Eaglehawk

EAGLEHAWK will be eyeing a chance to end Golden Square’s winning streak in Saturday’s 17^th round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

There’s plenty at stake as third takes on second at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

It’s the start of a tough two-week stretch for the Travis Matheson-coached Borough in the lead-up to the finals as it tackles Golden Square and then Sandhurst.

Victory would be a massive lift for the Hawks’ confidence and also break a 12-match winning streak by the Bulldogs.

When these clubs met in round eight it was the Christian Carter-coached Golden Square which fought for a 70-67 victory on its turf at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

There are plenty of key match-ups for Saturday’s contest.

Hawks’ ruckman Connor Dalgleish takes on the experienced Matt Compston.

The on-ball duels in which Noah Wheeler, Billy Evans and Joel Mullen take on Bulldogs’ stars Tom Toma, Ricky Monti and Ryan Hartley will be a highlight.

Although it may be without some key targets in attack, Eaglehawk has shown it has plenty of options.

Last round it was Sam O’Shannessy who kicked five goals in the win at Kyneton.

The Hawks have former St Kilda captain Jarryn Geary, Lewin Davis and Ben Thompson in the forward 50m arc.

Sam Harper and Dylan Hird will also be keen to have an impact for the Two Blues against their former club.

In defence, Eaglehawk has Marcus Angove, Clayton Holmes and Charlie Langford to take on Joel Brett, Jack Hickman and Braydon Vaz.

Massive test for the Hawks in trying to stop the running power of Golden Square captain Jack Geary and Jake Thrum.

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

In round eight the Bloods beat Gisborne by 68 points at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Huge challenge for the Bulldogs defence in trying to stop Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants who kicked 10 and seven goals in last Saturday’s home win against Maryborough.

Gisborne has premiership-winning coach Rob Waters back in charge and appointed to lead the club in ’24.

A key to the Bulldogs’ chances will be the on-ball contests where Braidon Blake, Matt Weber and Flynn Lakey take on Mac Cameron, Oscar White and Bloods’ coach Nathan Horbury.

The battle between Brad Bernacki and Brody Haddow in the centre will be a highlight.

Targets in Gisborne’s attack are Harry Luxmoore, Matt Merrett and Adam Brancatisano.

Gisborne named captain Jack Reaper who has spent a fair amount of time up forward at full-back.

Players to watch for the Bloods include Sam Langley, Isaiah Miller, Tait Poyser and captain Zac Hare.

Strathfieldsaye Storm is back at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane to take on Maryborough.

A 14-goal haul by Storm captain Lachlan Sharp in the big win at Kangaroo Flat earned the Barry Plant Player of Round 16 award.

Not only was Storm’s sharpshooter on target, but also racked up 12 marks, six  tackles and 218 ranking points.

Sharp has a superb record against Maryborough and could increase his lead in the race for the Ron Best Medal as this season’s leading goalkicker.

Strathfieldsaye has put together a strong attack that includes the marking power of James Schischka, Caleb Ernst  and Jack Exell, and includes Baxter Slater and Jordan Wilson at ground level.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Storm has plenty of dare and run provided from half-back by Luke Webb and Mitch Hallinan.

Players to watch include ruckman Jed Brereton, on-baller Daniel Clohesy, and Shannon Geary on his return from injury.

Been an incredibly tough season for a young Maryborough team and first-year coach Coby Perry.

The Magpies’ workrate at clearances and ability to try and shut down Storm’s run will be crucial.

A premiership winner with Strathfieldsaye, Matt Johnston returns to Triple M Park playing a key role for Maryborough.

The play of Joel Swatton in the centre, Kya Lanfranchi, Darcy Bond and Jake Postle in defence will be incredibly important for the Magpies.

Captain Ty Stewart is in the ruck and Brad Wootton as rover.

Castlemaine is on home turf at Camp Reserve to take on Sandhurst.

Been a tough run for the Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies who played at Golden Square last Saturday.

The Magpies played well in quarters two and three, but the Dogs dominated by scoring 10 and eight goals in the other terms.

Best in Castlemaine’s latest hit-out were Riley Pedretti, Brodie Byrne, Lloyd Butcher, Ben McConachy, Brendan Josey and Liam Wilkinson.

For Sandhurst there will be no let-up in its ferocity at the contest and its defensive pressure.

The Dragons have a strong attack, but defence is a hallmark of its run which has netted 14 wins, a draw, and just one defeat.

Co-coach of the Dragons line-up with Ash Connick, Bryce Curnow was in outstanding form against Gisborne last round.

A formidable Dragons’ line-up includes the experience of Andy Collins, Nick Stagg, Matt Thornton and Alex Wharton.

Younger players such as Sam Conforti, Noah Walsh and Lachlan Wright have played significant roles in the team’s success.

Kangaroo Flat and Kyneton clash on the Roos’ turf at Dower Park.

The Jeremy Hayes-coached Kangaroos will be determined to mark their sixth win of the season.

Another big test for Roos’ on-ballers Toby Roberts, Mitch Collins and Mitch Trewhella against Jayden Eales, Hamish Yunghanns and Jordan Iudica.

In attack, Flat will look to Harry Whitty, Sam Barnes and Nic Keogh to cap off the work of Liam Collins, Ryan O’Keefe, Zac Rouse and more.

The Darren Chambers-coached Kyneton will be fired up after a big loss at home to Eaglehawk last round.

The Tigers’ attack includes Cameron Manuel, Ethan Foreman and Thomas Quinn.

Kyneton will look to Jake Safstrom, Caleb Fisher and Bailey McGee to do plenty of atacking, and for Harrison Huntley, Mason Crozier and Lucas Iduica to defend well.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 226 per cent, 58 points; Golden Square 245, 56; Eaglehawk 205, 46; Strathfieldsaye 140, 40; South Bendigo 137, 36; Kyneton 80, 32; Gisborne 113, 24; Kangaroo Flat 58, 20; Castlemaine 40, 8; Maryborough 21, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

79 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

73 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

57 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

51 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

42 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

33 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

33 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

33 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

30 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

29 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

25 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

25 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

24 Andy Collins, Sandhurst.

24 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

24 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

23 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

21 Hamish Morcom, Golden Square.

21 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

21 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

20 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

20 Tom Toma, Golden Square.

18 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

17 Jed Brereton, Strathfieldsaye.

17 Ethan Foreman, Kyneton.

17 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

16 Sam Conforti, Sandhurst.

16 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

16 Billy Evans, Eaglehawk.

16 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

15 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

15 Baxter Slater, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

14 Luke Ellings, Gisborne.

14 Jack Hickman, Golden Square.

14 Nic Keogh, Kangaroo Flat.

14 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

14 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

14 Callum McCarty, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Zavier Murley, Golden Square.

13 Liam Collins, Kangaroo Flat.

13 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

13 Sam Langley, South Bendigo.

13 Jack Reaper, Gisborne.

13 Jake Summers, Kyneton.

12 Sam Barnes, Kangaroo Flat.

12 Braidon Blake, Gisborne.

12 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

12 Brad Keogh, Castlemaine.

12 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

GOLDEN Square and Eaglehawk played out another thrilling finish in Saturday’s 17^th round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendidgo FNL season.

The Bulldogs and Hawks clashed on Eaglehawk’s turf at Canterbury Park.

There was plenty at stake as Golden Square needed to keep the heat on the ladder-leading Sandhurst, and Eaglehawk strived to strengthen its grip on the third rung.

Defensive pressure from both teams was outstanding.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk led 15-8 at quarter-time and 28-23 by the long break.

In the third term the Two Blues added 1.4, but worked incredibly hard to limit the Bulldogs to a tally of 1.1.

Just as it had done against the Hawks in the eighth round, Golden Square overcame a three quarter-time deficit.

The Bulldogs scored 3.3 to 1.3 in the final term to complete a 51-47 victory.

Joel Brett led Square’s attack on three goals.

Leading goalkickers for the Hawks were Sam O’Shannessy and Ben Thompson with two.

Golden Square’s best were Jack Hickman, Tom Toma, Zack Shelton, Jack Threlfall, Jayden Burke and Harrison Burke.

Clayton Holmes, Dillon Williams, Billy Evans, Connor Dalgleish, Ben Thompson and Dylan Hanley played well for Eaglehawk.

It was a stunning turnaround by Gisborne as it took on South Bendigo at Gardiner Reserve.

