entry for the junior netball and football families from Sandhurst’s traditional feeder clubs, St Therese’s and Quarry Hill.

On the netball court, the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won the round five clash, 62-22 at South Bendigo’s new home at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

Sandhurst goes into this Saturday’s match following an 84-41 win against Strathfieldsaye at the QEO last round.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo won 93-26 in its home game aginast Golden Square.

Heat from the Sandhurst Dragons will be much higher in all thirds of the court.

Eaglehawk is at home to play Strathfieldsaye at Canterbury Park.

When these teams met in round five it was Storm which claimed a 46-35 victory against the Hawks at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk has improved markedly since then and will be confident of chalking up its fourth win of the season.

Will not be an easy task for the Two Blues against the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm which must win to keep the heat on South Bendigo and Kyneton in the race to decide fifth place.

Kyneton is back at Tigerland in Kyneton Showgrounds to take on Gisborne.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton kept finals hopes alive by winning last Saturday’s match at Maryborough’s Princes Park by 29 goals.

The Tigers are up against the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne which played superb defence to restrict Kangaroo Flat to 25 goals last round.

Previous meeting between the Tigers and Bulldogs ended in a 28-goal win for Gisborne on its court at Gardiner Reserve.

It will be a breakthrough victory for Golden Square or a third by Maryborough when they clash at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Magpies won 73-53 at Princes Park in round five.

That match was the highest tally the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square has achieved this season.

The blue and gold will be fired up for a big game as a tough run home includes Gisborne, away; Castlemaine, home; Eaglehawk, away; and Kangaroo Flat, home.

Maryborough will also be keen to strike back after a 29-goal loss at home last round.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 216 per cent, 52 points; Gisborne 177, 44; Castlemaine 129, 38; Kangaroo Flat 161, 36; South Bendigo 117, 26; Kyneton 96, 22; Strathfieldsaye 92, 22; Eaglehawk 73, 12; Maryborough 55, 8; Golden Square 34, 0.

KANGAROO Flat jumped to third on the A-grade netball ladder after Saturday’s big win against Castlemaine in round 14 of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were in hot form on their court at Dower Park.

Earlier in the season it was Castlemaine which dominated most of the contest on its court at Camp Reserve.

This time the Roos bounded their way to a 62-39 victory against the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine.

Sandhurst’s unbeaten run kept rolling.

For the first time in a long time, Sandhurst was down at quarter-time as South Bendigo led 16-14 at the first break at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Dragons fired up to win the second term, 21-4.

From there it was Sandhurst which controlled play in all thirds of the court.

The maroon and blue won the third quarter, 21-6, and the last, 24-5.

At the final whistle Sandhurst led 80-31 against the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo.

Eaglehawk and Strathfieldsaye played out a great match on the Hawks’ court at Canterbury Park.

The Hawks led 21-20 at half-time, but Storm lifted to win the third, 33-31.

A two-goal buffer for the Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye became four by the end as Storm claimed a 44-40 victory against the Kylie Piercy-coached Two Blues.

Nine goals separated Golden Square and Maryborough at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough led 14-8 at quarter-time.

In the second it was the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square which controlled a lot of the play.

A 13-9 quarter in favour of the blue and gold meant the Magpies led 23-21 at the long break.

Maryborough won the third, 13-6.

Both teams scored 13 goals in the last as the Magpies won 49-40.

Kyneton was up against the powerful Gisborne line-up at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 28-15 at half-time.

An 18-8 tally in the third put the Bulldogs well in control.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton kept working hard, but the red, white and blue left Tigerland as 57-31 victors.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 219 per cent, 56 points; Gisborne 177, 48; Kangaroo Flat 161, 40; Castlemaine 121, 38; South Bendigo 107, 26; Strathfieldsaye 93, 26; Kyneton 92, 22; Eaglehawk 74, 12; Maryborough 58, 12; Golden Square 36, 0.

Match of the day in Saturday’s 15^th round will be Strathfieldsaye against South Bendigo at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Gisborne is back on its court at Gardiner Reserve to play Golden Square.

Castlemaine and Kyneton clash at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Maryborough is home at Princes Park to play Sandhurst.

Eaglehawk takes on Kangaroo Flat in the Borough at Canterbury Park.

Round 14 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Kangaroo Flat  93 d Castlemaine 42, Sandhurst 41 d South Bendigo 31, Kyneton 40 lt Gisborne 61, Golden Square bye, Eaglehawk 42 lt Strathfieldsaye 43.

B-grade:

Kangaroo Flat  68 d Castlemaine 20, Sandhurst 46 d South Bendigo 31, Kyneton 28 lt Gisborne 57, Golden Square 32 d Maryborough 26, Eaglehawk 40 d Strathfieldsaye 37.

B-reserve:

Kangaroo Flat  76 d Castlemaine 26, Sandhurst 56 d South Bendigo 23, Kyneton 16 lt Gisborne 62, Golden Square 60 d Maryborough 26, Eaglehawk 33 lt Strathfieldsaye 45.

17-and-under:

Kangaroo Flat 43 d Castlemaine 42, Sandhurst 63 d South Bendigo 18, Kyneton 10 lt Gisborne 80, Golden Square 59 d Maryborough 43, Eaglehawk 32 lt Strathfieldsaye 32.

Ladders after 14 rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 186 per cent, 56 points; Sandhurst 175, 52; South Bendigo 107, 36; Kangaroo Flat 124, 32; Castlemaine 88, 28; Strathfieldsaye 85, 28; Eaglehawk 78, 24; Kyneton 62, 14; Golden Square 55, 10.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 194 per cent, 56 points; Gisborne 168, 48; Kangaroo Flat 140, 44; South Bendigo 100, 30; Eaglehawk 96, 30; Strathfieldsaye 95, 26; Golden Square 90, 24; Kyneton 79, 14; Castlemaine 53, 6; Maryborough 49, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 226 per cent, 52 points; Kangaroo Flat 193, 52; Gisborne 146, 40; Strathfieldsaye 124, 36; Eaglehawk 121, 32; South Bendigo 102, 24; Golden Square 78, 20; Castlemaine 57, 16; Kyneton 43, 8; Maryborough 42, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 204 per cent, 56 points; Sandhurst 193, 52; Golden Square 157, 40; Maryborough 127, 34; Strathfieldsaye 112, 34; Kangaroo Flat 103, 22; Castlemaine 101, 22; Eaglehawk 66, 12; South Bendigo 49, 8; Kyneton 19, 0.

IT’S almost a year since Sandhurst was beaten in A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Unbeaten in its quest for a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst returns to the venue of its last defeat this Saturday.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst team makes the trek south to Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The Dragons and Magpies will hold match of the day status in the league’s 17^th round.

On August 20 in 2022 it was Castlemaine which celebrated a 47-46 victory against Sandhurst.

The Magpies went on to make their way to a first semi-final in their return to the league’s top division.

Stung by the loss at Castlemaine, Sandhurst fired up to win its next three finals by margins of 15, 39 and 15 goals to claim the premiership cup.

Castlemaine goes into Saturday’s clash with the league leaders following a 22-goal win on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

Massive test for the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine to force turnovers on the Dragons’ mid-court and defence and to capitalise.

When these teams met on the King’s Birthday holiday weekend it was Sandhurst which claimed a 21-goal victory.

The Dragons surged to a 10-goal lead by half-time and had the answers to a Magpies’ fightback in a 55-34 result.

Sandhurst won last Saturday’s clash with Gisborne at Queen Elizabeth Oval by 16 goals.

A red-hot Kangaroo Flat is on its court at Dower Park to play Kyneton.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were in top form last round as they beat Strathfieldsaye by 24 goals.

In round eight the Kangaroos dominated the second and third quarters on Kyneton’s court to claim a 38-goal win against the yellow and black.

Huge challenge for the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton as it tries to rebound from last Saturday’s loss at home to Eaglehawk.

For the Hawks consecutive victories are a target as they take to their court at Canterbury Park to play Golden Square.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk won the round eight match at Golden Square by 28 goals.

A young Golden Square team coached by Benita Swatton made a great start to last Saturday’s match against Castlemaine, but the Pies gradually took control.

Gisborne is back on its court at Gardiner Reserve to take on South Bendigo.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne beat the Bloods by 32 goals in the eighth round at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo will be determined to put in a much stronger performance this round.

In the latest round, South Bendigo dominated play on its court in Kennington to beat Maryborough by 35 goals.

Strathfieldsaye faces Maryborough this Saturday on Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Both teams are on the rebound from defeat.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye won at Maryborough’s Princes Park in round eight by 30 goals.

A Magpies’ line-up coached by Jordan Macilwain will be keen for the margin to be much closer this time, if not an upset victory in Storm territory.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 218 per cent, 64 points; Gisborne 175, 52; Kangaroo Flat 165, 48; Castlemaine 123, 46; South Bendigo 113, 34; Strathfieldsaye 91, 26; Kyneton 91, 22; Eaglehawk 73, 16; Maryborough 56, 12; Golden Square 36, 0.

IT’S an elimination final prelude as South Bendigo and Castlemaine meet in Saturday’s 18^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods and Magpies will play on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

Although Castlemaine has had two more wins than the Bloods and holds fourth place it’s up against an opponent which won by four goals at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve last round.

The only other line-up to have won at Gisborne at this season was the unbeaten Sandhurst in a 38-32 victory in the seventh round.

