Castlemaine

Roos meet Magpies in Indigenous Round match

IT’S the Kangaroos against the Magpies as Kangaroo Flat faces Castlemaine in the A-grade netball match in this Saturday’s Indigenous Round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The ladder-leading Kangaroos will start favourite on their court at Dower Park as the league marks the seventh round.

Since a seven-goal loss to Sandhurst in round one and then a bye, Kangaroo Flat is on a four-game winning streak.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat has shown it has plenty of scoring power but is also strong defensively.

Highest score against the Roos was 46 by Sandhurst in the season opener at Dower Park.

The Roos defeated South Bendigo, 60-27, and then won 90-35 on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

Arguably the most impressive performance was the 76-15 result at home against Eaglehawk in the fifth round.

On day one of the split sixth round, Kangaroo Flat won 59-31 against Strathfieldsaye at Triple M Park.

The rampaging Roos take on an opponent determined to regain confidence.

Castlemaine made a great start when it won 41-27 on South Bendigo’s court at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval in round two.

The Chloe Hughes-coached Magpies have since endured home-court losses to Golden Square and Strathfieldsaye.

The Pies were also defeated in the Pat Cronin Foundation feature round match at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

Huge challenge for Castlemaine, especially in mid-court against a confident and skilful Kangaroos’ trio.

It’s second against fourth as Gisborne is home at Gardiner Reserve to take on Strathfieldsaye.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne is unbeaten as it chases back-to-back premierships.

A great run for the red, white and blue began with a 42-38 victory against Sandhurst in the ’23 grand final rematch at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

After a rest for A-grade in round three as the club was drawn to play Maryborough, Gisborne has beaten South Bendigo, Golden Square and Eaglehawk.

The Bulldogs achieved scores of 61, 58 and 53 goals in wins by 24, 27 and 28 goals.

Strathfieldsaye Storm rolls into Gisborne following a tough round six clash with Kangaroo Flat.

Another big test for the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm which bounced back from a two-goal loss to South Bendigo at Triple M Park to win its next three matches.

The Sandhurst and Eaglehawk rivalry always generates a hard-fought match.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst will start favourite to take the points against the Borough at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

It’s been a disjointed season for Sandhurst which after being defeated by Gisborne had a two-week break because of a bye and then drawn to play at Maryborough the following round.

Latest hit-out for the maroon and blue ended in a 72-26 result at Golden Square on Ron Best Memorial Shield day.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk completes a tough three-match streak which began at Kangaroo Flat and was followed by a home game against Gisborne and now faces last season’s runner-up.

It’s a rest for Golden Square in A-grade, but the blue and gold will trek across to Maryborough to play in the lower grades on the Princes Park courts.

South Bendigo has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 210 per cent, 16 points; Gisborne 163, 16; Sandhurst 181, 12; Strathfieldsaye 112, 12; Eaglehawk 72, 8; Castlemaine 78, 4; Golden Square 56, 4; South Bendigo 54, 4.

Kangaroos claim Wirama Shield against Magpies

KANGAROO Flat outplayed Castlemaine in the A-grade netball match to claim the Wirama Shield as the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL marked Indigenous Round on Saturday.

The Roos and Magpies contested the round’s feature match on Kangaroo Flat’s court at Dower Park.

An 86-33 victory was a fifth win of the season for the ladder-leading Kangaroos who are coached by Jayden Cowling.

It’s been a tough run for the Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine which has not won since the second round against South Bendigo at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Reigning premier Gisborne won a hard-fought match on its court at Gardiner Reserve against Strathfieldsaye Storm.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 11-10 at quarter-time and 21-17 by the long break.

In the third the team in red, white and blue took control as it scored 11 goals and kept Storm to a tally of six.

Gisborne went on to claim a 40-29 victory against the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm.

A red-hot Sandhurst starred in the cool conditions at Queen Elizabeth Oval against Eaglehawk.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst raced to a 19-8 lead by quarter-time.

