Castlemaine

The Bendigo FNL, in consultation with the Castlemaine FNC, Kyneton FNC, and with the support of their direct opponents, wish to provide an update with regards to proposed details of the round 7 fixture considering the direct impacts on the playing groups following the recent tragic passing of CFNC Under 18 player, Dallas Keogh-Frankling.

The BFNL can provide an update on the current intended arrangements for round 7 matches scheduled for Saturday 3rd June 2023, with all identified round 7 game details remaining subject to change:

Round 7: Castlemaine v Golden Square @ Camp Reserve:

• Senior football and A-Grade netball matches to be played as scheduled. The current intention is for the Reserves football match, and the remaining open age netball matches to proceed as scheduled. The Castlemaine FNC is monitoring and assessing the capacity of the Under 18 football and 17 & Under netball playing groups to return to competition this weekend and will make an appropriate decision in due course.

Round 7: Eaglehawk v Kyneton @ Canterbury Park (Indigenous Round feature match)

• Senior football and A-Grade netball matches to be played as scheduled. The current intention is for all remaining matches to proceed as scheduled, however the Kyneton FNC is monitoring and assessing the capacity of the Under 18 football and 17 & Under netball playing groups to return to competition this weekend and will make an appropriate decision in due course.

Furthermore, there have been some slight amendments to start times of football matches between Maryborough v South Bendigo:

Round 7: Maryborough v South Bendigo @ Princes Park Maryborough:

• Under 18: 11.00am (was 10.45am)
• Reserves: 12.45pm (was 12.30pm)
• Seniors: 2.30pm (was 2.20pm)

The BFNL and competing clubs also acknowledge that confirmed participation of all round 7 matches this weekend remains subject to change, as Castlemaine and Kyneton monitor and assess the ongoing health and wellbeing of all participants, team officials, and volunteers, and may make further decisions impacting round 7 scheduling as considered appropriate at any time prior to the match.

Whilst we appreciate this may present some uncertainty this weekend, we sincerely thank all clubs and members of the wider BFNL community for the varied support offered to both the Castlemaine and Kyneton FNC’s during this difficult time who will continue to make all decisions in the best interests of all club members.

The BFNL Board also wish to confirm that all round 6 matches between Kyneton and Castlemaine that were abandoned on Saturday the 27th of May 2023 due to the tragic circumstances, have been officially classified as abandoned within the relevant database in line with the definition of BFNL By-Law 13.4 Non-Completion of Matches:

• (b) If any match which has been started and cannot be completed for reasons beyond the control of the affiliated Senior or affiliated Junior Club or Clubs, or where a match has been cancelled at the direction of the officiating umpire, the following procedures shall apply:
• (i) Subject to clause (iii) below, if a game is concluded prior to half time and the match cannot proceed within the scheduled time, the teams shall depart the arena and the match will be declared a draw. Each team will be awarded two premiership points and the scores of the teams at the time the match was interrupted would be used to calculate the percentages.

Given this remains a fluid situation, any further relevant updates will be shared as received.

The Bendigo Football Netball League would like to announce and congratulate the following list of 17 & Under netball players who have been selected in the 2023 BFNL 17 & Under representative squad:

2023 BFNL 17 & UNDER REP SQUAD

• KYLA BYRNE Castlemaine
• MILLIE CASSIDY Maryborough
• EDEN CLIFFORD South Bendigo
• BELLA CONNORS Gisborne
• REESE GILCHRIST Sandhurst
• EMMA KEATING Golden Square
• EMMA JOYCE Gisborne
• LAYLA O'SHEA Strathfieldsaye
• ELLA PATTEN Maryborough
• NEVE PINNER Sandhurst
• JAIDA RACO Sandhurst
• HOLLY SWATTON Golden Square
• DASH TAYLOR Gisborne
• MEGAN WILSON Castlemaine

The Bendigo FNL again welcome Nicole Donnellon and Sharni McPherson as co-coaches of the 17 & Under BFNL representative netball team to compete in the Netball Victoria Association Championships, after successfully leading the BFNL team to the Association Championships Finals in season 2022.

Nicole and Sharni bring a wealth of netball knowledge and growing levels of experience and success at BFNL, State, and regional Academy levels, and will again mentor and develop the brightest BFNL netball talent.

2023 KEY TOURNAMENT DATES
− Sunday 7th May Golden City Tournament (Bendigo)
− Sunday 14th May Echuca Tournament (Echuca)
− Sunday 21st May Netball Vic Association Championship - qualifying (Bendigo)
− Sunday 18th June Netball Vic Association Championship - finals (Melbourne)

BFNL Manager Cameron Tomlins said “The Bendigo Football Netball League sincerely thank all players who were able to commit to the 2023 BFNL netball representative program for showing interest and attending the trial process. We congratulate all players who were selected for the initial 17 & Under squad, who may now receive opportunities to represent the BFNL in 2023”.

“We also thank all players who trialled for season 2023 and were unsuccessful. The overall quality of the recent trials were of an incredibly high standard which is exciting for the future of BFNL netball. The BFNL wish all players the best with their future development and encourage them to trial for representative selection again in the future.”

AN ALL-MAGPIES clash between Castlemaine and Maryborough on Good Friday at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve marks the start of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League season.

A crucial area both clubs have worked on across pre-season is skills.

Turnovers hurt both teams in ’23, especially against the strongest teams in the league.

Quick movement from defence to attack is what fans can expect both line-ups strive to do.

On the footy field Castlemaine and Maryborough have several recruits keen to make their mark.

Among the newcomers is Castlemaine coach Michael Hartley who brings playing experience from AFL stints with Essendon and Hawthorn, and at VFL level with Collingwood.

Hartley will be part of a Castlemaine attack boasting more goalkicking and marking power.

Key targets inside the 50m arc are likely to include Bailey Henderson and Brad Keogh.

Castlemaine has also bolstered its depth in the on-ball and midfield areas.

The bigger body of Declan Slingo who returns from Pyramid Hill to team up with Matt Filo and Callum McConachy at centre bounces is an area where Castlemaine may hold an edge.

Maryborough’s on-ball division is likely to be led by co-coaches Coby Perry and Matt Johnston, and the skilful Joel Swatton who capped his first year at the club by earning the Geoff MacIlwain Medal as fairest and best.

Fans of Castlemaine will be rapt to see Kalan Huntly and Darby Semmens back at the club after premiership wins with Harcourt Lions in the Maryborough Castlemaine District FNL.

Both could start on the wing where their ability in close and also pace will test the opposition all match.

Another premiership winner, Zavier Murley is back with the ‘Maine after Golden Square’s run to glory last September.

The club also has the talented Will Moran back from Sandhurst.

Other players to watch for Castlemaine include Liam Wilkinson,

Hartley said being a stand-alone match was great for both clubs.

“At Castlemaine it’s a new beginning. The club is confident of drawing a big crowd and starting the season with a win.”

The season opener will be a huge challenge for a Maryborough team jointly coached by Coby Perry and Matt Johnston.