Castlemaine’s trek to Gisborne in the 11^th round ended in a 29-28 win for the home team.

When the Bloods and Magpies last met in round nine it was the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine which won 44-31 at Camp Reserve.

Defensive intensity by the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo was a key factor in beating Gisborne last Saturday.

The Bloods will be aiming to bring the same or higher level of pressure against the Magpies.

Although it was almost a year ago there’s also the memory of a 28-goal loss to Castlemaine in the elimination final to spur the Bloods line-up.

In other matches to be played on Saturday, Sandhurst takes on Eaglehawk at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst will start hot favourite to mark an 18^th consecutive victory.

Last round, Sandhurst answered a spirited challenge from Castlemaine to win 57-48 on the Magpies’ court at Camp Reserve.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk goes into this match following a 63-35 win on its court at Canterbury Park against Golden Square.

Kyneton and Strathfieldsaye will be aiming to end their season with a victory in their showdown at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton was beaten by 34 goals in last Saturday’s match on Kangaroo Flat’s court at Dower Park.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye is chasing back-to-back following a 71-30 result against Maryborough on Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

In round nine, Storm beat the Tigers by eight goals.

Maryborough is home at Princes Park to take on a Gisborne line-up aiming to bounce back from its fourth defeat of the season.

Massive task for a young Maryborough team coached by Jordan Macilwain.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne will be determined to put in a strong four-quarter performance in the lead-up to another qualifying final.

Golden Square and Kangaroo Flat meet on the Bulldogs’ court at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Been a tough run for a young Golden Square squad coached by Benita Swatton.

The Kangaroos scored 106 goals against the blue and gold in the round nine clash at Dower Park.

A goal for the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat will be not only its attacking flair, but also strong defence as it prepares to meet Gisborne in a qualifying final.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 210 per cent, 68 points; Gisborne 169, 52; Kangaroo Flat 167 52; Castlemaine 120, 46; South Bendigo 113, 38; Strathfieldsaye 96, 30; Kyneton 87, 22; Eaglehawk 78, 20; Maryborough 55, 12; Golden Square 37, 0.

Ladder positions in a couple of other grades could also be switched after Saturday’s play.

In A-reserve the third and fourth-placed Kangaroo Flat and South Bendigo are locked on 44 points.

The Roos play at Golden Square, and South Bendigo meets the fifth-placed Castlemaine at Kennington.

In B-grade, the fifth-placed South Bendigo has 34 points and 97.65 per cent going into a clash with Castlemaine.

Eaglehawk is sixth on 34 points and 97.32 per cent, but up against the ladder-leading Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

SOUTH Bendigo and Castlemaine played out a draw in Saturday’s 18^th round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods and Magpies were already locked in to meet in next Sunday’s elimination final as they took to the court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

A superb contest ended 45-all.

Earlier in the season it was the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine which scored a 44-31 victory against the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo on the Magpies’ court at Camp Reserve.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst capped an unbeaten run in the home and away series.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst took on Eaglehawk in Saturday’s match at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Sandhurst led 16-7 at quarter-time and 39-13 by the main break.

Slick passing and strong defensive efforts were keys as the maroon and blue went on to record a 79-32 victory against the Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks.

Kyneton faced Strathfieldsaye at Kyneton Showgrounds.

In what may be Kyneton’s final match in the Bendigo FNL as it awaits a move to the Riddell competition the Tigers started well in Saturday’s showdown with Storm.

At quarter-time it was Strathfieldsaye which led 10-9.

Storm surged to a 25-19 lead by the main break.

In the third the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm added 13 goals as the Tigers poured in 12.

A seven-goal lead for Storm at the start of the final was nine by the end as Strathfieldsaye marked a 53-44 win against the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton.

Gisborne took charge after quarter-time of the clash on Maryborough’s court at Princes Park.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 17-13 at quarter-time and then unleashed a second term blitz of 16 goals as the Magpies added just two.

Warming up for a qualifying final, Gisborne won the next two quarters, 18-7 and 17-5 for a 68-27 result against the Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough.

A tough season for Golden Square ended in a clash with Kangaroo Flat at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Jayden Cowling-coached jumped to a 21-1 lead by quarter-time.

In the second the Roos added 27 goals and defensive pressure was high as the Bulldogs were held to a single goal.

It was a ruthless performance by Kangaroo Flat in the lead-up to a qualifying final showdown with Gisborne.

The Roos won the third term of the match on Square’s court, 30-2.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square added eight goals in the final term as the Roos went on for a 98-12 victory.

Final standings in A-grade after the 18-round home and away series:

Sandhurst 212 per cent, 72 points; Kangaroo Flat 180, 56; Gisborne 174, 56; Castlemaine 119, 48; South Bendigo 112, 40; Strathfieldsaye 98, 34; Kyneton 87, 22; Eaglehawk 75, 20; Maryborough 54, 12; Golden Square 36, 0.

Round 18 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

South Bendigo 40 lt Castlemaine 42, Kyneton 53 lt Strathfieldsaye 62, Sandhurst 55 d Eaglehawk 41, Gisborne bye, Golden Square 31 lt Kangaroo Flat 76.

B-grade:

South Bendigo 43 d Castlemaine 23, Kyneton 36 lt Strathfieldsaye 47, Sandhurst 76 d Eaglehawk 34, Maryborough 18 lt Gisborne 71, Golden Square 29 lt Kangaroo Flat 42.

B-reserve:

South Bendigo 43 d Castlemaine 31, Kyneton 21 lt Strathfieldsaye 66, Sandhurst 63 d Eaglehawk 25, Maryborough 18 lt Gisborne 69, Golden Square 32 lt Kangaroo Flat 66.

17-and-under:

South Bendigo 36 lt Castlemaine 56, Kyneton 8 lt Strathfieldsaye 74, Sandhurst 67 d Eaglehawk 23, Maryborough 40 lt Gisborne 50, Golden Square 65 d Kangaroo Flat 33.

Final ladders after 18 rounds in the home and away series:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 181 per cent, 70 points; Sandhurst 164, 66; Kangaroo Flat 125, 48; South Bendigo 104, 44; Castlemaine 98, 40; Strathfieldsaye 87, 36; Eaglehawk 82, 28; Kyneton 67, 18; Golden Square 54, 10.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 196 per cent, 70 points; Gisborne 170, 62; Kangaroo Flat 133, 56; Strathfieldsaye 106, 42; South Bendigo 100, 38; Eaglehawk 92, 34; Golden Square 90, 32; Kyneton 82, 18; Castlemaine 52, 6; Maryborough 45, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 245 per cent, 68 points; Kangaroo Flat 194, 68; Gisborne 145, 52; Strathfieldsaye 132, 48; Eaglehawk 110, 38; South Bendigo 105, 32; Golden Square 80, 26; Castlemaine 56, 20; Kyneton 41, 8; Maryborough 40, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 186 per cent, 68 points; Gisborne 181, 64; Golden Square 156, 56; Strathfieldsaye 128, 42; Maryborough 125, 42; Castlemaine 108, 34; Kangaroo Flat 106, 30; Eaglehawk 69, 16; South Bendigo 46, 8; Kyneton 18, 0.

Finals action starts next Saturday at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Teams which finished second and third have earned a double chance and will contest qualifying finals.

On Sunday it’s the elimination finals between the fourth and fifth-placed teams.

A great run by Sandhurst FNC included its A-grade, B-grade, B-reserve and 17-under teams all finishing on top of the ladder and having a week’s rest as the finals begin.

Gisborne led the A-reserve ladder.

Schedule for Saturday’s qualifying finals:

• A-grade: Kangaroo Flat v Gisborne.
• A-reserve: Sandhurst v Kangaroo Flat.
• B-grade: Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat.
• B-reserve: Kangaroo Flat v Gisborne.
• 17-under: Gisborne v Golden Square.

Draw for Sunday’s elimination finals:

• A-grade: Castlemaine v South Bendigo.
• A-reserve: South Bendigo v Castlemaine.
• B-grade: Strathfieldsaye v South Bendigo.
• B-reserve: Strathfieldsaye v Eaglehawk.
• 17-under: Strathfieldsaye v Maryborough.

A YOUNG Gisborne line-up played outstanding netball to win Saturday’s second round clash at Castlemaine in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League’s A-grade competition.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne headed to Camp Reserve for a showdown between two clubs who met in last season’s first semi-final at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

On that day it was Gisborne which won and the red, white and blue did so again.

A 43-35 victory has meant Gisborne is one of just two teams to have a two-nil record.

Best for Gisborne were Claudia Mawson and Zoe Davies as young gun Tori Skrijel continues to impress in attack.

Magpies’ co-coaches Fiona Fowler and Gary Cook said there were plenty of positives.

The play of Emma Winfield at goal attack and Jane O’Donohue as goalshooter were among the highlights.

It was a closely-fought contest at Kyneton Showgrounds where the Tigers took on Sandhurst.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst took the points in a 52-41 victory.

Kangaroo Flat bounced back from a first-round defeat to score a 15-goal win against South Bendigo.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were on their court at Dower Park and marked a 41-26 result.

Maryborough coach Jordan Macilwain was rapt with her first win as A-grade coach after the Magpies won 60-43 on Eaglehawk’s court at Canterbury Park.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye was too strong for Golden Square.