When these clubs met in round eight, South Bendigo scored a 68-point victory.

This time it was the Bulldogs who have premiership-winning coach Rob Waters back in charge who dominated play.

Gisborne led 27-26 at quarter-time and then scored 18 goals across the next three quarters and held the Bloods to tally of seven.

The Bulldogs opened up a 25-point lead by half-time as it work in the stoppages and linking up with runners proved too much for the Bloods to stop.

Gisborne scored 5.5 to 1.5 in the second term and then added 13.8 to 6.2 in the second half for a 148-75 result.

Brilliant on-baller Brad Bernacki, James Gray and Harry Luxmoore kicked a team-high four goals.

Other multiple goalkickers were Ben Eales, Harry Thomas, Tom Wood, two.

The Bloods’ attack was led by Will Keck on five goals as Brock Harvey added three.

Gisborne’s best were Matt Weber, Zac Vescovi, Brad Bernacki, Macklan Lord, Flynn Lakey and Ben Eales.

On a disappointing day for the Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo it was Will Keck, Mac Cameron, Sam Griffiths, Andrew van Heumen, Brody Haddow and Sam Langley who were best.

Kyneton won a great contest with Kangaroo Flat on the Roos’ ground at Dower Park.

The Tigers led 44-35 at half-time and then took control in the third as they scored 5.1 to 1.4.

Although the Jeremy Hayes-coached Roos faced a five-goal deficit at the start of the final quarter they never gave up.

Kangaroo Flat won the last term, 26-9, but it was the Darren Chambers-coached Kyneton which took the points in an 84-71 victory.

The Tigers’ attack was led by Steven Georgiou, Bailey McGee and Jake Summers on two goals.

Luke Foreman kicked a match-high four goals for the Roos as Mitch Collins added two.

Best for Kyneton were Thomas Quinn, Harrison Huntley, Ben Cameron, Hamish Yunghanns, Bailey McGee and Ethan Foreman.

Ryan O’Keefe, Mitch Trewhella, Darcy McClure, Liam and Mitch Collins, and Zac Rouse were the Kangaroos’ best.

Sandhurst marked a 99-35 victory at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

It was in quarters two and four where the Dragons fired up.

Sandhurst led 15-10 at quarter-time and then scored 5.6 to a point in the second.

The Brendan Shepherd-coached Castlemaine fought back to win the third term, 16-3.

The last went Sandhurst’s way, 45-8, for a 99-35 result.

Matt Wilkinson kicked five goals for the Dragons as Nick Stagg and Lachlan Wright added two each.

Best for a Dragons team jointly coached by Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow were Hamish Hosking, Matt Wilkinson, Sam Conforti, Noah Walsh, James Coghlan and Tanner Nally.

Riley Pedretti, Lloyd Butcher, Liam Wilkinson, Bailey Henderson, Brad Keogh and Brendan Josey were Castlemaine’s best.

It was another brilliant performance by Strathfieldsaye’s attack against Maryborough at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Storm led 96-nil at half-time.

Storm captain Lachlan Sharp was in hot form again as he kicked eight goals in a team tally of 32.

Other multiple goalkickers in the 226-8 victory were Baxter Slater and Jordan Wilson, five; Caleb Ernst, four; Lachlan Monti, three; and Lachlan Gill, two.

Jai Howell goaled for Maryborough.

Storm’s best were Lachlan Gill, Daniel Clohesy, Cooper Jones, Matt Harvey, James Schischka and Luke Webb.

Brady Neill, Kya Lanfranchi, Josh Britten, Dylan Reece, Nic Swan and Darcy Bond worked hard for the Coby Perry-coached Maryborough.

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.

It’s first against third as Sandhurst takes on Eaglehawk in next Saturday’s 18^th and final round of the home and away series.

Kyneton tackles Strathfieldsaye in Tigerland at Kyneton Showgrounds.

South Bendigo and Castlemaine meet in the Bloods’ home at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

Golden Square hosts Kangaroo Flat in the battle of the neighbours at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Maryborough and Gisborne clash at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

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

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.

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 

Hawks step into eye of storm at Strathfieldsaye

EAGLEHAWK steps into the eye of a storm when it tackles Strathfieldsaye in Saturday’s third round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Hawks are back in action after a round one win against Golden Square was followed by a bye.

Storm is chasing a hat-trick of victories.

The on-ball duels will be a highlight of this match between two clubs who met in last season’s first semi-final.

Key players for Eaglehawk include Billy Evans, Joel Mullen, ruckman Brayden Frost, the athletic Jonty Neaves and full-forward Darcy Richards.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks also have versatile big man Clayton Holmes, and a defence that includes Oscar Madden, Charlie Langford and Pala Kuma.

A new-look Storm coached by Luke Freeman has James Schisckha, Malik Gordon and Abe Sheahan in great form in attack.

Crucial roles will be played by Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Gill, Matt Harvey, and key defenders Ben Lester and Lachlan Ratcliffe.

Another of Storm’s most important players is the experienced Shannon Geary who is a fierce competitor and rarely misses a target by hand or foot.

Another big match will be at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve where the Magpies take on Golden Square.

The Pies are on the rebound from defeat and Golden Square is yet to claim its first points of the season.

First-year coach Michael Hartley is in superb form in Castlemaine’s attack.

The former Essendon and Hawthorn player kicked seven goals in the loss to South Bendigo.

Hartley’s tally of 12 has him leading the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal.

The Magpies began the season with a 69-point victory against Maryborough at Camp Reserve in the stand-alone match on Good Friday.

Players to watch for Catlemaine include Bailey Henderson, Matt Filo, Kalan Huntly, Liam Wilkinson, Callum McConachy and John Watson.

Inaccuracy was a major downfall in Golden Square’s loss to Strathfieldsaye.

The Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs scored 5.6 in the first half and 13 behinds in the second.

Big test for Dogs’ defenders Jayden Burke, Jon Coe, Zack Shelton and Drew Barrett in this match.

Players to watch for the blue and gold include Jordan Rosengren, Kai Daniels, Tom Strauch, Jack Threlfall and Zack Shelton.

The Dogs also have the running power of Macey Eaton, Harrison Kelly and Zac Tickell.

Kangaroo Flat is on its turf at Dower Park to take on South Bendigo.

The Michael Ellings-coached Roos will have gained plenty of confidence from the win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Big challenge for the Roos will be stopping Brock Harvey who kicked nine goals in the Bloods win against Castlemaine.

A Roos’ defence that includes Kyle Symons, Zach Rouse, Toby Balcke and Corey Ash is up against the likes of Will Marks, Jack Francis, Wil McCaig and Steven Stroobants.

In midfield the Roos have Josh Leersen, Lachlan Dalziel and Luke Ellings opposed to Nathan Murley, Brody Haddow and Aidan Avery.

Could be a closely-fought contest, but the Bloods experience is likely to be a key factor.

Gisborne is home at Gardiner Reserve to take on Maryborough.

Premiership-winning captain Pat McKenna marked his comeback to Gisborne’s team by kicking five goals against Sandhurst.

A Dogs’ attack that includes McKenna, Zac Denahy and Harry Luxmoore will have plenty more scoring chances in this match.

Players to watch in the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne team include ruckman Braidon Blake, Brad Bernacki, Flynn Lakey and Matt Merrett.

Massive challenge for all Maryborough players, especially ruckman Ty Stewart, and on-ballers Bailey Edwards and co-coach Coby Perry.

The Magpies’ best against the Roos included Alex Brown, Kya Lanfranchi, Fraser Russell and Bailey Snelling.

Sandhurst has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 253 per cent, 8 points; Strathfieldsaye 147, 8; Eaglehawk 142, 4; Castlemaine 113, 4; South Bendigo 107, 4; Kangaroo Flat 65, 4; Gisborne 82, 0; Golden Square 69, 0; Maryborough 53, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

12 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

11 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

7 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

7 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

6 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

5 Zach Greeves, Castlemaine.

5 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

5 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

5 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

4 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

4 Zach Charles, Strathfieldsaye.

4 Kaian Constable, Maryborough.

4 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

4 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

4 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

4 Anthony Zimmerman, South Bendigo.

Feathers to fly on Eaglehawk’s turf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monti is on Essendon’s list in the VFL.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Strathfieldsaye has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

19 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

14 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

13 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

8 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

8 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

8 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

8 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

7 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

7 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

7 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

7 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

6 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

5 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

5 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

5 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

5 Zach Greeves, Castlemaine.

5 Jordan Rosengren, Golden Square.

5 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

5 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

5 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

Hawks outpoint Magpies on Two Blues court

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At the final siren Gisborne led 61-37.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye had the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

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

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

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

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

Maryborough’s teams have the bye.