A team intent on being far more competitive takes its first steps toward doing so on Castlemaine’s turf.

Johnston believes the ruck is where Maryborough can control of lot of the Good Friday match and more as the season rolls on.

Ty Stewart is the team’s number one ruckman and will have support from Tom Myers and Seb Collins.

Recruits at Princes Park include Robert Castiglia from Westmeadows; Seb Collins from Sandhurst; and Beau Trahar from Leitchville Gunbower.

A 19-year-old, Castiglia’s fitness and skills have impressed the Magpies’ coaches and team-mates.

Ash Humphrey and Fraser Russell add much-needed experience to a squad in which Jye Swatton, Kya Lanfranchi and Darcy Bond were stand-outs for a lot of last season.

The game plan is for Russell to start in attack, but also have some stints in midfield.

The Magpies also welcome back Kirk Looby from St Arnaud and Ronnie Feeney from Maryborough Giants.

Maryborough’s under-18s had a great run in ’23 to reach the finals.

Those stepping up to senior footy include Lachy Bursill, Aidan Medlyn, Tom Myers and Cobie Read.

The Magpies also have more players pushing for senior selection.

Johnston said there was too great a reliance on a few in many of last season’s matches.

A fitter and stronger Maryborough team will also be working hard to limit the moments when teams take control and slam on multiple goals.

At the netball, Castlemaine’s A-grade team has a rest as Maryborough is not in the top flight this season.

The A-reserve netball match starts at 2pm.

The senior footy match starts at 2.20pm.

GISBORNE has made its way to Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball grand final.

The Taryn Rymer-coached Gisborne outpointed Castlemaine to score a 49-36 victory in last Saturday’s preliminary final at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Less than a week after a stunning one-goal win to end Kangaroo Flat’s season, Castlemaine was aiming to repeat the feat.

It was not to be as an experienced and talented Gisborne team controlled a lot of the play against a Castlemaine team jointly coached by key defender Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke.

The Bulldogs had beaten the Magpies by margins of eight goals and a goal in the home-and-away series.

A 13-goal win by the red, white and blue has set-up a grand final showdown with the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst next Saturday.

The grand finalists met in the second semi where Sandhurst won a top contest, 44-38.

Key players for Gisborne include co-captains Kirby Elliott and Claudia Mawson, Zoe Davies and Tiana Newman.

A grand final victory by Gisborne would deny Sandhurst an incredible tally of five consecutive premierships.

Grand final day will feature Sandhurst in all five matches, and Gisborne in four.

A 48-37 win by Gisborne in the A-reserve preliminary final against Kangaroo Flat has earned a showdown with Sandhurst for the premiership.

Sandhurst fought on for a 47-42 win against Kangaroo Flat in the B-grade preliminary final.

The Dragons take on Gisborne on grand final day.

Kangaroo Flat will vie for the B-reserve title with Sandhurst.

The Kangaroos scored a 42-32 victory against Gisborne in the preliminary final.

A pursuit of back-to-back 17-and-under premierships for Gisborne rolled on after the Bulldogs won the preliminary final against Golden Square by nine goals.

The red, white and blue won 46-37 to set up a clash with Sandhurst to start grand final day at the QEO in View Street.

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

17-and-under at 9am: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

B-reserve at 10.30am: Sandhurst v Kangaroo Flat.

B-grade at 12pm: Gisborne v Sandhurst.

A-reserve at 1.30pm: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

A-grade at 3pm: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

ANOTHER upset victory is in the sights of Castlemaine’s team as it takes on Gisborne in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL A-grade netball preliminary final on Saturday.

The Magpies are just a win from capping a remarkable rise of no A-grade team a few years ago to now be in the grand final.

Gisborne stands in Castlemaine’s way of doing so on the court at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The clash between the Bulldogs and Magpies starts at 3.20pm.

Whatever the result, Castlemaine or Gisborne will mark a long-awaited return to an A-grade final showdown with Sandhurst on September 23.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne began its finals campaign by scoring a 37-31 win against Kangaroo Flat in the qualifying final.

Next up was the unbeaten Sandhurst in the second semi.

The red, white and blue worked incredibly hard, but could not stop Sandhurst recording a 44-38 victory.

Castlemaine’s on a hot-streak.

Jointly coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke, Castlemaine won the elimination final against South Bendigo by 17 goals.

The Magpies then stunned Kangaroo Flat to score a 42-41 victory in last Sunday’s first semi-final.

Now the black and white army will be aiming to cheer their team to more glory.

This season’s meetings between Gisborne and Castlemaine stand at two-nil in favour of the Bulldogs.

In round two, Gisborne won 43-35 on Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve.

Defences were well on top as Gisborne won 29-28 at Gardiner Reserve in the 11^th round.

A powerful Gisborne line-up includes Victory Fury representative Claudia Mawson, and also Zoe Davies who starred for Collingwood at the Netball Australia nationals and will soon be bound for England to play for Leeds Rhinos.

Other players to watch in the Gisborne team are Kirby Elliott and Tiana Newman.

Castlemaine will need big games from the likes of Jane O’Donohue, Emma Winfield, Charlotte McMurray and Caitlin Richardson.

The Magpies’ squad includes Meg Ginnivan who earned the best-on-ground medal as Castlemaine beat Woorinen in the Champions IGA-backed CVFL senior women’s footy grand final at the QEO.

Gisborne.

Coach: Tarryn Rymer

Kirby Elliott (captain), Claudia Mawson (captain), Kiralee Collings, Rylee Connell, Zoe Davies, Charlee Kemp, Emerson Lakey, Tiana Newman, Torie Skrijel.

Castlemaine.

Co-coaches: Fiona Fowler, Gary Cooke.

Jane O’Donohue (captain), Kyla Byrne, Madeline Carter, Tara Ford, Fiona Fowler, Meg Ginnivan, Charlotte McMurray, Caitlin Richardson, Montaya Sardi, Mikaela Vaughan, Megan Wilson, Emma Winfield.

In the A-reserve competition it will Gisborne and Kangaroo Flat vying for a grand final berth from 2pm.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne is on the rebound from a 44-33 loss to Sandhurst in the second semi.

Kangaroo Flat started its finals series with a 23-goal loss to Sandhurst in the qualifying final.

The Nicole Donnellon-coached Kangaroos fought back for a 38-37 victory in the first semi againt South Bendigo.

Gisborne took the points against the Roos in both of their matches in the home-and-away series.

The Bulldogs won 51-38 at Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park in the fourth round, and 43-30 at Gardiner Reserve in the 13^th round.

Gisborne.

Coach: Tarryn Rymer.

Tazma Morris (captain), Bridget Salter (vice-captain), Jemma Denman, Emily McDonald, Bianca McKay, Eloise Rodda, Olivia Rodda, Alexandra Russ.

Kangaroo Flat.

Coach: Nicole Donnellon.

