Sandhurst

Leaders aim to build momentum

THE top three in the A-grade netball premiership race will aim to build on their winning momentum in Saturday’s 15^th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The ladder-leading Kangaroo Flat will be on its court at Dower Park to take on Strathfieldsaye Storm from 2.30pm.

Since a 42-47 loss to Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth Oval in round 10 the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos have won their past three matches.

Latest hit-out for the Roos was at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park which it won 75-26.

It’s a huge challenge for the fourth-placed Strathfieldsaye.

A 42-goal win against Castlemaine at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye last Saturday lifted the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm to fourth on the ladder.

In the split sixth round it was the Kangaroos who netted a 59-31 victory at Strathfieldsaye.

A lot of Storm’s focus in the next three rounds will be fine-tuning its play for an elimination final showdown with Eaglehawk on September 1.

Gisborne returns to its court at Gardiner Reserve to take on Eaglehawk.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne is on a hat-trick of wins.

The reigning premier has struck brilliantly since a 43-49 loss at home to Kangaroo Flat in round nine.

Gisborne won last Saturday’s match on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval by 62 goals.

Massive task for the Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk in trying to halt Gisborne’s slick movement from defence through mid-court and into attack.

The Hawks have played well to win six matches so far.

Sandhurst takes on Golden Square at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

After an extended break because of inter-league, a bye and then scheduled to play Maryborough, Sandhurst finally return to the court last Saturday.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst dominated play at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington to score a 69-30 victory.

It was the first match for Sandhurst since a 42-31 defeat on June 29 at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

When the maroon and blue took on Golden Square on Ron Best Memorial Shield day it was Sandhurst which won by 46 goals on the Wade Street court.

It’s a tough run for the Teigan Redwood-coached Golden Square which played the reigning premier last Saturday and now takes on the runners-up of ’23 this round.

It’s a rest for South Bendigo in A-grade, but the Bloods will make their way to Maryborough’s Princes Park to play the Magpies in the other four grades.

Castlemaine has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 195 per cent, 36 points; Gisborne 169, 36; Sandhurst 175, 32; Strathfieldsaye 103, 24; Eaglehawk 81, 24; Golden Square 63, 12; South Bendigo 66, 8; Castlemaine 55, 4

Top three contenders dominate contests

THE top three contenders for this season’s A-grade netball premiership dominated across the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s round 15 action on Saturday.

Reigning premier, Gisborne played brilliant netball to hold Eaglehawk to a tally of four goals at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 16-6 at quarter-time and 32-9 by half-time.

After the long break the charge by the red, white and blue did not let up.

Gisborne won the third term, 14-2, and then scored 21 goals as it kept the Two Blues to a score of two goals in the final term.

At the final whistle Gisborne led 67-13 against the Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk.

Kangaroo Flat’s slick mid-court and strong attack was in superb touch against Strathfieldsaye at Dower Park.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos dominated play on their court to record a 63-26 victory.

Was a tough hit-out for the Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye which is in fourth place ahead of next Saturday’s home game against Gisborne at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

More than 100 goals were scored as Sandhurst took on Golden Square at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won 66-39 against the Teigan Redwood-coached Golden Square team.

It was a rest for South Bendigo in A-grade, but the Bloods made their way across to Maryborough’s Princes Park to play the Magpies in the lower grades.

Castlemaine had the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 198 per cent, 40 points.; Gisborne 183 per cent, 40 points; Sandhurst 175, 36; Strathfieldsaye 95, 24; Eaglehawk 74, 24; Golden Square 63, 12; South Bendigo 66, 8; Castlemaine 55, 4.

In next Saturday’s round 16 action, Strathfieldsaye takes on Gisborne at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Eaglehawk and Sandhurst clash in the Borough at Canterbury Park.

Castlemaine faces Kangaroo Flat in the Magpies’ nest at Camp Reserve.

It’s a rest for Golden Square in A-grade, but the blue and gold will play Maryborough in the lower grades at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

South Bendigo has the bye.

Round 15 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 74 d Eaglehawk 32, Kangaroo Flat 54 d Strathfieldsaye 47, Sandhurst 59 d Golden Square 26, Maryborough 46 d South Bendigo 36, Castlemaine had the bye.

B-grade:

Gisborne 74 d Eaglehawk 36, Kangaroo Flat 56 d Strathfieldsaye 39, Sandhurst 51 d Golden Square 25, Maryborough 22 lt South Bendigo 58, Castlemaine had the bye.

B-reserve:

Gisborne 53 d Eaglehawk 41, Kangaroo Flat 42 d Strathfieldsaye 40, Sandhurst 71 d Golden Square 24, Maryborough 29 lt South Bendigo 74, Castlemaine had the bye.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 68 d Eaglehawk 31, Kangaroo Flat 25 lt Strathfieldsaye 63, Sandhurst 47 lt Golden Square 49, Maryborough 51 d South Bendigo 33, Castlemaine had the bye.

League ladders:

A-reserve:

Gisborne  226 per cent, 52 points; Strathfieldsaye 134, 40; Kangaroo Flat 125, 38; Sandhurst 130, 36; Maryborough 99, 34; South Bendigo 74, 16; Castlemaine 71, 12; Eaglehawk 67, 8; Golden Square 57, 4.

B-grade:

Gisborne  190 per cent, 48 points; Kangaroo Flat 146, 48; Sandhurst 162, 44; Strathfieldsaye 116, 36;  South Bendigo 89, 22; Castlemaine 82, 20; Eaglehawk 78, 14; Golden Square 70, 8; Maryborough 41, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 230 per cent, 52 points; Gisborne 188, 44; Strathfieldsaye 134, 40; Kangaroo Flat 125, 36; South Bendigo 118, 28; Eaglehawk 102, 20; Golden Square 63, 12; Castlemaine 56, 8; Maryborough 32, 0.

17-and-under:

Golden Square 160 per cent, 52 points; Sandhurst 225, 48; Maryborough 109, 40; Strathfieldsaye 108, 24; Gisborne 105, 24; Castlemaine 99, 20; South Bendigo 81, 20; Eaglehawk 50, 12; Kangaroo Flat 40, 0

Fight for top spot rages on

THE fight for top spot on the A-grade netball ladder rages on in Saturday’s 16^th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Leading teams Kangaroo Flat, Gisborne and Sandhurst will start favourites to continue their winning streak.

The ladder-leading Kangaroo Flat heads down the Calder Highway to play at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve from 2.30pm.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos have won 10 matches and start this round locked on 40 premiership points, but 15 per cent clear of second-placed Gisborne.

When the Roos and Magpies met in round seven it was Kangaroo Flat which scored an 86-33 victory at Dower Park.

The Kangaroos will be determined to put in another strong performance as they have the bye in the 17^th round and are then at home a week later to face Gisborne.

The Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine had the bye last round.

It’s fourth against second as Strathfieldsaye faces Gisborne at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Storm is on the rebound from a 37-goal loss to Kangaroo Flat.

Latest hit-out for Gisborne ended in a 54-goal victory against Eaglehawk.

Massive test for the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm against the reigning premier.

Strathfieldsaye will be keen to play well in the lead-up to an elimination final showdown with Eaglehawk on September 1.

Just 11 goals separated Storm and Gisborne in the round seven clash.

The run for the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne in its build-up to another finals campaign involves the August 17 clash at home with Castlemaine, and August 24 showdown on Kangaroo Flat’s court.

Eaglehawk will be back on its court at Canterbury Park to take on Sandhurst.

When these teams met in round seven the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won 75-36 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

It’s the start of a testing two rounds for Storm which plays Gisborne and then travels to the QEO on August 17 to play Sandhurst.

The clash with the Dragons will be Storm’s latest before finals as it has the bye in the 18^th round.

It’s a rest for Golden Square in A-grade, but the Bulldogs will play Maryborough in the other grades of netball at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

South Bendigo has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 198 per cent, 40 points; Gisborne 183, 40; Sandhurst 175, 36; Strathfieldsaye 95, 24; Eaglehawk 74, 24; Golden Square 63, 12; South Bendigo 66, 8; Castlemaine 55 ,4

LADDER leaders Sandhurst and Gisborne meet in this Saturday’s 16^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Unbeaten in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst has home-court advantage at Queen Elizabeth Oval for the match of the day.

The Dragons and Bulldogs have plenty of ability in all thirds of the court and have been league powerhouses for several seasons.

Defences were well on top when Sandhurst played on Gisborne’s court at Gardiner Reserve in the seventh round.

On that occasion the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won 38-32.

Both teams recorded impressive victories last Saturday.

Sandhurst marked the trek west to Maryborough’s Princes Park by scoring a 90-33 win against the Magpies.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne marked a 63-12 win at home against Golden Square.

Having strengthened its position in the top five, South Bendigo will be back at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington to take on Maryborough.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo scored a vital 61-52 win against Strathfieldsaye Storm at Triple M Park last Saturday.

Victory put the Bloods four points clear of Storm at three rounds to go in the regular season.

South Bendigo will be confident of taking the points against the young Maryborough line-up.

In round seven the Bloods won 68-18 against the Jordan Macilwain-coached Magpies at Princes Park.

Kangaroo Flat is on its court at Dower Park to take on Strathfieldsaye.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos dominated most of last Saturday’s match at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park to score a 65-20 victory.

On the rebound from defeat, the Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye faces an opponent which poured in 80 goals when they last met.

Kyneton and Eaglehawk clash at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton will be determined to play well at home.

Although beaten last round there was a lot to like in the Tigers’ play in a 40-48 loss at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks will be aiming to improve markedly on their attacking output after being held to a tally of 20 by the Kangaroos.

Final margin was just three goals when Kyneton won 41-38 at Eaglehawk in the seventh round.

Golden Square is on its court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street to take on Castlemaine.

Been a tough run for the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square, especially at Gisborne last round.

In fourth place on the ladder, the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine will be determined to put in a strong showing.

The Magpies beat the Bulldogs, 71-36 at Camp Reserve earlier in the season.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 223 per cent, 60 points; Gisborne 187, 52; Kangaroo Flat 167, 44; Castlemaine 121, 42; South Bendigo 108, 30; Strathfieldsaye 93, 26; Kyneton 92, 22; Eaglehawk 71, 12; Maryborough 56, 12; Golden Square 36, 0.

A SECOND quarter blitz set up Sandhurst’s win against Gisborne in Saturday’s 16^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

In the clash of first and second, Sandhurst and Gisborne took to the court adjacent to Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne made a great start to be within two goals at quarter-time.

In term two it was Sandhurst which seized control.

The unbeaten ladder leader scored 17 goals in the second as Gisborne was held to a tally of six.

Defences were on top for a lot of the third term which went Sandhurst’s way, 9-7.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst had the answers in the final term on the way to a 47-31 victory.

Kangaroo Flat dominated play on its court at Dower Park against Strathfieldsaye.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos won 60-44 against the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm.

South Bendigo passed the 70-goal mark against Maryborough at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached Bloods won 74-39 against a young Magpies team coached by Jordan Macilwain

Kyneton could not stop Eaglehawk’s charge to an impressive victory in Tigerland at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk made a superb start to lead 20-12 by quarter-time.

Both teams added 14 goals in the second term.

The Hawks’ buffer was 10 goals at a quarter to play, and the Two Blues finished the game strongly to score 11 goals in the last as the Tigers added 12.

At the final whistle Eaglehawk led 59-50.

Golden Square gave Castlemaine an early scare when it led 9-7 at quarter-time of the match at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Jointly coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke, Castlemaine hit back to win the second term, 13-5.

A six-goal lead for the Magpies at half-time became 18 by the last change after it doubled its first half score in the third term.

Castlemaine led 40-22 going into the last and then added 12 goals as the blue and gold scored eight.

It was a 52-30 victory for Castlemaine against the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

The 17^th round will be played next Saturday.

Castlemaine is on its court at Camp Reserve to play Sandhurst.

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

Gisborne and South Bendigo clash on Gisborne's court at Gardiner Reserve

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

Eaglehawk and Golden Square will play in the Hawks’ nest Canterbury Park.