Storm surged to a 78-29 win on its court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

In next Saturday’s third round, Maryborough hosts Kangaroo Flat at Princes Park.

Sandhurst and Golden Square meet at Queen Elizabeth Oval for the Ron Best Memorial Shield day.

Gisborne will host Eaglehawk at Gardiner Reserve.

Castlemaine is at home again at Camp Reserve to take on Strathfieldsaye.

South Bendigo will be aiming to make it consecutive wins at its new home at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington when it takes on Kyneton.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Gisborne 155 per cent, 8 points; Sandhurst 126, 8; South Bendigo 133, 4; Strathfieldsaye 130, 4; Kyneton 126, 4; Maryborough 107, 4; Kangaroo Flat 106, 4; Castlemaine 102, 4; Eaglehawk 56, 0; Golden Square 39, 0.

Round two scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Castlemaine 28 lt Gisborne 52, Kangaroo Flat 34 lt South Bendigo 38, Kyneton 37 lt Sandhurst 67, Strathfieldsaye 57 d Golden Square 49, Eaglehawk bye.

B-grade:

Castlemaine 25 lt Gisborne 52, Kangaroo Flat 49 d South Bendigo 38, Kyneton 30 lt Sandhurst 61, Strathfieldsaye 39 d Golden Square 27, Eaglehawk 40 d Maryborough 23.

B-reserve:

Castlemaine 28 lt Gisborne 44, Kangaroo Flat 47 d South Bendigo 35, Kyneton 14 lt Sandhurst 75, Strathfieldsaye 50 d Golden Square 18, Eaglehawk 71 d Maryborough 28.

17-and-under:

Castlemaine 35 lt Gisborne 49, Kangaroo Flat 54 d South Bendigo 18, Kyneton 14 lt Sandhurst 77, Strathfieldsaye 40 lt Golden Square 47, Eaglehawk 36 lt Maryborough 48.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL netball competitions after two rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 231, 8; Sandhurst 164, 8; South Bendigo 126, 8; Kyneton 73, 4; Strathfieldsaye 71, 4; Eaglehawk 70, 4; Castlemaine 53, 4; Golden Square 91, 0; Kangaroo Flat 75, 0.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 196, 8; Gisborne 168, 8; South Bendigo 105, 4; Eaglehawk 102, 4; Strathfieldsaye 96, 4; Golden Square 92, 4; Kangaroo Flat 86, 4; Maryborough 76, 2; Castlemaine 67, 2; Kyneton 64, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 248, 8; Eaglehawk 172, 8; Gisborne 141, 8; Strathfieldsaye 134, 4; Kangaroo Flat 103, 4; Castlemaine 88, 4; Golden Square 76, 4; South Bendigo 83, 0; Maryborough 50, 0; Kyneton 31, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 286, 8; Golden Square 259, 8; Maryborough 169, 8; Gisborne 153, 8; Kangaroo Flat 121, 4; Eaglehawk 98, 4; Strathfieldsaye 71, 0; Castlemaine 57, 0; South Bendigo 51, 0; Kyneton 16, 0.

Feathers to fly on Eaglehawk’s turf

FEATHERS will be flying as the Eagles and Magpies meet in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy match between Eaglehawk and Castlemaine on Saturday.

The Hawks have home-ground advantage at Canterbury Park for when the feature match in the Pat Cronin Foundation Round starts at 2.20pm.

It’s a crucial contest for both clubs on a day when the league throws its support behind the Pat Cronin Foundation and the work it does in raising awareness about the “coward punch” and the ramifications of violence.

The Foundation will be spreading its message and also fund-raising at all four Bendigo FNL venues.

On the field, Eaglehawk and Castlemaine will be keen to bounce back from defeat.

A one-one record has Eaglehawk clinging to fifth place on percentage  from Castlemaine.

The Magpies kicked off the season by winning the stand-alone match against Maryborough on Good Friday at Camp Reserve.

Since then the Michael Hartley-coached Magpies have been beaten by South Bendigo and Golden Square.

The Hawks will be determined to play well before a parochial home crowd.

Eaglehawk’s best in a two-goal loss at Strathfieldsaye were Billy Evans, Bailey Ilsley, Joel Mullen and Clayton Holmes.

A major factor to the Hawks chances will be in attack where it has the marking power of Jonty Neaves and Darcy Richards.

Big test for Magpies’ defenders Jack Sutherland and Liam Wilkinson.

Huge plus for Eaglehawk is the inclusion of Kallen Geary for his first game of the season.

Geary’s non-stop run and precise disposal is a major weapon from defence or through midfield.

Other key players for the Hawks include Charlie Langford at centre half-back, ruckman Brayden Frost, Ben Thompson and Marcus Angove.

In his first year of coaching, Hartley has kicked 14 goals to be second in the race for the Ron Best Medal as leading goalkicker.

The Magpies named the versatile Bailey Henderson in the centre, but the captain can be a major threat inside the forward 50m arc.

Castlemaine will look for big games from the likes of ruckman Lloyd Butcher, Matt Filo, Kalan Huntly, Zavier Murley, Jack Chester  and John Watson.

It’s been 23 years since Kangaroo Flat has beaten Golden Square.

Several in Kangaroo Flat’s team bound for Wade Street on Saturday were not born when the feat was last achieved.

After a brilliant win against South Bendigo last round the Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroo Flat will be confident of finally ending the Bulldogs’ run.

Doing so will not be easy against the Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square which won last Saturday’s match at Castlemaine by two goals.

A huge plus for the Bulldogs is the availability of the brilliant Ricky Monti to play in an on-ball role or attack.

Monti is on Essendon’s list in the VFL.

Best for the Bulldogs at Castlemaine were Tom Strauch, Kai Daniels, Macey Eaton and Dylan Hird.

Players to watch in the blue and gold include captain Jayden Burke, Jordan Rosengren in the centre, Jon Coe, Jack Stewart and Luke Holt.

The Kangaroos had eight goalkickers as they overran South Bendigo to win by 27 points.

Justin Bateson kicked five goals and looms as a big threat, along with Harry Whitty, Ethan Roberts and Jake Hywood.

Big roles to be played by Luke Ellings on a wing, Toby Roberts in the ruck, Toby Balcke, Josh Leersen and Zach Rouse.

South Bendigo is back at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington to take on Gisborne.

The Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller-coached Bloods will be fired up after the loss to the Roos.

Brock Harvey kicked eight goals in South’s latest match for a season tally of 19 goals.

The Bloods are up against a team which scored 273 points last round.

South Bendigo will rely a lot on Brody Haddow, Zac Sims, Blake Poyser and Wil McCaig to win plenty of the on-ball and midfield contests.

In attack it will be Harvey, Stroobants and youngsters Will Marks and Zavier Holmes who the Bloods will look to.

Just who takes on Brad Bernacki will have taken up a lot of South Bendigo’s planning.

A tally of 48 disposals, 15 clearances and 274 ranking points earned Bernacki the Guzman Y Gomez Player of the Round last week.

In attack, the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne has Pat McKenna and Harry Luxmoore in hot form.

Ruckman Braidon Blake, ruck-rover Flynn Lakey, Sam Graham, Jack Scanlon and captain Jack Reaper are capable of winning many contests.

Maryborough takes on Sandhurst from 1.40pm at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Huge challenge for all of Maryborough’s team, especially the midfield and defence.

A Magpies’ team jointly coached by Coby Perry and Matt Johnston will rely a lot on the defensive work of Kya Lanfranchi, Aidan Medlyn, Jack Shay and Alex Brown.

They will be up against the marking power of Fergus Greene and Lachlan Wright, and the elusive Joel Wharton and Nick Stagg.

In the on-ball duels, Maryborough has Liam Maffescioni, Mitch McClure and Coby Perry opposed to Connor Sexton, James Coghlan and Noah Walsh.

Refreshed by the bye, a Sandhurst team coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, has plenty of running power through the likes of Lachlan Tardrew, Cooper Smith and Alex Wharton.

Strathfieldsaye has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Strathfieldsaye 136 per cent, 12 points; Sandhurst 253, 8; Kangaroo Flat 82, 8; Gisborne 335, 4; Eaglehawk 107, 4; Castlemaine 105, 4; South Bendigo 95, 7; Golden Square 84, 4; Maryborough 28, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

19 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

14 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

13 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

8 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

8 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

8 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

8 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

7 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

7 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

7 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

7 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

6 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

5 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

5 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

5 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

5 Zach Greeves, Castlemaine.

5 Jordan Rosengren, Golden Square.

5 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

5 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

5 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

Hawks outpoint Magpies on Two Blues court

EAGLEHAWK outpointed Castlemaine to win Saturday’s fourth round clash in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition.

The Hawks and Magpies contested the feature match in Pat Cronin Foundation Round.

It was a scintillating start by the Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks as they led 19-11 at quarter-time.

The Borough’s buffer was 14 by the long break after it won the second term, 12-6.

A Castlemaine line-up coached by Chloe Hughes kept working hard, but the Hawks were superb in all thirds of the court.

Eaglehawk led 46-26 at three quarter-time and won the final term, 8-7, to seal a 54-33 victory.

A 20-goal opening term put the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne well in control of its match against South Bendigo at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Alicia McGlashan-coached South Bendigo lifted to score 10 goals in the second, but the red, white and blue added 15.

A 19-goal lead for Gisborne at the main break became 21 at a quarter to go.