Emma Moroney (captain), Ashlee O’Shea (vice-captain), Lani Burns, Bronte Deary, Molly Drum, Chloe Fletcher, Darcie Fry, Lara Judd, Rose Kennett, Bella Pearse, Isabella Pitto, Amaya Schmidt.

In B-grade it will be Sandhurst against Kangaroo Flat from 12.40pm.

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

Both were beaten by Gisborne across the opening two weeks of the finals series.

Kangaroo Flat went down, 41-55 in the qualifying final showdown with Gisborne.

Last Saturday it was Sandhurst which could not stop Gisborne’s charge to a 48-46 victory in the second semi.

Kangaroo Flat stayed in the premiership race as it scored a 49-47 win against Strathfieldsaye in the first semi.

In this season’s meetings, Sandhurst beat Kangaroo Flat by 23 goals at the QEO in round one.

The Dragons later won 49-39 on the Roos’ court at Dower Park in the 10^th round.

Sandhurst.

Coach: Jarileey Schultz.

Briona Giddings (captain), Erica Dalrymple-Monro (vice-captain), Aimee Dean, Tahlia Isaac, Maggie Keating, Tarryn Knights, Eliza Oxley, Lucy Sherriff, Lily Trimby, Elli Williams.

Kangaroo Flat.

Coach: Laura Brooks.

Darcie Fry (captain), Nicola McIvor (captain), Bella Pearse (captain), Laura Brooks, Lani Burns, Molly Drum, Karly Elvey, Lucy Lang, Macey O’Shea, Alex Rusbridge, Claudia Shelton, Rachel Winfield.

A big day for Kangaroo Flat includes the B-reserve team in action against Gisborne from 11.20am.

These teams met in the qualifying final which went the Roos’ way, 55-41.

A closely-fought second semi-final ended in a 45-43 win for Sandhurst against Kangaroo Flat.

Gisborne won the first semi against Strathfieldsaye Storm by five goals.

The Roos beat the Bulldogs by 17 goals in round four, and by 13 in the 13^th round.

Kangaroo Flat.

Coach: Kate Newman

Shae Cairns (captain), Sophie Nicholson (captain), Lily Dickson, Madeline Dowling, Ashlye Faulkner, Lydia Lowndes, Gemma McPhee, Macey O’Shea, Gemma Roberts, Alex Rusbridge, Claudia Shelton, Hayley Smith.

Gisborne.

Coach: Leesa Lord.

Sophia Davies (captain), Brooke Bernacki, Emma Cogger, Ellie Lord, Alex Matthews, Bec Merrett, Lily Prater, Maddison Russ, Brianah Thompson, Caitlyn Walker.

Preliminary final day begins with the 17-and-under match between Gisborne and Golden Square from 10am.

These teams met in the qualifying final in which Gisborne outplayed the blue and gold for a 53-40 result.

Gisborne is on the rebound from a 46-43 loss to Sandhurst in the second semi.

A 48-41 victory in the first semi against Strathfieldsaye kept Golden Square’s premiership hopes alive.

This season’s meetings between the preliminary finalists stand at one-all.

Gisborne won 58-47 on Square’s court at Fur Life Vet Oval in the sixth round.

Next time it was Golden Square which claimed a 49-44 win on Gisborne’s court.

Gisborne.

Coach: Rylee Connell.

Bella Connors (captain), Charlie Busby, Jessie Connors, Charlotte Davies, Olivia Fenn, Emma Joyce, Sapphy McCarthy, Charlotte Taylor, Dasha Taylor.

Golden Square.

Coach: Lauren Swatton.

Charli Crawford, Charli Hamilton, Lilly Hope, Emma Keating, Keira Lawry, Kaylah Moon, Daisy Stringer, Holly Swatton, Abbi Wells.

SANDHURST and Gisborne will be to the fore in Saturday’s netball second semi-finals in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Dragons and Bulldogs feature in most of the second semis to be played at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The QEO is the home of Sandhurst FNC and the maroon and blue has all five teams in action on Saturday.

The Dragons take on Gisborne in four of the five matches to be played.

Sole match which is not a Sandhurst and Gisborne showdown will be in B-reserve  where the Dragons take on Kangaroo Flat.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst will face Gisborne in Saturday’s second semi-final at 3.20pm.

It’s been an unbeaten run in 16 matches for the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst this season.

Defences were on top as Sandhurst won 38-32 at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve in the seventh round.

Next meeting was in round 16 where the maroon and blue beat the Bulldogs, 47-31 on the QEO court.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne tipped off its finals campaign by scoring a 37-31 victory against Kangaroo Flat in last Saturday’s qualifying final.

It’s a daunting test for Gisborne against a Sandhurst team led brilliantly by Bec Smith and Meg Williams.

There’s also the experience of Kelsey Meade and Heather Oliver, and the athleticism of Charlotte and Imogen Sexton, and Sophie Shoebridge in the Sandhurst line-up.

Key players for Gisborne include co-captains Kirby Elliott and Claudia Mawson, Rylee Connell, Emerson Lakey and Tiana Newman.

On Sunday it will be Kangaroo Flat and Castlemaine fighting to stay in the premiership race when they meet in the first semi-final at 3.20pm.

This season’s meetings between the Kangaroos and Magpies stand at one-all.

In round five Castlemaine dominated on its court at Camp Reserve to claim a 55-39 victory.

The Roos bounced back to win the 14^th round contest at Dower Park, 62-39.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat faced Gisborne in the qualifying final and was beaten by six goals.

Last season’s runner-up, Kangaroo Flat will not want the ’23 campaign to end on Sunday.

Players to watch for the Roos include captain Chelsea Sartori, Ashley Ryan, defender Carly Van Den Heuvel, Abbey Ryan and Milly Wicks.

A Castlemaine team jointly coached by Fiona Fowler, playing, and Gary Cooke netted a 53-34 win against South Bendigo in the elimination final.

The Magpies’ team led by Jane O’Donohue includes Caitlin Richardson, Meg Ginnivan, Montaya Sardi and Kyla Byrne.

In A-reserve, Gisborne takes on Sandhurst in the second semi from 2pm.

The Bulldogs won the round seven match at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve by five goals.

Scores were locked on 50-all at the end of the 16^th round showdown at the QEO.

Sandhurst began its finals series by scoring a 50-27 victory against Kangaroo Flat in the qualifying final.

The Kangaroos will aim to bounce back from the defeat in Sunday’s first semi against South Bendigo at 2pm.

Although the Bloods finished below the Roos on the ladder they won both matches in the home-and-away series by four goals both times.

South Bendigo won 38-34 on the Kangaroos’ court in round two, and 40-36 at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval in the 11^th round.

An exciting elimination final between South Bendigo and Castlemaine ended in a 46-43 win for the red and white.

It’s a clash between the B-grade teams from Sandhurst and Gisborne in the second semi at 12.40pm on Saturday.

The Dragons won 53-38 on Gisborne’s court in the seventh round.

A great contest in the 16^th round ended 54-all at the QEO.