Round 16 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Sandhurst 50 dr Gisborne 50, South Bendigo bye, Golden Square 27 lt Castlemaine 48, Kyneton 55 dr Eaglehawk 55, Kangaroo Flat 43 d Strathfieldsaye 41.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 54 dr Gisborne 54, South Bendigo 50 d Maryborough 30, Golden Square 49 d Castlemaine 29, Kyneton 38 lt Eaglehawk 49, Kangaroo Flat 31 lt Strathfieldsaye 44.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 54 d Gisborne 35, South Bendigo 59 d Maryborough 36, Golden Square 49 d Castlemaine 21, Kyneton 21 lt Eaglehawk 49, Kangaroo Flat 58 d Strathfieldsaye 45.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 55 d Gisborne 44, South Bendigo 21 lt Maryborough 52, Golden Square 43 d Castlemaine 38, Kyneton 14 lt Eaglehawk 59, Kangaroo Flat 38 d Strathfieldsaye 36.

Ladders after 16 rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 180 per cent, 62 points; Sandhurst 167, 58; South Bendigo 109, 44; Kangaroo Flat 114, 40; Castlemaine 101, 36; Strathfieldsaye 84, 28; Eaglehawk 79, 26; Kyneton 67, 16; Golden Square 54, 10.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 190 per cent, 62 points; Gisborne 162, 54; Kangaroo Flat 132, 48; South Bendigo 102, 34; Strathfieldsaye 99, 34; Eaglehawk 97, 34; Golden Square 90, 28; Kyneton 84, 18; Castlemaine 53, 6; Maryborough 48, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 233 per cent, 60 points; Kangaroo Flat 185, 60; Gisborne 138, 44; Strathfieldsaye 119, 40; Eaglehawk 118, 36; South Bendigo 104, 28; Golden Square 82, 24; Castlemaine 59, 20; Kyneton 44, 8; Maryborough 41, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 180 per cent, 60 points; Gisborne 178, 56; Golden Square 150, 48; Maryborough 129, 38; Strathfieldsaye 119, 38; Castlemaine 111, 30; Kangaroo Flat 103, 26; Eaglehawk 74, 16; South Bendigo 46, 8; Kyneton 19, 0.

Storm fronts Dragons at QEO, in 'Bendigo Bank' Round

A WEEK after toppling a ladder-leading opponent, Strathfieldsaye Storm will aim for déjà vu in Saturday’s 17^th round and Bendigo Bank round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy season.

Bendigo Bank are long-time supporters of the BFNL and can provide financial benefits directly to you Club which is as easy as letting the Bendigo Bank team know who your local Club is.

It’s third against first as Strathfieldsaye takes on Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

A fortnight ago Sandhurst was beaten on the iconic QEO by Golden Square.

As the Dragons won at Eaglehawk last round, Storm’s win against Gisborne meant Sandhurst reclaimed top spot.

When the Dragons and Storm met in round eight it was Sandhurst which broke clear in the final term to score a 25-point win at Triple M Park.

It will again be a huge test for Strathfieldsaye’s defence against a Sandhurst attack led by Fergus Greene, Cobi Maxted and Lachlan Wright.

They will be up against Lachlan Ratcliffe, Patrick Blandford and Ben Lester.

Key to Storm’s chances will be be winning and control of the footy through the midfield and on-ball duels.

Storm will look to ruckman Tim Hosking, Lachlan Gill, Daniel Clohesy and Matt Harvey to win their share of centre clearances and also to not allow the Dragons an easy run to their forward 50.

A talented on-ball division for Sandhurst includes Connor Sexton, Lachlan Tardrew, Nick Stagg and Noah Walsh.

A Dragons’ defence that includes Liam Ireland, Bryce Curnow, Isaac Ruff and Harrison Free is up against Cooper Jones, Malik Gordon, Riley Wilson and Zach Charles.

Another big match will be at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve where the Bulldogs take on Castlemaine.

A win for Gisborne will end Castlemaine’s quest to climb into the top five and a finals appearance.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne is on the rebound from just its second defeat of the season.

Gisborne was on a 12-match winning streak rolling into last round.

A Bulldogs attack that includes Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore, Zac Denahy and Dylan Johnstone is capable of many goals and quickly.

Players to watch in the red, white and blue include centreman Brad Bernacki, ruckman Braidon Blake, the skilful Matt Merrett, and Jed Denahy and Zac Vescovi in defence.

Seb Bell-Bartels is in for his first senior game of the season.

A hat-trick of wins which included beating Eaglehawk and Strathfieldsaye is a sign of Castlemaine’s dramatic improvement from recent years.

The Michael Hartley-coached Magpies dominated in an 89-point win at home against Kangaroo Flat at Camp Reserve last Saturday.

Pressure and stakes are much higher for the Pies this time.

Hartley kicked seven goals against the Roos for a season tally of 42.

Key players for the Magpies include captain Bailey Henderson, Kalan Huntly, Zavier Murley, Declan Slingo, Zac Greeves, John Watson and Liam Wilkinson.

South Bendigo will be on home turf at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington to take on Golden Square.

Huge test for the Bloods against a Bulldogs’ line-up which has shown it has plenty of scoring options and skill.

The Bloods had the bye last round after scoring a 155-point victory at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Bloods’ co-coach Steven Stroobants and the talented Brock Harvey kicked 10 and 12 goals.

Will be a much tougher ask against a Golden Square defence that has Jon Coe playing his 200^th match for the club.

Recruited from Tatura, Coe was a key cog in the premiership success of 2013 and ’23.

A four-time inter-league representative, Coe also played for Victoria Country in 2014.

The key defender was runner-up in the Bulldogs’ champion player award on two occasions.

On Saturday it will be Coe, Jayden Burke, Tom Toma, Jack Stewart, Jordan Rosengren and Harrison Burke who will be determined the streak by the Brad Eaton-coached team keeps rolling.

The Bloods will rely greatly on the play of Brody Haddow, co-coach Isaiah Miller, Blake and Tait Poyser, Anthony Zimmerman, Riley Walsh, Zavier Holmes and Thomas Starr to win a quarter or more.

Maryborough will be on home turf at Princes Park against Eaglehawk.

It’s the final home game the Magpies will play.

Co-coaches Coby Perry and Matt Johnston have done an incredible job to keep spirits high and the will of Maryborough’s team to compete.

Key players for the Magpies include Kya Lanfranchi, Joel Swatton, Seb Collins, Aidan Medlyn and Ash Humphrey.

The Skinner name has featured at Maryborough for many years.

On Saturday it will be Jack Skinner lining up on a wing for his first senior game.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk will be keen to bounce back to the winners’ list.

Although Billy Evans is not playing, Eaglehawk has plenty of strength on every line.

Joel Mullen has played superb footy all season.

Other players to watch for the Hawks are Bailey Ilsley, Jonty Neaves, Kallen Geary, Cam McGlashan and Sam O’Shannessy.

Darcy Richards will be keen to play well where his footy career kicked off many years ago.

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 301 per cent, 48 points; Gisborne 207, 48; Strathfieldsaye 153, 40; Golden Square 154, 36; Eaglehawk 129, 28; Castlemaine 114, 28; South Bendigo 71, 16; Kangaroo Flat 54, 12; Maryborough 14, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

74 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

50 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

50 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

47 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

46 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

43 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

42 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

42 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

29 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

29 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

29 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

26 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

25 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

25 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

24 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

21 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

20 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

20 Jordan Rosengren, Golden Square.

19 Dylan Johnstone, Gisborne.

19 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

18 Kalan Huntly, Castlemaine.

18 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

18 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

17 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

17 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

16 Bailey Ilsley, Eaglehawk.

16 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

16 Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

15 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

14 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

14 Luke Ellings, Kangaroo Flat.

14 Lachlan Gill, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Zac Greeves, Castlemaine.

14 Joel Mullen, Eaglehawk.

13 Ricky Monti, Golden Square.

13 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

12 Matt Johnston, Maryborough.

12 Jack Lefroy, Kangaroo Flat.

12 Jake McLean, Sandhurst.

11 Zach Charles, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Jack Sampson, Golden Square.

11 Ben Thompson, Eaglehawk.

11 Matt Wilkinson, Sandhurst.

10 Matt Harvey, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Cooper Jones, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Blake McGregor, Eaglehawk.

10 Tanner Nally, Sandhurst.

10 Mitch Ronchieri, Eaglehawk.

10 Tom Toma, Golden Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both teams are on the rebound from defeat.

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

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

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

IT WILL be a finals-type intensity as Sandhurst and Eaglehawk meet in Saturday’s 18^th round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

There’s plenty at stake for both clubs in the last round of the home and away series.

Win and Sandhurst retains top spot and a rest for next weekend’s start to the finals action.

Defeat is likely to put the Dragons in a qualifying final as the second-placed Golden Square rounds out the run to September by taking on Kangaroo Flat this Saturday.

Eaglehawk has plenty to play for.

Win and the Two Blues are in a qualifying final.

A loss and the Hawks are in the elimination final.

Fans can expect a fierce contest between these teams who were locked on 64-all at the end of the round nine showdown at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

A formidable Sandhurst team co-coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, has a record of 15 wins, one draw, one defeat.

Key players for the Dragons include gun ruckman Hamish Hosking, Bryce Curnow at centre half-back, Lachlan Wright and Matt Thornton in attack.

The Dragons defence is led brilliantly by Liam Ireland, Noah Walsh and Tanner Nally.

They will be up against Clayton Holmes, Sam Harper and Lewin Davis.

In the on-ball and midfield duels, Sandhurst has Sam Conforti, James and Lee Coghlan, Andy Collins and Jake McLean to take on Noah Wheeler, Billy Evans, Thomas Bennett, Joel Mullen and Ben Thompson.

Big test for Hawks’ defenders Dylan Hanley, Charlie Langford and Oscar Madden.

Another big match will be at Kyneton Showgrounds where the Tigers take on Strathfieldsaye.

Sixth on the ladder, Kyneton starts the day locked on 36 points with the fifth-placed South Bendigo.

Should the Tigers upset Storm and South Bendigo be beaten by Castlemaine then its Kyneton which progresses to an elimination final.

Massive task for the Darren Chambers-coached Kyneton to beat a Storm line-up which can finish third and hold the double chance by taking the points at Tigerland and also relying on the Hawks to be defeated.

Kyneton has named Harrison Huntley at full-back where he will be opposed by Storm co-captain Lachlan Sharp who has kicked 22 goals the past two rounds and a runaway leader for the Ron Best Medal once again.

Other key players for the Tigers include Cameron Manuel, Thomas Quinn, Jordan Iudica, Hamish  Yunghanns, Ethan Foreman and Mason Crozier.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Storm has scored 64 goals in its past two hit-outs.

Strathfieldsaye has named co-captain and last season’s Michelsen medallist Jake Moorhead in the centre.

Other players to watch for Storm are Luke Webb at half-back, ruck-rover Daniel Clohesy, James Schischka, ruckman Tim Hosking, Baxter Slater and Callum McCarty.

Victorious in just one of its past five matches, South Bendigo faces a must-win clash with Castlemaine at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Math is easy for the Bloods.

A win ensures finishing the home and away series in fifth place.

Lose and it could be curtains on their ’23 campaign.

The Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo was thrashed after quarter-time of last Saturday’s match at Gisborne.

There were few highlights for the Bloods.

Ruckman Mac Cameron racked up 29 disposals, 61 hit out, 17 clearances, and 237 ranking points to earn the Barry Plant Bendigo Player of the Round award.

The classy Will Keck kicked five goals at Gisborne and will play a crucial role against Castlemaine, along with Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants.

South Bendigo also welcomes back on-baller Cooper Leon for his first senior match since being injured in the round eight win against Gisborne.

There’s too much for the Bloods to play for, so expect the likes of Brody Haddow, Oscar White, Zac Hare, Braydan Torpey and Andrew van Heumen to step up to the challenge.

It’s the final match Brendan Shepherd is Castlemaine’s coach as the Magpies have appointed Michael Hartley for next season.

The Magpies will be desperate to mark their third win of the season and possibly derail South’s run to the finals.

Castlemaine put in a great effort against Sandhurst last round, especially to win the third quarter, 16-3.

Bring that level of commitment and intensity and the Magpies can  put plenty of pressure on the Bloods.

Key players for Castlemaine include Bailey Henderson, Matt Filo, Ashton Frankling, Callum McConachy, Riley Pedretti, John Watson, and Liam Wilkinson.