The Bloods upped the pressure in the last as they scored 11 goals as the Bulldogs added 14.

At the final siren Gisborne led 61-37.

Kangaroo Flat made a brilliant start to its match on Golden Square’s court in Wade Street.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos leapt to a 20-goal lead by quarter-time after a 22-2 blitz.

An experienced Kangaroo Flat line-up which has plenty of skill through mid-court and in attack was tough for the Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square to stop.

The Roos won the second term, 21-10, and the third, 34-15.

It became a percentage-lifting Kangaroos as they bounded to a 90-35 victory and top spot on the ladder.

An extended break for the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst rolled on.

After a bye in round three, Sandhurst was drawn to play Maryborough which is not fielding an A-grade team.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 175 per cent, 8 points; Gisborne 137, 8; Eaglehawk 126, 8; Strathfieldsaye 124, 8; Sandhurst 103, 4; Castlemaine 90, 4; South Bendigo 64, 4; Golden Square 63, 4.

A highlight of next Saturday’s fifth round will be Kangaroo Flat on its court at Dower Park against Eaglehawk.

Sandhurst and South Bendigo meet in the Graeme Wright Memorial Cup match at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Gisborne is home at Gardiner Reserve to take on Golden Square.

Castlemaine and Strathfieldaye play on the Magpies’ court at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Maryborough’s teams have the bye.

Round four scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Eaglehawk 40 lt Castlemaine 41, South Bendigo 27 lt Gisborne 69, Golden Square 36 lt Kangaroo Flat 43, Maryborough 49 d Sandhurst 43, Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

B-grade:

Eaglehawk 46 d Castlemaine 35, South Bendigo 30 lt Gisborne 61; Golden Square 39 lt Kangaroo Flat 56, Maryborough 24 lt Sandhurst 73, Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

B-reserve:

Eaglehawk 73 d Castlemaine 43, South Bendigo 27 lt Gisborne 53, Golden Square 25 lt Kangaroo Flat 61, Maryborough 13 lt Sandhurst 87, Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

17-and-under:

Eaglehawk 27 lt Castlemaine 52, South Bendigo 47 lt Gisborne 51, Golden Square 85 d Kangaroo Flat 18, Maryborough 25 lt Sandhurst 73, Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

League ladders:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 171 per cent, 12 points; Strathfieldsaye 148, 12; Kangaroo Flat 111, 10; Maryborough 100, 10; Castlemaine 99, 8; Sandhurst 94, 4; Eaglehawk 89, 4; South Bendigo 68, 4; Golden Square 74, 0.

B-grade:

Gisborne 201 per cent, 12 points; Kangaroo Flat 138, 12; Strathfieldsaye 132, 12; Sandhurst 142, 8; Eaglehawk 104, 8; Castlemaine 94, 8; South Bendigo 74, 4; South Bendigo 74, 4; Golden Square 77, 0; Maryborough 38, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 227 per cent, 12 points; Strathfieldsaye 129, 12; Gisborne 200, 8; Kangaroo Flat 169, 8; Eaglehawk 142, 8; South Bendigo 112, 8; Golden Square 74, 4; Castlemaine 59, 4; Maryborough 28, 0.

17-and-under:

Golden Square 217 per cent, 16 points; Sandhurst 244, 12; Maryborough 95, 12; Strathfieldsaye 132, 8; South Bendigo 118, 8; Castlemaine 92, 4; Gisborne 80, 4; Eaglehawk 35, 0; Kangaroo Flat 34, 0.

Storm surges to big win on Castlemaine’s court

STRATHFIELDSAYE marked an impressive victory on Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve in Saturday’s fifth round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm surged to a 64-36 victory against the Magpies.

Now on a three-one record, Strathfieldsaye is third on the ladder.

It was a disappointing result for the Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine which now has a two-week break in the split sixth round.

Next hit-out for the Magpies will be on June 1 on Kangaroo Flat’s court at Dower Park.

Results in all other A-grade matches went as expected in round five.

Back on court after an extended break, Sandhurst dominated against South Bendigo at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst raced to a 29-7 lead by half-time.

Pressure from the maroon and blue did not ease up as it won the third term, 18-2.

By the final siren Sandhurst led 64-14 against the Alicia McGlashan-coached South Bendigo.

At Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park it was Kangaroo Flat which outplayed the Two Blues.

Kangaroo Flat jumped away to a 17-4 lead by quarter-time and was up, 32-7 by the main break.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Roos slammed on 22 goals in the third as the defence held the Hawks to a tally of two.

By the final siren Kangaroo Flat led 76-15.

The Roos make their way to Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane to face Storm next Saturday.

An Eaglehawk team coached by Kylie Piercy faces another tough hit-out against at Gisborne in the sixth round.

Reigning premier Gisborne was on its court at Gardiner Reserve against Golden Square.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 16-6 at quarter-time and 31-16 by the main break.

Best quarter for the Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square was third where it poured in 10 goals and held the red, white and blue to a tally of 13.

Gisborne went on to mark a 58-31 victory against the blue and gold which is a lot more competitive this season.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 215 per cent, 12 points; Gisborne 151, 12; Strathfieldsaye 138, 12; Sandhurst 155, 8; Eaglehawk 80, 8; Castlemaine 78, 4; Golden Square 61, 4; South Bendigo 54, 4.

The split sixth round starts next Saturday.

Eaglehawk is home at Canterbury Park to face Gisborne.

Strathfieldsaye plays Kangaroo Flat on Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

It’s a rest for South Bendigo in A-grade, but the Bloods will play Maryborough in the lower grades at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street.

Castlemaine has the bye.

The round will be completed on May 25 when Golden Square and Sandhurst clash for the Ron Best Memorial Cup at the Bulldogs’ kennel in Wade Street.

Round five scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Sandhurst 60 d South Bendigo 39, Kangaroo Flat 62 d Eaglehawk 38, Gisborne 70 d Golden Square 22, Castlemaine 38 lt Strathfieldsaye 61, Maryborough bye.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 60 d South Bendigo 38, Kangaroo Flat 51 d Eaglehawk 34, Gisborne 75 d Golden Square 27, Castlemaine 29 lt Strathfieldsaye 56, Maryborough bye.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 66 d South Bendigo 36, Kangaroo Flat 42 d Eaglehawk 36, Gisborne 65 d Golden Square 29, Castlemaine 42 lt Strathfieldsaye 72, Maryborough bye.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 47 d South Bendigo 21, Kangaroo Flat 32 lt Eaglehawk 34, Gisborne 37 lt Golden Square 56, Castlemaine 54 d Strathfieldsaye 47, Maryborough bye.

League ladders:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 197 per cent, 16 points; Strathfieldsaye 151, 16; Kangaroo Flat 121, 14; Maryborough 100, 10; Castlemaine 90, 8; Sandhurst 107, 6; South Bendigo 67, 6; Eaglehawk 81, 4; Golden Square 63, 0.

B-grade:

Gisborne 218 per cent, 16 points; Strathfieldsaye 144, 16; Kangaroo Flat 140, 16; Sandhurst 146, 12; Eaglehawk 93, 8; Castlemaine 83, 8; South Bendigo 71, 4; Golden Square 65, 0; Maryborough 38, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 213 per cent, 16 points; Strathfieldsaye 140, 16; Gisborne 205, 12; Kangaroo Flat 157, 12; Eaglehawk 128, 8; South Bendigo 94, 8; Golden Square 67, 4; Castlemaine 59, 4; Maryborough 28, 0.

17-and-under:

Golden Square 201 per cent, 20 points; Sandhurst 240, 16; Maryborough 95, 12; Strathfieldsaye 116, 8; South Bendigo 99, 8; Castlemaine 97, 8; Gisborne 76, 4; Eaglehawk 45, 4; Kangaroo Flat 42, 0.

CASTLEMAINE outpointed Kangaroo Flat across the final three quarters to mark a 16-goal victory in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball match on Saturday.

A full-strength Castlemaine was down by three goals at quarter-time after the Kangaroos made a strong start on the Magpies’ court at Camp Reserve.

After the first break it was the Magpies who lifted their defensive intensity and run through the mid-court.

Castlemaine went from 8-11 at the first break to hold a 24-20 lead by half-time.

A high-scoring third term also went in the Magpies’ favour, 14-10.

In the last it was the team in black and white which kept peppering the attacking third.

The Magpies scored 17 goals and held the Flat to just nine in the final quarter to seal a 55-39 victory.

Castlemaine co-coach Fiona Fowler teamed with Shaid Sasalu to shut down many of the Kangaroos’ attacking moves.

A Magpies’ line-up jointly coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke surged clear to claim a 55-39 victory against last season’s runner-up.

Castlemaine moved to the second rung of the ladder going into next weekend’s general bye as the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos slipped to fifth place.

In other A-grade matches, South Bendigo met Sandhurst on Graeme Wright Memorial Cup day at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst made a brilliant start to lead 17-5 at quarter-time.

Although the Bloods tried they could not match the hot Dragons in terms of pressure and ability to force or capitalise on turnovers.

Sandhurst led 34-9 at half-time and won the next two terms, 14-4 and 14-9, against the Jannelle Hobbs-coached Bloods.

At the final whistle the Dragons led 62-22.

Gisborne won every quarter on its way to a 54-26 win against Kyneton at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 17-6 at quarter-time and 28-15 by the main break.