Gisborne scored a 55-41 win against Kangaroo Flat in the qualifying final.

The Kangaroos face Strathfieldsaye Storm in Sunday’s first semi at 12.40pm.

Kangaroo Flat won 41-22 on Storm’s court at Triple M Park in round seven.

Latest meeting between the clubs was in the 16^th round where Strathfieldsaye won 44-31 at Dower Park.

Storm beat South Bendigo, 50-27 in the elimination final.

Kangaroo Flat will feature in the B-reserve second semi against Sandhurst at 11.20am on Saturday.

This season’s meetings between the teams stand at one-all.

Sandhurst won 42-33 at the QEO in round one, and the Roos marked a 45-40 victory at Dower Park in the 10^th round.

The Flat outplayed Gisborne for a 55-41 result in the qualifying final.

On Sunday it will be Gisborne against Strathfieldaye in the B-reserve first semi-final at 11.20am.

The Bulldogs beat Storm, 45-35 in round one at Gardiner Reserve.

Strathfieldsaye won 42-37 in the 10th round at Triple M Park.

Storm advanced to week two of the finals after it eliminated Eaglehawk, 37-29.

First-up in the weekend’s action will be the 17-under teams from Sandhurst and Gisborne at 10am on Saturday.

Record between the second semi-finalists in the home-and-away series was one-all.

Gisborne won 49-43 at home in the seventh round, and the Dragons fired up for a 55-44 victory in the 16^th round.

Gisborne beat Golden Square in the qualifying final by 13 goals.

On Sunday, Golden Square faces Strathfieldsaye in the 17-under first semi at 10am.

The Bulldogs beat Storm in both matches in the run to the finals.

Golden Square won 47-40 at Triple M Park in round two, and 49-39 at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street in the 11^th round.

It was a one-goal thriller in the elimination final between Strathfieldsaye and Maryborough.

Storm led 36-35 at the final siren.

Line-ups for Saturday’s second semi-finals:

Sandhurst.

A-grade. Coach: Tamara Gilchrist:

Bec Smith (captain), Meg Williams (captain), Shae Clifford, Kelsey Meade, Heather Oliver, Kelsey Palpratt, Paige Ryan, Charlotte Sexton, Imogen Sexton, Sophie Shoebridge, Ruby Turner.

A-reserve. Coach: Tamara Gilchrist.

Kelsey Ralph (captain), Katie Dean, Gabriella Greene, Tess Keating, Eliza Oxley, Kesley Palpratt, Paige Ryan, Charlotte Sexton, Lilly Walsh, Darcy Williams.

B-grade. Coach: Jarileey Schultz.

Briona Giddings (captain), Erica Dalrymple-Monro (vice-captain), Aimee Dean, Tahlia Isaac, Maggie Keating, Tarryn Knights, Eliza Oxley, Lucy Sherriff, Lily Trimby, Elli Williams.

B-reserve. Coach: Rose Gallagher.

Ruby Walsh (captain), Isabelle Whiteley (captain), Bec Dine, Lucia Dyer, Teresa Fitzpatrick, Brianna Fletcher, Sophie Giles, Kelsey Hamilton, Chloe Hann, Matilda Lockyer, Ava Perez, Polly Robertson.

17-under. Coach Carol Cathcart.

Reese Gilchrist (captain), Maya Dignan (vice-captain), Isabelle Brennan, Charlie Coghill, Lila Kelly, Claire McGee, Diana Napoleon, Neve Pinner, Jaida Raco, Harriett Whiteacre.

Gisborne.

A-grade. Coach: Tarryn Rymer

Kirby Elliott (captain), Claudia Mawson (captain), Kiralee Collings, Rylee Connell, Zoe Davies, Charlee Kemp, Emerson Lakey, Tiana Newman, Torie Skrijel.

A-reserve. Coach: Tarryn Rymer.

Tazma Morris (captain), Bridget Salter (vice-captain), Jemma Denman, Emily McDonald, Bianca McKay, Eloise Rodda, Olivia Rodda, Alexandra Russ.

B-grade. Coach: Bronwyn Slater.

Taylah Ranieri (captain), Shelley Farrugia, Chelsea Kennett, Georgia Murray, Monty Paton, Tarryn Rymer, Milly Shaw, Lulu Slater, Hannah Weier.

17-under. Coach: Rylee Connell.

Bella Connors (captain), Charlie Busby, Jessie Connors, Charlotte Davies, Olivia Fenn, Emma Joyce, Sapphy McCarthy, Charlotte Taylor, Dasha Taylor.

Kangaroo Flat.

B-reserve. Coach: Kate Newman

Shae Cairns (captain), Sophie Nicholson (captain), Lily Dickson, Madeline Dowling, Ashlye Faulkner, Lydia Lowndes, Gemma McPhee, Macey O’Shea, Gemma Roberts, Alex Rusbridge, Claudia Shelton, Hayley Smith.

Line-ups for Sunday’s first semi-finals:

Kangaroo Flat.

A-grade. Coach: Jayden Cowling.

Chelsea Sartori (captain), Ashley Ryan (vice-captain), Carly Van Den Heuvel (vice-captain), Lou Dupuy, Ingrid Hopkins, Ava Lowndes, Emma Moroney, Ashlee O’Shea, Abbey Ryan, Annie Spear, Ella Wicks, Milly Wicks.

A-reserve. Coach: Nicole Donnellon.

Emma Moroney (captain), Ashlee O’Shea (vice-captain), Lani Burns, Bronte Deary, Molly Drum, Chloe Fletcher, Darcie Fry, Lara Judd, Rose Kennett, Bella Pearse, Isabella Pitto, Amaya Schmidt.

B-grade. Coach: Laura Brooks.

Darcie Fry (captain), Nicola McIvor (captain), Bella Pearse (captain), Laura Brooks, Lani Burns, Molly Drum, Karly Elvey, Lucy Lang, Macey O’Shea, Alex Rusbridge, Claudia Shelton, Rachel Winfield.

Castlemaine.

A-grade. Co-coaches: Fiona Fowler, Gary Cooke.

Jane O’Donohue (captain), Kyla Byrne, Madeline Carter, Tara Ford, Fiona Fowler, Meg Ginnivan, Charlotte McMurray, Caitlin Richardson, Montaya Sardi, MIkaela Vaughan, Megan Wilson, Emma Winfield.

Gisborne.

B-reserve. Coach: Leesa Lord.

Sophia Davies (captain), Brooke Bernacki, Emma Cogger, Ellie Lord, Alex Matthews, Bec Merrett, Lily Prater, Maddison Russ, Brianah Thompson, Caitlyn Walker.

South Bendigo.

A-reserve. Coach: Elizabeth Taylor.

Stephanie Greene (captain), Amanda Walters (captain), Sarah Appleby, Shaina Brook, Paige Campbell, Eden Clifford, Holly Giddings, Hayley Harrington, Amber Hollis, Morgan McClellan, Jeanette Ross.

Strathfieldsaye.

B-grade. Coach: Kirsten Pollock.