After such an emphatic victory last round, Gisborne makes its way to Maryborough’s Princes Park.

The reigning premier cannot make finals, but will be keen to finish the season on a high and build momentum toward regaining its place as the league’s number one.

Gisborne has one of the competition’s best on-ball divisions in ruckman Braidon Blake, Brad Bernacki and Flynn Lakey.

The return of Jarrad Lynch is a huge plus for premiership-winning coach Rob Waters who has taken charge the past two rounds and been appointed coach for the ’24 campaign.

A talented Gisborne team includes captain Jack Reaper, Matt Merrett, Sam Graham, Harry Luxmoore and Liam Spear.

Been another tough run for Maryborough.

A young Magpies’ team coached by Coby Perry will again give its all.

Players to watch for the Borough include Joel Swatton, Matt Johnston, Kya Lanfranchi, Darcy Bond, Brady Neill and Jake Postle.

It’s been 22 years since Kangaroo Flat beat Golden Square.

One of the longest winning streaks in Bendigo FNL history is likely to roll on as the Bulldogs tackle the Roos at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Regardless of what happens at the QEO, Golden Square coach Christian Carter will want to see a ruthless approach from his team.

The Bulldogs marked a hard-fought 51-47 at Eaglehawk last round.

Captain Jack Geary, Ryan Hartley, Ricky Monti and Tom Toma are likely to create plenty of scoring chances for the likes of Joel Brett, Jack Stewart and Braydon Vaz.

The Dogs also have the run and skill of Jake Thrum, Jack Threlfall, Brodie James and Hamish Morcom.

Massive test for the Jeremy Hayes-coached Kangaroos.

There have been plenty of positive signs for the Roos throughout the season.

A high was the three-point win against Eaglehawk in the sixth round.

Players to watch for the Roos on Square’s turf include Liam and Mitch Collins, rover Mitch Trewhella, Nic Keogh, Luke Foreman and Ethan Roberts in attack.

Huge challenge for Zac Rouse, Liam and Ryan O’Keefe in Kangaroo Flat’s defence.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 228 per cent, 62 points; Golden Square 237, 60; Eaglehawk 198, 46; Strathfieldsaye 159, 44; South Bendigo 127, 36; Kyneton 82, 36; Gisborne 118, 28; Kangaroo Flat 59, 20; Castlemaine 40, 8; Maryborough 19, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

87 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

76 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

60 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

52 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

44 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

38 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

34 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

34 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

30 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

29 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

26 Andy Collins, Sandhurst.

26 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

25 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

24 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

24 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

23 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

22 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

21 Hamish Morcom, Golden Square.

21 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

20 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

20 Baxter Slater, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Tom Toma, Golden Square.

18 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

18 Jed Brereton, Strathfieldsaye.

18 Ethan Foreman, Kyneton.

18 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

18 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

17 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

16 Sam Conforti, Sandhurst.

16 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

16 Billy Evans, Eaglehawk.

16 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

16 Jordan Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

15 Luke Ellings, Gisborne.

15 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

15 Jake Summers, Kyneton.

14 Jack Hickman, Golden Square.

14 Nic Keogh, Kangaroo Flat.

14 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

14 Callum McCarty, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Zavier Murley, Golden Square.

13 Liam Collins, Kangaroo Flat.

13 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

13 Brad Keogh, Castlemaine.

13 Sam Langley, South Bendigo.

13 Jack Reaper, Gisborne.

13 Matt Wilkinson, Sandhurst.

12 Sam Barnes, Kangaroo Flat.

12 Liam Barrett, Golden Square.

12 Braidon Blake, Gisborne.

12 Luke Foreman, Kangaroo Flat.

12 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

12 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

12 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

Dragons complete run in first place

SANDHURST capped a superb home-and-away series by finishing on top of the ladder after Saturday’s round 18 victory at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Dragons earned a rest for next weekend’s start to the finals series.

Sandhurst won all quarters in a 115-64 result against the Magpies.

The Dragons and Gisborne end the home-and-away series on identical win-loss records of 14-2, but Sandhurst claimed top spot as it was almost 61 per cent clear of the Bulldogs.

In Saturday’s match at Castlemaine it was the Dragons who led 33-20 at quarter-time.

The next two terms were when the ladder-leaders were in control for most of the contest.

As Sandhurst added five goals in the second term it kept the Magpies to a tally of 2.1.

Led by the play of captain and gun mid/on-baller Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst won the third term, 15-6, to hold a seven-goal lead going into the final quarter.

The last quarter of Castlemaine’s season was to be its best of the match as the Michael Hartley-coached Magpies scored 4.1 and the maroon and blue added 5.4.

Joel Wharton’s elusiveness and skill around goal was capped with a match-high five goals as Ron Best medal winner Fergus Greene booted four majors.

Other multiple goalkickers for Sandhurst were Lachie Hood, Cobi Maxted and Noah Walsh on two.

Castlemaine captain Bailey Henderson and Brad Keogh both kicked two goals.

Best for Sandhurst were Lachlan Tardrew, James Coghlan, Noah Walsh, Lachie Hood, Joel Wharton and Cooper Smith.

Castlemaine’s best were Declan Slingo, Zavier Murley, Michael Hartley, Riley Pedretti, Liam Wilkinson and Nicholas Woodman.

A seven-nine record was Castlemaine’s best result in many years as the Magpies climbed to the sixth rung in the premiership race.

A tally of 52 scoring shots to just four was a sign of Strathfieldsaye Storm’s dominance against Maryborough at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

The Luke Freeman-coached Storm led 35-1 at quarter-time and then slammed on eight goals in the second quarter.

An 87-point lead by the long break was up to 118 at a quarter to play.

Strathfieldsaye had 13 goalkickers in a 177-14 victory.

Leading goalkickers for Storm were Cooper Jones, four; Lachlan Gill, Charlie King, three; Hugh Behrens, Zach Charles, Caleb Ernst, Jaidi Jackson-Leahy, and Siologa Siu, two.

Maryborough’s goalkickers were Josh Britten and Sean Davidson.

Best for Strathfieldsaye were Darcy Mulquiny, Caleb Sheahan, Lachlan Gill, Bode Stevens, Shannon Geary and Daniel Clohesy.

In what was another tough season for Maryborough it was Kya Lanfranchi, Alex Brown, Joel Swatton, coach Coby Perry, Tom Myers and Josh Britten who were best.

Just if and where Maryborough plays in ’25 and beyond is yet to be decided.

Eaglehawk won every quarter on its way to a 137-85 victory against South Bendigo on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.

The Hawks led 38-22 at quarter-time and then scored 2.5 to 2.3 in a low-scoring second term.

An 18-point lead for the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk at half-time became 34 points at a quarter to play.

Led by the play of Jonty Neaves, Kallen Geary and Billy Evans, Eaglehawk tuned up for the elimination final in a 137-85 result.

Jack O’Shannessy led the Hawks attack on four goals as Kallen Geary and Jonty Neaves kicked three and Joel Mullen chipped in with two.

Bloods’ co-coach Steven Stroobants finished with a match-high five goals as Matt McNaughton kicked two.

The Borough’s best included Thomas Bennett, Joel Mullen and Marcus Angove.

Tait Poyser, Riley Walsh, Anthony Zimmerman, Matt McNaughton, Blake Poyser and Cody Brooks were best for the Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller-coached Bloods.

Gisborne warmed up for the qualifying final by scoring a 197-point victory on Kangaroo Flat’s ground at Dower Park.

The Bulldogs raced to a 51-7 lead by quarter-time and the pressure did not ease up.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne slammed on nine goals in the second and another nine majors in the third term.

It was to be a disappointing finish to Kangaroo Flat’s season as the Bulldogs scored 11 goals in the last quarter.

At the final siren Gisborne led 37.14 (236) to 6.3 (39).

The brilliance of Pat McKenna was to the fore as he finished with eight goals.

Harry Luxmoore and Matt Merrett also capitalised on their team-mates dominance at clearances and through the midfield to score six goals each.

Other multiple goalkickers for the red, white and blue were stand-in captain Brad Bernacki and Dylan Johnstone, three; Seb Bell-Bartels, Braidon Blake and James Gray, two.

Kangaroo Flat’s attack was led by Aaron Melis on two as Lachlan Dalziel, Jack Lefroy, Tucker Thach and Harry Whitty added one each.

Best for Gisborne were Brad Bernacki, Flynn Lakey, Shane Clough, Braidon Blake, Pat McKenna and Matt Merrett.

The Kangaroos’ best were Jack Lefroy, Luke Ellings, Toby Roberts, Kyle Symons, Ethan Roberts and Campbell Smith.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 286 per cent, 56 points; Gisborne 225, 56; Strathfieldsaye 163, 44; Golden Square 159, 40; Eaglehawk 140, 36; Castlemaine 103, 28; South Bendigo 68, 16; Kangaroo Flat 50, 12; Maryborough 14, 0.

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

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

Reserves at 12.15pm: Sandhurst v Golden Square.

Seniors at 2.20pm:  Gisborne v Strathfieldsaye.

Schedule for Sunday’s elimination final at Queen Elizabeth Oval:

Under-18s at 10.15am: Castlemaine v Kangaroo Flat.

Reserves at 12.15pm: Eaglehawk v Strathfieldsaye.

Seniors at 2.20pm: Golden Square v Eaglehawk.

Final standings in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

80 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

57 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

54 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

52 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

50 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

47 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

47 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

43 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

31 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

30 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

30 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

30 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

28 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

27 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

25 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

25 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

24 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

23 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

23 Dylan Johnstone, Gisborne.

23 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

21 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

21 Jordan Rosengren, Golden Square.

21 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

19 Kalan Huntly, Castlemaine.

18 Joel Mullen, Eaglehawk.

18 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

18 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

17 Lachlan Gill, Strathfieldsaye.

17 Bailey Ilsley, Eaglehawk.

17 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

17 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

16 Zac Greeves, Castlemaine.

16 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

16 Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

15 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

14 Zach Charles, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Luke Ellings, Kangaroo Flat.

14 Cooper Jones, Strathfieldsaye.

13 Jack Lefroy, Kangaroo Flat.

13 Jake McLean, Sandhurst.

13 Ricky Monti, Golden Square.

13 Jack Sampson, Golden Square.

12 Matt Johnston, Maryborough.

12 Ben Thompson, Eaglehawk.

12 Tom Toma, Golden Square.

12 Matt Wilkinson, Sandhurst.

11 Kai Daniels, Golden Square.

11 Brody Haddow, South Bendigo.

11 Matt Harvey, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Anthony Zimmerman, South Bendigo.

10 Braidon Blake, Gisborne.

10 Ryan Bourke, Gisborne.

10 Blake McGregor, Eaglehawk.

10 Tanner Nally, Sandhurst.

10 Mitch Ronchieri, Eaglehawk.

League ladders:

Drummond Golf reserves:

Gisborne 275 per cent, 56 points; Sandhurst 228, 56; Golden Square 165, 44; Eaglehawk 99, 40; Strathfieldsaye 96, 36; Kangaroo Flat 86, 28; Castlemaine 46, 16; South Bendigo 24, 12.

Sportspower under-18s:

Sandhurst 424 per cent, 60 points; Golden Square 324, 60; Gisborne 232, 44; Castlemaine 85, 32; Kangaroo Flat 111, 30; Strathfieldsaye 62, 24; South Bendigo 66, 20; Eaglheawk 24, 8; Maryborough 32, 6.