It was a tough afternoon for the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers as Gisborne won this contest by 28 goals.

Closest result of the afternoon was at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane where the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm faced Eaglehawk.

Strathfieldsaye led 11-8 at quarter-time and won the second term, 11-8.

In the crucial third quarter, Storm added 15 goals and kept the Hawks to a tally of 10.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks matched Storm’s tally of nine goals in the final term as Strathfieldsaye marked a 46-35 victory.

It was a high-scoring contest at Maryborough’s Princes Park where the Magpies took on Golden Square.

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough led 18-15 at quarter-time and 35-29 by the long break.

The Magpies scored 18 goals in the third and 20 in the last to the 73-goal mark.

A return of 53 goals by the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square was well above its best this season.

Previous scores for the blue and gold had been 23, 29, 21, and 28.

Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball ladder:

Sandhurst 217 per cent, 20 points; Gisborne 152, 16; Castlemaine 125, 16; South Bendigo 119, 12; Kangaroo Flat 118, 12; Kyneton 104, 8; Strathfieldsaye 94, 8; Maryborough 85, 8; Eaglehawk 62, 0; Golden Square 40, 0.

The Bendigo FNL has a general bye on May 20.

The season resumes on May 27.

Golden Square is at home at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street to face Gisborne in the round six contest.

South Bendigo versus Strathfieldsaye at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

Kangaroo Flat plays Eaglehawk on the Roos’ court at Dower Park.

Kyneton faces Castlemaine at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Sandhurst takes on Maryborough at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Round five scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Castlemaine 37 lt Kangaroo Flat 40, South Bendigo 26 lt Sandhurst 45, Gisborne 82 d Kyneton 22, Strathfieldsaye 51 d Eaglehawk 33, Golden Square bye.

B-grade:

Castlemaine 20 lt Kangaroo Flat 64, South Bendigo 32 lt Sandhurst 46, Gisborne 71 d Kyneton 37, Strathfieldsaye 33 d Eaglehawk 21, Maryborough 22 lt Golden Square 52.

B-reserve:

Castlemaine 20 lt Kangaroo Flat 61, South Bendigo 29 lt Sandhurst 62, Gisborne 63 d Kyneton 18, Maryborough 32 lt Golden Square 43, Strathfieldsaye 33 dr Eaglehawk 33.

17-and-under:

Castlemaine 35 dr Kangaroo Flat 35, South Bendigo 18 lt Sandhurst 63, Gisborne 92 d Kyneton 9, Strathfieldsaye 42 d Eaglehawk 33, Maryborough 37 lt Golden Square 50.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL netball competitions after five rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 238 per cent, 20 points; Sandhurst 198, 20; South Bendigo 117, 16; Castlemaine 86, 8; Kangaroo Flat 81, 8; Strathfieldsaye 79, 8; Eaglehawk 66, 8; Kyneton 57, 8; Golden Square 64, 4.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 181 per cent, 20 points; Gisborne 163, 16; Kangaroo Flat 139, 16; Strathfieldsaye 101, 12; South Bendigo 100, 12; Golden Square 97, 8; Eaglehawk 78, 8; Kyneton 74, 4; Castlemaine 63, 2; Maryborough 57, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 221 per cent, 20 points; Kangaroo Flat 185, 16; Gisborne 153, 16; Eaglehawk 119, 14; Strathfieldsaye 134, 10; South Bendigo 101, 8; Golden Square 72, 8; Castlemaine 52, 4; Kyneton 41, 4; Maryborough 48, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 230 per cent, 20 points; Sandhurst 207, 20; Golden Square 188, 16; Maryborough 145, 16; Strathfieldsaye 84, 8; Kangaroo Flat 100, 6; Castlemaine 82, 6; Eaglehawk 72, 4; South Bendigo 50, 4; Kyneton 19, 0.

LADDER leaders Sandhurst and Castlemaine meet in Saturday’s eighth round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst has answered all challenges to be seven-nil and perched on top of the ladder.

Castlemaine is on a four-game winning streak and a season record of five wins, one loss, and a draw.

The depth of the Sandhurst squad was on show in last Saturday’s victory on Gisborne’s court at Gardiner Reserve.

Although the maroon and blue was without Ruby Turner, injured, and Imogen Sexton, overseas, it defended brilliantly to win 38-32 in a hard-fought contest between two of the league’s strongest teams.

Key players for the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst include Bec Smith in attack, Charlotte Sexton in defence, and captain Meg Williams in the centre.

There is also the experience of goaler Kelsey Meade and dual Betty Thompson medallist as league fairest and best in Heather Oliver at goal defence.

A superb run by Castlemaine in ’23 included the 55-39 win on its court at Camp Reserve against Kangaroo Flat in round five.

Jointly coached by Gary Cooke and Fiona Fowler, also a star at goal defence, Castlemaine struck back from a 35-43 loss at home to Gisborne in the second round to win its next three matches.

The league declared the A-grade netball match a draw, so two points were awarded to the Magpies and Tigers.

Castlemaine was back on court last Saturday to score a 71-36 victory against Golden Square.

Players to watch for the Magpies include Shaid Sasalu at goal defence and Mikaela Vaughan in attack.

There have been changes to both line-ups, but Castlemaine can gain plenty of belief from last season’s stunning victory against Sandhurst.

The Magpies upstaged the Dragons, 47-46 in the 18^th round of the ’22 season at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Sandhurst won its next three finals to claim the premiership cup once again.

Another crucial match in Saturday’s round eight action will be at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval where South Bendigo takes on Gisborne.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo dominated last Saturday’s match at Maryborough’s Princes Park to record a 68-18 victory.

The Bloods have a win-loss tally of 4-2 and drew their most recent game at Harry Trott Oval with Strathfieldsaye.

Pressure in all thirds of the court will be much higher against a Gisborne line-up on the rebound from defeat.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne took it right up to Sandhurst last round, but some turnovers proved costly.

After a hard-fought 41-38 win on Eaglehawk’s court at Canterbury Park, Kyneton is back home to face Kangaroo Flat.

Victory for the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton would draw it two points closer to Kangaroo Flat and also keep the heat on the fifth-placed South Bendigo.

Beating the Kangaroos who were runner-up in ’22 will not be an easy task.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat have been beaten by Sandhurst and Castlemaine, but showed in a 44-42 win against Gisborne what it is capable of.

Kangaroo Flat’s mid-court and attack was superb in an 80-37 win at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park last round.

Eyes of Golden Square and Eaglehawk will be firmly set on ending their winless run as they take to the court at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square had a tough match at Castlemaine last round.

The Hawks made a brilliant final quarter fightback in their home game against Kyneton.

A 38-41 result was clearly one of the best performances from the Kylie Piercy-coached line-up from the Borough this season.

Maryborough is back home at Princes Park to take on Strathfieldsaye.

A win for the Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough will put it above Strathfieldsaye on the ladder.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye will be determined to mark win number three and keep the pressure on the fifth and sixth-placed Bloods and Tigers.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 215 per cent, 28 points; Castlemaine 136, 22; Gisborne 169, 20; Kangaroo Flat 148, 20; South Bendigo 132, 18; Kyneton 104, 14; Strathfieldsaye 84, 10; Maryborough 65, 8; Eaglehawk 60, 0; Golden Square 38, 0.

Meanwhile, selectors have finalised the Bendigo FNL’s open team to contest the upcoming Association championships in Melbourne.

The BFNL’s open and 17-and-under squads will compete against teams from across the state on June 18 at the State Netball Centre in Parkville.

Bendigo’s open team includes six of Sandhurst’s premiership-winning stars, plus representatives from Gisborne, Kangaroo Flat and South Bendigo.

The Bendigo FNL open team is being coached by Kangaroo Flat’s Jayden Cowling, with Strathfieldsaye’s Steph Freemantle as assistant coach.

Goalers are Claudia Mawson from Gisborne, Kangaroo Flat’s Abbey Ryan, and Sandhurst’s Rebecca Smith.

The mid-court rotation is Sandhurst clubmates Shae Clifford and Meg Williams, along with Gisborne’s Kirby Elliot, and Kangaroo Flat’s Ashley Ryan.

A strong defence includes South Bendigo’s Alicia Gladman joining forces with Heather Oliver, Charlotte Sexton and Sophie Shoebridge from Sandhurst.

SANDHURST won every quarter to record a 21-goal victory against Castlemaine in Saturday’s eighth round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Unbeaten in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst outplayed the Magpies on the court at Queen Elizabeth Oval on the King’s Birthday holiday weekend.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst led 17-7 at quarter-time and 28-18 by the long break.

Jointly coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke, Castlemaine fought back to score 10 goals in the third as the maroon and blue added 12.

A hot Dragons’ mid-court and attack did not let up the intensity as it won the final quarter, 15-6, and the contest, 55-34.

Brilliant play across the second and third quarters set up a huge win for Gisborne on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 15-10 at quarter-time and 30-17 by the long break.

Gisborne then unleashed an 18-goal blitz in the third as it held the Bloods to just six goals.

By the final siren Gisborne led 59-27.

Kangaroo Flat jumped to the third rung following a 38-goal victory at Kyneton.

At the end of an evenly-fought first term, Kangaroo Flat led 11-8.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Roos dominated the next two quarters.

It was 23-7 in favour of the green and white in the second, and 21-11 in the third.