Imogen Currie (captain), Chelsea Crapper, Olivia Erwin, Bethany Hromenko, Bridgette Keath, Lana Marsh, Chelsie Martyn, Cate O’Bree,  Tahlee O’Keefe, Ella Raco.

B-reserve. Coach: Belinda Boyd.

Alicia Smalley (captain), Lucinda Sharp (vice-captain), Bridget Abe, Sienna Eddy, Maggie Gilmore, Meg Johns, Renn Minne, Lulu Mullins, Sally Nicholson, Annie Palmer, Claudia Petri, Mackenzie Strawbridge.

17-under. Coach: Fiona Schubert

Maeve Cass, Sienna Eddy, Lexie Fennell, Maggie Gilmore, Dakota Keanelly, Layla O’Shea, Charlize Pinder, Ella Pitson, Lainey Pollard.

Golden Square.

17-under. Coach: Lauren Swatton.

Charli Crawford, Charli Hamilton, Lilly Hope, Emma Keating, Keira Lawry, Kaylah Moon, Daisy Stringer, Holly Swatton, Abbi Wells.

Castlemaine has provided a host of top-flight players during its long history in the Bendigo Football Netball League, formerly just the BFL.

A GREAT of Golden Square FNC, Jack Geary will mark his 200^th senior footy match when he leads the Bulldogs in Saturday’s start to the Bendigo Bank Football Netball League season.

The Bulldogs will be determined to cap Geary’s step into an elite club with victory against the Kyneton Tigers on home turf at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

A five-time premiership player for the Bulldogs, Geary and his team-mates will tackle the Tigers from 2.20pm.

It’s a big test for the Christian Carter-coached Golden Square against Kyneton.

The Bulldogs have kept the majority of the team which reached last season’s preliminary final and will start favourite to take the points against the Paul Chapman-coached Tigers.

A gun midfielder or on-baller for most of his career, Geary was named on a half-back flank.

An attack which has Joel Brett, Jayden Burke and Braydon Vaz as main targets will be tough for Kyneton to hold across four quarters.

Other key players for the Bulldogs include Jon Coe and Will Lee in defence, Ryan Hartley and Liam Barrett in midfield, ruckman Matt Compston, and ruck-rover Ricky Monti.

The blue and gold also welcomes back tough on-baller Tom Toma from Cohuna Kangas.

Plenty of changes have been made at Tigerland.

A huge plus for Kyneton is the return of classy small forward Ethan Foreman after premiership success with Gisborne last season.

Foreman is a previous leading goalkicker for the yellow and black.

The Tigers have also recruited another small forward in Tom Quinn from University Blues.

A defence led by Harrison Huntley, C Fisher and J Safstrom faces a huge challenge.

Other newcomers for Kyneton include ruckman Jayden Eales from Sunbury, and Jordan and Lucas Iudica.

A rematch of last season’s grand finalists, Gisborne at Strathfieldsaye should draw a big crowd to Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

It’s the start of a new era as Brad Fox takes charge as senior coach after the successful run of Rob Waters.

The Bulldogs are without several of their premiership stars, including gun forward Pat McKenna.

This season it’s Jack Reaper who takes the captaincy after McKenna stepped aside from the role because of work commitments.

A formidable Gisborne line-up still has ruckman Braidon Blake, onballer Flynn Lakey, the skilful Sam Graham and Matt Merrett.

The Dogs have plenty of running power through the likes of Mack Lord, Matt Weber and Liam Spear.

Newcomers for the Bulldogs include Jed and Zac Denahy from Castlemaine.

The Darryl Wilson and Shannon Geary-coached Strathfieldsaye will be determined to start well.

There have also been quite a lot of changes to the Storm line-up.

A strong attack will again be led by Michelsen medallist and dual Ron Best medallist, Lachlan Sharp.

The marking power of James Schischka was a highlight in many of Storm’s matches last season.

Storm also named two of the prized recruits, Jack Exell and Alex Powell on a ‘from’ interchange.

Michelsen medallist Jake Moorhead will play a key role in and around the packs, as will Riley Wilson, Callum McCarty and Lachlan Gill.

Storm’s defence led by Ben Lester, Lachie Ratcliffe and Mitchell Hallinan will rely a lot on pressure further up the ground.

South Bendigo marks the start of a new era when it tackles Eaglehawk at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Bloods have played for premiership points at the Neale Street ground in previous years, but the venue is now the Bloods new permanent home for all football and netball teams.

On-field the Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo welcomes back gun small forward Steven Stroobants.

In recent years Stroobants has starred for Rochester in the Goulburn Valley and coached the Tigers last season.

Another key signing for the red and white was ruckman Macgregor Cameron from Monash Blues.

Players to watch for the Bloods include Brock Harvey at full-forward, rover Cooper Leon, Oscar White and Brody Haddow in midfield.

The defensive work of captain Zac Hare, Isaiah Miller, Cameron Taggert and Braydan Torpey will be important.

Biggest recruiting coup in the lead-up to 2023 was former St Kilda captain Jarryn Geary deciding to return to Eaglehawk.

The Geary brothers, Jarryn and Kallen both mark their return to the Two Blues.

Jarryn brings 207 games of AFL experience to the league, and Kallen is a triple premiership winner with Strathfieldsaye.

After finishing on the seventh rung last season the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk could soar back to the top five.

A talented line-up from the Borough includes Darcy Richards, new captain Cam McGlashan and Liam Marciano in attack, new ruckman Connor Dalgleish from Montmorency, and a centreline of Joel Mullen, Fraser Verhey and Billy Evans.

The Thompsons – Ben, Jack and Sam are all in the Hawks line-up.

Maryborough is on home turf at Princes Park for its clash with Castlemaine.

Both of the Magpies will be keen to mark a victory, especially Maryborough after a winless ’22 campaign.

The Borough has appointed gun on-baller Coby Perry as playing coach.

A wrist injury will keep Perry on the sidelines for a few more weeks.

Massive plus for Maryborough is the return of Bailey Edwards who spent the summer playing for Nightcliff in the Northern Territory.

Edwards is a previous club champion at Maryborough who played for Carisbrook last season.

Key players for the Borough include Joel Swatton from South Bendigo; Brady Neill; Chris Freeeman in the centre or attack; Darcy Bond, Kya Lanfranchi and Luke Bucknall in defence.

Matt Johnston was also named in the Maryborough attack.

A premiership winner with Castlemaine, Brendan Shepherd marks his return to the club as senior coach.

On the recruiting front, Castlemaine has regained previous club champion Matt Filo.

The Magpies will look for big games from the likes of Jackson Hood, David Wilson, Ben Moran, Brodie and Jackson Byrne, and Callum McConachy.

Sandhurst takes on Kangaroo Flat at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Beaten in last season’s elimination final, Sandhurst could mark a dramatic rise.

Ash Connick has stayed on as coach and is joined by Bryce Curnow as playing assistant coach.