Leading goalkickers:

Drummond Golf reserves:

36 Hayden Doricic, Gisborne.

20 Jakob Finch, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Ed Williams, Gisborne.

19 Jasper Stewart, Sandhurst.

18 Matthew Barake, Gisborne.

17 Tim Brooks, Kangaroo Flat.

16 Darcy Edmiston, Golden Square.

15 Luke Weber, Gisborne.

14 Jed Zimmer, Sandhurst.

14 Tommi Turner, Golden Square.

12 Tom Wood, Gisborne.

11 Riley Neaves, Eaglehawk.

11 Dean Norris, Golden Square.

10 Andrew Bennett, Eaglehawk.

10 Jed Lowndes, Kangaroo Flat.

10 James Vlaeminck, Sandhurst.

Sportspower under-18s:

48 Oscar Cail, Sandhurst.

44 James Wilkinson, Golden Square.

26 Lincoln McKern, Golden Square.

24 Xavier Grant, Golden Square.

23 Archie Eaton, Golden Square.

21 Chaz Holman, Castlemaine.

18 Charles Duke, Sandhurst.

18 Madden Guthrie, Sandhurst.

18 Lucas Hannon, Gisborne.

18 Logan Kilcullen, Sandhurst.

18 Raymond McNamara, Kangaroo Flat.

18 Daniel Noden, Sandhurst.

18 Jack Rutten, Gisborne.

16 Joseph Artavilla, Sandhurst.

16 Will Harvey, Strathfieldsaye.

16 Riley Leedham, Gisborne.

16 Marcus Trakosas, Gisborne.

16 Jye Zerafa, Gisborne.

15 Max Balcke, Kangaroo Flat.

14 Wilhem Mackay, Gisborne.

14 Aaron Nevins, Kangaroo Flat.

13 Robert Castiglia, Maryborough.

13 Jaxon Howard, Sandhurst.

13 Jack McMahon, Golden Square.

13 Oli Patton, South Bendigo.

13 Brady Stroud, South Bendigo.

12 Oliver Eaton, Golden Square.

12 Campbell Johns, Gisborne.

11 Jack English, Sandhurst.

11 Charlie Ozanne, Gisborne.

10 Lachlan Borchard, Sandhurst.

10 Harrison Bryant, Gisborne.

10 Mitchell McKnight, Castlemaine.

10 Archie Rixon, Castlemaine.

A NINE-GOAL victory by Sandhurst in Saturday’s 18^th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy season has put Eaglehawk into an elimination final.

Stakes were high as the Dragons and Hawks clashed at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

A win would ensure Sandhurst would retain top spot and a rest for next weekend’s start to the finals series.

Dragons’ gun forward Matt ‘Bear’ Thornton also joined the exclusive “250 Game” club.

The Hawks were fighting to hold third place and the double chance in the finals action.

In a brilliant opening half, Sandhurst scored 8.4 and played brilliant defence to limit the Borough to a tally of 1.5.

Defences controlled a lot of the third quarter as Sandhurst added 2.3 to a point.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk fought on to win the final term, 20-19, but it was Sandhurst which marked a 13.8 (86) to 4.8 (32) victory.

The Dragons’ attack was led by Cobi Maxted, three; Sam Conforti, Jake McLean and Matt Wilkinson, two.

Thornton kicked a goal in his milestone match.

Best for a Dragons team jointly coached by Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow were Sam Conforti, Hamish Hosking, Zach Pallpratt, James Coghlan, Bryce Curnow and Isaac Ruff.

Eaglehawk’s best were Ben Thompson, Dillon Williams, Joel Mullen, Dylan Hanley, Sam Thompson and Charlie Langford.

Strathfieldsaye jumped to the third rung and a qualifying final berth after a seven-goal win at Kyneton.

Storm surged to a 45-14 lead at quarter-time of what may be Kyneton’s final game in the Bendigo FNL.

The Tigers are seeking a clearance to the Riddell competition.

On Saturday the Darren Chambers-coached Kyneton put in a great effort to score 10.10 (70), but a Storm attack led by Lachlan Sharp, six goals; and Caleb Ernst, four, was too strong.

Leading goalkickers for Kyneton were Steven Georgiou, three, and Cameron Manuel, two.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Strathfieldsaye warmed up for another finals campaign by scoring a 16.16 (112) to 10.10 (70) victory.

A multiple premiership winner and co-coach in ’22, Shannon Geary played his 200^th senior game for Strathfieldsaye.

Storm’s best were Callum McCarty, Tim Hosking, Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Gill, Luke Webb and Mitch Hallinan.

Ben Cameron, Ethan Foreman, Thomas Quinn, Jake Summers, Steven Georgiou and Cameron Manuel were best for the yellow and black.

South Bendigo regained confidence and form ahead of an elimination final as it took on Castlemaine at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods led 28-21 at quarter-time and then scored 5.5 to 2.1 in the second.

A hard-fought third quarter was won by the Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies, 19-11.

Led by Braydan Torpey, Sam Langley and captain Zac Hare, South Bendigo steadied to run away with the game by scoring 4.3 to a goal in the last.

At the final siren the Bloods led 95-59.

The classy Brock Harvey kicked five goals as Steven Stroobants added three.

Castlemaine’s attack was led by Jackson Hood and John Watson with two each.

Best for South Bendigo included Brody Haddow, Alex Smith and Sam Griffiths.

Callum McConachy, Riley Pedretti, Daniel Lawson, Matt Filo, Nicholas Woodman and Sam Nettleton were Castlemaine’s best.

Gisborne marked its final hit-out of the season with a 40-goal win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

The Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs led 65-9 at quarter-time and did not let up the intensity.

Gisborne scored 10 goals in the second, seven in the third and 11 in the last.

At the final siren the Bulldogs led 38.27 (255) to 2.3 (15).

Sam Graham kicked a team-high seven goals as Harry Luxmoore added six and Brad Bernacki chipped in with four.

Other multiple goalkickers were Adam Brancatisano, Matthew Cassidy, three; Braidon Blake, Ben Eales, Luke Ellings, Flynn Lakey and Jarrad Lynch on two.

Jai Howell and Brady Neill were on target for Maryborough.

Best for Gisborne were ruckman Braidon Blake, on-ballers Brad Bernacki and Flynn Lakey, along with Matt Weber, Jake Postle and Nic Swan.

Kya Lanfranchi, Matt Johnston, coach Coby Perry, Brady Neill, Jake Postle and Nic Swan were Maryborough’s best.

Golden Square’s remarkable winning streak against Kangaroo Flat kept rolling.

The Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs won every quarter on their way to a 142-35 victory.

A highlight was the blue and gold’s third quarter in which it scored 8.5.

Joel Brett finished with eight goals to be runner-up in the race for the Ron Best Medal as the competition’s leading goalkicker.

Other multiple goalkickers for the Bulldogs were Jack Stewart, Jake Thrum and Braydon Vaz, two.

The Roos’ attack was led by Sam Barnes on two.

Jake Thrum earned best afield honours as Thomas Toma, Tom Strauch, Joel Brett, Zavier Murley and Ricky Monti won plenty of the footy in the lead-up to a qualifying final.

Best for the Jeremy Hayes-coached Kangaroo Flat were Nic Keogh, Mitch Collins, Zac Rouse, Sam Barnes, Jake Hywood and Liam Collins.

Final standings in the Bendigo FNL senior footy competition for the ’23 home and away series:

Sandhurst 230 per cent, 66 points; Golden Square 244, 64; Strathfieldsaye 159, 48; Eaglehawk 183, 46; South Bendigo 128, 40; Kyneton 81, 36; Gisborne 137, 32; Kangaroo Flat 56, 20; Castlemaine 41, 8; Maryborough 18, 0.

Finals action kicks off next Saturday at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Teams which finished the season in second and third place earnt the double chance and a place in the qualifying final.

On Saturday it will be Golden Square against Strathfieldsaye in the seniors match from 2.20pm.

Golden Square takes on Sandhurst in the reserves match at 12.15pm.

First of this year’s finals is the under-18s qualifying final between Gisborne and Sandhurst at 10.15am.

Sunday’s play is elimination finals.

Eaglehawk and South Bendigo clash in the seniors match at 2.20pm.

In the reserves it’s Strathfieldsaye against Gisborne from 12.15pm.

The under-18s match from 10.15am features Maryborough and Strathfieldsaye.

Final standings in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

93 - (6) - Lachlan Sharp - Strathfieldsaye 
84 - (8) - Joel Brett - Golden Square 
65 - (5) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo 
55 - (3) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo 
45 - (1) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst 
39 - (1) - William Keck - South Bendigo 
36 - (2) - Cameron Manuel - Kyneton 
34 - (0) - Lewin Davis - Eaglehawk 
33 - (2) - Braydon Vaz - Golden Square 
29 - (0) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye 
28 - (2) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square 
26 - (1) - Matt Thornton - Sandhurst 
26 - (0) - Andrew Collins - Sandhurst 
25 - (1) - Thomas Quinn - Kyneton 
24 - (0) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat 
24 - (6) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne 
23 - (0) - Ryan Hartley - Golden Square 
22 - (0) - Nicholas Stagg - Sandhurst 
22 - (4) - Bradley Bernacki - Gisborne 
21 - (0) - Noah Wheeler - Eaglehawk 
21 - (1) - Thomas Toma - Golden Square 
21 - (0) - Hamish Morcom - Golden Square 
20 - (0) - Baxter Slater - Strathfieldsaye 
20 - (0) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk 
19 - (1) - Matthew Merrett - Gisborne 
18 - (0) - Ethan Foreman - Kyneton 
18 - (0) - Jed Brereton - Strathfieldsaye 
18 - (2) - Sam Conforti - Sandhurst 
17 - (2) - Luke Ellings - Gisborne 
17 - (1) - Jordan Wilson - Strathfieldsaye 
17 - (0) - Cameron McGlashan - Eaglehawk 
17 - (3) - Cobi Maxted - Sandhurst 
17 - (1) - Jack O’shannessy - Eaglehawk 
16 - (0) - Billy Evans - Eaglehawk 
16 - (1) - Jake Summers - Kyneton 
16 - (0) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne 
15 - (0) - Liam Marciano - Eaglehawk 
15 - (2) - Matthew Wilkinson - Sandhurst 
15 - (1) - Callum McCarty - Strathfieldsaye 
14 - (1) - Samuel Langley - South Bendigo 
14 - (0) - Jack Hickman - Golden Square 
14 - (2) - Braidon Blake - Gisborne 
14 - (0) - Zavier Murley - Golden Square 
14 - (2) - Sam Barnes - Kangaroo Flat 
14 - (0) - Nicholas Keogh - Kangaroo Flat 
14 - (1) - Bradley Keogh - Castlemaine 
13 - (0) - Jack Reaper - Gisborne 
13 - (0) - Dylan Hird - Eaglehawk 
13 - (2) - Lachlan Gill - Strathfieldsaye 
13 - (1) - Tom Strauch - Golden Square 
13 - (0) - Liam Collins - Kangaroo Flat 
13 - (3) - Adam Brancatisano - Gisborne 
13 - (7) - Sam Graham - Gisborne 
13 - (1) - Luke Foreman - Kangaroo Flat 
12 - (1) - Ben Thompson - Eaglehawk 
12 - (0) - Liam Barrett - Golden Square 
12 - (0) - Kallen Geary - Eaglehawk 
12 - (1) - Hugh Freckleton - Golden Square 
12 - (0) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine 

Dragons put heat on Gisborne at QEO

THE Sandhurst Dragons will put the heat on Gisborne in Saturday’s second round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

After a first-round bye, Gisborne makes it way to Queen Elizabeth Oval to feature in the match of the day from 2.20pm.

Jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, Sandhurst made a brilliant start to the ’24 campaign as it scored 25 goals in the first-round win at Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park.

The Dragons can expect the pressure to be higher and last a lot longer this time against the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne.

There will be plenty of exciting match-ups in this contest.

Massive test for Gisborne defenders Jack Reaper, Zach Vescovi and Jarrad Lynch in trying to nullify the marking power of Dragons’ key targets Fergus Greene, Lachlan Wright and Cobi Maxted.

A highlight will be in the centre as Dragons’ captain Lachlan Tardrew takes on Brad Bernacki.

Both bring VFL experience from their time at Collingwood and Essendon respectively to the middle of the QEO.

For Gisborne the return of premiership-winning captain Pat McKenna from a broken ankle and comeback by Jack Scanlon at centre half-forward is a massive plus.

A Bulldogs’ forward line that includes the strength and marking power of Zac Denany and Harry Luxmoore will test Sandhurst.

Gisborne could hold a slight edge in the on-ball duels through Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey and Jackson Cardillo against Connor Sexton, James Coghlan and Noah Walsh.

There will be big games played at Kennington, Golden Square and Maryborough.

On the rebound from defeat, South Bendigo takes on a new-look Castlemaine at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

The Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller-coached Bloods put in a great effort at Strathfieldsaye before being overrun in the final quarter on Storm’s turf at Triple M Park.

Work at centre clearances and stoppages will be vital for the Bloods to not only quick entry to Castlemaine key forwards Michael Hartley and Zach Greeves.

