Strathfieldsaye

Storm’s run under threat on Gisborne’s ground

AN UNBEATEN run by Strathfieldsaye Storm is under threat when it plays at Gisborne in Saturday’s seventh round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy season.

Clubs will mark Indigenous Round in which Kangaroo Flat and Castlemaine will play for the Wirama Shield on the Kangaroos’ turf at Dower Park.

Further south at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve it’s third against second.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne will be striving to deny Storm a sixth consecutive victory.

Both teams are in great form.

On day one of the split sixth round, Gisborne won at Eaglehawk by 34 points, and the Luke Freeman-coached Storm beat Kangaroo Flat by 83 points at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park.

Highlight of this showdown between the Bulldogs and Storm will be the on-ball duels.

Gisborne ruckman Braidon Blake joins forces with Flynn Lakey, Jackson Cardillo and Brad Bernacki.

They will be up against George Simpson, Matt Harvey, Lachlan Gill and Bode Stevens.

The athleticism and marking strength of Gisborne forwards Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore, Zac Denahy and Jack Scanlon is a major strength.

Key for Storm will be defensive spoils and winning the footy at ground level.

Strathfieldsaye has the experience of Ben Lester, Lachlan Ratcliffe and Daniel Clohesy in defence.

Storm’s attack is led by James Schischka  and Zach Charles in the aerial duels, and the workrate of Abe Sheahan, Carson James and Riley Wilson at ground level.

It’s been many weeks since Kangaroo Flat and Castlemaine have marked a victory.

For the Michael Ellings-coached Roos it was round three at home against South Bendigo.

A Castlemaine line-up coached by Michael Hartley kicked off the season with victory in the stand-alone match against Maryborough on Good Friday at Camp Reserve.

The Magpies have since endured four defeats.

A victory for the Kangaroos will mean jumping a rung above South Bendigo.

Jack Lefroy makes a welcome return to the Roos line-up after playing for Carlton in last weekend’s VFL clash with Gold Coast Suns.

Kangaroo Flat’s team to take on the Magpies includes Justin Bateson, Luke Ellings, Josh Leersen, Zach Rouse and Harry Whitty.

Quick movement to a forward line where Michael Hartley and Zach Greeves have the height and strength to test their opponents will be a goal for the Magpies.

Players to watch for the Pies include captain Bailey Henderson, Brodie Byrne, Ashton Frankling, Kalan Huntly, Will Moran and John Watson.

The ladder-leading Sandhurst takes on long-time rival Eaglehawk at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The fourth-placed Hawks will be desperate to beat one of the league’s top three.

Sandhurst retained the Ron Best Memorial Shield in last Saturday’s clash at Golden Square.

The Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Dragons have plenty of scoring options.

Among them is Curnow who booted four goals on Golden Square’s turf at Fur Life Oval.

A Dragons attack that includes Fergus Greene, Lachlan Wright and Alex Wharton presents many challenges for Hawks defenders Oscar Madden, Clayton Holmes and Charlie Langford.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks have Billy Evans, Joel Mullen and Jack Thompson in the on-ball duels to take on the likes of Lachlan Tardrew, James Coghlan and Nick Stagg.

Maryborough is on home turf at Princes Park against Golden Square.

Been plenty of focus on Maryborough this week and the club’s goals beyond this season.

For coaches Coby Perry and Matt Johnston the immediate target is being as competitive as the Magpies can be against the Bulldogs.

Massive plus for Maryborough is the return of midfielder Joel Swatton who had not played since round three.

Magpies’ defender Kya Lanfranchi is up against the odds every match, but always performs well.

A young Magpies line-up includes Aidan Medlyn, Josh Britten, Alex Brown, Ash Humphrey and Kirk Looby.

The Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square will not want standards to drop, regardless of who it plays.

Expect Jayden Burke, Jordan Rosengren, Drew Barrett, Harrison Burke and Luke Holt to lead the way.

The Bulldogs have brought in Noah Warfe, son of former Fitzroy and Sydney Swans defender Rowan, to play his first senior match.

A talented group of youngsters in the Golden Square line-up includes Xavier Carter, Macey Eaton and Zac Tickell.

South Bendigo has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 451 per cent, 20 points; Strathfieldsaye 164, 20; Gisborne 287, 16; Eaglehawk 121, 12; Golden Square 86, 8; South Bendigo 82, 8; Kangaroo Flat 59, 8; Castlemaine 87, 4; Maryborough 17, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

32 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

29 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

23 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

20 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

18 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

18 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

18 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

16 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

13 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

12 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

11 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

10 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

10 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

9 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

9 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

9 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

9 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

9 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

Gisborne ends Storm’s unbeaten run

GISBORNE broke Strathfieldsaye Storm’s unbeaten run in Saturday’s seventh round of senior footy action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Gisborne Bulldogs were on home turf at Gardiner Reserve to tackle an in-form Storm as the league marked Indigenous Round.

The Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs charged to a 32-12 lead by quarter-time.

In the second it was Storm which seized control.

With James Schisckha starring in attack, Strathfieldsaye scored 5.2 to 3.4 in the second to be within 10 points at half-time.

Quarter three was when Gisborne broke the game wide open.

The Bulldogs added 5.4 and lifted defensive intensity to limit Storm to a tally of two goals.

The Luke Freeman-coached Storm fought on to win the last term, 26-22, but it was Gisborne which marked a 110-82 victory.

Pat McKenna and Harry Luxmoore led the Bulldogs’ attack on three goals as Brad Bernacki, Zac Denahy and Harry Thomas added two each.

Storm’s leading goalkicker was James Schischka on seven as Matt Harvey and Joel Reinheimer chipped in with two.

Best for Gisborne were Jack Scanlon, ruckman Braidon Blake, Brad Bernacki, Flynn Lakey, Pat McKennz and Frank Schipano.

James Schischka, Cooper Jones, Matt Harvey, Lachlan Ratcliffe, Caleb Sheahan and Patrick Blandford were Strathfieldsaye’s best.

At Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park the Wirama Shield was up for grabs as the Roos took on Castlemaine.

After victory in the stand-alone match against Maryborough on Good Friday, Castlemaine had endured a run of four consecutive defeats.

The Michael Hartley-coached Castlemaine charged to a 27-1 lead by quarter-time on the Kangaroos’ ground.

Kangaroo Flat bounced back to win the second term, 21-8.

The Magpies dominated most of the third term.

Led by the play of Jack Sutherland, Bailey Henderson and Zavier Murley, Castlemaine scored 5.5 to gain a 39-point lead going into the final term.

A high-scoring final quarter went the Magpies way, 37-33.

Zac Greeves kicked three goals as Michael Hartley, Bailey Henderson and Liam Wilkinson booted two each in a 107-64 victory for the Magpies.

Leading goalkickers for the Roos were Angus Grant and Harry Whitty on three each.