A premiership winner and Nalder medallist as best on ground in a Strathfieldsaye grand final victory, Curnow played in Kerang’s premiership team in ’22.

The Dragons have also welcomed back favourite son Nick Stagg after last season’ stint with the Kerang Blues.

Former coach Andy Collins bolsters the Dragons’ attack or midfield on his return from Bridgewater.

Other key players for Sandhurst include Michelsen medallist and on-baller Lee Coghlan, ruckman Hamish Hosking, Matt Thornton and Joel Wharton in attack, Zach Pallpratt in the centre, Liam Ireland and Tanner Nally in defence.

It’s a tough initation for Nathan Johns to his coaching stint with Kangaroo Flat.

Johns brings plenty of coaching experience to lead a young Roos’ line-up.

Key recruits for the Flat include the Rouse twins, Jordan and Zac in defence.

Rover Mitch Trewhella, Liam Collins, Kyle Symons, Tim Brooks, Ryan O’Keefe, and co-captains Mitch Collins and Ethan Roberts will all play key roles as the Roos strive to maintain a high level of pressure in all quarters.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both teams are on the rebound from defeat.

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

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

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

Two of those losses were up against Gisborne and Castlemaine.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

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

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

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

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

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

At the final whistle Gisborne led 29-28.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sandhurst’s unbeaten run kept rolling.

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

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

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

Eaglehawk brought up its third win of the season.

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

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

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

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

Round 11 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

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

B-grade:

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

B-reserve:

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

17-and-under:

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

Ladders after 11 rounds:

A-reserve:

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

B-grade:

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

B-reserve:

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

17-and-under:

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

Castlemaine kicks off crucial two week test

CASTLEMAINE kicks off a crucial two week test when it plays at Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval in Saturday’s 12^th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

A win-loss tally of four-six has the Michael Hartley-coached Castlemaine in sixth place ahead of the 2.20pm showdown in Wade Street.

The Magpies start the round a win and five per cent behind the fifth-placed Golden Square.

When these clubs met in round three it was the Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs who finished the best to claim a 78-66 victory.

For Castlemaine to push for a top-five finish and qualify for finals it needs to claim an upset win or two.

First up is Golden Square and then at home against Eaglehawk next round.

Beating the Bulldogs at the Wade Street ground will not be an easy task for the Pies.

A strong on-ball group in the blue and gold includes the classy Ricky Monti who was best for Bendigo in last Saturday’s inter-league match against the Victorian AFA in Brighton.

Huge plus for the Bulldogs is the return of Terence Reeves for his first senior game since round nine against Kangaroo Flat last season.

Injury meant Reeves was on the sidelines as Golden Square charged to last September’s premiership victory.

The Bulldogs team to tackle the Magpies includes captain Jayden Burke, Jack Stewart, Jon Coe, Jack Threlfall, Jordan Rosengren, Tom Strauch and Luke Holt.

The play of youngsters Macey Eaton and Harrison Kelly, and by ruckman/forward Kai Daniels who has played 10 senior games have been highs in Square’s run so far.

Castlemaine has the marking power of Hartley and Zach Greeves in attack to test the Dogs’ defence.

A key for the Magpies will be their run and teamwork through midfield and from stoppages.

Expect big games from the likes of Kalan Huntly, captain Bailey Henderson, Ryan Eyre, Callum McConachy and Liam Wilkinson.

A premiership winner with Golden Square in ’23, Zavier Murley returns to the ground as a Castlemaine player.

Another big match will be at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park where the Borough takes on Strathfieldsaye.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks can still grab a top-three finish, but must beat Storm to do so.

Margin was nine points in favour of the the Luke Freeman-coached Storm when it played the Hawks in round three at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye.

Two huge inclusions for Eaglehawk are Kallen Geary and ruckman Brayden Frost.

A multiple premiership winner in his time at Storm, Kallen Geary has not played since the round five win against Kangaroo Flat.

Among the opposition will be his older brother, Shannon, a star in many of Storm’s wins.

Eaglehawk also welcomes back Pala Kuma who had not played since the round four victory against Castlemaine.

A highlight will be the midfield contests where Eaglehawk has Clayton Holmes, Joel Mullen and Brady Rowles to take on Jai Featherby, Daniel Clohesy and Shannon Murphy.

Team-mates for Bendigo last Saturday, Charlie Langford and James Schischka could spend a fair amount of time as opponents.

Big test for a Hawks defence that includes Dylan Hanley, Pala Kuma, Jack and Sam Thompson against Caleb Ernst, Abe Sheahan, Riley Wilson and Zach Grieve.

A Hawks’ attack led by Jonty Neaves, Jack O’Shannessy and Cameron McGlashan takes on Lachlan Ratcliffe, Patrick Blandford and Cooper Jones.

South Bendigo will be back on home turf at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington to take on Kangaroo Flat.

A win is likely to put the Steve Stroobants and Isaiah Miller-coached South Bendigo above the Roos on the ladder.

When they met in round three it was Kangaroo Flat which won 121-94.

A South Bendigo attack led by Stroobants and Brock Harvey will test the Roos.

The ability of the Roos to limit or affect the Bloods’ moves forward of centre was a key to victory in round three.

Key players for the red and white include Brody Haddow, Anthony Zimmerman, captain Zac Hare and Alex Smith.

In a season where he has played 10 matches for the Bendigo Pioneers in the Coates Talent League, athletic big man Zaydyn Lockwood is in the Bloods line-up.

Roos’ midfielders Ethan Roberts and Luke Ellings have been in outstanding form all season.

Other key players for the Michael Ellings-coached Roos include Harry Whitty in attack, Jack Lefroy, Jake Hywood, Daniel Stagg, Kyle Symons and Isaac Lowndes.

Maryborough will be on home turf at Princes Park to take on Gisborne which ended Sandhurst’s unbeaten run last round.

Another massive challenge for the Coby Perry and Matt Johnston-coached Magpies.

Maryborough played well to score 48 points at Kangaroo Flat last round, but is up against a formidable Gisborne line-up.

Bulldogs’ ruckman Braidon Blake returns from injury to again team with Brad Bernacki, Jackson Cardillo and Flynn Lakey.

There’s no rest for gun forward Pat McKenna after the inter-league match.

A strong Gisborne team includes Harry Luxmoore in attack, Bendigo FNL captain Jack Reaper, Jed Denahy and Zac Vescovi in defence.

Been a tough run for the Coby Perry and Matt Johnston-coached Maryborough all season.

The Magpies will be doing all they can to compete as strong and for as long as they can against the Bulldogs.

Marybortogh will again look to Kya Lanfranchi, Joel Swatton and Aidan Medlyn to lead the way.