In the stand-alone match on Good Friday it was Hartley who kicked five goals in his coaching debut and had great support from Greeves and Bailey Henderson.

Castlemaine overcame a spirited first-half showing from Maryborough to win by 69 points at Camp Reserve.

Big test for Bloods’ defenders Andrew van Heumen, Zac Hare and Isaiah Miller this round.

At the other end of the ground, South Bendigo has the brilliance of Stroobants and Brock Harvey who are quick on the lead and just as dangerous at ground level.

A high of the Bloods match at Strathfieldsaye was the play of William Marks at centre half-forward.

The son of Deon Marks, a dual premiership winner with the Bloods, William played at Wedderburn last season.

On-ball duels will be crucial where South Bendigo has Riley Walsh, Anthony Zimmerman, Brody Haddow and Zac Sims to take on Ben Moran, Kalan Huntly and Callum McConachy.

A lengthy interchange list for the Magpies included the classy Matt Filo.

The Bloods’ bench includes exciting youngsters Zavier Holmes and Zaydyn Lockwood.

Golden Square will unfurl the ’23 premiership flag before it tackles Strathfieldsaye at the Wade Street ground.

There is a fierce rivalry between these two clubs.

A new-look Bulldogs team worked hard to finish within 19 points at Eaglehawk last Saturday.

The youngsters in the Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square team will have gained plenty of confidence from the hit-out.

Now the challenge is up against Storm which was third last season.

Among the highs of the Dogs clash in the Borough was the play of Jordan Rosengren in the centre.

Back at the kennel after a stint at Wedderburn, Rosengren won plenty of the footy and also applied a lot of pressure to the opposition.

Key players for the blue and gold include co-captain Jayden Burke, Jon Coe, Hugh Freckleton, Luke Holt, ruckman Tanner Rayner, Harry Burke and Tom Strauch.

Bulldogs’ fans will also keenly follow the play of talented youngsters such as Jack Threlfall, Macey Eaton, Zac Tickell and Harrison Kelly.

It’s a new look for Storm which is now being coached by Luke Freeman.

Abe Sheahan led Storm’s attack against the Bloods.

Main targets in the forward 50m arc are James Schischka and Malik Gordon.

A talented Storm line-up includes Lachlan Ratcliffe at centre half-back, Shannon Geary, Daniel Clohesy in the centre, Lachlan Gill and Patrick Blandford.

Maryborough will be focused on a great opportunity to break its winless streak when it takes on Kangaroo Flat at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

There was plenty to like about the way the Coby Perry and Matt Johnston-coached Maryborough played at Castlemaine on Good Friday.

Ruck-rover Bailey Edwards was in outstanding form in the season opener and the Pies’ club champion of ’22 will play a significant role in this match.

Other players to watch for  Maryborough include Kaian Constable, ruckman Ty Stewart, centreman Joel Swatton, Kya Lanfranchi, Aidan Medlyn, Tom Myers and Robert Castiglia.

A newcomer is Cody Nyhuis from Nightcliff in the Northern Territory and previously Curtin University Wesley in Perth.

Kangaroo Flat will have learnt a lot from the round one hit-out against Sandhurst.

The Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos will look to Toby Roberts, Campbell Smith, Ben Savy and Lachlan Dalziel to control a lot of the centre breaks.

In attack the Roos have Harry Whitty, Jake Hywood and Daniel Stagg.

Big games to be played by Zach Rouse, Toby Balcke and Kyle Symons in defence.

Eaglehawk has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 589 per cent, 4 points; Castlemaine 211, 4; Strathfieldsaye 141, 4; Eaglehawk 132, 4; Golden Square 75, 0; South Bendigo 70, 0; Maryborough 47, 0; Kangaroo Flat 16, 0; Gisborne 0, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

6 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

5 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

5 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

4 Zach Greeves, Castlemaine.

4 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

3 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

3 Kaian Constable, Maryborough.

3 Sam O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

3 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

3 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

3 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

3 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

Grand final rematch a highlight of round

A REMATCH of ’23 grand finalists, Sandhurst and Gisborne highlights this Saturday’s second round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Dragons and Bulldogs will play at Queen Elizabeth Oval from 2.30pm.

Last September it was the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne which denied the Dragons a fifth consecutive premiership in a one-goal victory.

Sandhurst has home-court advantage and the benefit of a round one hit-out at Kangaroo Flat as it takes on a team which had the bye last Saturday.

A new feature in ’24 is rolling subs in which changes can be made during quarters instead of waiting for a quarter-time break.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst has a powerful defence led by Ruby Turner and Charlotte Sexton.

After starring at wing defence, dual Betty Thompson medallist Heather Oliver has switched to goal attack as Kelsey Meade is not playing because of pregnancy.

In attack it’s Oliver and Bec Smith to capitalise on the play of the mid-court.

Shae Clifford made a brilliant start from mid-court as the Dragons marked a 46-39 win at Kangaroo Flat.

The Dragons were without Meg Williams, ankle, for the clash on the Roos’ court.

Gisborne welcomes back Maddy Stewart, a dual winner of the Betty Thompson Medal for the league’s fairest and best player.

Stewart slots into defence to replace Zoe Davies who is in England playing for Leeds Rhinos.

A talented line-up in the red, white and blue includes Kirby Elliott, Claudia Mawson and goalshooter Tori Skrijel.

Another player to watch is teenager Dasha Taylor.

Castlemaine marks its first match of the season when it plays South Bendigo at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

The Magpies did play Maryborough in the lower grades on Good Friday at Camp Reserve, but Maryborough is not fielding an A-grade team this season.

At Castlemaine, Chloe Hughes takes charge as A-grade coach.

A premiership player at Shepparton United, Hughes and her Magpies’ team-mates will be aiming to build on last year’s run to a preliminary final.

In the past two seasons it was Fiona Fowler, playing, and Gary Cooke, non-playing, who coached Castlemaine to fourth and third placings.

The Magpies beat South Bendigo and Kangaroo Flat in last year’s finals campaign.

South Bendigo fought on for a 36-34 victory on Strathfieldsaye’s court last Saturday.

A multiple premiership winner at Kangaroo Flat, Alicia McGlashan has stepped up to now be playing coach at South Bendigo.

Line-ups have changed dramatically, but South Bendigo was eliminated from the finals race by Castlemaine the past two seasons.

The Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square showed plenty of signs of improvement in a 33-44 result at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park in round one.

This Saturday the Square is home at Wade Street to take on Strathfieldsaye Storm.

A Storm line-up coached by Steph Freemantle will be keen to hit back from a narrow defeat.

Kangaroo Flat’s A-grade team has a rest this Saturday, but the Roos will play Maryborough in all other grades of netball at Princes Park.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Eaglehawk 133 per cent, 4 points; Sandhurst 117, 4; South Bendigo 105, 4; Strathfieldsaye 94, 0; Kangaroo Flat 84, 0; Golden Square 75, 0; Castlemaine 0, 0; Gisborne 0, 0.

Gisborne beats Sandhurst in grand final rematch

A BRILLIANT first half set up Gisborne’s victory against Sandhurst in Saturday’s second round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The rematch of the ’23 grand finalists was played at a frenetic pace on the court at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

In its first hit-out since beating for the premiership cup last September, Gisborne raced to a 16-8 lead by quarter-time.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Bulldogs capitalised on their work in all thirds of the court to lead 30-16 by the long break.

Sandhurst fought back strongly to win the third term, 11-8.

Best quarter for the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Dragons was the last in which it poured in 11 goals and held the visitors to just four.

At the final siren, Gisborne led 42-38.

Preliminary finalist in ’23, Castlemaine showed it will again be a strong challenger for a top-three berth.

Now coached by Chloe Hughes, Castlemaine made its way to Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval to take on South Bendigo.

After a first-round bye, Castlemaine led 9-7 at quarter-time and 19-12 by the long break.

In the third quarter the Magpies broke the game open as they scored 13 goals and held the Alicia McGlashan-coached Bloods to a tally of six.

South Bendigo won the last, 9-8, but it was Castlemaine which took the premiership points in a 40-27 result.

Strathfieldsaye bounced back from narrow defeat in the season opener to win on Golden Square’s court by 20 goals.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm led 12-6 by the first break and 26-13 by half-time.

Quarter three was to be Strathfieldsaye’s best as it added 17 goals and held the blue and gold to just five.

The Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square doubled its score across the opening three quarters as it added 18 in the last.

At the final siren Storm led 56-36.

Because Maryborough is not fielding an A-grade team, Kangaroo Flat had a bye.

The Magpies and Kangaroos did play the lower grades at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

The A-reserve match between the clubs ended in a 41-all draw.

Eaglehawk had the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Castlemaine 148 per cent, 8 points; Eaglehawk 133, 8; Gisborne 110, 8; Strathfieldsaye 125, 4; Sandhurst 103, 4; South Bendigo 85, 4; Kangaroo Flat 84, 4; Golden Square 69, 0.

In next Saturday’s third round, Strathfieldsaye plays Eaglehawk at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Castlemaine takes on Golden Square at Camp Reserve.

Kangaroo Flat and South Bendigo clash on the Roos’ court at Dower Park.

It’s a rest for Gisborne in A-grade, but the Bulldogs face Maryborough in the lower grades at Gardiner Reserve.

Sandhurst has the bye.

Round two scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Sandhurst 42 lt Gisborne 48, South Bendigo 47 d Castlemaine 45, Golden Square 33 lt Strathfieldsaye 50, Maryborough 41 dr Kangaroo Flat 41, Eaglehawk bye.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 46 lt Gisborne 52, South Bendigo 47 d Castlemaine 41, Golden Square 40 lt Strathfieldsaye 55, Maryborough 18 lt Kangaroo Flat 48, Eaglehawk bye.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 44 d Gisborne 31, South Bendigo 64 d Castlemaine 18, Golden Square 40 lt Strathfieldsaye 48, Maryborough 15 lt Kangaroo Flat 79, Eaglehawk bye.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 67 d Gisborne 37, South Bendigo 50 d Castlemaine 30, Golden Square 49 d Strathfieldsaye 43, Maryborough 42 d Kangaroo Flat 16, Eaglehawk bye.

League ladders:

A-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 146 per cent, 8 points; Eaglehawk 117, 8; Gisborne 114, 8; Maryborough 122, 6; Sandhurst 97, 4; South Bendigo 85, 4; Kangaroo Flat 95, 2; Castlemaine 80, 0; Golden Square 75, 0.

B-grade:

Strathfieldsaye 135 per cent, 8 points; Eaglehawk 117, 8; Gisborne 113, 8; Kangaroo Flat 134, 4; Sandhurst 101, 4; Castlemaine 98, 4; South Bendigo 91, 4; Golden Square 78, 0; Maryborough 57, 0.

B-reserve:

Eaglehawk 300 per cent, 8 points; Sandhurst 136, 8; Strathfieldsaye 121, 8; Kangaroo Flat 194, 4; South Bendigo 155, 4; Gisborne 70, 4; Castlemaine 62, 4; Golden Square 56, 0; Maryborough 44, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 221 per cent, 8 points; Golden Square 210, 8; Maryborough 149, 8; South Bendigo 126, 4; Strathfieldsaye 96, 4; Gisborne 55, 4; Eaglehawk 20, 4; Castlemaine 74, 0; Kangaroo Flat 34, 0.

SANDHURST made it a hat-trick of wins for the Ron Best Memorial Shield when it took on Golden Square in Saturday’s third round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League.

Two of the competition’s greatest rivals met once again in a match to honour the goalkicking legend who was a star at Golden Square, crossed to Sandhurst, and then went back to the Bulldogs’ kennel in a brilliant 1624-goal career.

The Dragons and Bulldogs took unbeaten records into their latest showdown at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

A fired-up Sandhurst scored the first four goals before last season’s Ron Best medallist as the BFNL’s leading goalkicker, Joel Brett roved a marking contest and snapped truly.

The Bulldogs finished the term full of run and were rewarded with another two majors by Brett to trail 20-25 at the first break.

It was déjà vu in the second as the Dragons goaled through Matt Thornton and Andy Collins before Ryan Hartley was on target for the blue and gold.

A spectacular leap and mark by Hamish Morcom was capped with another goal to put the Bulldogs back within four points.