Round four scoreboard:

A-reserve:

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

B-grade:

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

B-reserve:

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

17-and-under:

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

League ladders:

A-reserve:

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

B-grade:

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

B-reserve:

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

17-and-under:

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

High stakes as Hawks face Gisborne in Borough

STAKES are high as Eaglehawk tackles Gisborne in Saturday’s start to the split sixth round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Hawks and Gisborne clash at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park from 2.20pm.

Both teams are locked on three-one records.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne holds third place from the Two Blues.

Since a round three loss at Strathfieldaye the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk has bounced back to beat Castlemaine and Kangaroo Flat.

Beaten by Sandhurst in its first game of the season at Queen Elizabeth Oval, Gisborne has dominated hit-outs with Maryborough, South Bendigo and Golden Square.

Among the many key match-ups in Saturday’s clash at Canterbury Park will be in the ruck where Hawks’ gun recruit Brayden Frost will put the heat on Bulldogs’ star Braidon Blake.

At the centre ball-ups the Hawks have Billy Evans, Ben Thompson and Joel Mullen to take on Jackson Cardillo, Flynn Lakey and Brad Bernacki.

Major factor in the Borough’s chances will be defensive efforts.

A Hawks’ defence that includes Oscar Madden, Charlie Langford, Clayton Holmes and Sam Thompson is up against Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore, Zac Denahy and Jack Scanlon.

After missing most of last season because of a broken ankle, 2022 premiership captain Pat McKenna has returned in great form.

A tally of 22 goals has McKenna in second place in the race for the Ron Best Medal awarded to the leading goalkicker.

Key targets in the Hawks forward line are Darcy Richards, Bailey Ilsley and Jonty Neaves.

Gisborne will be without gun defender and captain Jack Reaper because of concussion protocols.

The Bulldogs’ back six includes Jarrad Lynch, Jake Normington and Jed Denahy.

Strathfieldsaye is on home turf at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane to take on Kangaroo Flat.

In his first year as Storm’s senior coach, Luke Freeman is up against his former club.

The unbeaten Strathfieldsaye will start favourite.

Best in Storm’s win at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve included Ethan Featherby, Matt Harvey, Darcy Mulquiny and Riley Wilson.

A key target in attack, James Schischka kicked four goals as Malik Gordon and Riley Wilson added two.

Players to watch for Storm include Lachlan Ratcliffe at centre half-back, Daniel Clohesy in the centre, Lachlan Gill on a wing, and Abe Sheahan near goal.

Young ruckman Declan Lowther will mark his senior debut with Strathfieldsaye.

After consecutive wins against Maryborough and South Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat was outplayed the past two games by Golden Square and Eaglehawk.

Big test for the Michael Ellings-coached Roos in matching Storm’s run across all quarters.

The play of Kyle Symons, Luke Ellings, Josh Leersen, Ethan Roberts and Corey Ash will be important in keeping the heat on their opponents.

Other key players for the Roos include ruckman Toby Roberts, rover Ben Savy, Justin Bateson and Lachlan Dalziel.

After a hat-trick of defeats, South Bendigo will aim to regain confidence in its clash with Maryborough at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

The Bloods and Magpies have both been hard hit by injuries.

A South Bendigo line-up that includes Brock Harvey, Brody Haddow, Zac Hare, Anthony Zimmerman  and Andrew van Heumen should be too strong in this match.

Bloods’ co-coaches Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller play important roles in attack and defence respectively.

Plenty to like about the skill of youngsters Zavier Holmes and Zaydyn Lockwood.

It’s been a tough run for Maryborough coaches Coby Perry and Matt Johnston and all players representing the club and city.

The Magpies will look to Fraser Russell, Kaian Constable, Aidan Medlyn, Kya Lanfranchi and Josh Britten to show the way in winning or halving as many contests as possible.

Castlemaine has the bye.

Round six will be completed on May 25 when Golden Square and Sandhurst play for the Ron Best Memorial Shield at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 529 per cent, 16 points; Strathfieldsaye 139, 16; Gisborne 331, 12; Eaglehawk 145, 12; Golden Square 98, 8; Kangaroo Flat 65, 8; Castlemaine 87, 4; South Bendigo 54, 4; Maryborough 19, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

26 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

22 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

21 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

18 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

17 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

16 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

12 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

10 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

9 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

9 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

9 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

9 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

9 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

9 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

8 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

8 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

8 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

8 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

7 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

7 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

7 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

Hawks, Storm take on ladder leaders

EAGLEHAWK and Strathfieldsaye face huge challenges in this Saturday’s start to the split sixth round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League season.

The Hawks will be on their court at Canterbury Park to take on Gisborne from 2.30pm.

Massive test for the Kylie Piercy-coached Two Blues as they strive to bounce back from a 61-goal loss at Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park last round.

A two-two record has Eaglehawk in fifth place in the premiership race.

Most recent home game for the Borough ended in a 54-33 win against Castlemain in the Pat Cronin Foundation match on May 4.

Gisborne’s quest for back-to-back premierships is rolling along superbly.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne has won all three matches.

A great run for the red, white and blue began with a 42-38 victory against Sandhurst in the rematch of the ’23 grand finalists in round two.

After a bye, Gisborne won on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval by 24 goals and then beat Golden Square by 27 goals at Gardiner Reserve last Saturday.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye has played great netball to achieve a win-loss tally of three-one and be third on the ladder.

Storm is back on the Triple M Park court in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane to play Kangaroo Flat.

In last Saturday’s action, Strathfieldsaye dominated on Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve to record a 64-36 victory.

Since a round one loss to South Bendigo by two goals, Storm has won at Golden Square, 56-36; marked a 33-27 win at home against Eaglehawk; and then outplayed the Magpies.

Beaten by Sandhurst in the opening round, Kangaroo Flat has won its past three matches and jumped to top rung on the ladder.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were beaten, 46-39, as they opened their season at home in Dower Park.

The Roos have since beaten South Bendigo, 60-27; Golden Square, 90-35; and Eaglehawk, 76-15.

Playing on Storm’s court will be a test, but the Roos will start favourite to stretch their winning streak.

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

Castlemaine has the bye.

Round six will be completed on May 25 when Golden Square plays Sandhurst for the Ron Best Memorial Shield at Golden Square’s Wade Street ground.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

Gisborne clips Eaglehawk’s wings

GISBORNE clipped Eaglehawk’s wings in Saturday’s start to the split sixth round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bulldogs made their way to Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park for the big clash.

Eaglehawk made a strong start and led 19-9 at quarter-time.

In the second it was the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne which started to take control at centre breaks and stoppages.

The Bulldogs slammed on 7.4 and kept the Two Blues to a tally of just three behinds.

At half-time Gisborne led 55-22.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk worked hard throughout the second half to score 6.5 as the Dogs added 6.6.

Harry Luxmoore kicked a team-high four goals for Gisborne as Zac Denahy added three in a 97-63 victory.

The Hawks’ attack was led by Darcy Richards, four goals, and Ben Thompson, two.

Captain for the day, Brad Bernacki was best afield for the Bulldogs as Harry Luxmoore, ruckman Braidon Blake, Zach Vescovi, Liam Spear and Macklan Lord all played well.

Best for Eaglehawk were Charlie Langford, Ben Thompson, Billy Evans, Clayton Holmes, Marcus Angove and Darcy Richards.

Strathfieldsaye’s winning run kept rolling at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

The Storm line-up took on Kangaroo Flat.

Goalkicking accuracy was a highlight of Strathfieldsaye’s play in the opening term as it scored five goals.

The Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos also made a positive start by scoring 3.4.

In the second term it was Strathfieldsaye which took control.

Storm added 4.4 as Flat was held to a goal.

A 30-point buffer for Strathfieldsaye at the start of the second half was up to 44 by the last break.

Storm surged clear in the final term as it added 6.4 to a point.

Key forward James Schischka capped a best on ground performance with six goals in a 119-36 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for Storm were Malik Gordon, five; Abe Sheahan and Riley Wilson, two.

The Roos’ attack was led by Campbell Smith on two.