The only blow in Flat’s charge to a 72-34 was a knee injury to gun goaler Louise Dupuy.

Eaglehawk marked its first win of the season on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

The Hawks and Bulldogs were both determined to mark victory number one.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk poured in 22 goals in the opening term to gain a 14-goal buffer on the blue and gold.

A 14-8 second term put the Borough up 36-16 by the long break.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square lifted to score 10 goals in the third as the Two Blues added 11.

Eaglehawk’s play through mid-court and into attack was excellent as it won the final term, 16-9, to record a 63-35 victory.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye stayed in touch with the top five by scoring a 30-goal win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Storm surged to a 19-7 lead by quarter-time and then added 18 goals as it kept the Magpies to just seven in the second.

Quarters three and four went Strathfieldsaye’s way, 17-13 and 15-12.

At the final siren the Storm led 69-39 against the Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough.

Storm is a win, but 24 per cent behind the fifth-placed South Bendigo in the premiership race.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 208 per cent, 32 points; Gisborne 174, 24; Kangaroo Flat 155, 24; Castlemaine 122, 22; South Bendigo 117, 18; Strathfieldsaye 93, 14; Kyneton 92, 14; Maryborough 64, 8; Eaglehawk 70, 4; Golden Square 40, 0.

The halfway mark of the home and away series will be reached next Saturday.

Castlemaine and South Bendigo meet on Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve.

Gisborne is home at Gardiner Reserve to play Maryborough.

Eaglehawk takes on Sandhurst at Canterbury Park.

Kangaroo Flat is on its court at Dower Park to play Golden Square.

Strathfieldsaye meets Kyneton at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Round eight scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Sandhurst 65 d Castlemaine 36, South Bendigo 27 lt Gisborne 66, Kyneton 32 lt Kangaroo Flat 65, Golden Square 37 lt Eaglehawk 51, Eaglehawk bye.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 63 d Castlemaine 21, South Bendigo 28 lt Gisborne 61, Kyneton 37 lt Kangaroo Flat 45, Golden Square 41 lt Eaglehawk 46, Maryborough 34 lt Strathfieldsaye 39.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 61 d Castlemaine 15, South Bendigo 33 lt Gisborne 45, Kyneton 19 lt Kangaroo Flat 82, Golden Square 21 lt Eaglehawk 48, Maryborough 24 lt Strathfieldsaye 48.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 54 d Castlemaine 37, South Bendigo 19 lt Gisborne 56, Kyneton 7 lt Kangaroo Flat 64, Golden Square 63 d Eaglehawk 29, Maryborough 36 dr Strathfieldsaye 36.

Ladders after eight rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 223 per cent, 32 points; Sandhurst 173, 28; Kangaroo Flat 121, 20; South Bendigo 95, 20; Castlemaine 94, 16; Eaglehawk 79, 16; Strathfieldsaye 76, 16; Kyneton 58, 8; Golden Square 59, 4.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 205 per cent, 32 points; Kangaroo Flat 140, 28; Gisborne 154, 24; Strathfieldsaye 96, 18; South Bendigo 92, 18; Eaglehawk 87, 16; Golden Square 94, 12; Kyneton 80, 8; Castlemaine 60, 2; Maryborough 55, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 248 per cent, 32 points; Kangaroo Flat 192, 28; Gisborne 145, 24; Eaglehawk 124, 24; Strathfieldsaye 128, 16; South Bendigo 104, 12; Castlemaine 60, 12; Golden Square 66, 8; Kyneton 41, 4; Maryborough 41, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 194 per cent, 32 points; Sandhurst 169, 8; Golden Square 158, 24; Maryborough 132, 22; Strathfieldsaye 96, 18; Kangaroo Flat 122, 14; Castlemaine 92, 10; Eaglehawk 77, 8; South Bendigo 46, 4; Kyneton 21, 0.

PRESSURE will be high as South Bendigo takes to Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve for Saturday’s ninth round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods and Magpies are keen to rebound from defeat as teams reach the halfway mark of the season.

A win for the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo will draw level on the Magpies’ tally of five wins and a draw.

For the Castlemaine team it’s a chance to move two wins clear of the Bloods and also stay in touch with the second and third-placed Gisborne and Kangaroo Flat.

In last Saturday’s play, Castlemaine could not halt Sandhurst’s charge to a 55-34 victory in the King’s Birthday holiday weekend match played at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Magpies’ coaches Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke are in charge of a talented line-up which outplayed Kangaroo Flat at Castlemaine in the fifth round.

The Bloods will be determined to strike back after a 32-goal loss to Gisborne at South Bendigo’s new home of Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Another big match in the ninth round will be at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane where Strathfieldsaye takes on Kyneton.

The Storm and Tigers are both locked on 14 premiership points and separated by 1.45 per cent.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm marked its best performance of the season to draw on South Bendigo’s court in the sixth round.

After a loss at home to Kangaroo Flat the next round, Storm struck back for a 69-39 win at Maryborough’s Princes Park last Saturday.

Kyneton has a win-loss tally of 3-4 and a draw.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers were up against Kangaroo Flat last round at Kyneton Showgrounds where the Roos romped to a 38-goal win.

The league’s top three in Sandhurst, Gisborne and Kangaroo Flat should add to their win tally this round.

Unbeaten in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst heads to Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks played well for a 63-35 win at Golden Square last Saturday, but are up against a formidable opponent.

Six of Sandhurst’s stars will represent Bendigo FNL at the Association championships on Sunday at the State Netball Centre in Parkville.

Gisborne is back at Gardiner Reserve to take on Maryborough.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne has a 6-2 record in which goaler Clauda Mawson and mid-courter Kirby Elliott have shone in many matches.

Kangaroo Flat takes on Golden Square on the Roos’ court at Dower Park.

A busy weekend for Roos’ coach Jayden Cowling includes the showdown with the blue and gold, and then being in charge of Bendigo FNL’s open team at the Association championships.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 208 per cent, 32 points; Gisborne 174, 24; Kangaroo Flat 155, 24; Castlemaine 122, 22; South Bendigo 117, 18; Strathfieldsaye 93, 14; Kyneton 92, 14; Maryborough 64, 8; Eaglehawk 70, 4; Golden Square 40, 0.

THERE are some old faces among the new as Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League clubs build up for the start of the ’23 footy season.

It’s been a busy time on the recruiting front, especially at Sandhurst and Eaglehawk as they strive to improve on last year’s fifth and seventh placings.

Grand finalists Gisborne and Strathfieldsaye have made changes in a bid to stay at the top.

Brad Fox takes charge as Gisborne chases back-to-back premiership victories, while the Darryl Wilson coached Storm eyes a fifth consecutive grand final appearance.

A top contender for the past few years, Golden Square again looks strong as it strives to hit back from a two-point loss to Gisborne in last September’s preliminary final.

It’s a new era for South Bendigo which has made the move from Queen Elizabeth Oval to now be based at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Sandhurst has welcomed back several premiership winners and also recruited versatile big man Bryce Curnow to be co-coach with Ash Connick.

Stung by missing the finals by percentage after a 10-8 run to be sixth, the Paul Chapman-coached Kyneton looms as a big threat to climb into the top five.

Kangaroo Flat, Maryborough and Castlemaine all have new coaches in charge.

The Roos have appointed Nathan Johns who brings a wealth of coaching experience to Dower Park.

Coby Perry steps up to be playing coach at Maryborough.

Premiership player Brendan Shepherd will be determined to mark a successful return at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

As reigning premier, Gisborne will be prepared for the heat.

It’s the third time in the club’s stint in the Bendigo FNL it starts a season chasing back-to-back premierships.

The Gardiner Reserve-based Bulldogs did so in 2002-03 and 2005-06.

A line-up that includes captain Pat McKenna, Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey, Jack Reaper, Matt Merrett and Sam Graham will be tough to beat.

Those to have left Gisborne include Ethan Foreman, Kyneton; Josh Kemp, Aberfeldie; Ethan Minns, Woodend-Heskett; Matt Panuccio, Riddell;

Strathfieldsaye’s remarkable run since 2013 includes being in seven of eight grand finals and a win-loss tally of 4-3.

Key inclusions for Storm include running half-back Luke Webb as playing assistant coach.

Webb was on Geelong’s list in the VFL and also played for St Joseph’s.

A powerful attack is bolstered by the inclusion of Jack Exell who kicked 100 goals for Violet Town last season.

Storm also regains Alex Powell after stints at Tooleybuc and Bridgewater.

A triple premiership player and Nalder medallist for best afield in the 2017 grand final win, Kallen Geary has left Storm to play for Eaglehawk where his superb career kicked off.

Fergus Payne has gone to Inglewood as an assistant coach.

A formidable Storm line-up includes Michelsen medallists Lachlan Sharp at full-forward, and ruck-rover Jake Moorhead.

Golden Square has kept most of last year’s line-up which reached the preliminary final.

Christian Carter kicks off a third season in charge and has 2001 premiership winner Matt Dillon back at the club as assistant coach.

Most recent coaching stint for Dillon was in 2019 when North Bendigo won the Heathcote DFNL grand final.

Back in the blue and gold is Tom Toma from Cohuna Kangas.

A hard-at-it mid/onballer, Toma’s signing is a huge plus for the Bulldogs.

A multiple premiership winner, dual Nalder medallist for best afield in a grand final, and the 2018 Michelsen medallist, Jack Geary will again lead Golden Square.