Term two was the Dragons most dominant of the match as they poured in 23 goals and held the Two Blues to a score of eight.

By the long break the maroon and blue led 42-24.

The Dragons led 58-24 going into the final term.

An Eaglehawk team coached by Kylie Piercy scored a match-high 12 goals in the last as Sandhurst netted a 75-36 victory.

It was a bye for Golden Square in A-grade, but the blue and gold did play Maryborough on the Princes Park courts in the lower grades.

South Bendigo had a bye.

Standings in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 219 per cent, 20 points; Gisborne 158 20; Sandhurst 187, 16; Strathfieldsaye 105, 12; Eaglehawk 66, 8; Castlemaine 66, 4; Golden Square 56, 4; South Bendigo 54, 4.

A highlight of King’s Birthday holiday weekend will be Saturday’s round eight match between Strathfieldsaye and Sandhurst at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Castlemaine will be on its court at Camp Reserve against Gisborne.

Golden Square takes on South Bendigo at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

It’s a rest for the A-grade team from Eaglehawk, but the Borough’s teams will be on their courts at Canterbury Park to play Maryborough in the lower grades.

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Round seven scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Kangaroo Flat 67 d Castlemaine 27, Gisborne 53 d Strathfieldsaye 38, Sandhurst 57 d Eaglehawk 36, Maryborough 45 d Golden Square 33, South Bendigo bye.

B-grade:

Kangaroo Flat 60 d Castlemaine 17, Gisborne 63 d Strathfieldsaye 38, Sandhurst 57 d Eaglehawk 27, Maryborough 34 lt Golden Square 49, South Bendigo bye.

B-reserve:

Kangaroo Flat 56 d Castlemaine 38, Gisborne 55 d Strathfieldsaye 34, Sandhurst 68 d Eaglehawk 31, Maryborough 33 lt Golden Square 44, South Bendigo bye.

17-and-under:

Kangaroo Flat 25 lt Castlemaine 57, Gisborne 47 d Strathfieldsaye 31, Sandhurst 68 d Eaglehawk 17, Maryborough 35 lt Golden Square 44, South Bendigo bye.

League ladders

A-reserve:

Gisborne 201 per cent, 24 points; Strathfieldsaye 136, 20; Kangaroo Flat 119, 18; Maryborough 105, 18; Sandhurst 130, 16; Castlemaine 79, 8; South Bendigo 72, 4; Eaglehawk 66, 4; Golden Square 60, 0.

B-grade:

Gisborne 205 per cent, 24 points; Kangaroo Flat 149, 24; Sandhurst 174, 20; Strathfieldsaye 115, 16; South Bendigo 87, 8; Eaglehawk 74, 8; Castlemaine 70, 8; Golden Square 66, 4; Maryborough 43, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 230 per cent, 24 points; Gisborne 186, 20; Strathfieldsaye 126, 20; Kangaroo Flat 134, 16; South Bendigo 114, 12; Eaglehawk 97, 8; Golden Square 66, 8; Castlemaine 60, 4; Maryborough 34, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 244 per cent, 24 points; Golden Square 156, 24; Maryborough 99, 16; Strathfieldsaye 123, 12; Castlemaine 109, 12; Gisborne 97, 12; South Bendigo 93, 8; Eaglehawk 43, 4; Kangaroo Flat 41, 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.

CASTLEMAINE overcame a spirited fight from Maryborough in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League’s senior footy match on Good Friday.

Hundreds of fans packed Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve to watch the fierce country-based rivals strive for the first premiership points of the 2024 season.

For a lot of the opening hour it was the Coby Perry and Matt Johnston-coached Maryborough which outplayed the hosts.

The run and teamwork of the Maryborough team was outstanding and included goals by Jake Twycross, two; Seb Collins, Kaian Constable, Robert Castiglia, Bailey Edwards and Ty Stewart.