Storm’s best were James Schischka, Lachlan Gill, Patrick Blandford, Matt Harvey, Malik Gordon and Carson James.

Kangaroo Flat’s best were Xav Dingfelder-Hope, Toby Balcke, Connor Evans, Kyle Symons, Josh Halsall and Connor Lee.

An 11-goal haul by Brock Harvey has put South Bendigo’s gun forward atop the board for the Ron Best Medal as the league’s leading goalkicker.

Harvey and Bloods’ co-coach Steven Stroobants were in hot form as they kicked 11 and eight goals respectively in a big win against Maryborough at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

After scoring 2.6 in the first term, South Bendigo then slammed on eight, 11 and nine goals in the next three terms.

At the final siren a team jointly coached by Stroobants and Isaiah Miller led 30.21 (201) to 2.5 (17).

Key defender Andrew van Heumen did well in attack to kick three goals as on-baller Brody Haddow added two.

Maryborough’s goalkickers were Josh Britten and Jack Gallaher.

Best for the Bloods were Cody Brooks, Brock Harvey, Zaydyn Lockwood, Brody Haddow, Aidan Avery and Zac Sims.

Was another tough afternoon for a young Maryborough team jointly coached by Coby Perry and Matt Johnston.

The Magpies’ best were Tom Myers, Josh Britten, Kya Lanfranchi, Michael Romero, Ash Humphrey and Jack Gallagher.

Round six will be completed next Saturday when Golden Square takes on Sandhurst at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Bulldogs and Dragons will play for the Ron Best Memorial Shield which honours the legendary goalkicker of the 70s and 80s who played in two premierships with Sandhurst and one at Golden Square.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Strathfieldsaye 164 per cent, 20 points; Sandhurst 529 per cent, 16 points; Gisborne 288, 16; Eaglehawk 120, 12; Golden Square 98, 8; South Bendigo 82, 8; Kangaroo Flat 59, 8; Castlemaine 87, 4; Maryborough 17, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

32 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

26 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

23 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

20 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

18 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

18 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

17 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

16 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

12 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

11 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

10 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

9 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

9 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

9 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

9 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

9 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

9 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

9 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

8 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

8 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Ben Thompson, Eaglehawk.

8 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

8 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

7 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

7 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

7 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

A highlight of round seven on June 1 will be Gisborne on home turf at Gardiner Reserve against Strathfieldsaye.

Kangaroo Flat takes on Castlemaine on the Roos’ ground at Dower Park.

Sandhurst and Eaglehawk clash at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Maryborough is home at Princes Park to play Golden Square.

South Bendigo has the bye.

A WIN at Eaglehawk will bolster Kyneton’s finals credentials as the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL marks Indigenous Round on Saturday.

The match between the Hawks and Tigers at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park is feature match in a round where the league promotes an opportunity for education, and recognition of First Nations people and their contribution to our great game.

It’s not just premiership points on the line as the Hawks and Tigers senior footy and A-grade netball will vie for the Wirama Shield.

Best afield medals will also be presented.

For the first time this season the Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk is on the rebound from defeat after a 71-74 result on Kangaroo Flat’s ground at Dower Park.

Eaglehawk is strengthened by the return of former St Kilda captain Jarryn Geary at half-back, and by Kallen Geary at half-forward.

The Hawks also welcome back Sam Harper who spent last summer playing in the Northern Territory.

Harper was named at centre half-forward in an attack that includes Darcy Richards, Lewin Davis and Liam Marciano.

Key players for the Two Blues include co-captains Billy Evans and Cam McGlashan, Ben Thompson and Dylan Hanley.

The Paul Chapman-coached Kyneton had fought back from a 0-3 start by winning its most recent games against Gisborne, away, and Maryborough, home.

Last Saturday’s match against Castlemaine was declared a draw following its abandonment after the death of Castlemaine’s under-18s player Dallas Keogh-Frankling.

The Tigers are on 10 premiership points.

Key players for Kyneton include Harrison Huntley at full-back, captain James Orr in the ruck, Hamish Yunghanns and Jake Summers.

The play of Cameron Manuel was crucial in the Tigers win at Gisborne.

The yellow and black also has Ethan Foreman and Thomas Quinn in attack, Mitch Comben and Lucas Iudcia in midfield, and Brady Muir at half-back.

On a 2-4 record, Gisborne faces a daunting task against the unbeaten Sandhurst.

A plus for Gisborne is on home turf at Gardiner Reserve, but the Bulldogs are yet to win there this season.

Quarter one will be a key focus for the Brad Fox-coached Gisborne after Golden Square led 49-7 at the first break of last Saturday’s game.

A massive blow for Gisborne is it being season over for premiership-winning captain and gun forward Pat McKenna after he broke his ankle in the loss at Golden Square.

Ruckman Braidon Blake and rover Flynn Lakey have starred for Gisborne all season.

The Bulldogs have recalled Harry Luxmoore to an attack that includes Zac Denahy and Matt Merrett.

Captain Jack Reaper will play a crucial role in defence, while the Bulldogs will look to Seb Bell-Bartels, Liam Spear and Zac Denanhy to win plenty of contests.

There’s plenty of run and scoring options in the Sandhurst line-up.

Jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, Sandhurst is in hot form.

The Dragons fired up to score 31 goals against Maryborough at Queen Elizabeth Oval last Saturday.

A tally of 35 disposals, 11 inside 50m, and three goals earned Sandhurst young gun Noah Walsh the Barry Plant Player of the Round award.

Sandhurst has the experience of Lee Coghlan, Andy Collins, Nick Stagg and Matt Thornton, and skilful youngsters such as Lachlan Wright, Matt Wilkinson and Lachie Hood.

Another big match will be at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park in Tannery Lane where Storm faces Kangaroo Flat.

For a long time Storm has dominated clashes with the Roos.

It may not be so this time.

An 11-point win by Strathfieldsaye against South Bendigo last round improved Storm’s record to 3-3.

The Nathan Johns-coached Kangaroos are also 3-3 following a 74-71 victory to end Eaglehawk’s winning streak.

In-form players for Storm include Daniel Clohesy, Shannon Geary, Tim Hosking and Riley Wilson.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Strathfieldsaye has captain and multiple premiership-winner Lachlan Sharp to lead an attack that includes James Schischka and Baxter Slater.

Other players to watch for Storm are ruck-rover and Michelsen medallist Jake Moorhead, Luke Webb at half-back and the experienced Lachlan Bonney.

After such a stunning victory, Kangaroo Flat will be determined to keep the momentum going.

The Roos’ best against the Hawks were Ryan O’Keefe, Jordan Rouse and Liam Collins.

Among those to play key roles in this match will be Mitch Trewhella in the centre, Harry Whitty and Ethan Roberts across half-forward, Nick Keogh and Zac Rouse in defence.

Toby Balcke was named in the ruck, Dean Waterson at full-back, and Campbell Smith as rover.

The Castlemaine community is likely to be out in force as the Magpies host Golden Square at Camp Reserve.

It’s been an incredibly difficult week for Castlemaine following the passing of talented teen Dallas Keogh-Frankling.

The team for Saturday includes Dallas’ brother, Ashton in his 12^th senior game.

The Magpies are up against one of the league’s strongest teams, so being competitive in every quarter will be a goal for the Brendan Shepherd-coached Castlemaine.

Key players for the Pies include Brodie and Jackson Byrne, Matt Filo, Ben McConachy, Ben Moran, John Watson and Liam Wilkinson.

The Christian Carter-coached Golden Square has a strong attack led by Ron Best medallist Joel Brett, Jayden Burke and Braydon Vaz.

Bulldogs’ captain Jack Geary just keeps on running, while Terence Reeves, Tom Toma, Ricky Monti and Ryan Hartley are part of a strong on-ball and midfield division.

Maryborough is on home turf at Princes Park to take on South Bendigo.

The Coby Perry-coached Magpies defence led by Kya Lanfranchi, Jake Postle and Josh Britten was under siege last round.

Now at Maryborough as an assistant coach, Joel Swatton will be up against his former club.

Key players for the Magpies include Ty Stewart in the ruck, Chris Freeman, Jai Howell in the centre, and Josh Britten at half-back.

Improved delivery to the forwards will be a goal for the Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo.

The Bloods won enough of the footy, but were let down by kicking efficiency in last week’s loss to Strathfieldsaye at Harry Trott Oval.

Number one ruckman Mac Cameron returns to the Bloods’ line-up.