Castlemaine’s best included Kalan Huntly, Darby Semmens and Tyson Jackson.

Kyle Symons, Ethan Roberts, Luke Ellings, Jack Lefroy, Angus Grant and Connor Lee were best for the Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos.

Sandhurst’s hot streak kept rolling in a 12-goal victory against Eaglehawk at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

A closely-fought opening term went the way of the Dragons, 21-7.

In the second a Sandhurst line-up jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, scored 5.3 and kept the Borough to a goal.

The Dragons dominated most of the second half as they added 9.4 to 4.3 to complete a 112-40 victory.

Fergus Greene and Bryce Curnow kicked four and three goals as Harrison Free and Nick Stagg added two.

The Hawks’ attack was led by Jack O’Shannessy on three, and Jonty Neaves with two.

Sandhurst’s best were Cobi Maxted, Harrison Free, Lachlan Tardrew, Lachlan Wright, Zach Pallpratt and Isaac Ruff.

Oscar Madden, Jack O’Shannessy, Cameron McGlashan, Billy Evans, Blake McGregor and Zack Bulger played well for the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk.

It was another tough afternoon for Maryborough on home turf at Princes Park against Golden Square.

As the club weighs up prospects beyond this season, Maryborough’s young team faced the blue and gold.

It was Golden Square which slammed on 8.8 and kept the Magpies scoreless in the opening term.

From there the Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs scored five goals in the second quarter, eight in the third and six in the last.

Captain Jayden Burke finished with eight goals in a best on ground performance nd Jack Stewart added five in a 180-22 victory.

It was a big day for the Eaton family as Oliver kicked two goals in his senior debut and played alongside older brother Macey who also booted a goal.

Maryborough’s goalkickers were Robert Castiglia, co-coach Coby Perry and Tannar Santon.

Best for Golden Square were Jayden Burke, Tom Strauch, Zac Wescott, Jack Stewart, Jack Threlfall and Brodie James.

Coby Perry, Ash Humphrey, Kya Lanfranchi, Tom Myers, Alex Brown and Seb Collins were best in a Magpies line-up which is jointly coached by Coby Perry and Matt Johnston.

South Bendigo had the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 421 per cent, 24 points; Gisborne 249, 20; Strathfieldsaye 138, 20; Golden Square 120, 12; Eaglehawk 99, 12; Castlemaine 97, 8; South Bendigo 82, 8; Kangaroo Flat 59, 8; Maryborough 16, 0.

Highlight of next Saturday’s eighth round will be Strathfieldsaye against Sandhurst in Storm territory at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane from 2.20pm.

Castlemaine is back on home turf at Camp Reserve to tackle Gisborne.

Eaglehawk and Maryborough meet in the clash of the Hawks and Magpies at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

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

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

33 - (4) - Fergus Greene - Sandhurst 
32 - (0) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo 
26 - (3) - Pat McKenna - Gisborne 
25 - (7) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye 
23 - (3) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne 
20 - (2) - Michael Hartley - Castlemaine 
19 - (8) - Jayden Burke - Golden Square 
18 - (0) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst 
16 - (0) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo 
14 - (5) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square 
13 - (2) - Jonty Neaves - Eaglehawk 
13 - (0) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk 
13 - (3) - Bryce Curnow - Sandhurst 
12 - (2) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne 
12 - (0) - Malik Gordon - Strathfieldsaye 
11 - (2) - Bradley Bernacki - Gisborne 
11 - (2) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine 
11 - (3) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat 
11 - (0) - Noah Walsh - Sandhurst 
10 - (1) - Lachlan Tardrew - Sandhurst 
10 - (3) - Zachary Greeves - Castlemaine 

Storm strives to end Sandhurst’s run

STRATHFIELDSAYE will be striving to break Sandhurst’s unbeaten streak in Saturday’s eighth round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

It’s third against first when the clash starts at 2.20pm on Storm’s turf at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

For Sandhurst there’s more than premiership points to be won.

The Dragons will be determined to pay tribute to club legend Danny Ellis who passed away this week.

A talented forward in his time with the Dragons, Danny’s association with the club lasted more than 40 years.

A past president, secretary, treasurer, there were not many tasks Danny did not do around the den.

A remarkable contribution was recognised by being inducted to the Sandhurst FNC Hall of Fame.

The Ellis family has done so much on the footy and netball front at the Dragons.

Danny Ellis epitomised everything about being a great clubman and volunteer.

On the footy field the Dragons will be focused on marking a seventh consecutive victory.

It will not be an easy task against an opponent on the rebound from defeat for the first time this season.

Storm’s James Schischka was in superb touch as he kicked seven goals in last Saturday’s match at Gisborne.

Strathfieldsaye also has Caleb Ernst in for consecutive games.

The athletic forward has played six VFL matches with Coburg this season.

Malik Gordon also makes a timely return for the Luke Freeman-coached Storm.

A Strathfieldsaye defence led by Lachlan Ratcliffe, Patrick Blandford and Ben Lester faces another daunting task.

Gun recruit Fergus Greene has kicked 33 goals for the Dragons and is leading the race for the Ron Best Medal.

Greene is a key cog in a powerful attack that includes Bryce Curnow, a premiership winner with Storm, and Lachlan Wright.

Midfield duels will be a highlight.

Storm has Daniel Clohesy, Matt Harvey and Lachlan Gill to take on Lachlan Tardrew, James Coghlan and Nick Stagg.

Chasing its third win of the season, Castlemaine has brought in former Melbourne player Neville Jetta to take on Gisborne at Camp Reserve.

It’s a huge coup by the Michael Hartley-coached Magpies to have Jetta join them.

This season he’s been playing for Fitzroy Stars, but also had a one-off game for Corowa-Rutherglen.

Jetta played 159 games for Melbourne from 2009 until 2021.

A career high was the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award for his work with Indigenous youth.

Jetta’s skills will be on display, most likely from a forward pocket or half-forward flank as Castlemaine takes on the in-form Gisborne.

Last week’s win by Castlemaine in the Indigenous Round feature match at Kangaroo Flat has put the Magpies in sixth place.

Huge challenge for Castlemaine defenders Liam Wilkinson, Jack Sutherland, Tyson Hickey and John Watson up against Zac Denahy, Pat McKenna, Jack Scanlon and Harry Luxmoore.

Major strength of the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne line-up is the on-ball brigade of ruckman Braidon Blake, Jackson Cardillo, Flynn Lakey and Brad Bernacki.

Castlemaine will need big games from the likes of Kalan Huntly, Zavier Murley, Ben McConachy and Ryan Eyre.

Golden Square is on home turf at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street against South Bendigo.

It’s a danger game for the Bulldogs who start this round in fourth place.

The blue and gold is a win and almost 40 per cent clear of the Bloods.