Thornton’s marking was a feature of this match as he kicked his third for the Dragons to lead 44-36 at half-time.

Golden Square was first to goal in the third when Jack Stewart capped Zavier Murley’s chase and handball to a team-mate in the clear.

From there it was the Dragons, jointly coached by Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow, who upped their intensity and run.

Goals by Thornton, the classy Lachlan Tardrew, and James Coghlan in less than five minutes gave Sandhurst a 22-point lead.

When Cobi Maxted intercepted a handpass and snapped truly the margin was 28 in the 17^th minute.

A mark and goal by Hartley did lift Bulldogs’ hopes.

Sandhurst’s ability to win most centre breaks and stoppages put Square’s defence under pressure all match.

Defences were well on top until the 13 minute of the final term when Lachlan Wright marked and goaled for the Dragons.

Another two majors by the maroon and blue blew the margin out to 42 points.

Murley’s goal was to the last of a match which went Sandhurst’s way, 94-59.

Back in the Dragons’ team as Collingwood had a bye in the VFL, Lachlan Tardrew earned the best afield medal.

It was not his running and disposal that stood out, but also his ability to float across the pack and mark defensive kick-ins to half-back or further afield multiple times.

Gun ruckman Hamish Hosking was superb as were Cooper Smith, Darcy Mills, James Coghlan and Zach Pallpratt.

Best for Golden Square were Zavier Murley, Jack Hickman, Jon Coe, Liam Barrett, Liam Duguid and Brodie James.

A tight-knit Sandhurst defence included Bryce Curnow at centre half-back.

In the rooms, Curnow praised the team’s workrate.

The Dragons won the inside 50m tally, 63-29, and tackles, 43-27.

“They really showed our want to win the contest and workrate as a group,” Curnow said.

“Today was a massive challenge to show where we are at. There is a lot of growth still to come as we adapt to a new game plan, but three-nil is a terrific start.”

Curnow said the play of VFL-aligned players Tardrew, Collingwood; Sam Conforti, Essendon; and Cobi Maxted, Collingwood; was a huge plus.

“The VFL boys were awesome in the way they set up attacks, but also the example they set.”

Archer Day-Wicks who is in the Bendigo Pioneers squad also marked a winning senior debut.

Another big test awaits the Dragons as they make their way to Triple M Park in Tannery Lane for Saturday’s round-four showdown with Strathfieldsaye Storm.

A hot run of form by Eaglehawk kept rolling in Saturday’s third round clash on Gisborne’s turf at Gardiner Reserve.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks soared to a 36-point lead by quarter-time after they scored 7.2 to 1.2.

Eaglehawk’s ability to win many contests and stoppages and goalkicking accuracy was to the fore as added 6.1 to 3.2 in the second to lead 81-28 by half-time.

The Brad Fox-coached Gisborne fired back to win the third, 19-8, but the Two Blues scored 4.3 to 2.4 in the last to compete a 112-63 victory.

A six-goal haul by co-captain Cameron McGlashan earned best afield honours.

Other multiple goalkickers for the Borough were Kallen Geary and Liam Marciano.

Gisborne’s attack was led by James Fox and Matt Merrett on two each.

Best for Eaglehawk included Dylan Hanley, Lewin Davis, Kallen Geary, Joel Mullen, and former St Kilda captain Jarryn Geary.

Bulldogs’ skipper and key defender Jack Reaper was best along with Flynn Lakey, Liam Spear, Braidon Blake and Matt Merrett.

Kangaroo Flat fought from  11-points down at the start of the final term to record a 17-point win on Maryborough’s turf at Princes Park.

The Roos led 34-32 at half-time before the Coby Perry-coached Magpies dominated the third.

A return of 1.9 to just two behinds would be a run that Maryborough would rue by match end.

The Nathan Johns-coached Kangaroo Flat lifted in the last to score 6.6 to 2.2 to win 78-61.

Angus Grant led Flat’s attack on four goals to be his team’s best as Sam Barnes added two.

Only multiple goalkicker for Maryborough was Taj Bond with two.

Best for the Roos included Gach Chuol, Zach Rouse, Liam and Mitch Collins, and Mitchell Trewhella.

Back for Maryborough, Sandringham-aligned midfielder Jacob Lohmann made a massive difference to the team’s play.

The Magpies also had Bailey Snelling, Mitch McClure, Taj Bond and Liam Murphy play well.

Club champion in the 2021 season, Bailey Edwards was also back in Maryborough colours and among the best.

South Bendigo small forwards Steven Stroobants and Will Keck kicked four goals apiece as the Bloods beat Kyneton by 46 points at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods led 31-5 at quartert-time.

Kyneton lifted to generate plenty of attacks in the second, but was let down by inaccuracy as the Tigers scored 2.5 to 3.2 for South to lead 51-22 by the main break.

The Paul Chapman-coached Tigers won the third, 14-9, but the Bloods finished with full of run and goals as they added 5.2 to 1.4 to complete a 92-46 victory.

Best for the red and white included mids/onballers Brody Haddow, Cooper Leon, Oscar White and Sam Maher, plus Steven Stroobants in attack, and Braydan Torpey at half-back.

Jake Summers, Harrison Huntley, Mason Crozier, Bailey McGee, Caleb Fisher and Jayden Eales were best for the yellow and black.

Strathfieldsaye showed it has plenty of goalscoring options in a 97-point win at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Storm went into the match without captain Lachlan Sharp, a Michelsen medallist as league fairest and best, and also dual winner of the Ron Best Medal.

In Saturday’s contest it was James Schischka who led the way on six goals as Jed Brereton added four and Lachlan Gill, Callum McCarty and Jordan Wilson chipped in with two each.

The Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies worked hard to score 4.5 against a strong opponent.

Best for Storm were Callum McCarty, Tim Hosking, Daniel Clohesy, James Schischka, Jake Moorhead and Darcy Mulquiny.

Brodie Byrne, Liam Wilkinson, John Watson, Callum McConachy, Riley Pedretti and Ethan Hein played well for the Magpies.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Eaglehawk 288 per cent, 12 points; Sandhurst 176, 12; South Bendigo 160, 8; Strathfieldsaye 151, 8; Golden Square 116, 8; Gisborne 107, 4; Kangaroo Flat 77, 4; Castlemaine 37, 4; Kyneton 38, 0; Maryborough 32, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

10 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

10 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

10 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

9 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Cameron McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

8 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

7 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

7 Sam Griffiths, South Bendigo.

7 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

7 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

6 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

6 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

6 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

5 Braidon Blake, Gisborne.

5 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

5 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

5 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

5 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

In other fourth-round matches on Saturday, Kangaroo Flat hosts Gisborne at Dower Park.

Kyneton and Maryborough meet in Tigerland at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Eaglehawk faces Castlemaine in a battle of the birds at Canterbury Park.

Golden Square tackles South Bendigo at Wade Street in a clash between two clubs that have met in six grand finals since 1972.

The ledger is 4-2 in favour of the Bulldogs.

STRATHFIELDSAYE Storm will strive to stop Sandhurst’s winning streak in Saturday’s fourth round of senior footy action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Storm has home-ground advantage when the clash at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane starts at 2.20pm.

It’s a big day for the Bendigo FNL as all clubs kick in to support the Pat Cronin Foundation in its campaign to eliminate the Coward Punch and violence.

All footballers and netballers will wear yellow armbands.

For the Darryl Wilson-coached Strathfieldsaye it’s another huge test.

Storm’s run kicked off with a win at Gisborne, loss at home to Golden Square, and then a 97-point victory at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Captain and gun forward Lachlan Sharp returns to Storm’s line-up from injury.

A Michelsen medallist and dual winner of the Ron Best Medal as leading goalkicker, Sharp’s quick leading and work at ground level mean he is an incredibly difficult opponent.

Storm’s forward line also includes James Schischka and Baxter Slater.

Lachlan Bonney will also contest his 204^th match for the club.

A multiple premiership winner at Storm, Bonney spent the past two seasons with Torqay in AFL Barwon.

In defence, Storm has Mitch Hallinan, Lachlan Ratcliffe and Luke Webb to play important roles.

It’s a formidable Dragons forward line of Michelsen medallist Lee Coghlan in a pocket, Matt Thornton at full-forward, and former Richmond and Carlton mid/forward Andy Collins in the other pocket.

The Dragons’ best in a 39-point victory against Golden Square at the QEO to retain the Ron Best Memorial Shield included ruckman Hamish Hosking, Cooper Smith, Darcy Mills and James Coghlan.

Now co-coach with Ash Connick at the Dragons, Bryce Curnow is up against a club he won a premiership with and was best afield in the 2019 grand final.

Changes to the Sandhurst line-up include Lachlan Tardrew and Sam Conforti being out to play VFL with Collingwood and Essendon, and also Dayten Uerata.

Ins to the squad are Lee Coghlan, Jake McLean, Jacob Nihill and Isaac Ruff.

Across town, Golden Square and South Bendigo meet at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs were outplayed for a lot of their duel with the Dragons for the Ron Best Memorial Shield.

Highs on a tough day for the Bulldogs were the play of youngsters Zavier Murley and Jack Hickman.

Among the changes to Golden Square’s team to take on the Bloods was the promotion of Macey Eaton for his first senior game.

The son of Brad, now coaching the Dogs’ reserves team, Macey was the George Symons medallist for fairest and best in last season’s BFNL under-18s competition.

Gun forward Joel Brett will test the Bloods all match, while Jayden Burke has the ability to kick multiple goals.

Other stars for the blue and gold include captain Jack Geary, Ryan Hartley and Jake Thrum.

The Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo has hit back from a first-round loss to Eaglehawk by beating Kangaroo Flat and Kyneton.

Playing on Square’s turf means the pressure will be much higher.

The Bloods welcome back classy small forward Brock Harvey to take on his former club.

South Bendigo also has Steven Stroobants and Will Keck firing in the forward 50m arc.

The play of Mac Cameron in the ruck, Brody Haddow, Cooper Leon, Oscar White, Zac Hare and Andrew van Heumen will be crucial to South Bendigo’s chances.

Feature match of Pat Cronin round is Kangaroo Flat at home to Gisborne at Dower Park.

Both have 1-2 records.

Confidence in a Kangaroo Flat team coached by Nathan Johns has lifted markedly after a hard-fought win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Angus Grant kicked four goals to be best afield for the Roos and will be a main target in attack, along with Ethan Roberts, Nicholas Keogh and Harry Whitty.

It’s a huge challenge in the ruck for Gach Chuoi against Braidon Blake who earned the Nalder medal as best on ground in Gisborne’s grand final win.

The Brad Fox-coached Gisborne will be desperate to start well.

Bulldogs’ on-ballers Sam Graham and Flynn Lakey, and centreman Liam Spear will be up against Liam Collins, R.J. Watson and Mitch Trewhella.

Since crossing from Castlemaine, Zac Denahy has led Gisborne’s attack on seven goals.

The Bulldogs will also look to Harry Luxmoore and Matt Merrett to capitalise on forward moves.

It will be Kyneton or Maryborough who mark a long-awaited victory when they clash in Tigerland at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Paul Chapman-coached Tigers have not won since a 133-32 victory at home against Maryborough in last season’s 18^th round.

In the opening three rounds Kyneton has played at Golden Square, clash with Sandhurst at home, and then tackled South Bendigo at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Key players for the yellow and black include Cameron Manuel, Harrison Huntley, Jake Summers and captain James Orr.

Tigers’ on-baller Hamish Yunghanns capped a superb ’22 season by earning the league’s Rising Star award.

The Coby Perry-coached Maryborough has done well to lead at three quarter-time in its clashes with Castlemaine and Kangaroo Flat before being overrun.

The Magpies will be determined to turn that around.

Gun on-ballers Jacob Lohmann and Bailey Edwards were among the best against the Roos, but will not take on the Tigers.

Maryborough will rely a lot on the play of Joel Swatton, Chris Freeman, Brady Neill, captain Ty Stewart, and Kya Lanfranchi.

The ladder-leading Eaglehawk is back at Canterbury Park to take on Castlemaine.

It’s been a brilliant start by the Hawks who led 44-8 at quarter-time on the way to a 112-63 victory at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve last Saturday.

Although he hinted at resting some of the older players, Hawks’ coach Travis Matheson has not done so as Jarryn and Kallen Geary were named to take on the Magpies.