An attack that includes Will Allen, Brock Harvey, Will Keck and Steven Stroobants will test the Magpies.

Others to watch for the Bloods include Brody Haddow in the centre, Oscar White on a wing, Cooper Leon, Braydan Torpey, Isaiah Miller and captain Zac Hare.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 24 points, 261 per cent; Eaglehawk 288, 20; Golden Square 190, 16; South Bendigo 107, 12; Strathfieldsaye 101, 12; Kangaroo Flat 88, 12; Kyneton 95, 10; Gisborne 103, 8; Castlemaine 32, 6; Maryborough 15, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

23 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

20 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

18 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

15 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

15 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

15 Braydon Vaz, Kyneton.

13 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

12 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

12 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

12 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

11 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

11 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

10 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

10 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

AN AFTER the siren goal by Cameron Manuel clinched a dramatic win by Kyneton at Eaglehawk in Saturday’s seventh round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s senior footy season.

The Hawks and Tigers lined up for the Indigenous Round feature match on the Hawks’ turf at Canterbury Park.

Stung by defeat at Kangaroo Flat the previous round, Eaglehawk made a superb start to this match.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks scored 3.6 to 0.1 in the opening term.

Kyneton fought back to win the second, 20-8.

The Paul Chapman-coached Tigers then led 51-43 going into the final term.

Spurred on by a vocal home crowd, Eaglehawk charged to a 17-point lead approaching time-on in the final term.

Kyneton replied with two unanswered goals and then had the game on the boot of Cameron Manuel after he was freed in a marking contest.

Manuel’s fifth goal capped a best afield performance and a fighting 77-76 victory for the yellow and black.

Kyneton claimed the valuable premiership points and the Wirama Shield.

A key defender for most of his career, Harrison Huntley kicked two goals for the Tigers.

Multiple goalkickers for the Hawks were Lewin Davis and Dylan Hird on two.

Best for the Tigers were Cameron Manuel, Ben Cameron, Mitch Comben, Jake Summers, Lucas Iudica and Jayden Eales.

Hawks’ co-captain Billy Evans was best along with Bailey Ilsley, Charlie Laangford, Lewin Davis, Sam Harper and Joel Mullen.

Emotions were running high as Castlemaine took to Camp Reserve to play Golden Square.

The effort of all at Castlemaine FNC after the sudden passing of under-18s player Dallas Keogh-Frankling at Kyneton the previous Saturday was superb.

A minute’s silence was held before all matches.

Ashton Frankling was among Castlemaine’s best from a wing as he wore number eight in honour of his younger brother.

The Magpies started strongly to score two goals in the opening term as Square added 3.6.

From there it was the bigger-bodied and skilful Golden Square on-ballers and forwards who took control.

The Bulldogs scored 6.3 to nil in the second term and went on to record a 130-27 victory.

Last season’s Ron Best medallist as the league’s leading goalkicker, Joel Brett booted seven in this match.

Talented teen Macey Eaton kicked two goals as did the in-form Braydon Vaz.

Goalkickers for the Magpies were Riley Pedretti, two; Callum McConachy and Nicholas Woodman.

Best for the Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs were Jon Coe, Joel Brett, Tom Toma, Liam Barrett, Ricky Monti and Braydon Vaz.

Brodie Browne-Kerr, Riley Pedretti, Callum McConachy, Matt Filo, Ashton Frankling and Liam Wilkinson led the way for the Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies.

Earlier in the day, Castlemaine won the under-18s match against the previously unbeaten Bulldogs.

Goalkicking accuracy was astonishing as the Magpies scored 8.1 to 6.8 to mark a special victory in honour of their team-mate.

After being outplayed by the unbeaten Sandhurst in the first half, Gisborne lifted dramatically in the final hour of the match at home at Gardiner Reserve.

The Brad Fox-coached Gisborne faced a 26-point deficit at half-time after the Dragons had scored 7.2 to 2.6.

In the third it was the Bulldogs who outran their opponents to win the quarter, 15-2.

A huge upset was looming at the start of the final term, but it was Sandhurst’s accuracy which played a key part in clinching victory.

In a term marked by plenty of atacking play, Sandhurst scored 2.5 to 1.7 to clinch a 63-46 victory.

Key forward Matt Thornton kicked a match-high three goals for the Dragons as Andy Collins and Nick Stagg added two each.

Gisborne’s multiple goalkicker was Liam Spear on two.

Best for a Sandhurst team coach by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, were Cooper Smith, Nick Stagg, Hamish Hosking, Lachie Hood, James Coghlan and Darcy Mills.

Jed Denahy, Ryan Bourke, Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey, James Fox and Liam Spear played well for Gisborne.

Strathfieldsaye’s winning streak against Kangaroo Flat continued as Storm dominated play on its turf at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

After breaking Eaglehawk’s winning run the previous round, Kangaroo Flat headed to Strathfieldsaye eyeing another big upset.

At quarter-time the Nathan Johns-coached Roos were right in the contest as Storm led 23-14.

Strathfieldsaye’s buffer had increased to 28 by the long break.

In the third term it was the Darryl Wilson-coached Strathfieldsaye which seized control.

A remarkable attacking surge resulted in six goals as the Roos were scoreless.

Storm’s run did not let up as it slammed on 7.5 to 2.1 in the last to complete a 150-46 victory.

Strathfieldsaye captain Lachlan Sharp was in superb touch as he kicked eight goals.

Other multiple goalkickers for Storm were Bode Stevens, four; Jake Moorhead and Jordan Wilson, two.

The Roos’ attack was again led by Harry Whitty on four goals.

Strathfieldsaye’s best were Bode Stevens, Shannon Geary, Luke Webb, Callum McCarty, Lachlan Sharp and Riley West.

Best for Kangaroo Flat were Mitch Trewhella, Harry Whitty, Jordan Rouse, Ryan O’Keefe, Mitch and Liam Collins.

South Bendigo’s kicking efficiency to and inside the forward 50m arc improved dramatically for the match at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

The Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods scored 4.7 to a point in the first term and added 4.3 in the second.

Maryborough lifted its play markedly in the second but was let down by inaccuracy as it scored 2.6.

In the third it was a Bloods’ blitz as they slammed on 11.3 to a goal.

Midfielders Oscar White and Brody Haddow racked up plenty of possessions and Brock Harvey was superb in the forward line.

The Bloods went on to win 27.15 (177) to 6.7 (43) as Harvey led the attack on eight goals.

Will Allen, Steven Stroobants and Oscar White chipped in with three majors.

Jai Howell led the Magpies’ attack on two goals.

Best for the Bloods included Sam Langley, Cooper Leon and Alex Smith.

Jai Howell, key defender Kya Lanfranchi, assistant coach Joel Swatton, Brady Neill, Oscar Tatchell and Chris Freeman were Maryborough’s best.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 241 per cent, 28 points; Eaglehawk 243, 20; Golden Square 211, 20; South Bendigo 35, 16; Strathfieldsaye 121, 16; Kyneton 96, 14; Kangaroo Flat 73, 12; Gisborne 99, 8; Castlemaine 29, 6; Maryborough 16, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

30 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

23 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

20 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

18 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

18 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

17 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

17 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

16 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

13 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

13 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

12 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

12 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

11 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

10 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

Highlight of round eight to be played next Saturday on King’s Birthday holiday weekend will be Golden Square against Eaglehawk at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street from 2.20pm.

Sandhurst faces Castlemaine on Queen Elizabeth Oval.

It’s a crucial contest for South Bendigo and Gisborne at the Bloods’ new home at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Kyneton is back on home turf at Kyneton Showgrounds to play Kangaroo Flat.

Maryborough hosts Strathfieldsaye at Princes Park.

AFTER being perched on top of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder two weeks ago, Eaglehawk is now fighting to avoid a hat-trick of defeats in this Saturday’s eighth round.

The Hawks make their way to Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street to take on the Bulldogs.

A fortnight ago the Hawks were 5-0 and flying.

A three-point loss at Kangaroo Flat was followed by the 76-77 defeat from Kyneton in the feature match of Indigenous Round last Saturday.

Eaglehawk coach Travis Matheson will not hit the panic button just yet, but another loss will put a top-three berth in jeopardy.

The Christian Carter-coached Golden Square has the midfield depth and attacking power to test the Borough all match.

Last round the Bulldogs won 130-27 on Castleamine’s turf at Camp Reserve.