Highlight of this match will be the goalkicking exploits of Golden Square captain Jayden Burke and South Bendigo star Brock Harvey.

Key players for Golden Square include Jordan Rosengren in the centre, Jon Coe at centre half-back, Jack Stewart, Kai Daniels and Tom Strauch in attack.

It’s been an extended break for South Bendigo which played in the first week of the split sixth round and then had the bye.

Talented teen Zaydyn Lockwood will play his second senior game of this season for the Bloods.

A key position player with the Bendigo Pioneers in Coates Talent League, Lockwood represented Victoria Country in a Young Guns match in April.

The play of co-coaches Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller, captain Zac Hare, centreman Anthony Zimmerman, Brody Haddow, Blake and Tait Poyser will be crucial to the Bloods outrunning the Bulldogs.

Eaglehawk is back on home turf at Canterbury Park to take on Maryborough.

The Hawks will be without Clayton Holmes as he serves a one-match ban for striking.

On-ballers Joel Mullen, Billy Evans and Marcus Angove are likely to win plenty of the footy.

In attack the Hawks have the marking power of Jonty Neaves, Cameron McGlashan and Jack O’Shannessy.

Kyen Burrill-Grinton was named on a half-forward flank for his senior debut with the Two Blues.

In a season where depth is being tested by injuries, Maryborough keeps on playing with plenty of spirit.

Co-coaches Coby Perry and Matt Johnston are doing a superb job on and off-field for the Magpies.

Highlight was the play of ruckman Tom Myers who racked up 53 hit-outs and 17 disposals against Golden Square to earn the latest Guzman y Gomez Player of the Round award.

A goal in this match, as it’s been every round for Maryborough is to win a quarter or two.

Key players for the Magpies include Kya Lanfranchi, Fraser Russell, Aidan Medlyn, Ash Humphrey and Sam Johnston.

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 421 per cent, 24 points; Gisborne 249, 20; Strathfieldsaye 138, 20; Golden Square 120, 12; Eaglehawk 99, 12; Castlemaine 97, 8; South Bendigo 82, 8; Kangaroo Flat 59, 8; Maryborough 16, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

33 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

32 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

26 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

25 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

23 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

20 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

19 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

18 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

16 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

14 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

13 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

13 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

13 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

12 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

12 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

11 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

11 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

10 Zach Greeves, Sandhurst.

10 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

9 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

9 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

8 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

8 Ben Thompson, Eaglehawk.

8 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

7 Angus Grant, Kangaroo Flat.

7 Lachie Hood, Sandhurst.

7 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

7 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

7 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

Sandhurst marks emotional victory

SANDHURST marked an emotional victory on Strathfieldsaye’s turf in Saturday’s eighth round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

“Do It For Danny” was the theme for Sandhurst after the passing of club legend Danny Ellis during the week.

The Dragons also mourned the passing of long-time supporter Judith Hall who would have been rapt with the performance of “her boys” as this season’s unbeaten run kept rolling.

Sandhurst and Storm played out one of the games of the season as the Luke Freeman-coached Strathfieldsaye took it right up to the ladder leaders.

At quarter-time the Dragons led 32-26.

Another evenly fought second quarter went Sandhurst’s way, 22-21.

Just a goal separated the teams going into the final term.

A Dragons line-up jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, was able to kick clear.

The red-hot Sandhurst slammed on six straight goals as Storm added 2.5.

Fergus Greene increased his lead in the race for the Ron Best Medal by kicking seven goals to be among the Dragons’ best.

Other multiple goalkickers for the maroon and blue were Tanner Nally, three; and Oscar Perez, two.

Storm’s attack was led by Lachlan Gill, Matt Harvey, James Schischka and Bode Stevens with two each.

Best on ground honours went to brilliant midfielder/on-baller Lachlan Tardrew as Cobi Maxted, Fergus Greene, Nick Stagg, Tanner Nally and Jake McLean led Sandhurst’s charge to victory.

Cooper Jones, Caleb Ernst, Ben Lester, Charlie King, Zach Charles and Matt Harvey were Strathfieldsaye’s best.

Gisborne kicked away in the last quarter at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve to beat the Magpies by 41 points.

Goalkicking accuracy played a big part in the Castlemaine been within a point of the Bulldogs at half-time.

The Michael Hartley-coached Magpies scored 6.2 in the first hour as the visitors missed several chances to be on 5.9 at the break.

In the third the Bulldogs scored four straight goals as the Pies added 2.1.

A two-goal buffer for the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne became almost seven by the end of the contest after the Dogs scored six straight goals in the final term.

Brad Bernacki kicked four goals and was among the Bulldogs best.

Other multiple goalkickers for Gisborne were Zac Denahy, three; Pat McKenna and Harry Thomas, two.

Castlemaine’s attack was led by Michael Hartley, Bailey Henderson and Kalan Huntly on two.

Top ruckman Braidon Blake was best afield for Gisborne along with Bernacki, Jackson Cardillo, Patrick Trotta, Pat McKenna and Jake Normington.

Best for the Magpies were Liam Wilkinson, Darby Semmens, Matt Filo, Ryan Eyre, Declan Slingo and John Watson.

Golden Square answered a strong challenge from South Bendigo to mark a 32-point victory at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square led 16-15 at quarter-time.

In the second the Bulldogs seized control to score 5.3 to 2.2.

South Bendigo struck back in the third.

As the Bloods added 3.1 the Dogs’ radar was askew as they added 1.7.

Golden Square did plenty of attacking across the final 30 minutes.

Led by the play of Jack Stewart, Macey Eaton and Tom Strauch it was the Dogs who scored 5.6 in the last as the Bloods scored three goals.

A tally of 33 scoring shots was a sign of the Dogs’ dominance in a 98-66 victory.

Jack Stewart was superb in attack as he kicked six goals and Tom Strauch booted four.

Bulldogs’ captain Jayden Burke added two majors.

Only multiple goalkicker for the Bloods was co-coach Steven Stroobants on two.

Best for the Dogs included Ricky Monti, Harrison Burke and Lachlan Humphrey.

South Bendigo’s best were Brody Haddow, teenager Zaydyn Lockwood, Anthony Zimmerman, Alex Smith, co-coach Isaiah Miller and captain Zac Hare.

It was another tough afternoon for Maryborough at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

A player shortage meant Maryborough had two of Eaglehawk’s reserves players, Riley Neaves and Jack Kerr switch from being a Hawk to a Magpie for a couple of hours.

The Hawks also had Kyen Burrill-Grinton and Deacon Marsh mark their first senior games.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk scored 8.3 to nil in the first term.

The ability of the Coby Perry and Matt Johnston-coached Maryborough to control possession lifted markedly in the second as it held the Hawks to a tally of 3.2.

In the next two quarters the Two Blues scored 10 goals and then nine.

By the final siren Eaglehawk led 30.9 (189) to 0.1 (1).