Many spectators were stunned as Maryborough led 46-28 nearing half-time.

Fortunes then swung dramatically after Maryborough recruit Seb Collins broke his arm.

After a delay of several minutes it was the Michael Hartley-coached Castlemaine which took control.

In his debut as coach, Hartley’s fourth goal was followed by consecutive majors by Bailey Henderson, the first when a long shot from near the centre bounced through.

In the space of seven minutes the ’Maine scored 3.2 to nil.

Castlemaine quickly turned a two-point lead at the start of the second half into a 33-point lead.

After a subdued start to the match, Henderson was the spark.

Back-to-back goals by Henderson was then capped by brilliant team play from defence to attack where Brad Keogh passed to Zac Greeves for a goal.

Ben McConachy was on target on the run and Greeves goaled again for Castlemaine to lead 80-47.

A run of eight unanswered goals was broken when Kaian Constable booted Maryborough’s eighth in the 22^nd minute.

When  Constable spun out of trouble and goaled the margin was back to 21 points.

A Ben McConachy goal on three quarter-time meant the hosts were up 86-61.

A lack of rotations clearly hurt Maryborough’s run as the match went on.

Castlemaine scored 6.9 to a point in the last to complete a 19.17 (131) to 9.8 (62) victory.

Hartley was rapt with the team’s workrate and ability to move the ball in the second half.

Quick transition from midfield to the forward 50m often led to one-out duels where the marking power of Hartley, Henderson and Greeves was to the fore.

Best afield honours went to Hartley whose experience from AFL stints with Essendon and Hawthorn is a massive plus for Castlemaine.

Now a full-time player with Castlemaine after VFL stints with Richmond and Williamstown, Henderson’s athleticism and skill make him one of the best players in the Bendigo competition.

Others to perform well for the black and white stripes were Kalan Huntly, Zach Greeves and Liam Wilkinson.

Maryborough on-baller Bailey Edwards kept racking up possessions to be his team’s best, along with talented teen Kaian Constable.

Coby Perry’s attack at every contest is inspirational.

GOALS – Castlemaine: Michael Hartley, Bailey Henderson 5, Zach Greeves 4, Ben McConachy, Callum McConachy 2, Zavier Murley,. Maryborough: Kaian Constable 3, Jake Twycross 2, Robert Castiglia, Seb Collins, Bailey Edwards, Ty Stewart.

BEST – Castlemaine: Michael Hartley, Bailey Henderson, Kalan Huntly, Callum McConachy, Zach Greeves, Liam Wilkinson. Maryborough: Bailey Edwards, Kaian Constable, Coby Perry, Alex Brown, Joel Swatton, Aidan Medlyn.

Although disappointed about the final margin, Maryborough co-coach Coby Perry said the opening 50 minutes showed what his team is capable of.

Injuries to Collins (arm) and Fraser Russell (groin) were significant as both had been strong targets inside the forward 50m arc in the first half.

It was a hat-trick wins on the footy field for Castlemaine.

In the reserves, Castlemaine won 101-13.

A high-standard under-18s match ended in a 9.10 (64) to 8.9 (57) victory for the Bailey Henderson-coached Castlemaine.

Netball results were split two-all.

Castlemaine won B-grade and B-reserve by margins of five and seven goals.

Maryborough took the points in A-reserve, 56-38, and 17-under, 61-53.

There was no A-grade match.

The first round of the Bendigo FNL season will be completed on April 13.

Highs in the footy action include Eaglehawk against reigning premier Golden Square on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.

Strathfieldsaye Storm takes on South Bendigo at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

Kangaroo Flat tackles Sandhurst in the twilight match on the Roos’ ground at Dower Park.

Gisborne has the bye.

Castlemaine and Maryborough have a break until April 20.

The Michael Hartley-led Castlemaine makes its way to Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval to take on South Bendigo.

Maryborough will be home at Princes Park to face Kangaroo Flat.

A new season for Gisborne begins against Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth Oval.