Last season’s Ron Best medallist for leading goalkicker, Joel Brett kicked seven goals at Castlemaine and looms as a huge threat.

The Bulldogs also have the marking power of Jayden Burke and Brayon Vaz, and the athletic Hamish Morcom capable of taking a speccy or two.

Eaglehawk’s back six includes Dylan Hanley, Charlie Laangford, Sam Thompson and Kallen Geary.

A triple premiership winner in his time at Strathfieldsaye, Kallen Geary has made a welcome return to the Hawks.

The Borough also regained Jarryn Geary after he called time on a 207-game career with St Kilda.

Jarryn has played six matches in his return to the Two Blues, but was not named in the 23 on Thursday night.

The Hawks’ attack includes co-captain Cam McGlashan, Darcy Richards, Lewin Davis and Dillon Williams.

Back at the Borough after a stint with Nightcliff in the NTFL last summer, Sam Harper will be up against his former club.

Another former Bulldog in Liam Marciano will also be in the Hawks’ forward line.

In the midfield it’s Golden Square’s Liam Barrett, Ryan Hartley and Zavier Murley taking on Dylan Hird, Ben Thompson and Joel Mullen.

Other players to watch for the Dogs are Matt Compston, captain Jack Geary, Ricky Monti and Tom Toma.

The Hawks’ on-ball division of ruckman Connor Dalgleish, Noah Wheeler and co-captain Billy Evans will play crucial roles.

South Bendigo is back at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street to take on Gisborne.

The Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo has a 4-3 record and plenty to play for.

Win and the Bloods stay in touch with the top three, a loss and it’s place in the five is under threat.

In-form players for South Bendigo include wingman Oscar White, Will Keck and Brock Harvey in attack, Brody Haddow in the centre, and ruck-rover Cooper Leon.

A vital match-up will be in the ruck where the Bloods have Mac Cameron to take on Braidon Blake.

It’s been a tough run for Gisborne following last year’s premiership victory.

There have been plenty of changes to the team which is 2-5 and in eighth place.

Bulldogs’ coach Brad Fox has declared the team’s disposal to the forwards and inside 50m has to improve markedly.

Gisborne had plenty of the ball in a 17-point loss at home to Sandhurst last round.

The Bulldogs have Jed Denahy, Harry Luxmoore and Matt Merrett among the key targets in attack.

Other players to watch for Gisborne include rover Flynn Lakey, Liam Spear in the centre, captain Jack Reaper and Mack Lord in defence, and James Fox in midfield.

A hat-trick of wins has put the Paul Chapman-coached Kyneton in sixth place on a win-loss tally of 3-3 and a draw.

Kyneton is back at Tigerland to play Kangaroo Flat this Saturday.

The Tigers marked their best win of ’23 in last Saturday’s one-point thriller at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

The Tigers will be without gun on-baller Cameron Manuel who was best afield against the Hawks.

Kyneton will look to wingman Mitch Comben, Lucas Iudica and Jake Summers to continue their great form.

The yellow and black also have the classy Thomas Quinn in midfield or closer to goal, Harrison Huntley in defence, James Orr in the ruck, Hamish Yunghanns as ruck-rover, and the experienced Ethan Foreman in attack.

Kangaroo Flat will aim to rebound from a disappointing hit-out last round.

After the high of beating Eaglehawk the Roos were beaten by 104 points at Strathfieldsaye.

Playing at Kyneton is always a tough test.

The Nathan Johns-coached Kangaroos will rely a lot on the play of Mitch Trewhella in the centre, key positon players Jordan and Zac Rouse, Ryan O’Keefe and Angus Grant.

The Roos will be without Harry Whitty who had kicked consecutive hauls of four goals.

Liam and Mitch Collins, Sam Barnes and Ethan Roberts are capable of winning plenty of disposals.

Footy and netball will be at Queen Elizabeth Oval on the King’s Birthday holiday weekend as Sandhurst faces Castlemaine.

Unbeaten and on top of the ladder, Sandhurst will be determined not to let standards slip.

Coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, Sandhurst has many players fighting to hold or force their way into the best 22.

Key players for the Dragons include ruckman Hamish Hosking, Cooper Smith, James Coghlan and Lachlan Wright.

There’s also the experience and skill of Lee Coghlan, Andy Collins, Zach Pallpratt and Nick Stagg.

It will also be a big day for Dragons’ recruit Will Moran as he takes on his former club for the first time.

For the Brendan Shepherd-coached Castlemaine a major emphasis will be on pressure and workrate which it did well in last Saturday’s match against Golden Square.

Key players for the Magpies include Liam Wilkinson, Matt Filo, Callum McConachy, Riley Pedretti and Brodie Browne-Kerr.

It will be another emotional day for Ashton Frankling a day after the funeral service for his younger brother Dallas Keogh-Frankling who died suddenly after Castlemaine’s under-18s match at Kyneton.

Ashton was among the team’s best from a wing against Golden Square last round and will again wear number eight as a special tribute to his brother.

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

A daunting run for the Coby Perry-coached Maryborough rolls on as Storm has struck form in recent weeks.

Storm was 2-3 after five rounds, but hit back to win its past two matches.

A Michelsen medallist, dual Ron Best medallist and multiple premiership winner, Storm captain Lachlan Sharp has kicked plenty of goals against Maryborough.

Sharp will be eyeing another day out.

A tally of 45 disposals which included 25 contested earned Strathfieldsaye on-baller Callum McCarty the Barry Plant Player of the Round award for round seven.

A strong on-ball division for Storm includes Bode Stevens and Daniel Clohesy.

Nearing the 200-game mark with Strathfieldsaye, Shannon Geary shows no sign of slowing down.

Storm also has the experience of Lachlan Bonney and Luke Webb.

A Maryborough defence that includes Kya Lanfranchi, Jake Postle and Josh Britten has had plenty to do this season.

The Magpies’ work in and around stoppages will be vital and rely a lot on the play of Joel Swatton, ruckman Ty Stewart, Jai Howell and Oscar Tatchell.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 241 per cent, 28 points; Eaglehawk 243, 20; Golden Square 211, 20; South Bendigo 135, 16; Strathfieldsaye 121, 16; Kyneton 96, 14; Kangaroo Flat 73, 12; Gisborne 99, 8; Castlemaine 29, 6; Maryborough 16, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

30 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

23 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

20 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

18 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

18 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

17 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

17 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

16 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

13 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

13 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

12 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

12 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

11 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

11 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

10 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

10 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

GOLDEN Square overcame a 17-point deficit in the final term to win a thrilling contest with Eaglehawk in Saturday’s eighth round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy season.

A hat-trick of goals by gun forward Joel Brett, which included a match-winning set-shot from more than 40m out clinched a 70-67 win at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Bulldogs made a brilliant start to what was ruckman Matt Compston’s 200^th match by scoring 3.3 to 0.3 in the opening term.

Eaglehawk fought back to win the second term, 3.4 to 2.3.

On the rebound from defeats of three and one point in the previous two rounds, Eaglehawk led 54-49 at a quarter to go in the kennel.

Consecutive goals gave the Travis Matheson-coached Hawks a 17-point lead before the Bulldogs came charging back to win 70-67.

Brett finished with a match-high five in Square’s tally of 10.

The Hawks’ attack was led by Lewin Davis, co-captain Cam McGlashan, Jack O’Shannessy and Noah Wheeler on two each.

Best for the Christian Carter-coached Golden Square were Joel Brett, Tom Toma, Jack Geary, Ryan Hartley, Jack Hickman and Jake Thrum.

The Hawks’ best were Kallen Geary, Charlie Langford, Connor Dalgleish, Lewin Davis, Noah Wheeler and Ben Thompson.

Goals flowed freely for the Bloods from South Bendigo in the first quarter of their clash with Gisborne at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

The Bloods slammed on 8.3 to 2.2 in the opening term before Gisborne hit back to score 5.5 to 2.3 in the second.

A 17-point buffer for the Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo at half-time was up to 39 by the last change after a 6.3 to 0.2 return in the crucial third quarter.

Classy small forward and assistant coach Steven Stroobants went on to slot a match-high six goals as the Bloods marked a 131-63 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for South Bendigo were Brock Harvey and Will Keck, four; and Nathan Horbury, two.

Gisborne’s attack was led by Braidon Blake, Matt Merrett and captain Jack Reaper on two each.

Best for the Bloods were Brody Haddow, Mac Cameron, Riley Walsh, Steven Stroobants, Brock Harvey and Braydan Torpey.