The strong-marking Jack O’Shannessy kicked five goals as Zack Bulger, Jonty Neaves and Mitchell Ronchieri added four.

Gun on-ballers Joel Mullen and Billy Evans chipped in with three and two majors and Sam Thompson also slotted two goals.

Eaglehawk’s best were Joel Mullen, Billy Evans, Jonty Neaves, Bailey Ilsley, Marcus Angove and Zack Bulger.

Key defender Kya Lanfranchi racked up the intercept marks to be Maryborough’s best along with Coby Perry, Alex Brown, Ash Humphrey and Kirk Looby.

Kangaroo Flat had the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 339 per cent, 28 points; Gisborne 238, 24; Strathfieldsaye 124, 20; Eaglehawk 142, 16; Golden Square 123, 16; Castlemaine 91, 8; South Bendigo 80, 8; Kangaroo Flat 59, 8; Maryborough 14, 0.

In next Saturday’s ninth round, Gisborne is on home turf at Gardiner Reserve to take on Kangaroo Flat from 2.20pm.

Sandhurst and Castlemaine clash at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Maryborough is on home turf at Princes Park to play Strathfieldsaye.

South Bendigo and Eaglehawk meet at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

Golden Square has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

40 - (7) - Fergus Greene - Sandhurst 
32 - (0) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo 
28 - (2) - Pat McKenna - Gisborne 
27 - (2) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye 
24 - (1) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne 
22 - (2) - Michael Hartley - Castlemaine 
21 - (2) - Jayden Burke - Golden Square 
20 - (6) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square 
18 - (2) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo 
18 - (0) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst 
17 - (4) - Jonty Neaves - Eaglehawk 
15 - (3) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne 
15 - (4) - Bradley Bernacki - Gisborne 
14 - (1) - Bryce Curnow - Sandhurst 
13 - (2) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine 
13 - (0) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk 
12 - (0) - Malik Gordon - Strathfieldsaye 
11 - (1) - Lachlan Tardrew - Sandhurst 
11 - (1) - Zachary Greeves - Castlemaine 
11 - (0) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat 
11 - (0) - Noah Walsh - Sandhurst 
10 - (1) - Cobi Maxted - Sandhurst 
9 - (1) - Abe Sheahan - Strathfieldsaye 
9 - (0) - Justin Bateson - Kangaroo Flat 
8 - (4) - Tom Strauch - Golden Square 
8 - (2) - Harry Thomas - Gisborne 
8 - (0) - Nicholas Stagg - Sandhurst 
8 - (2) - Matt Harvey - Strathfieldsaye 
8 - (4) - Mitchell Ronchieri - Eaglehawk 
8 - (0) - Ben Thompson - Eaglehawk 
8 - (0) - Joel Wharton - Sandhurst 
8 - (5) - Jack O’Shannessy - Eaglehawk 
7 - (1) - Kai Daniels - Golden Square 
7 - (2) - Lachlan Gill - Strathfieldsaye 
7 - (0) - Lachie Hood - Sandhurst 
7 - (1) - Riley Wilson - Strathfieldsaye 
7 - (3) - Joel Mullen - Eaglehawk 
7 - (0) - Angus Grant - Kangaroo Flat 
7 - (0) - Fraser Russell - Maryborough 
7 - (0) - Sam Graham - Gisborne 
7 - (0) - Matthew Merrett - Gisborne

WITH eyes focused on a fifth victory in a row, Kyneton faces a big task of upstaging Strathfieldsaye Storm in Saturday’s ninth round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Paul Chapman-coached Kyneton has made an incredible fightback from a 0-3 start to be 4-3 and on the cusp of breaking into the top five.

In recent weeks the Tigers have won at Eaglehawk by a point, and then outpointed Kangaroo Flat, 75-37 at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Key players in the charge by the yellow and black include Harrison Huntley in defence, Cameron Manuel and Thomas Quinn in midfield, ruck-rover Hamish Yunghanns, and Ethan Foreman in attack.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Strathfieldsaye has overcome injuries and illness which tested depth in the early rounds to now be fourth on a 5-3 record.

A loss to the Tigers will put Storm out of the top bracket.

An attack that includes Michelsen medallist and multiple Ron Best medallist in Lachlan Sharp as captain will test Kyneton in every quarter.

Other players to watch for Storm include Michelsen medallist Jake Moorhead in an on-ball or midfield role, Luke Webb at half-back, the experienced Shannon Geary and Ben Lester.

Strathfieldsaye also has the dangerous Baxter Slater and James Schischka near goal.

After a hat-trick of defeats, Eaglehawk will be desperate to turn fortunes around when it meets Sandhurst on the Hawks’ turf at Canterbury Park.

A big crowd is expected as the Borough strives to end Sandhurst’s unbeaten run.

Despite the run of losses, Eaglehawk was right in the contest as the margins were three, one and three points.

Key players for the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk include co-captains Billy Evans and Cam McGlashan, Jarryn and Kellen Geary, Clayton Holmes, Connor Dalgleish, Sam Harper and Darcy Richards.

Sandhurst has a superb mix of experience and youthful talent.

Long-time players such as Lee Coghlan, Andy Collins, Nick Stagg and Zach Pallpratt keep racking up the possessions.

Jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, Sandhurt also has Noah Walsh, Isaac Ruff, Cooper Smith and Lachlan Wright in great form.

Kangaroo Flat is back on home turf at Dower Park to take on Golden Square.

The Roos brought in gun recruit Jonathon Patton for last week’s match at Kyneton.

Number one pick in the AFL draft of 2011, Patton played for Greatern Western Sydney Giants and Hawthorn.

He was not named in the Nathan Johns-coached Kangaroo Flat team to play this Saturday.

Most recent home game for Flat ended in a three-point win against Eaglehawk.

On that occasion the Roos defended incredibly well to hold the Hawks to a tally of 10 goals.

This week’s task is just as daunting as the Bulldogs have a brilliant forward line based around Ron Best medallist Joel Brett and the strong-marking Jayden Burke and Braydon Vaz.

Golden Square also has the talented Terence Reeves and Hamish Morcom at ground level.

Chances of another upset win by the Roos rest heavily with Mitch Trewhella in the centre, Jordan Rouse, Nick Keogh and Ryan O’Keefe in defence, ruckman Toby Roberts, and on-ballers Liam Collins and Campbell Smith.

A formidable Golden Square team coached by Christian Carter includes the running power of Jack Geary, Ricky Monti, Jake Thrum and Tom Toma, and defence led by Jon Coe, Jack Hickman and Zack Shelton.

Gisborne will be aiming to snap its winless run in a home game at Gardiner Reserve against Maryborough.

A much-improved start will be a goal for the Brad Fox-coached Bulldogs who were down by seven and six goals at quarter-time of their recent games against Golden Square and South Bendigo.