The Dogs’ attack was brilliantly led by Joel Brett and Jayden Burke last season.

Those to have transferred from Square include Jarrod Fitzpatrick to Boort; Liam Jacques to Heathcote, and Will Thrum to Cohuna Kangas.

After marking a long-awaited finals appearance by winning the elimination, South Bendigo will be determined to keep rising.

The Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods welcome back classy small forward Steven Stroobants from Rochester.

The return of Stroobants off-sets the departure of Ron Best medallist Kaiden Antonowicz to White Hills.

Another key signing for the Bloods was ruckman Mac Cameron from Monash Blues.

The play of Brock Harvey in attack, Zac Hare, Cooper Leon, Will Allen, Braydan Torpey and Andrew van Heumen will have a major bearing on South’s run in ’23.

After a productive recruiting spree, Sandhurst could mark a rise from fifth to premier this season.

The Dragons gained Bryce Curnow who was the Nalder medallist in Strathfieldsaye’s grand final win in 2019 and played in Kerang’s premiership victory last season.

Also back at Sandhurst are Nick Stagg and Andy Collins from Kerang and Bridgewater respectively.

Another key recruit is Harrison Monk.

Gun midfielder Lachlan Tardrew is still on Collingwood’s list in the VFL, but has re-aligned with the Dragons.

The Paul Chapman-coached Kyneton again shapes as a tough opponent, especially at Tigerland.

A previous winner of the club’s goalkicking award, the classy Ethan Foreman is back in the yellow and black after premiership success at Gisborne.

Although he battled hamstring issues last season, Foreman’s skill and experience is a massive plus for the Tigers.

Kyneton has also gained another talented small forward in Thomas Quinn from the VAFA, but will be without Rhys Magin, Sunbury Kangaroos; and Guy Dickson, Leongatha.

The return of the Geary brothers, Jarryn and Kallen has generated plenty of excitement as Eaglehawk strives to fly from seventh position.

After a 207-game career with St Kilda, Jarryn Geary’s play across half-back or any other role decided by coach Travis Matheson is a massive plus for the Two Blues and the league.

Another key signing for the Borough was ruckman Connor Dalgleish from Montmorency.

Other players listed on the transfer list to Eaglehawk included Ryan Wellington from Mitiamo; Jack Daley and Jacob Greenwood from Calivil United.

Departures from Eaglehawk include Shaun Knott to Westmeadows, and Sean Williams to Rochester.

A 14^th year in coaching for Nathan Johns is likely to be one of his most challenging as he takes charge at Kangaroo Flat.

Key signings for the Roos were tall defenders Jordan and Zac Rouse to join what will be an extremely young team.

Long-time number one ruckman and captain Nick Lang has made the move from the Roos to Kerang.

Others to have left Dower Park include Brodie and Jackson Fry and Lachlan Wilson to Huntly; Max Johnson to Lockington-Bamawm; and Mitch Rovers to Mount Pleasant.

For the Roos’ coaching team, players and supporters it’s not focus on what we don’t have, but we do have.

A premiership winner as a teenager with Castlemaine in 2000, Brendan Shepherd returns to Camp Reserve as senior coach.

The Magpies re-appointed Brodie Martin as senior assistant coach, while Jackson Hood tackles a new role as playing assistant coach.

Signings for the Pies included Lloyd Butcher from Waverley Blues; Tom Wilson from Marong; and David Wilson after stints at Harcourt and Maldon.

Key players for Castlemaine include Bailey Henderson, Liam Wilkinson, David Stephens, Brad Keogh, and Brodie and Jackson Byrne.

A coup for Maryborough was the signing of Joel Swatton from South Bendigo to play in the midfield and also be strength and conditioning coach.

The Magpies also regain gun onballer and previous best and fairest winner in Bailey Edwards.

Based in Darwin, Edwards played the latest Northern Territory FL season with Nightcliff.

The Tigers were beaten in the first semi by St Mary’s in a season where Edwards played 16 games and kicked 11 goals.

Edwards was among Carisbrook’s best as it finished runner-up to Harcourt in last year’s Maryborough Castlemaine District FNL senior grand final.

Players on the transfer list to the Magpies included Darcy Bond, Sam Flynn, Brodie Quinlan, and James Woods.

The Pies will be without talented on-baller Aidan Hare who has headed west from Princes Park to Peel Thunder.

Maryborough will be desperate to hit back from a winless season.

CASTLEMAINE bounced Kangaroo Flat from the A-grade netball premiership race on Sunday.

The Magpies swooped for a 42-41 victory in the first semi-final at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Last season’s runner-up and third at the end of the home-and-away series, Kangaroo Flat was beaten in consecutive weeks in the finals series.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were on the rebound from a six-goal loss to Gisborne in the qualifying final.

Castlemaine had won the elimination final against South Bendigo by 23 goals.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine have moved to week three of the finals series where they take on Gisborne in the preliminary final.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst showed it’s going to be extremely difficult to stop as it won Saturday’s second semi-final against Gisborne.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst fired up for a 44-38 victory.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne worked hard, but the maroon and blue was able to answer a spirited challenge.

Second semi-final day featured four matches between Sandhurst and Gisborne.

The Dragons won the A-reserve match by 11 goals, and the 17-and-under contest by three goals.

Gisborne marked a 48-46 win against the maroon and blue in B-grade.

In B-reserve, Sandhurst took on Kangaroo Flat where the Dragons won a closely-fought match, 45-43.

Fans were treated to dramatic finishes to Sunday’s first semi-finals.

In A-reserve, Kangaroo Flat beat South Bendigo by a goal.

The Kangaroos also took out the B-grade clash with Strathfieldsaye by two goals.

A tough day for Strathfieldsaye Storm included a five-goal loss to Gisborne in B-reserve.

Golden Square’s rising stars stayed in the premiership race when they scored a 48-41 win against Strathfieldsaye in the 17-and-under match.

Second semi-final scoreboard:

A-grade: Sandhurst 44 d Gisborne 38.

A-reserve: Gisborne 33 lt Sandhurst 44.

B-grade: Sandhurst 46 lt Gisborne 48.

B-reserve: Sandhurst 45 d Kangaroo Flat 43.

17-and-under: Sandhurst 46 d Gisborne 43.

First semi-final scoreboard:

A-grade: Kangaroo Flat 41 lt Castlemaine 42.

A-reserve: Kangaroo Flat 38 d South Bendigo 37.

B-grade: Kangaroo Flat 49 d Strathfieldsaye 47.

B-reserve: Gisborne 39 d Strathfieldsaye 34.

17-and-under: Golden Square 48 d Strathfieldsaye 41.

Schedule for Saturday’s preliminary finals at Queen Elizabeth Oval:

A-grade at 3.20pm: Gisborne v Castlemaine.

A-reserve at 2pm: Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat.

B-grade at 12.40pm: Sandhurst v Kangaroo Flat.

B-reserve at 11.20am: Kangaroo Flat v Gisborne.

17-and-under at 10am: Gisborne v Golden Square.

EIGHT clubs will feature in either netball qualifying or elimination finals in this weekend’s Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL action at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

On Saturday it’s Kangaroo Flat against Gisborne in the A-grade qualifying final.

The Roos and Bullogs clash starts at 3.20pm.

This season’s meetings stand at one-all.

Kangaroo Flat won the round four showdown on its Dower Park court, 44-42.

Defences were well on top in the 13^th round when Gisborne claimed a 32-35 victory at its Gardiner Reserve home.

Since the loss to Gisborne the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat is on a five-game winning streak.

Runner-up last season, the Kangaroos have a powerful team led by captain Chelsea Sartori, and co-captains Ashley Ryan and Carly Van Den Heuvel.

The Roos’ squad for the qualifying final includes Lou Dupuy, Ingrid Hopkins, Ava Lowndes, Emma Moroney, Ashlee O’Shea, Abbey Ryan, Annie Spear, Ella and Milly Wicks.

Gisborne ended the home-and-away series on a 14-4 record.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Bulldogs have a win-loss tally of 3-2 across the past five rounds.

A 31-47 loss to Sandhurst at the QEO in the 16^th round was followed by a 28-32 upset to South Bendigo at home in the 17^th round.

Key players in the red, white and blue include co-captains Kirby Elliott and Claudia Mawson who has represented Victoria Fury at the past two Netball Australia championships.

Gisborne also has Kiralee Collings, Rylee Connell, Zoe Davies, Charlee Kemp, Emerson Lakey, Tiana Newman and Torie Skrijel to take to the court.

The winner of the Kangaroo Flat and Gisborne match meets unbeaten reigning premier in the second semi-final on September 9.

Eight days after they drew their final round clash, Castlemaine and South Bendigo meet again in Sunday’s elimination final.

The Magpies and Bloods match starts at 3.20pm.

When these clubs met in round four it was Castlemaine which scored a 44-31 win on its court at Camp Reserve.

Both teams warmed up for the finals by playing a round 18 thriller in the Bloods’ home at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Scores were locked on 45-all at the final whistle.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine achieved a win-loss tally of 11-5 and two draws in the home-and-away series.

Among the highs was a 55-39 victory against Kangaroo Flat in the fifth round at Camp Reserve.

Castlemaine’s squad for Sunday will be led by captain Jane O’Donohue, playing coach Fiona Fowler, Caitlin Richardson, Montaya Sardi and Megan Wilson.