Matt Merrett, Macklan Lord, Liam Spear, Jed Denahy, James Fox and Flynn Lakey were best for the Brad Fox-coached Gisborne.

Seven goals by skipper Lachlan Sharp and six by Callum McCarty were highlights in Strathfieldsaye’s win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

After a slow start to the season, Storm is building.

In Saturday’s clash, Storm surged to a 54-1 lead by quarter-time and had scored 13 goals by the long break.

Led by the play of on-ballers Daniel Clohesy, Callum McCarty and Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye went on to record a 170-36 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for Storm were James Schischka, three; Jordan Wilson, two.

Maryborough’s attack was led by Chris Freeman and Alex Gavriliadis on two.

Best for Strathfieldsaye included Lachlan Sharp, Darcy Mulquiny and James Schischka.

Matt Johnston played well against a club he won a premiership with to be Maryborough’s best, along with Jacob Lohmann and Rhys Egan.

The Coby Perry-coached Magpies also had Luke Dunne, Joel Swatton and Luke Guelen play well.

It took until the final quarter for Sandhurst to break clear of a determined Castlemaine at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Sandhurst faced a strongly-united club a day after the funeral service for under-18s player Dallas Keogh-Frankling who passed away after the match at Kyneton.

On Saturday the Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies started well to score 2.2 in the first and held a red-hot Dragons’ team to a tally of 3.2.

In the second it was Sandhurst which controlled play and scored 3.5 to a point.

A 28-point buffer at half-time was increased by just a goal in the third as the Pies scored 3.1 to 4.1.

Jointly coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, Sandhurst seized control in the final quarter.

The Dragons slammed on 8.3 to nil to complete a 119-34 victory.

Former Richmond and Carlton forward/mid Andy Collins kicked a match-high five goals as James Coghlan and young gun Lachlan Wright added four.

Dragons’ captain and Michelsen medallist Lee Coghlan chipped in with two goals.

The Magpies’ attack was led by Brad Keogh, two, as Brodie Byrne, Jackson Hood and David Wilson added one each.

Sandhurst’s best were James Coghlan, Zach Pallpratt, Nick Stagg, Andy Collins, Matt Wilkinson and Jacob Nihill.

Riley Pedretti, Brodie Browne-Kerr, Matt Filo, Kyan Martin, David Wilson and Ethan Maltby played well for the Magpies.

Kyneton was too strong for Kangaroo Flat in Tigerland at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Kangaroos were bolstered by the inclusion of former Greater Western Giants and Hawthorn forward Jonathon Patton for the clash.

Kyneton’s sights were on a fourth consecutive victory and it started brilliantly to score four goals to four behinds in the opening term.

In the second the Nathan Johns-coached Kangaroos fought back to score 2.2 as the wayward Tigers added seven behinds.

Led by the play of Harrison Huntley, Hamish Yunghanns and Bailey McGee, Kyneton dominated most of the second half.

The yellow and black won the third, 21-4, and scored 3.5 to 2.3 in the last for a 75-37 victory.

The in-form Cameron Manuel kicked three goals for Kyneton as the classy Ethan Foreman and Hamish Yunghanns added two each.

There were no multiple goalkickers for the Kangaroos in a contest where Patton was goalless.

Mitch Comben, Mason Crozier and Jake Safstrom were among the best for the Paul Chapman-coached Tigers.

Kangaroo Flat’s best were Mitch Trewhella, Jordan and Zac Rouse, Ryan O’Keefe, Kyle Symons and Xavier Dingfelder-Hope.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

35 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

30 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

24 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

24 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

24 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

22 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

20 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

18 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

16 Andy Collins, Sandhurst.

16 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

16 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

13 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

13 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

13 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

12 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

11 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

10 Jed Brereton, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

10 Billy Evans, Eaglehawk.

10 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

10 Callum McCarty, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

10 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

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

Eaglehawk takes on Sandhurst at Canterbury Park in the clash between third and first.

Strathfieldsaye meets Kyneton at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane in a match crucial to the Tigers’ top-five aspirations.

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

Gisborne is home at Gardiner Reserve to play Maryborough.

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

Must-win for Bloods against Eaglehawk

IT’S a must-win situation for South Bendigo against Eaglehawk in Saturday’s ninth round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Knocked out by Eaglehawk in last year’s elimination final, South Bendigo’s hopes of a top-five finish could be dashed by the halfway mark of this season.

The Steven Stroobants and Isaiah Miller-coached Bloods go into Saturday’s clash at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington on a win-loss tally of two-five and in seventh place.

The Bloods are two wins and significant percentage behind the fourth and fifth-placed Eaglehawk and Golden Square.

Both of South Bendigo’s wins have been at Kennington, but Eaglehawk is a strong opponent.

Pressure from the Bloods will have to be high to halt the Hawks’ run.

It’s a markedly different team South Bendigo has to take on Eaglehawk than last year’s elimination final.

The Bloods still have ruck-rover Brody Haddow, captain Zac Hare, gun forward Brock Harvey, Tait Poyser and Will McCaig.

Huge challenge for a South Bendigo defence led by Hare, Miller, Matt McNaughton and Blake Poyser against the likes of Jonty Neaves, Jack O’Shannessy, Cam McGlashan and Mitchell Ronchieri.

A highlight of this contest will be the duel between Haddow and Hawks’ co-captain Billy Evans.

At centre ball-ups the Bloods will pit Riley Walsh against Bailey Ilsley.

A South Bendigo forward line that includes Brock Harvey, Stroobants, Will Marks and Aidan Avery will have to work hard against Sam Thompson, Oscar Madden, Charlie Langford and Aydan Hanley.

Sandhurst is likely to be unbeaten at the halfway mark of the season.

A Dragons’ team jointly coached by Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow returns to Queen Elizabeth Oval to take on Castlemaine.

The ladder leaders will be primed for a tough hit-out against the Michael Hartley-coached Magpies.

Gun forward Fergus Greene leads the race for the Ron Best Medal as leading goalkicker on 40 goals.

Greene is a key in a talented attack that includes Oscar Perez, Cobi Maxted and Tanner Nally.

Now a full-time player at Sandhurst after a long and successful stint with Collingwood in the VFL, Lachlan Tardrew is in superb form.

The on-baller/mid racked up more than 30 disposals in the win on Strathfieldsaye’s turf at Triple M Park.

Sandhurst also has the running power and skill of Lachie Hood, Jake McLean, Cooper Smith and Nick Stagg.

There’s plenty of competition for spots in the Dragons’ best 22.

The Magpies played well to be within two goals of Gisborne at three quarter-time of last Saturday’s match at Castlemaine.

The play of Ryan Eyre in the centre, Michael Hartley, Matt Filo and Zach Greeves in attack, Kalan Huntly, Liam Wilkinson, John Watson and Will Moran will be important as the Magpies strive to break Sandhurst’s streak.

Castlemaine captain Bailey Henderson was named as 23^rd player.

Gisborne is back at Gardiner Reserve to take on Kangaroo Flat.

The Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs are likely to have too much scoring power for the Roos to hold or match across four quarters.

Major strength in the Gisborne line-up is the on-ball division of ruckman Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey, Jackson Cardillo and Flynn Lakey.

In attack the red, white and blue has Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore, Zac Denahy and Jack Scanlon.

Captain Jack Reaper leads a strong defence that includes Jake Normington and Zach Vescovi.

For the Kangaroos, Luke Ellings returns to play against a club he represented last season.

It’s the father-son combination of Michael and Luke Ellings who are coach and player at Kangaroo Flat in ’24.

The Roos are bolstered by the return of centreman Jack Lefroy who has played five VFL matches with Carlton this season.

Other key players for Kangaroo Flat include Kyle Symons, Xav Dingfelder-Hope, Ethan and Toby, Roberts, Jake Hywood and Harry Whitty.

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

A consolation for the Magpies is not having to deal with Lachlan Sharp who kicked plenty of goals against them across his brilliant career with Strathfieldsaye.

A Maryborough defence that includes Kya Lanfranchi, Alex Brown and Aidan Medlyn is up against James Schischka, Malik Gordon, Caleb Ernst and Abe Sheahan.

Magpies’ co-coach Coby Perry was outstanding against Eaglehawk last round as Premier Data stats calculated 46 disposals, 13 clearances and 219 ranking points.