In-form players for the Two Blues include co-captains Billy Evans and Cameron McGlashan, Ben Thompson, Noah Wheeler, Dylan Hanley and Lewin Davis.

A goal for the Brendan Shepherd-coached Castlemaine will be its workrate at centre clearances and stoppages.

The Magpies have the likes of Brodie and Jackson Byrne, John Watson, Callum McConachy ready to accept the challenge.

Other key players for the ‘Maine include Matt Filo, Liam Wilkinson, Lloyd Butcher and Ben Moran.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Eaglehawk 288 per cent, 12 points; Sandhurst 176, 12; South Bendigo 160, 8; Strathfieldsaye 151, 8; Golden Square 116, 8; Gisborne 107, 4; Kangaroo Flat 77, 4; Castlemaine 37, 4; Kyneton 38, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

10 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

10 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

10 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

9 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Cameron McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

8 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

7 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

7 Sam Griffiths, South Bendigo.

7 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

7 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

6 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

6 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

6 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

5 Braidon Blake, Gisborne.

5 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

5 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

5 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

5 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

Sandhurst smashes league’s record score

SANDHURST smashed the record score achieved by a senior footy team in Saturday’s fifth round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Dragons racked up an incredible tally of 54.23 (347) in a 333-point victory on Maryborough’s turf at Princes Park.

Matches across the BFNL were part of the Pat Cronin Foundation which raised awareness of violence, in particular the “coward punch”.

The day also became a fund-raiser for the foundation and its work with sporting clubs, schools, and community groups.

Previous record score in Bendigo FNL history was 49.28 (322) by the Peter Bradbury-coached South Bendigo against Kennington at Harry Trott Oval, Kennington in 1990.

A tally of 11 goals in the opening term was a remarkable start by Sandhurst against the Magpies.

The Dragons added a remarkable 17 goals in the second to lead 179-13 by half-time.

Sandhurst’s intensity at the contest did not let up.

A team jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, scored 13 goals in the third term and another 13 in the last.

By the final siren, Sandhurst led 54.23 (347) to 2.2 (14).

Lachlan Wright led the Dragons’ attack on 12 goals as Fergus Greene booted nine and Noah Walsh chipped in with seven.

Other multiple goalkickers were Bryce Curnow and Nick Stagg, five; Lachlan Tardrew, four; Lachie Hood and Cobi Maxted, three; and Jake McLean, two.

Fraser Russell kicked both of Maryborough’s goals.

Sandhurst captain Lachlan Tardrew was best afield as Noah Walsh, Lachlan Wright, Fergus Greene, Cooper Smith and James Coghlan won plenty of contests.

Was an incredibly tough afternoon for the Maryborough team and co-coaches Coby Perry and Matt Johnston.

Best for the Magpies were Coby Perry, Kya Lanfranchi, Tom Myers, Aidan Medlyn, Josh Britten and Fraser Russell.

Golden Square’s winning streak of 23 years against Kangaroo Flat will continue for at least another game.

The Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs turned a 13-point lead at quarter-time into a 40-point buffer by half-time as they slammed on 5.5 to 1.2 in the second at Golden Square’s Wade Street ground.

The blue and gold was wary of a Kangaroo Flat team desperate to end the hoodoo and had overrun South Bendigo the previous round.

In this contest it was the classy Ricky Monti who led the Bulldogs to an emphatic 106-29 victory as he kicked four goals and won plenty of the footy in a best on ground performance.

Talented youngster Macey Eaton, a previous winner of the George Symons Medal as fairest and best in the Bendigo FNL under-18s competition kicked two goals.

Other multiple goalkickers for the Bulldogs were Jack Stewart and hard-running midfielder Zac Tickell on two.

The Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos were held to a tally of three goals in this match.

Best for the Bulldogs included Macey Eaton, Zack Shelton, and Zac Tickell.

Luke Ellings, Daniel Stagg, Toby Roberts, Campbell Smith, Zac Rouse and Josh Halsall worked hard on a disappointing day for the Roos players and supporters.

Feature match of Pat Cronin Foundation Round was Eaglehawk against Castlemaine at the Borough’s Canterbury Park.

The Hawks and Magpies were determined to bounce back from defeat.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk did plenty of attacking across the first half, but was wayard at goal.

By half-time the Hawks led 5.11 (41) to 2.5 (17).

Quarter three was to be Castlemaine’s best as the visitors scored 3.3 to 1.2.

An 11-point lead for the Two Blues at the start of the final term was 42 by the finish as Eaglehawk slammed on 6.3 to 1.2.

At the final siren Eaglehawk led 88-46.

Jonty Neaves led the Hawks’ attack on three goals as Darcy Richards, Mitchell Ronchieri and Ben Thompson added two.

Castlemaine coach Michael Hartley was the Pies only multiple goalkicker on two.

Best for Eaglehawk were Ben Thompson, ruckman Brayden Frost, Clayton Holmes, Billy Evans, Joel Mullen and Charlie Langford.

The Magpies’ best were Bailey Henderson, Kalan Huntly, Zavier Murley, Darby Semmens, Harrison Sheahan and Michael Hartley.

A nine-goal blitz in the second quarter put Gisborne well in control of its match on South Bendigo’s ground at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne led 20-9 at quarter-time.

In the second the Bulldogs dominated centre breaks and clearances.

Led by the play of ruckman Braidon Blake and on-ballers Jackson Cardillo and Brad Bernacki, Gisborne slammed on 9.4 to a point in the second term.

The Bulldogs’ margin past the century mark by three quarter-time.

Harry Luxmoore’s hot form rolled on as he kicked eight goals in a 186-31 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for the red, white and blue were Pat McKenna, four; Cardillo, Matt Merrett, Jack Scanlon, three; Zac Denahy and Sam Graham, two.

There were no multiple goalkickers for a Bloods line-up jointly coached by Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller.

Gisborne’s best included Luxmoore, Zac Denahy and Flynn Lakey.

Best for the Bloods were Brody Haddow, Jack Francis, Alex Smith, Tait Poyser, Zac Hare and Declan McMahon.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 522 per cent, 12 points; Strathfieldsaye 136, 12; Gisborne 397, 8; Eaglehawk 129, 8; Golden Square 116, 8; Kangaroo Flat 69, 8; Castlemaine 92, 4; South Bendigo 65, 4; Maryborough 19, 0.

Saturday’s fifth round features rivals Sandhurst and South Bendigo at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

It’s the clash of the Bulldogs as Gisborne is on home turf at Gardiner Reserve against Golden Square.

Kangaroo Flat returns to Dower Park to take on Eaglehawk.

Castlemaine and Strathfieldsaye clash at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Maryborough has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

20 - (1) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo 
17 - (4) - Pat McKenna - Gisborne 
16 - (2) - Michael Hartley - Castlemaine 
16 - (8) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne 
16 - (12) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst 
16 - (9) - Fergus Greene - Sandhurst 
9 - (1) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine 
9 - (4) - Lachlan Tardrew - Sandhurst 
8 - (0) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo 
8 - (1) - Jayden Burke - Golden Square 
8 - (1) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat 
8 - (0) - Justin Bateson - Kangaroo Flat 
8 - (7) - Noah Walsh - Sandhurst 
8 - (0) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye 
8 - (1) - Joel Wharton - Sandhurst 
7 - (2) - Fraser Russell - Maryborough 
7 - (2) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square 
7 - (2) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne 
7 - (2) - Sam Graham - Gisborne 
7 - (3) - Jonty Neaves - Eaglehawk 
7 - (3) - Cobi Maxted - Sandhurst 

Red-hot Dragons tackle previous QEO co-tenant

SANDHURST takes on previous QEO co-tenant, South Bendigo in this Saturday’s fifth round of senior footy action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It’s also Community Umpiring Round in which players and fans recognise the important role all umpires play across all levels of football and netball.

The Sandhurst and South Bendigo match was originally slated as the Graeme Wright Memorial Cup, but that will now be later in the season at South Bendigo’s new home at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Massive challenge for the Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller-coached South Bendigo to halt Sandhurst’s run and skilful disposal to a formidable attack in this contest.

The Dragons marked a league record score of 347 points and winning margin of 333 in last Saturday’s match at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Sandhurst captain Lachlan Tardrew is one of the favourites for the Michelsen Medal awarded to the league’s fairest and best player.

At Maryborough, Tardrew racked up possessions at will in a best afield performance.

A tally of 57 disposals and 283 points was the highest ranking since Premier Data started doing stats for the league.

The Dragons have Connor Sexton in the ruck, James Coghlan and Noah Walsh as on-ballers, and Tardrew in the centre.

South Bendigo will need Alex Smith, Brody Haddow, Zac Sims and Anthony Zimmerman to limit the number of disposals their opponents win, but also rack up disposals.

The work of the Bloods’ on-ball and midfield group is crucial in supporting a defence led by Andrwe van Heumen, Zac Hare, Tait Poyser and Isaiah Miller.

Sandhurst co-coaches Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, would be rapt with the connection and workrate of forwards Fergus Green, Lachlan Wright, Nick Stagg and Joel Wharton.

At the other end of the field, Brock Harvey has kicked 20 goals and leads the race for the Ron Best Medal.

Premiers of the previous two seasons, Gisborne and Golden Square clash at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

Both teams have changed markedly, especially Golden Square, since they raised the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne is in great form.

Gisborne captain Jack Reaper was rewarded for his outstanding play and consistency by being named captain of the Bendigo FNL team to play the Victorian Amateur Football Association in July.

A Gisborne attack led by Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore and Zac Denahy has capitalised on the dominance of ruckman Braidon Blake and on-ballers Flynn Lakey and Jackson Cardillo in recent weeks.

Among the many key match-ups will be in the centre where Gisborne star Brad Bernacki takes on the in-form Jordan Rosengren.

The return of Ricky Monti is a massive plus for the Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square.

Whether he is playing on-ball or in attack, Monti is one of the league’s best.

Golden Square will need big games from the likes of captain Jayden Burke, Jon Coe, Kai Daniels, Zack Shelton and Tom Strauch.

After a disappointing result at Golden Square last round, Kangaroo Flat will aim to rebound on its turf at Dower Park against Eaglehawk.

The Roos teamed brilliantly on their turf just two weeks ago to beat South Bendigo.

Kangaroos’ coach Michael Ellings will be keen to see the team play with the dare and defensive intensity it brought against the Bloods.

Key players for the Roos include Jack Lefroy, ruckman Toby Roberts, Justin Bateson against his former club, Luke Ellings on a wing, Kyle Symons, Josh Leersen and Daniel Stagg.

Crucial roles to be played by Campbell Smith against Hawks’ captain Billy Evans, and Lachlan Dalziel in the centre against Joel Mullen.

The Roos will be without Harry Whitty after he accepted a two-match ban for rough conduct against Golden Square.

Goalscoring power of Eaglehawk may be difficult for the Roos to match.

The Hawks’ forward line includes Jonty Neaves, Darcy Richards, Bailey Ilsley and Mitchell Ronchieri.

Hawks’ coach Travis Matheson has ruckman Brayden Frost in hot form, the running power and versatility of Kallen Geary,  Marcus Angove and Ben Thompson.

Castlemaine is back on home turf at Camp Reserve to take on Strathfieldsaye.

The Michael Hartley-coached Castlemaine will be desperate to show it can be a challenger for the top five.

Huge test for the Magpies against an unbeaten Strathfieldsaye team refreshed by the bye.

Castlemaine has the marking power of Hartley, Bailey Henderson and Zach Greeves in attack.

Huge roles to be played through midfield and on-ball by the likes of Zavier Murley, Declan Slingo, Jack Chester, Kalan Huntly and Will Moran.

It’s another important milestone for Strathfieldsaye star Shannon Geary.

A three-time premiership captain of Storm, Geary will mark his 250^th Bendigo FNL match and 206^th with Storm.

Geary’s senior footy journey began at Eaglehawk and involved stints at Sandhurst and Kangaroo Flat, and at VFL level with Bendigo Bombers.

An incredible run of seven grand finals with Storm includes four victories.

The popular clubman also had a stint as senior co-coach with Darryl Wilson and also coached a reserves team to premiership glory.

Although he is likely to start in defence, Geary may drift forward at one stage in a bid to his 250^th senior goal.