Goalshooter Mikaela Vaughan was superb against the Bloods last Saturday.

The Magpies will also be represented by Kyla Byrne, Madeline Carter, Meg Ginnivan, Charlotte McMurray and Emma Winfield.

A knee injury has put Tara Ford on the sidelines.

The record for the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo is 9-7-2.

The Bloods win at Gisborne showed it could be a huge threat to those in the top four.

After a 41-44 loss at Eaglehawk in the 10^th round, South Bendigo was under intense pressure in the race to decide fifth place.

The Bloods lifted for a 61-52 victory on Strathfieldsaye Storm’s court at Triple M Park in the 15^th round.

A hat-trick of wins included taking the points against Maryborough and Gisborne.

The Bloods have great leadership provided by Stephanie Goode and Alicia McGlashan.

A key player is the classy Chloe Langley in attack.

Coach Hobbs is rapt with the development of teenagers Carissa Brook, Maggie Burke and Claudia Griffiths.

South Bendigo’s squad to face the Magpies includes includes Chloe Gray, Stephanie Greene, Olivia Mason, Morgan McClellan and Amanda Walters.

In the A-reserve competition, Sandhurst takes on Kangaroo Flat in Saturday’s qualifying final at 2pm.

The Dragons have won both hit-outs against the Roos this season.

In round one, Sandhurst scored a 63-42 victory on the QEO court.

Scores were much closer in the 10^th round as the Dragons won 44-37 on the Kangaroos’ court at Dower Park.

Sandhurst achieved 14 wins, a draw, and just one defeat in the run to the finals.

The Kangaroos’ record is 10-6.

It will be the Dragons or Kangaroos against Gisborne in the second semi-final.

On Sunday it’s South Bendigo against Castlemaine in the A-reserve elimination final from 2pm.

Although the Magpies finished a rung below the Bloods, Castlemaine scored a 33-29 win against South Bendigo in the ninth round, and marked a 42-40 victory at Harry Trott Oval last Saturday.

The Bloods’ tally in the regular season was 9-7.

In B-grade, Gisborne faces Kangaroo Flat in Saturday’s qualifying final at 12.40pm.

It’s one-all in this season’s meetings.

Kangaroo Flat beat the Dogs, 47-42 in the fourth round.

The round 13 showdown at Gardiner Reserve ended in a 53-47 victory for Gisborne.

The Bulldogs had a win-loss tally of 15-2 and also drew a match in the home-and-away series.

Kangaroo Flat’s record is 14-4.

The winner meets Sandhurst in the second semi-final.

On Sunday, Strathfieldsaye plays South Bendigo in the B-grade elimination final from 12.40pm.

It was 42-all when the Bloods and Storm clashed in round six at Harry Trott Oval.

Storm surged to a 46-36 victory against the red and white in the 15^th round at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

Storm’s record is 10 wins, seven losses, and a draw.

The Bloods’ marked a win-loss tally of 8-7, but also drew matches with Storm in round six, Eaglehawk in the 10^th, and Kyneton in the 12^th round.

Beaten just once, Kangaroo Flat will start favourite in the B-reserve qualifying final.

The Roos and Bulldogs will play from 11.20am.

In round four, Kangaroo Flat beat Gisborne, 59-42 at Dower Park.

The Roos hopped to a 48-35 victory on Gisborne’s court in the 13^th round on the way to a 17-1 record this season.

Gisborne has a win-loss tally of 13-5.

The ladder-leading Sandhurst has advanced to the second semi.

It’s Strathfieldsaye against Eaglehawk in Sunday’s elimination final from 11.20am.

The Hawks won 33-32 at Triple M Park in the fifth round.

Storm was too strong in the return game played at Canterbury Park where it won 45-33.

The league’s young stars take to the court from 10am on Saturday and Sunday to contest the 17-under matches.

In the qualifying final it’s Gisborne against Golden Square.

The Bulldogs from the south won 58-47 at Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval in Wade Street in the sixth round.

Golden Square won a great contest at Gardiner Reserve in the 15^th round, 49-44.

It’s a 16-2 record for Gisborne, and 14-4 for Golden Square across the home-and-away series.

Either Gisborne or Golden Square will face Sandhurst in the second semi.

On Sunday it will be Strathfieldsaye and Maryborough fighting to keep their season alive in the elimination final.

First pass in the match between Storm and the Magpies will be at 10am.

In round eight scores were locked at 36-all when the whistle sounded to end the match at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

The Magpies won 41-35 at Strathfieldsaye in the 17^th round.

Both elimination finalists have identical records of 10-7-1 win across the home-and-away series.

CASTLEMAINE ended South Bendigo’s run as they met in Sunday’s elimination final on two of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL netball finals action.

The Magpies and South Bendigo had drawn their previous contest just eight days earlier in the last round of the home-and-away series.

Jointly coached by  Fiona Fowler, playing, and Gary Cooke, Castlemaine made a great start to the elimination final.

The Magpies led 13-9 at quarter-time and then took control to win the second term, 15-7.

Winning the next two quarters, 13-7 and 16-11 meant the Magpies were up 57-34 at the final siren.

Castlemaine will now meet Kangaroo Flat in next Sunday’s first semi-final.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos will be on the rebound from a qualifying loss to Gisborne.

In Saturday’s start to the finals series it was the strong defence of the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne which played a big part in winning the A-grade clash with Kangaroo Flat.

The Bulldogs led 10-9 at quarter-time and 19-15 by the main break.

Gisborne then won the third term, 12-8.

Although the Flat outscored the red, white and blue in the last quarter, 8-6, it was Gisborne which advanced to the second semi after a 37-31 victory.

Gisborne will take on Sandhurst, the unbeaten reigning premier next Saturday.

In A-reserve, South Bendigo won a closely-fought elimination final against Castlemaine.

The Bloods were down 10-13 at quarter-time, but hit back to win the second term, 12-7.

Both teams scored 12 goals in the third quarter.

Pressure was high in the last as the Bloods poured in 10 goals and held the Magpies to a tally of nine.

At the final siren South Bendigo led 46-43.

Sandhurst dominated Saturday’s qualifying final showdown with Kangaroo Flat.

The maroon and blue led 7-6 at quarter-time and then unleashed a 14-5 blitz in the second.

A 10-goal buffer at the start of the third was 14 by the end it as the Dragons scored 13 goals to the Roos’ tally of nine.

Sandhurst went on to win 50-27 and set up a second semi-final meeting with Gisborne.

A great day for Strathfieldsaye in the elimination finals included three wins for Storm.

In B-grade, Storm faced South Bendigo.

Strathfieldsaye led 10-7 at quarter-time and then won the next three terms, 12-3, 14-10 and 14-7 for a 50-27 victory.

Storm will now take on Kangaroo Flat in the first semi-final.

The Roos were beaten by Gisborne in Saturday’s qualifying final by 14 goals.

Just a goal separated the teams at half-time as the Bulldogs led 22-21.

Gisborne dominated the third, 16-10, and then won the last, 17-10, for a 55-41 result.

Saturday’s second semi-final will feature Sandhurst against Gisborne.

In B-reserve, Strathfieldsaye surged to an eight-goal victory against Eaglehawk in the elimination final.

Storm led 19-17 at half-time and won the third quarter, 9-5.

It was a closely-fought last term as Storm led 37-29 at the final siren.

Strathfieldsaye now takes on Gisborne in the first semi.

The Bulldogs were beaten in two quarters, had a win in one, and drew the other in a 41-55 loss to Kangaroo Flat in the qualifying final.

The Kangaroos led 15-10 at quarter-time and 25-21 by the long break.

Both teams scored 13 goals in the third before the Roos poured in 17 goals and held Gisborne to just seven in the last.

A 55-41 victory put Kangaroo Flat into the second semi against Sandhurst.

Elimination final day began with a one-goal thriller between Strathfieldsaye and Maryborough in the 17-and-under competition.

Scores were eight-all at quarter-time and 16 apiece by the long break.

In the third term it was Strathfieldsaye which outscored the Magpies, 14-11.

Maryborough won the last, 8-6, but it was Storm which stayed in the premiership race in a dramatic 36-35 victory.

Strathfieldsaye will now play Golden Square in the first semi.

On Saturday it was Gisborne against Golden Square in the qualifying final.

Gisborne led 15-12 at quarter-time and then charged to a 28-17 lead by half-time.

The team in red, white and blue won the third term, 13-9.

Golden Square fought on well to win the last, 14-12, as Gisborne won the match, 53-40 to advance to a second semi-final clash with Sandhurst.

Schedule for Saturday’s second semi-finals at Queen Elizabeth Oval:

A-grade at 3.20pm: Sandhurst v Gisborne

A-reserve at 2pm: Gisborne v Sandhurst.

B-grade at 12.40pm: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

B-reserve at 11.20am: Sandhurst v Kangaroo Flat.

17-and-under at 10am: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

Schedule for Sunday’s first semi-finals at Queen Elizabeth Oval:

A-grade at 3.20pm: Kangaroo Flat v Castlemaine.

A-reserve at 2pm: Kangaroo Flat v South Bendigo.

B-grade at 12.40pm: Kangaroo Flat v Strathfieldsaye.

B-reserve at 11.20am: Gisborne v Strathfieldsaye.

17-and-under at 10am: Golden Square v Strathfieldsaye.