Key players for Gisborne include captain Jack Reaper in defence or attack, rover Flynn Lakey, Harry Luxmoore and Matt Merrett in attack, Seb Bell-Bartels and Liam Spear in midfield.

The Bulldogs are bolstered by the inclusion of gun on-baller Brad Bernacki who has played 10 matches for Essendon in this season’s VFL action.

The Coby Perry-coached Maryborough works hard, but lacks the attacking power to trouble the top teams.

Players to watch for the Magpies include Kya Lanfranchi and Jake Postle in defence, Joel Swatton, Matt Johnston, ruckman Ty Stewart, the versatile Chris Freeman, and talented youngster Alex Gavriliadis.

Castlemaine is back home at Camp Reserve to take on South Bendigo.

The Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies played well to be within 34 points of Sandhurst at three quarter-time last Saturday.

In the last the Dragons fired up to record a convincing win.

Castlemaine will look to John Watson, Matt Filo, Brodie Browne-Kerr, Liam Wilkinson, Brad Keogh, Brodie and Jackson  Byrne to win plenty of contests.

The Magpies also have the dash and skill of Ashton Frankling from a wing or half-back.

Major goal for the ‘Maine will be to limit the influence of Bloods’ midfielder Brody Haddow.

A tally of 35 disposals, eight clearances and nine tackles by Haddow in South Bendigo’s win against Gisborne earned the Barry Plant Player of the Round award.

Could be another big afternoon for Bloods’ forwards Will Keck, Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants as they cap off the work of ruckman Mac Cameron, coach Nathan Horbury, Isaiah Miller, Sam Maher and Sam Langley.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 252 per cent, 32 points; Golden Square 195, 24; Eaglehawk 217, 20; Strathfieldsaye 145, 20; South Bendigo 143, 20; Kyneton 104, 18; Kangaroo Flat 70, 12; Gisborne 89, 8; Castlemaine 29, 6; Maryborough 17, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

35 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

30 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

24 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

24 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

24 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

22 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

20 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

18 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

16 Andy Collins, Sandhurst.

16 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

16 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

14 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

13 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

13 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

13 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

12 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

11 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

10 Jed Brereton, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Billy Evans, Eaglehawk.

10 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

10 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

10 Callum McCarty, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

10 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

STRATHFIELDSAYE stayed in touch with the top five on the A-grade netball ladder after a fine win against Kyneton in Saturday’s ninth round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Storm coach Steph Freemantle rated Strathfieldsaye’s performance the best of the ’23 campaign.

The Strathfieldsaye line-up led 12-6 at quarter-time of the match on its court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

A closely-fought second term went Storm’s way, 10-9.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton lifted its play to cut the deficit to just five goals going into the final term.

Strathfieldsaye responded to the challenge to win the term, 14-11, and the match, 46-38.

A win-loss record of 4-4 and a draw means Storm hits the halfway mark in sixth place, level on points with the sixth-placed South Bendigo.

Storm and South Bendigo drew when met in round six on the Bloods’ court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Castlemaine bounced back from defeat to score a 13-goal win against South Bendigo on the Magpies’ court at Camp Reserve.

Jointly coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke, Castlemaine led 11-7 at quarter-time and surged to a seven-goal buffer by the main break after a 10-7 return in the second.

The Magpies went on to win the next two quarters, 12-9 and 11-8 to complete a 44-31 victory.

Top-three teams Sandhurst, Gisborne and Kangaroo Flat all recorded emphatic victories.

Unbeaten in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst led 34-14 at half-time of the match at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst went on to claim a 70-30 win.

Gisborne marked a 45-goal win on its court at Gardiner Reserve against Maryborough.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 33-11 at half-time and then won the second half, 35-12, for a 68-23 result.

Kangaroo Flat passed the century mark in its home game at Dower Park against Golden Square.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Roos scored 28 goals in the first quarter and 29 in the second to lead 57-11 by half-time.

Kangaroo Flat’s intensity did not drop as it scored 24 goals in term three and 25 in the last for a 106-19 result.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 210 per cent, 36 points; Gisborne 185, 28; Kangaroo Flat 179, 28; Castlemaine 124, 26; South Bendigo 112, 18; Strathfieldsaye 96, 18; Kyneton 90, 14; Maryborough 60, 8; Eaglehawk 66, 4; Golden Square 36, 0.

The second half of the home-and-away series tips off next Saturday.

Match of the day in the 10^th round will be Kangaroo Flat against Sandhurst on the Roos’ court at Dower Park.

Strathfieldsaye takes on Gisborne at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

Eaglehawk hosts South Bendigo at Canterbury Park.

Castlemaine takes on Maryborough in the all-Magpies match at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Kyneton and Golden Square clash at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Round nine scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 40 d Kyneton 34, Castlemaine 33 d South Bendigo 29, Eaglehawk 31 lt Sandhurst 64, Gisborne bye, Kangaroo Flat 53 d Golden Square 32.

B-grade:

Strathfieldsaye 41 d Kyneton 31, Castlemaine 22 lt South Bendigo 59, Eaglehawk 37 lt Sandhurst 66, Gisborne 81 d Maryborough 14, Kangaroo Flat 45 d Golden Square 33.

B-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 48 d Kyneton 27, Castlemaine 20 lt South Bendigo 38, Eaglehawk 32 lt Sandhurst 51, Gisborne 46 d Maryborough 31, Kangaroo Flat 61 d Golden Square 29.

17-and-under:

Strathfieldsaye 75 d Kyneton 11, Castlemaine 49 d South Bendigo 23, Eaglehawk 19 lt Sandhurst 62, Gisborne 49 d Maryborough 27, Kangaroo Flat 37 lt Golden Square 47.

Ladders after nine rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 223 per cent, 36 points; Sandhurst 177, 32; Kangaroo Flat 125, 24; Castlemaine 96, 20; South Bendigo 94, 20; Strathfieldsaye 80, 20; Eaglehawk 74, 16; Kyneton 61, 8; Golden Square 59, 4.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 201 per cent, 36 points; Kangaroo Flat 140, 32; Gisborne 174, 28; South Bendigo 104, 22; Strathfieldsaye 99, 22; Eaglehawk 82, 16; Golden Square 91, 12; Kyneton 80, 8; Castlemaine 57, 2; Maryborough 48, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 235 per cent, 36 points; Kangaroo Flat 194, 32; Gisborne 145, 28; Eaglehawk 114, 24; Strathfieldsaye 133, 20; South Bendigo 109, 16; Castlemaine 59, 12; Golden Square 63, 8; Kyneton 43, 4; Maryborough 44, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 193 per cent, 36 points; Sandhurst 179, 32; Golden Square 154, 28; Maryborough 120, 22; Strathfieldsaye 116, 22; Kangaroo Flat 115, 14; Castlemaine 100, 14; Eaglehawk 70, 8; South Bendigo 46, 4; Kyneton 20, 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.