Wearing number 65, Geary continues to play a key role for the Luke Freeman-coached Storm.

A talented Strathfieldsaye team includes Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Ratcliffe, James Schishcka, Abe and Caleb Sheahan, Carson James and Riley Wilson.

Maryborough has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 522 per cent, 12 points; Strathfieldsaye 136, 12; Gisborne 392, 8; Eaglehawk 129, 8; Golden Square 116, 8; Kangaroo Flat 69, 8; Castlemaine 92, 4; South Bendigo 66, 4; Maryborough 19, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

20 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

17 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

16 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

16 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

16 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

16 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

9 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

9 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

8 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

8 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

8 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

8 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

8 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

8 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

7 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

7 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

7 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

7 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

SOUTH Bendigo will fight to keep the Graeme Wright Memorial Cup out of Sandhurst’s hands in Saturday’s fifth round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The match to honour one of the Bloods’ great defenders and clubmen will be at South Bendigo’s new home at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street from 2.20pm.

Last season’s Cup battle between the-then QEO co-tenants ended in an eight-point win for the red and white.

The Bloods will up the pressure rating against the unbeaten Dragons.

South Bendigo gained plenty of confidence from a one-point win at Golden Square last round.

Among the many key duels in Saturday’s contest will be in the ruck where Bloods’ gun recruit Mac Cameron is up against Hamish Hosking.

Both are superb at centre clearances and boundary throw-ins, but also provide plenty of run and marking power around the ground.

Bloods’ small forwards Brock Harvey, Will Keck and Steven Stroobants will test the Dragons in every quarter.

The quality and quantity of supply will be crucial to South Bendigo’s chances.

Brody Haddow, Cooper Leon, Oscar White and coach Nathan Horbury play crucial on-ball or midfield roles for the Bloods.

The dash and flair of Zac Hare and Braydan Torpey  from defence is a key for the Bloods, as is the run from Wil McCaig and Sam Maher.

Sandhurst made it four wins on the trot when it kicked clear in the final quarter to beat Strathfieldsaye by 30 points.

James Coghlan, Andy Collins, Isaac Ruff and Cooper Smith were the Dragons’ best.

The marking power of Sandhurst forwards Matt Thornton, Cobi Maxted and Lachlan Wright is a huge plus and will test Daniel Johnstone and Andy Van Heumen.

A Dragons’ team coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, was superb in the clinches as it beat Golden Square to retain the Ron Best Memorial Shield two weeks ago.

Players to watch for the Dragons include Nick Stagg, Will Moran, Alex Wharton and youngsters Archer Day-Wicks, Lachie Hood and Darcy Mills.

Another big match will be at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane where Storm hosts the ladder-leading Eaglehawk.

Illness and injury have hit Storm which has a two-two record and in a tough fight to hold fourth place.

Among the changes for the Darryl Wilson-coached Storm was captain Lachlan Sharp out because of a hamstring injury.

With the Michelsen medallist and dual Ron Best medallist on the sidelines there’s more pressure on James Schischka, Baxter Slater and Malik Gordon in Storm’s forward line.

On-ball duels will be a highlight.

Storm has ruckman Jed Brereton to take on Connor Dalgleish, while Michelsen medallist Jake Moorhead and Daniel Clohesy are damaging players from centre breaks and stoppages.

In defence it will be Mitch Hallinan, Luke Webb and Lachlan Ratcliffe who play crucial roles for Storm.

It’s been a long time since the Hawks have won in Storm territory.

A key player in Storm’s long-time dominance against the Hawks was Kallen Geary.

This time the triple premiership winner with Strathfieldsaye returns to Triple M Park, but to play off a half-back flank for the Hawks.

On the other flank will be Kallen’s older brother, Jarryn who has returned to the Borough after a 207-game AFL career with St Kilda.

A talented Eaglehawk line-up includes Marcus Angove, Billy Evans in the centre, Lewin Davis, Clayton Holmes, Cameron McGlashan, Joel Mullen and Noah Wheeler.

Gisborne is back on home turf at Gardiner Reserve to take on Kyneton.

The Bulldogs surged clear in the second half to win last Saturday’s match at Kangaroo Flat by 52 points.

The Brad Fox-coached Bulldogs will be wary of a Kyneton line-up which hit back from a hat-trick of defeats to score a big win against Maryborough at Tigerland.

Premiership-winning captain and gun forward Pat McKenna marks a timely return for Gisborne.

A Dogs’ attack that includes Matt Merrett, Harry Luxmoore and Adam Brancatisano will test the Paul Chapman-coached team in yellow and black.

Gisborne ruckman Braidon Blake, rover Flynn Lakey and key defender and captain Jack Reaper have been in top form all season.

After racking up 45 disposals and three goals in Kyneton’s win to earn the Barry Plant Player of the Round award, Cameron Manuel was not named in the Tigers’ team to tackle the Dogs.

With Cameron out there will be a greater onus on the likes of Hamish Yunghanns, Bailey McGee, James Orr, Brady Muir and Lucas Iudica to set up attacks.

Harrison Huntley is one of the league’s best key defenders.

A premiership winner with Gisborne last season, classy forward Ethan Foreman returns, but back in the Tigers colours.

A tough run for Maryborough rolls on as the Magpies face a Golden Square team fired up after consecutive defeats.

The Coby Perry-coached Magpies will be on home turf at Princes Park.

Best for the Borough in last week’s match at Kyneton were Chris Freeman, Lucas Hurse, Jake Postle and Jai Howell.

Maryborough’s line-up includes the experienced Matt Johnston and Joel Swatton, captain Ty Stewart, Darcy Bond and Kya Lanfranchi.

The Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs have Ron Best medallist Joel Brett as a key target in attack, along with Braydon Vaz, and possibly Tom Strauch.

A forward in most matches for Square, Jayden Burke was best playing at centre half-back last week.

The Dogs have the running power and skill of captain Jack Geary, Ricky Monti, Jake Thrum and Terence Reeves.

Strong form by Jack Threlfall in the reserves has earned a call-up for his first senior game with the Bulldogs since last season’s round 17 clash with Gisborne on Square’s turf.

Castlemaine and Kangaroo Flat will fight to mark their second win of the season.

The Brendan Shepherd-coached Castlemaine has home-ground advantage at Camp Reserve.

The Pies could not stop Eaglehawk’s run to a big win at Canterbury Park last round.

Best for the ‘Maine in that contest were Brodie Byrne, Matt Filo, Callum McConachy and Liam Wilkinson.

Although the Kangaroos have an identical 1-3 record, they have been competitive for much longer, especially against Sandhurst and Gisborne.

Best for the Nathan Johns-coached Roos last round were Connor Evans, Noah Furlong, Liam Collins and Toby Roberts.

Players to watch for the Flat include Mitch Trewhella, Mitch Collins, Jordan and Zachary Rouse, and Gach Chuol.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Eaglehawk 355 per cent, 16 points; Sandhurst 172, 16; South Bendigo 141, 12; Strathfieldsaye 126, 8; Gisborne 125, 8; Golden Square 112, 8; Kyneton 94, 4; Kangaroo Flat 67, 4; Castlemaine 28, 4; Maryborough 26, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

12 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

12 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

10 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

10 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

9 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

9 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

9 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

8 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

8 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

7 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

7 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

7 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

Sandhurst marks return to netball court

HAVING not played for premiership points since April 20, Sandhurst is back on court for this Saturday’s fifth round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It’s a clash of previous co-tenants at Queen Elizabeth Oval, Sandhurst and South Bendigo at the iconic venue.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst has win-loss tally of one-one.

After a seven-goal victory at Kangaroo Flat in round one, Sandhurst was beaten a week later by reigning premier, Gisborne.

The match between the ’23 grand finalists on the QEO court went Gisborne’s way, 42-38.

A bye for Sandhurst was followed by another rest for the A-grade team last Saturday because Maryborough is not fielding a team in the top division this season.

The Alicia McGlashan-coached South Bendigo will be desperate to break its winless run.

A first-round match on Strathfieldsaye Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane went the Bloods’ way, 36-34

Since then the Bloods have faced three of last season’s finalists in a row.

A tough run for the red and white started at home against Castlemaine at Harry Trott Oval, and then on Kangaroo Flat’s court at Dower Park.

Latest hit-out for South Bendigo at Harry Trott Oval ended in a 61-37 loss to Gisborne.

Another big match on Saturday will be at Kangaroo Flat where the Roos meet Eaglehawk.

Both teams had comfortable victories in round four.

The Roos took on neighbouring Golden Square at the Wade Street ground.

A superb team performace by the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos ended in a 90-35 win againt the blue and gold.

Eaglehawk soared to the third rung on the ladder following a 21-goal win against Castlemaine.

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

Honours went to the Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk, 54-33.

Victorious in both matches it has played, Gisborne will start favourite in its home game at Gardiner Reserve against Golden Square.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne passed the 60-goal mark against South Bendigo last round.

Massive challenge for the Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square in trying to limit Gisborne’s slick moves into the goaling third, and also capitalising on its own scoring chances.

Castlemaine will be back on its court at Camp Reserve to take on Strathfieldsaye.

As the Magpies were beaten at Eaglehawk, Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

Since a 14-goal win on the road against South Bendigo in round two, Castlemaine was outplayed by Golden Square and Eaglehawk in the next two contests.

The Chloe Hughes-coached Magpies will be focused on a stronger start to this showdown with Storm.

Storm takes a two-one record into this round.

Beaten by South Bendigo in round one, Storm struck back to take the points at Golden Square and then in the round three match against Eaglehawk in Strathfieldsaye.

Maryborough’s netball teams have the bye this round.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

THE unbeaten Sandhurst faces the Bloods from South Bendigo in this Saturday’s fifth round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

What’s been a long-time showdown at Queen Elizabeth Oval for many years has a change of venue as the Bloods new home is now Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

It’s a big day for South Bendigo on Graeme Wright Memorial Cup day.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst has answered all challenges.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst beat Kangaroo Flat by 10 goals in the rematch of the ’22 grand finalists to tip-off the season at the QEO.

Other wins for the maroon and blue have been at Kyneton by 11 goals; at home against Golden Square by 78; and at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park by 30.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo played brilliant netball at Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval in Wade Street last round to win by 53 goals.

The Bloods’ attack capitalised on the mid-court dominance to pour in 81 goals against the blue and gold.

Another crucial match will be at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve where the Magpies take on Kangaroo Flat.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine felt the heat at Eaglehawk last round as it led by just two goals going into the final term.

It was 18-7 in Castlemaine’s favour in the last to clinch a 50-37 victory.

The Magpies are up against a much stronger opponent this round.

Kangaroo Flat showed plenty of fight last Saturday to score a 44-42 win against Gisborne on the Roos’ court at Dower Park.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were down 19-22 at half-time, but lifted to win the third, 14-10, and the fourth, 11-10.

Maryborough is back on its court at Princes Park to take on Golden Square.

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough will be determined to hit back after a 21-goal loss at Kyneton.

The Magpies are likely to have too much attacking power for the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square to hold across four quarters.

Gisborne is at home at Gardiner Reserve to take on Kyneton.

It’s the clash of the Calder rivals.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne will start favourite on a court where it has beaten Strathfieldsaye and Eaglehawk by margins of 25 and 23 goals.

Kyneton played exceptional netball last Saturday.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers led 17-9 at quarter-time and went on to win the next three terms by five, three and five in a 64-43 result.

Kyneton has experience and height in attack to trouble Gisborne, but the Bulldogs’ slick ball movement through the court will be difficult to stop.

Strathfieldsaye and Eaglehawk meet in Storm territory at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye will be wary of an opponent which pushed Castlemaine at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park last round.

It’s consecutive hit-outs at home for Storm.

Both teams have endured a tough start to the season.

Storm has faced three of last season’s finalists in Gisborne, Castlemaine and Sandhurst.

It’s been the same for the Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks who have taken on South Bendigo, Gisborne and Castlemaine across the first month.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 205 per cent, 16 points; South Bendigo 156, 12; Gisborne 141, 12; Kangaroo Flat 136, 12; Castlemaine 121, 12; Kyneton 122, 8; Strathfieldsaye 87, 4; Maryborough 73, 4; Eaglehawk 59, 0; Golden Square 32, 0.