Sandhurst has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 293 per cent, 36 points; Gisborne 216, 32; Strathfieldsaye 175, 32; Eaglehawk 141, 20; Golden Square 118, 20; Castlemaine 113, 16; Kangaroo Flat 63, 12; South Bendigo 68, 8; Maryborough 14, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

56 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

43 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

34 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

34 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

34 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

29 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

27 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

26 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

22 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

21 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

20 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

20 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

19 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

18 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

18 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

17 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

17 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

15 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

13 Zac Greeves, Castlemaine.

13 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

13 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

12 Lachlan Gill, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

11 Zach Charles, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

10 Joel Mullen, Eaglehawk.

10 Mitchell Ronchieri, Eaglehawk.

10 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

10 Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

Magpies, Roos try to break long-running hoodoo

CASTLEMAINE and Kangaroo Flat will be striving to break long-running hoodoos in Saturday’s 13^th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

It’s been eight years since Castlemaine beat Eaglehawk.

The Magpies will be desperate to buck the trend and in doing so keep faint hopes of qualifying for finals flickering by winning Saturday’s home game at Camp Reserve.

The showdown between the Magpies and Hawks will start at 2.20pm.

It’s going to be a daunting task for the Michael Hartley-coached Magpies against an Eaglehawk team which thrashed Strathfieldsaye by 10 goals last round in the Borough’s Canterbury Park.

Chances of the black and white taking the points will hinge greatly on the play of captain Bailey Henderson, Michael Hartley in attack, Liam Wilkinson, Kalan Huntly, John Watson, Declan Slingo, Ben McConachy and Zavier Murley.

An Eaglehawk on-ball division that includes ruckman Brayden Frost, Billy Evans and Joel Mullen will test the Pies all match.

Bailey Ilsley kicked five goals in the Hawks win against Strathfieldsaye and is part of an attack that includes Jonty Neaves, Cam McGlahsan and Sam O’Shannessy.

Other players to watch for the Two Blues include Charlie Langford and Pala Kuma in defence, Thomas Bennett and Marcus Angove.

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

A run of 44 consecutive defeats to Golden Square included a 106-29 result for the Bulldogs in round six at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

The Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos worked hard to score 16 goals last round, but went down to South Bendigo by seven points at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

The Kangaroos’ line-up for this round includes Jack Lefroy, Luke Ellings, Toby Balcke, Ethan and Toby Roberts, Jake Hywood and Harry Whitty.

After crossing from Marong at the end of ’23, Tucker Thach will play his first senior match for the Kangaroos.

Huge plus for Golden Square is the return of gun on-baller Thomas Toma for his first senior game with the Bulldogs this season.

Toma has played four VFL matches with Essendon.

The inclusion of Toma strengthens Square’s on-ball and midfield group which includes Ricky Monti, Jordan Rosengren, Terence Reeves, Luke Holt, Brodie James and Tom Strauch.

An attack led by Jayden Burke and Jack Stewart is in top form.

The Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs also have the marking power of Kai Daniels and Tanner Rayner, and strong defence led by Jon Coe.

Gisborne returns to Gardiner Reserve to take on South Bendigo.

The Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs won their previous meeting on the Bloods’ turf in Kennington by almost 25 goals.

South Bendigo will be determined to avoid a similar margin.

Massive challenge for the Bloods against a Gisborne attack that includes Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore, Jack Scanlon and Zac Denany.

They are likely to be given plenty of opportunities through the play of ruckman Braidon Blake, Brad Bernacki, Jackson Cardillo and Flynn Lakey.

Bloods’ on-ballers Brody Haddow, Anthony Zimmerman and Jasper Langley face a huge task.

In attack South Bendigo has co-coach Steven Stroobants and Brock Harvey with the pace and goal smarts to trouble Gisborne.

A Bloods’ defence that includes co-coach Isaiah Miller and captain Zac Hare will rely a lot on pressure from team-mates up the ground.

After an extended break, Sandhurst returns to Queen Elizabeth Oval to take on Maryborough.

With it’s future in the league beyond this season unclear it may be the last time Maryborough plays on the iconic QEO turf.

Inter-league and bye have meant Sandhurst has not played since a one-goal loss on June 29 at Gisborne.

The Dragons’ dominated at Princes Park in round six to rack up a league record score and winning margin of 333 points.

The Coby Perry and Matt Johnston-coached Maryborough will be doing all it can to not allow the Dragons to score as freely and quickly this time.

Among the inclusions for Sandhurst is Ollie Hannaford who played in three of the AFL national under-18 championship matches for Victoria Country.

It will be Hannaford’s second senior match after his round two debut against Gisborne at the QEO.

Joel Wharton is also back after being sidelined since the round five win against South Bendigo.

The ladder-leading Dragons have a formidable attack led by Fergus Greene and Cobi Maxted.

Captain Lachlan Tardrew, Jake McLean and Cooper Smith win plenty of the footy, but also impress with their hard-running to support the defence.

Maryborough’s best in last Saturday’s home game against Gisborne were Coby Perry, Aidan Medlyn, Joel Swatton and Kya Lanfranchi.

Highlights included the play of Matt Johnston to kick four goals and rising star Kaian Constable who booted three goals.

Strathfieldsaye has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 293 per cent, 36 points; Gisborne 227, 36; Strathfieldsaye 155, 32; Eaglehawk 148, 24; Golden Square 127, 24; Castlemaine 103, 16; South Bendigo 71, 12; Kangaroo Flat 65, 12; Maryborough 15, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

56 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

47 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

37 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

35 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

35 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

34 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

33 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

31 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

23 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

23 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

21 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

21 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

20 Bailey Henderson, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

18 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

18 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

17 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

16 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

13 Lachlan Gill, Strathfieldsaye.

13 Zac Greeves, Castlemaine.

13 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

13 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

12 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

11 Zach Charles, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Luke Ellings, Kangaroo Flat.

11 Bailey Ilsley, Eaglehawk.

11 Matt Johnston, Maryborough.

11 Jack Lefroy, Kangaroo Flat.

11 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

11 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

10 Ricky Monti, Golden Square.

10 Joel Mullen, Eaglehawk.

10 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

10 Mitch Ronchieri, Eaglehawk.

10 Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

Castlemaine marks best victory in many years

CASTLEMAINE’S hard-fought victory against Eaglehawk in Saturday’s 13^th round is being hailed the Magpies’ best in many Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL seasons.

Conditions were incredibly difficult as rain teemed down at times at Camp Reserve as Road Safety Round was played across central and northern Victoria.

The Magpies beat the Hawks for the first time since 2016 and in the process kept hope of featuring in the finals action alive.

It’s a daunting run home for Castlemaine which faces Strathfieldsaye, away, has a bye, and then hosts Kangaroo Flat at Camp Reserve.

Final two hit-outs of the regular season for the Magpies will be at Gisborne and then Sandhurst at Camp Reserve.

Irrespective of where it finishes the ’24 campaign, Castlemaine has shown vast improvement in Michael Hartley’s first year as coach.

The Magpies were determined to bounce back from a 71-point loss at Golden Square the previous round.

Constant rain and a heavy ground would test the resolve of all players.

Goalless in the first half, Castlemaine faced a 14-point deficit at half-time.

The Magpies lifted their way to win the third term, 16-6.