GOLDEN Square’s winning run has hit 16 after an 88-74 result against Sandhurst in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy second semi-final on Saturday.

The Bulldogs were the only team to beat Sandhurst in the home-and-away series and are now first through to the grand final for the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup.

In Saturday’s clash it was Sandhurst which had a lot of the play and capitalised to lead by three goals.

Consecutive goals by Golden Square late in the first half meant the Dragons led 40-34 at half-time.

In the third quarter it was the Bulldogs’ run, strong defensive acts and ability to keep putting the ball inside the 50m arc which overwhelmed the maroon and blue.

As Golden Square scored 3.6 it kept the Dragons to a tally of two behinds.

Sandhurst fought back strongly to score 5.2 in the last, but the Christian Carter-coached Golden Square was able kick five straight.

At the final siren the Bulldogs led 13.10 (88) to 11.8 (74).

Joel Brett, Tom Strauch and Braydon Vaz all kicked two goals for the blue and gold.

Other goalkickers for Golden Square were Liam Barrett, Ricky Monti, Hamish Morcom, Zavier Murley, Jack Stewart, Jack Threlfall and Tom Toma.

Cobi Maxted kicked a match-high four goals for Sandhurst as Andy Collins and Sam Conforti chipped in with two.

Other goalkickers for the Dragons were co-coach Bryce Curnow, Alex Wharton and Matt Wilkinson.

Best for Golden Square were Jon Coe, Jayden Burke, Ricky Monti, Ryan Hartley, Tom Toma and Jack Hickman.

Hamish Hosking, Zack Pallpratt, Isaac Ruff, Noah Walsh, Sam Conforti and Alex Wharton were Sandhurst’s best.

The Dragons’ team which has Ash Connick as non-playing coach will now fight to stay in the premiership race when it faces Strathfieldsaye in the preliminary final.

Although it had been beaten convincingly by Eaglehawk in both home-and-away games, Strathfieldsaye was a different team in Sunday’s first semi.

Stung by a 26-point loss to Golden Square in the qualifying final, Strathfieldsaye turned a seven-point deficit at quarter-time of the clash with Eaglehawk into a 26-point lead by the long break.

A tally of 6.5 to 1.2 in the second term meant Storm surged to a 49-23 lead.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk hit back to win the third term, 32-19.

Although it was within 13 points going into the final term, Eaglehawk could not halt Strathfieldsaye adding 3.6.

Just as importantly, Storm kept the Hawks to a score of two behinds.

At the final siren the Darryl Wilson-coached Strathfieldsaye led 13.14 (92) to 8.9 (57).

Storm’s attack was led by Matt Harvey and James Schischka on four and three goals as Baxter Slater added two.

Other goalkickers were Jed Brereton, Cooper Jones, co-captain Jake Moorhead, and Riley Wilson.

Co-captain Lachlan Sharp was goalless which has the multiple Ron Best medallist on a season tally of 95 at one, or maybe two matches to play.

The Hawks’ attack was led by Charlie Hillier on two as Lewin Davis, Jack O’Shannessy, Darcy Richards, Noah Wheeler, and co-captains Billy Evans and Cameron McGlashan added one.

Last season’s Michelsen medallist and gun on-baller Jake Moorhead was best afield for Storm.

Others to star for Strathfieldsaye were Malik Gordon, Callum McCarty, Bode Stevens, Caleb Ernst and Jed Brereton.

Eaglehawk’s best were Kallen Geary, Clayton Holmes, Charlie Hillier, Billy Evans, Thomas Bennett and Oscar Madden.

An 18^th victory for the season has earned Eaglehawk a place in the grand final of the Harmac Homes-backed reserves competition.

The Hawks took on Sandhurst in Saturday’s second semi-final.

A 17-game winning streak by the Two Blues was broken in the 18^th round when Sandhurst marked a 20-point victory on the QEO.

The Hawks were back on the iconic turf on Saturday and dominated most of the second half.

Eaglehawk led 16-10 at half-time and then scored 3.1 to 1.6 in the third term.

It was a Borough onslaught in the last quarter as the Two Blues slammed on 6.3 and kept the Dragons scoreless.

At the final siren Eaglehawk led 11.8 (74) to 2.10 (22).

Goalkickers for Eaglehawk were Andrew Bennett, Sam O’Shannessy, Mitchell Ronchieri and Jack Storey, two; Zack Bulger, Jack Daley and Tyler Eliades.

The Dragons’ goals were kicked by Hayden Gillingham and Lachlan Zimmer.

Eaglehawk’s best were Zack Bulger, Aydan Hanley, Jack Daley, Blake McGregor, Sam Dean and Mark Storey.

Jack Keating, Harrison Free, Brodie Montague, Harrison Monk, Martin Leyden and Isaac Carracher worked hard for Sandhurst.

The Dragons will now face Strathfieldsaye in the preliminary final.

Storm surged to an eight-goal win against Golden Square in the first semi.

Strathfieldsaye led 8-7 at quarter-time and then seized control as it added 4.2 to 1.2 in the second term.

Defences controlled a lot of the play in a third term which went Storm’s way, 9-3.

Led by the play of Harry Teasdale, Joseph Mayes and Darcy Mulquiny, Strathfieldsaye kicked away to record a 67-19 victory.

Ethan Featherby kicked two goals for Storm as Lachlan Bonney, Jai Featherby, Rowan Fox, Darcy Mulquiny, Abe Sheahan, Harry Teasdale and Jordan Wilson added one.

The Bulldogs’ goalkickers were Macey Eaton and Jack Vinnicombe.

Best for Strathfieldsaye included Lachlan Bonney, Shannon Murphy and Ryan Duncan.

Tanner Rayner, Bailey Rackstraw, Lachlan Humphrey, Dale Lowry, Macey Eaton and Jack Vinnicombe were Golden Square’s best.

A three-goal victory in the SportsPower under-18s second semi-final has put Golden Square into the September 23 grand final.

Defences were on top for a lot of this contest.

Golden Square led 12-1 at quarter-time before both teams added 1.1 in the second.

The Gisborne line-up was within five points going into the last quarter.

Led by the play of Bailey Cain, Darcy Lawler and Jack McMahon, Golden Square added 2.1 and kept Gisborne scoreless in the last term to complete a 34-16 victory.

Goalkickers for Golden Square were Jack McMahon, two; Will Stewart, Tommi Turner and Zac Wescott.

Jarrod Ainsworth and James Gray were on target for Gisborne.

Best for the blue and gold included Xavier Carter, Zac Wescott and Billy Meade.

Gisborne’s best were Kane Minns, Frankie Ellis, Lachlan Evans, Jack Long, James Gentles and Lachie Bianco.

Sandhurst kept its season alive in a 49-point win against Maryborough in the first semi.