Ash Humphrey racked up 37 disposals and will again play a key role, along with Fraser Russell, Kirk Loody and Sam Johnston.

Talented teenager Robert Castiglia has made his way back into the senior team.

Although beaten the past two rounds by Gisborne and Sandhurst there is a lot to like about the way the Luke Freeman-coached Strathfieldsaye is playing.

Storm on-ballers Riley Wilson, Lachlan Gill and Cooper Jones are likely to win plenty of the ball in this match.

Ruckman Tim Hosking marks his first senior game of the season.

The Storm big man’s comeback was in the reserves against Sandhurst.

Strathfieldsaye’s line-up to take on the Magpies includes youngsters Jaidi Jackson-Leahy, Zach Grieve and Declan Lowther.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

40 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

32 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

28 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

27 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

24 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

22 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

21 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

20 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

18 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

18 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

17 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

15 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

15 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

11 Zac Greeves, Castlemaine.

11 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

9 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Matt Harvey, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

8 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

8 Harry Thomas, Gisborne.

7 Kai Daniels, Golden Square.

7 Lachlan Gill, Strathfieldsaye.

7 Lachie Hood, Sandhurst.

7 Joel Mullen, Eaglehawk.

7 Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

Hawks too strong for South Bendigo on Bloods’ turf

EAGLEHAWK was too strong for South Bendigo as the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy competition hit the halfway mark on Saturday.

The Hawks have made South Bendigo’s quest to play finals extremely difficult following a 106-50 victory on the Bloods’ turf at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk did plenty of attacking in the first quarter, but South Bendigo’s accuracy kept it in the contest.

At the first break the Hawks led 4.10 (34) to 3.0 (18).

Eaglehawk sharpened its goalkicking in the second as it added 3.1.

By the main break the Two Blues led 53-32.

In the third the Hawks broke the game open to slam on 5.4 as the Bloods added a point.

Key forwards Cameron McGlashan and Jonty Neaves went on to kick three goals each as the Borough won 106-50.

Mitchell Ronchieri also booted two goals for the Hawks as seven team-mates chipped in with a goal.

The Bloods’ attack was led by co-coach Steven Stroobants on four.

Eaglehawk’s best were Bailey Ilsley, Joel Mullen, captain Billy Evans, Clayton Holmes, Marcus Angove and Oscar Madden.

Co-coach Isaiah Miller was South Bendigo’s best along with Brody Haddow, captain Zac Hare, Alex Smith, Jasper Langley and Tait Poyser.

Sandhurst has hit the halfway mark of the season on top of the ladder and unbeaten.

The Dragons did not have it all their own way in Saturday’s clash with Castlemaine at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Sandhurst raced to a 32-7 lead by quarter-time, but it was the Michael Hartley-coached Magpies who had plenty of the play in the second.

Castlemaine scored 4.3 and kept the maroon and blue to a tally of 1.4 to be within eight points at half-time.

In the second half the Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Sandhurst generated a lot more attacking play and capitalised to score 9.4 as the Pies were held to a score of 2.3.

At the final siren Sandhurst led 100-49.

The in-form Fergus Green kicked seven goals for Sandhurst as Nick Stagg added three and Cobi Maxted and Matt Wilkinson chipped in with two.

Castlemaine’s only multiple goalkicker was captain Bailey Henderson with two.

Best for Sandhurst were Fergus Greene, Cobi Maxted, Isaac Ruff, Lachlan Tardrew, Cooper Smith and Jake McLean.

Ryan Eyre, Matt Filo, Zavier Murley, Bailey Henderson, Michael Hartley and Liam Wilkinson worked hard for the Magpies.

Gisborne won a hard-fought contest with Kangaroo Flat at Gardiner Reserve by eight goals.

The Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos worked hard to keep the pressure on their highly-rated opponents and to have plenty of numbers supporting the defence.

Gisborne led 30-13 at quarter-time and 56-20 by the main break.

Defences were on top for a lot of the second half as the Bulldogs were often forced to take shots from near the boundary.

The Dogs added 5.13 in the final hour as the Roos scored 4.7.

Matt Merrett marked his return to Gisborne’s line-up by kicking five goals as Brad Bernacki added two in a 99-51 result.

The Roos’ attack was led by Jake Hywood and Harry Whitty on two each.

Best for the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne were Macklan Lord, Flynn Lakey, Brad Bernacki, Harry Thomas, Jack Scanlon and Zach Vescovi.

Kangaroo Flat’s best were Corey Ash, Jake Hywood, Daniel Stagg, Jack Lefroy, Ethan Roberts and Luke Ellings.

There were some injury blows for Gisborne.

Gun ruckman Braidon Blake was concussed and will be unavailable to represent Bendigo in  the inter-league match against the Victorian Amateurs on July 6 at Elsternwick.

Harry Manders was another Gisborne player to be concussed.

An 11-goal haul by Strathfieldsaye Storm key forward James Schischka lifted his season tally to 38 goals and second place in the race for the Ron Best Medal.

Schischka and his Storm team-mates were ruthless in their match at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

A tally of 64 scoring shots by the Luke Freeman-coached Storm reflected its dominance.

Goalkicking practice may be on the cards as Strathfieldsaye finished with a tally of 34.30.

Storm’s best quarter was the third in which it scored 12.11 on the way to a 234-8 victory.

Leading goalkickers were Schischka, 11; Lachlan Gill and Malik Gordon, four; Zach Charles and Riley Wilson, three; and Jaidi Jackson-Leahy, two.

Maryborough’s sole goalkicker was Fraser Russell.

Best for Strathfieldsaye were James Schischka, Caleb Sheahan, Tim Hosking, Lachlan Gill, Riley Wilson and Malik Gordon.

Coby Perry was Maryborough’s best along with key defender Kya Lanfranchi, Beau Trahar, Ash Humphrey, Josh Britten and Dylan Reece.

The Magpies are jointly coached by Coby Perry and Matt Johnston.

Golden Square had the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 321 per cent, 32 points; Gisborne 233, 28; Strathfieldsaye 169, 24; Eaglehawk 150, 20; Golden Square 123, 16; Castlemaine 85, 8; South Bendigo 76, 8; Kangaroo Flat 58, 8; Maryborough 12, 0.

Highlight of next Saturday’s round 10 matches will be Golden Square on home turf at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street against Eaglehawk.

South Bendigo and Strathfieldsaye clash at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

It’s an all-Magpies showdown between Maryborough and Castlemaine at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Sandhurst faces Kangaroo Flat at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Gisborne has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

47 - (7) - Fergus Greene - Sandhurst 
38 - (11) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye 
32 - (0) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo 
29 - (1) - Pat McKenna - Gisborne 
25 - (1) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne 
23 - (1) - Michael Hartley - Castlemaine 
22 - (4) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo 
21 - (0) - Jayden Burke - Golden Square 
20 - (0) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square 
20 - (3) - Jonty Neaves - Eaglehawk 
18 - (0) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst 
17 - (2) - Bradley Bernacki - Gisborne 
16 - (1) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne 
16 - (4) - Malik Gordon - Strathfieldsaye 
15 - (2) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine 
14 - (0) - Bryce Curnow - Sandhurst 
13 - (2) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat 
13 - (0) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk 
12 - (1) - Zachary Greeves - Castlemaine 
12 - (2) - Cobi Maxted - Sandhurst 
12 - (5) - Matthew Merrett - Gisborne 
11 - (0) - Lachlan Tardrew - Sandhurst 
11 - (4) - Lachlan Gill - Strathfieldsaye 
11 - (3) - Nicholas Stagg - Sandhurst 
11 - (0) - Noah Walsh - Sandhurst 
10 - (1) - Abe Sheahan - Strathfieldsaye 
10 - (3) - Riley Wilson - Strathfieldsaye 
10 - (2) - Mitchell Ronchieri - Eaglehawk 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coby Perry steps up to be playing coach at Maryborough.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fergus Payne has gone to Inglewood as an assistant coach.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Another key recruit is Harrison Monk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Dragons will now face Strathfieldsaye in the preliminary final.

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

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

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

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

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

The Bulldogs’ goalkickers were Macey Eaton and Jack Vinnicombe.

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

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

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

Defences were on top for a lot of this contest.

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

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

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

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

Jarrod Ainsworth and James Gray were on target for Gisborne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seniors at 2.50pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.

Reserves at 12.45pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both qualifying finalists have plenty of goalscoring power.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This season’s meetings stand at one-all.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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