Castlemaine captain Bailey Henderson capped a dramatic fightback by kicking the final goal of the game to clinch a 31-33 victory.

Other goalkickers for the Pies were Jack Chester and Harrison Sheahan.

The Hawks’ attack was led by co-captain Joel Mullen on two as Jonty Neaves and Ben Thompson were also on target.

Midfielder Zavier Murley earned best afield honours for Castlemaine as Harrison Sheahan, Bailey Henderson, Declan Slingo, Michael Hartley and Callum McConachy also starred in the team’s fifth win of the season.

Best for the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk were Joel Mullen, Clayton Holmes, Marcus Angove, Ben Thompson, Billy Evans and Thomas Bennett.

Kangaroo Flat’s hoodoo against Golden Square has now hit 47 matches.

The Roos were without several key players for their clash with the in-form Bulldogs at Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park.

Five goals to one in the first term put the Bulldogs in control of the match.

The Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square then slammed on 6.5 in the second term as it kept Flat scoreless.

Kangaroo Flat hit back to win the third term, 20-16, but it was the blue and gold which finished with plenty of run as it scored eight goals in the last.

At the final siren Golden Square led 143 to 33.

The Bulldogs’ attack was led by co-captain Jayden Burke and Jordan Rosengren on four goals as Ricky Monti, Jack Sampson, Jack Stewart and Tom Toma added two each.

Goalkickers for the Roos were Jake Hywood, Jack Lefroy, Luke Stagg, Tucker Thach and Harry Whitty.

Bulldogs’ co-captain Tom Toma who has played VFL with Essendon this season marked his first senior game with Square in ’24 by being best afield.

Golden Square also had Ricky Monti, Jordan Rosengren, Harrison Kelly, Jack Threlfall and Zac Wescott win plenty of the footy.

Best for the Michael Ellings-coached Roos were Jack Lefroy, Luke Ellings, Angus Grant, Kyle Symons, Daniel Stagg and Campbell Smith.

A tally of 61 scoring shots was a sign of Sandhurst’s dominance against Maryborough at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

With its future in the Bendigo FNL beyond this season under a cloud it may have been the last time Maryborough played on the iconic oval.

Although the final margin was 193 points it was a dramatic improvement on the league record of 333 set by Sandhurst at Maryborough’s Princes Park in round four.

In Saturday’s match the Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Dragons led 51-1 at quarter-time and 125-2 by the long break.

The Magpies worked hard to limit the maroon and blue to a score of 3.7 in the third.

As Sandhurst added six goals in the last, Lachlan Bursill broke the deadlock for Maryborough.

Fergus Greene kicked six goals as Jake McLean booted four in the 201-8 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for the league leaders were Cobi Maxted, Lachlan Tardrew, Lachlan Wright on three; Caleb Connick, Oliver Morris, Oscar Perez and Joel Wharton with two.

Best for Sandhurst were Lachlan Tardrew, Isaac Ruff, Fergus Greene, Caleb Connick, Jake McLean and Alex Wharton.

Kaian Constable, Seb Collins, Aidan Medlyn, Kya Lanfranchi, co-coach Coby Perry and Joel Swatton were best for a Maryborough team which also has Matt Johnston as co-coach.

Gisborne put in another ruthless performance on its turf at Gardiner Reserve against South Bendigo.

A hard-fought opening term went Gisborne’s way, 21-18.

From there the Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs dominated play.

The Bulldogs scored eight goals in the second term, seven in the third, and five in the last to complet a 153-26 victory.

Harry Luxmoore’s hot form continued as he kicked seven goals and Ryan Bourke and Dylan Johnstone added four each.

The Bulldogs also had Zac Denahy and Pat McKenna boot two majors.

South Bendigo’s attack was led by Brock Harvey on three goals.

Best for Gisborne were ruckman Braidon Blake, Jack Reaper, Flynn Lakey, Frank Schipano, Harry Luxmoore and Macklan Lord.

Tait Poyser, Riley Walsh, Zavier Holmes, co-coach Isaiah Miller, Thomas Starr and Brody Haddow were best for a Bloods’ line-up which also has Steven Stroobants as co-coach.

Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 329 per cent, 40 points; Gisborne 243, 40; Strathfieldsaye 155, 32; Golden Square 141, 28; Eaglehawk 145, 24; Castlemaine 103, 20; South Bendigo 65, 12; Kangaroo Flat 61, 12; Maryborough 14, 0.

Highlight of next Saturday’s 14^th round will be Golden Square’s clash with Gisborne at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Graeme Wright Memorial Cup will be up for grabs as South Bendigo takes on Sandhurst at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Eaglehawk will be on home turf at Canterbury Park to play Kangaroo Flat.

Strathfieldsaye faces Castlemaine in Storm territory at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

Maryborough has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

62 - (6) - Fergus Greene - Sandhurst Seniors
47 - (0) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
44 - (7) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne Seniors
38 - (3) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo Seniors
36 - (2) - Pat McKenna - Gisborne Seniors
35 - (0) - Michael Hartley - Castlemaine Seniors
34 - (1) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo Seniors
33 - (2) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square Seniors
27 - (4) - Jayden Burke - Golden Square Seniors
24 - (1) - Jonty Neaves - Eaglehawk Seniors
23 - (3) - Cobi Maxted - Sandhurst Seniors
22 - (2) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine Seniors
22 - (1) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
21 - (3) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst Seniors
21 - (0) - Bradley Bernacki - Gisborne Seniors
19 - (2) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne Seniors
18 - (0) - Malik Gordon - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
16 - (0) - Abe Sheahan - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
15 - (3) - Lachlan Tardrew - Sandhurst Seniors
14 - (1) - Matthew Merrett - Gisborne Seniors
14 - (0) - Bryce Curnow - Sandhurst Seniors
13 - (0) - Zachary Greeves - Castlemaine Seniors
13 - (4) - Jordan Rosengren - Golden Square Seniors
13 - (0) - Lachlan Gill - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
13 - (0) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk Seniors
12 - (1) - Tom Strauch - Golden Square Seniors
12 - (4) - Dylan Johnstone - Gisborne Seniors
12 - (2) - Joel Mullen - Eaglehawk Seniors
12 - (2) - Ricky Monti - Golden Square Seniors
12 - (1) - Jack Lefroy - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
11 - (0) - Luke Ellings - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
11 - (0) - Bailey Ilsley - Eaglehawk Seniors
11 - (0) - Nicholas Stagg - Sandhurst Seniors
11 - (0) - Zach Charles - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
11 - (0) - Matthew Johnston - Maryborough Seniors
11 - (0) - Noah Walsh - Sandhurst Seniors
10 - (4) - Jake Mclean - Sandhurst Seniors
10 - (0) - Riley Wilson - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
10 - (0) - Mitchell Ronchieri - Eaglehawk Seniors
10 - (1) - Ben Thompson - Eaglehawk Seniors
10 - (2) - Joel Wharton - Sandhurst Seniors
10 - (0) - Jack O’shannessy - Eaglehawk Seniors