After a confident start, Maryborough’s line-up led 19-13 at quarter-time.

The Dragons fired up in the second to score 5.1 and kept the Pies scoreless.

Quarter three went Sandhurst’s way, 21-11.

The Dragons added 2.3 to a point in the last to complete an 80-31 victory.

Sandhurst’s attack was led by Joseph Artavilla, captain Alex Carr and Isaac Tzouroutis on two goals.

Other goalkickers for the maroon and blue were Jacob Austin, Wilson Butler, Callum Craig, Declan Delaney, Henry Edwards and Logan Kilcullen.

The Magpies’ attack was led by Taj Bond on two goals as Kaian Constable and Liam Freeman added one.

Best for Sandhurst were Logan Kilcullen, Henry Edwards, Wil Pinniger, Daniel Noden, Davis McNair and Jack English.

Joe Lovel, Damon Nitschke, Jake Gavriliadis, Tom Myers, Lucas Hurse and Tyson Hoban played well for Maryborough.

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

Seniors at 2.50pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.

Reserves at 12.45pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.

Under-18s at 10.45am: Gisborne v Sandhurst.

FIERCE rivals Golden Square and Strathfieldsaye clash in Saturday’s start to the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy finals action.

The Bulldogs and Storm meet again in a qualifying final at the iconic Queen Elizabeth Oval from 2.20pm.

This season’s meetings between the teams stand at two-nil in favour of Golden Square.

In round two, Golden Square won 101-94 on Strathfieldsaye’s turf at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

The Bulldogs defensive efforts held Storm to a tally of 3.14 (32) in a 78 victory for the blue and gold at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street in the 11^th round.

Both qualifying finalists have plenty of goalscoring power.

The Bulldogs attack is led by Joel Brett, 84 goals.

There’s strong support from the likes of Braydon Vaz, 33; Jack Stewart, 28; Ryan Hartley, 23; Hamish Morcom and Tom Toma on 21.

Storm has had co-captain Lachlan Sharp kick 93 goals to win the Ron Best Medal as the league’s leading goalkicker for a third time.

Other targets in the forward 50m arc for Storm include James Schischka, 29; Baxter Slater, 20; and Jed Brereton, 18.

On-ball and midfield duels are vital on the big ground.

Golden Square has experienced ruckman Matt Compston to team with captain Jack Geary, Ryan Hartley and Ricky Monti.

They will be up against Tim Hosking, co-captain Jake Moorhead, Callum McCarty and Lachlan Gill.

An outstanding game by Gill in the final round of the home and away series earned the Barry Plant Player of the Round award.

Gill racked up 43 disposals, 8 marks, 10 clearances, and 190 ranking points in Storm’s victory at Kyneton.

With so much firepower there will be plenty of pressure on the defences of both teams.

The back six for Golden Square includes Harrison Burke, Jon Coe, Jack Hickman and Jake Thrum.

Storm’s defence is led by Lachlan Ratcliffe, Luke Webb, Mitch Hallinan and Ben Lester.

Winner of the qualifying final meets Sandhurst in the second semi on September 9.

On Sunday it’s Eaglehawk against South Bendigo in the seniors elimination final from 2.20pm.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks mark a return to finals action.

A year ago, South Bendigo beat Sandhurst in the elimination final.

The Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods team has changed a lot, but there’s still many who were part of that triumph.

In this season’s meetings Eaglehawk has beaten the Bloods both times.

They met in round one where the Hawks claimed a 58-48 victory at the Bloods’ new home of Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

In the 10^th round the Hawks dominated in a 103-47 result on their turf at Canterbury Park.

A huge test for Eaglehawk’s defence on Sunday will be restricting the impact of Bloods’ forwards Brock Harvey, Steven Stroobants and Will Keck.

The talented trio racked up goal tallies of 65, 55 and 39 across the home and away series.

Massive challenge for Hawks’ defenders Dylan Hanley, Oscar Madden, Marcus Angove and Sam Thompson who will rely a lot on pressure up the ground.

The Borough did name versatile big man Clayton Holmes in defence.

At the other end of the ground the Hawks’ attack is led by Lewin Davis, 34 goals; Noah Wheeler, 21; and Darcy Richards, 20.

The Hawks also regain co-captain Cameron McGlashan from injury.

Key players in South Bendigo’s defence include captain Zac Hare, Braydan Torpey, Cameron Taggert and Andrew van Heumen.

A highlight of this match will be the ruck duels where Hawks have Connor Dalgleish to take on Mac Cameron.

At ground level it’s Hawks’ co-captain Billy Evans, Ben Thompson and Noah Wheeler who set up plenty of attacks.

The Bloods will look to Brody Haddow, Cooper Leon and Zac Sims to win their share of contests at centre ball-ups and stoppages.

In the reserves competition, Golden Square takes on Sandhurst in Saturday’s qualifying final from 12.15pm.

This season’s meetings stand at one-all.

Sandhurst won the third round clash at the QEO by 16 points.

In the 12^th round, Golden Square fought for a 39-33 victory at home.

The Bulldogs’ line-up includes Macey Eaton, Alex Jenkyn, Will Lee, Dale Lowry, co-captains Sheldon Burke and Dean Norris, Tanner Rayner and Shaun Young.

Sandhurst’s squad includes Harrison Monk, Brodie Montague, Will Moran, Sean O’Farrell, Xavier Walsh and Lachlan Zimmer.

The ladder-leading Eaglehawk won through to the second semi.

On Sunday it will be Strathfieldsaye against Gisborne in the Harmac Homes-backed reserves elimination final from 12.15pm.

A round one thriller between Gisborne and Strathfieldsaye at Gardiner Reserve ended in a 64-59 victory for the red, white and blue.

Next time it was Storm which took the points in a 52-30 result at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Storm’s line-up includes Lachlan Bonney, Ethan and Jai Featherby, Carson James, captain Wade Kinniburgh and Jordan Wilson.

Key players for Gisborne include Jarrad Lynch, Michael Steinbach, Hayden Doricic, Harry Manders, Anthony Belcher and Boyd Nalder.

Last season’s grand finalists, Gisborne and Sandhurst meet in the qualifying final of the SportsPower-sponsored under-18s competition at 10.15am on Saturday.

The Bulldogs belted the Dragons by 11 goals in the seventh round at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

In the 16^th round it was the Dragons who fired up to win 69-51 on the QEO turf.

Gisborne’s team includes ruckman Lewis Gordon, captain Alex Carr,  Frankie Ellis, Jacob Grinter, Jack Clough, Jarrod Ainsworth, Lachie Bianco and Kane Minns.

The Dragons’ line-up includes Jacob Austin, Thaine Bake, Louis Banfield, Henry Edwards, Logan Kilcullen, Daniel Noden and Wil Pinniger.

Maryborough and Strathfieldsaye will fight to stay in the premiership race when they contest the elimination final from 10.15am on Sunday.

In round nine, Maryborugh won 96-42 at its Princes Park home.

Storm won 60-50 at Triple M Park in the 17^th round.

A  Magpies’ team captain by Aidan Medlyn includes Taj Bond, Kaian Constable, Liam Freeman, Jake Gavriliadis, Damon Nitschke and Diesel Palmer.

Ruckman Tate Lowther, captain Evan Cole, Daan Lodewijks, Jesse Gill, Declan Lowther, Lincoln McKern and Siologa Siu are among the key players in Storm’s line-up.

EAGLEHAWK and Golden Square were victorious in the weekend’s start to the footy finals in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Hawks stayed in the premiership race by beating South Bendigo in Sunday’s elimination final at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

In the home-and-away series Eaglehawk had beaten South Bendigo both times.

Despite its wayward kicking at goal, Eaglehawk was too strong as it ended the Bloods’ run in ’23.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk led 45-31 at half-time and then scored 4.9 to 2.2 in the third quarter.

Key forward Darcy Richards made a welcome return for the Borough and finished with a match-high four goals in a 14.20 (104) to 10.11 (71) victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for the Hawks were co-captains Billy Evans and Cameron McGlashan on two and Jack O’Shannessy also booted two majors.

The Bloods were kept in check by a tight-knit Borough defence.

The skilful Brock Harvey was South Bendigo’s only multiple goalkicker on two.

Eaglehawk’s best were Billy Evans, Clayton Holmes, Joel Mullen, Dylan Hanley, Oscar Madden and Dillon Williams.

Best for the Bloods were Mac Cameron, Oscar White, Brody Haddow, Braydan Torpey, Will Keck and coach Nathan Horbury.

Eaglehawk will now meet Strathfieldsaye in next Sunday’s first semi-final.

Storm will be desperate to minimise the skill errors following a 26-point loss to Golden Square in Saturday’s qualifying final.

Whether it was real or perceived pressure, Strathfieldsaye made a lot of mistakes on which Golden Square capitalised.

It was a brilliant start to the contest by the Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs as they scored 6.3 to 2.4 in the first term.

Storm worked hard to be within 16 points at the 22-minute of the second term, but a hat-trick of goals gave Golden Square a 35-point by the long break.

With wingman Tom Strauch, Jack Hickman and backman Jon Coe winning plenty of the footy, Golden Square won the third term, 15-14.

Storm did lift to outscore the Dogs in the last, 21-11, but it was Golden Square which marked an 87-61 victory and moved to a second semi-final showdown with Sandhurst.

Joel Brett led the Dogs’ attack on fur goals as Tom Toma kicked two.

Multiple goalkickers for Strathfieldsaye were Jed Brereton and co-captains Jake Moorhead and Lachlan Sharp with two.

The Bulldogs’ best included ruckman Matt Compston, Ryan Hartley and Jack Threlfall.

Mitch Hallinan, Matt Harvey, Callum McCarty, Jake Moorhead, Daniel Clohesy and Tim Hosking were Strathfieldsaye’s best.

In the Harmac Homes reserves competition it was big wins for Sandhurst in the qualifying final, and Strathfieldsaye in the elimination final.

On Saturday, Sandhurst took on Golden Square.

The Dragons dominated the opening half.

Sandhurst led 19-1 at quarter-time and then scored 4.3 to just two behinds in the second for a 46-3 lead by the long break.

The next two quarters were evenly fought, but went Sandhurst’s way, 20-12 and 15-13.

Connor Sexton kicked three goals and nine team-mates chipped in with a goal as Sandhurst won 12.9 (81) to 4.4 (28).

Best for the Dragons were Harrison Monk, Lachlan Zimmer, Brodie Montague, Harrison Free, Martin Leyden and Campbell Rowland.

Dale Lowry, Liam Thomas, Tanner Rayner, Mitch Knox, Mitch Treacy and Jack Vinnicombe were Golden Square’s best.

The Dragons take on Eaglehawk in next Saturday’s second semi-final.

Strathfieldsaye faced Gisborne in Sunday’s elimination final.

Storm led 27-9 at half-time and the pressure did not let up as it won the next two quarters, 21-8 and 27-12.

Jordan Wilson kicked three goals as Lachlan Bonney, Ethan Featherby and Edward Hayes added two each in an 11.9 (75) to 4.5 (29) result.

Gisborne’s attack was led by Hayden Doricic on two.

Best for Storm were Joseph Mayes, Darcy Mulquiny, Lachlan Bonney, Ed Hayes, Carson James and Charles Dole.

Jarrad Lynch, Leon Thiner, Matthew Jinkins, Boyd Nalder, Sean Merrett and Harry Manders worked hard for Gisborne.

In the SportsPower-backed under-18s competition, Maryborough won the elimination final against Strathfieldsaye by 25 points.

The Magpies led 21-15 at half-time and 35-22 at a quarter to play.

In the last, Maryborough scored 4.1 to 2.1 to complete a 60-35 victory.

Taj Bond and Kaian Constable kicked three goals for the Magpies.

Storm’s attack was led by Jaidi Jackson-Leahy with two goals.

Best for Maryborough were Lachlan Bursill, Kaian Constable, Lucas Hurse, Damon Nitschke, Tom Myers and Tyson Hoban.

Jaidi Jackson-Leahy, Lincoln McKern, Hugh Behrens, Zac Grieve, Declan Lowther and Evan Cole played well for Strathfieldsaye.

The Magpies will now tackle Sandhurst in the first semi.

First-up this finals series were Gisborne and Sandhurst in Saturday’s under-18s qualifying final.

Despite its inaccurate kicking, Gisborne was well in control as it led 3.10 (28) to 1.3 (9) at half-time.

The Bulldogs won the third, 19-7, and then added 3.5 to a goal in the last for a 70-22 victory.

Ed Williams kicked three goals and Jarrod Ainsworth added two majors for Gisborne.

Dragons’ captain Alex Carr kicked two goals.

Best for Gisborne were Jarrod Ainsworth, Ed Williams, Frankie Ellis, Lachlan Evans, Jack Long and Kane Minns.

Jack English, Wil Pinniger, Deakin Andrews, Declan Delaney, Daniel Noden and Declan Stevenson were Sandhurst’s best.

The win put Gisborne into a second semi-final clash with Golden Square.

Schedule for Saturday’s second semi-finals:

Under-18s at 10.15am: Golden Square v Gisborne.

Reserves at 12.15pm: Eaglehawk v Sandhurst.

Seniors at 2.20pm: Sandhurst v Golden Square.

Schedule for Sunday’s first semi-finals:

Under-18s at 10.15am: Sandhurst v Maryborough.

Reserves at 12.15pm: Golden Square v Strathfieldsaye.

Seniors at 2.20pm: Strathfieldsaye v Eaglehawk.