Round 16

St Kilda great a Magpie for a day

ST KILDA legend Leigh ‘Joey’ Montagna will inject 287 games of AFL experience into Castlemaine’s team for this Saturday’s round 16 action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy season.

Montagna will play for Castlemaine as part of the Carlton Draught-backed Carlton Draft promotion.

A big crowd is expected to roll up at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve as the in-form Magpies take on Kangaroo Flat from 2.20pm.

Wins in its past two hit-outs against Eaglehawk, home, and Strathfieldsaye, away, has kept the Michael Hartley-coached Castlemaine in the hunt for a finals berth.

The Magpies start this round a win and significant percentage behind the fifth-placed Eaglehawk.

A hat-trick of victories has not been achieved by a Castlemaine team for many years.

That’s among the goals as it takes on the Kangaroos.

A dual All-Australian who played in three AFL grand finals across two seasons, Montagna is likely to start in attack for Castlemaine.

The Magpies also have the marking power of Hartley and Zac Greeves in the forward 50m arc.

Driving forces in Castlemaine’s winning run include Brodie Byrne, captain Bailey Henderson, Kalan Huntly, Callum McConachy, Zavier Murley, Harrison Sheahan, Declan Slingo and Liam Wilkinson.

Massive test for the Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroo Flat to halt Castlemaine’s run.

The Kangaroos will look to captain Ethan Roberts, Luke Ellings, Harry Whitty, Daniel and Luke Stagg, Jack Leersen, Toby Roberts and Corey Ash to fire up for this contest.

Two other big games will be played at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park and Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

Strathfieldsaye Storm takes on a Gisborne line-up which is on a 12-game winning streak and moved to top of the ladder.

When these clubs met in round seven the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne marked a 28-point win on its turf at Gardiner Reserve.

There are plenty of crucial match-ups between Storm and the Bulldogs this time.

The Luke Freeman-coached Strathfieldsaye has Tim Hosking, Lachlan Gill, Daniel Clohesy and Bode Stevens to oppose Braidon Blake, Jackson Cardillo, Flynn Lakey and Brad Bernacki at centre ball-ups.

In defence, Storm has Lachlan Ratcliffe, Patrick Blandford, Ben Lester and Shannon Geary to take on Harry Luxmoore, Pat McKenna, Zac Denahy and Matt Merrett.

Kicking enough goals to challenge the visitors will be a huge task for Storm.

Key targets in Strathfieldsaye’s attack are Malik Gordon, Zach Charles and Riley Wilson.

Will not be easy against a tight-knit Dogs’ defence led by Jack Reaper, Zac Vescovi and Jed Denahy.

Eaglehawk tackles Sandhurst on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks are up against an opponent on the rebound from just its second defeat of the season.

A 7-6 record has the Hawks in fifth place, but they marked a 10-goal win at home against Strathfieldsaye in the 12^th round.

The play of Hawks’ on-ballers Billy Evans and Joel Mullen will be crucial to their team’s chances.

Huge plus for the Borough is the return of Charlie Langford to defence, and Ben Thompson.

Both were injured in the loss at Castlemaine in round 13.

Other key players for Eaglehawk include ruckman Brayden Frost, Bailey Ilsley and Jack O’Shannessy in attack, Kallen Geary, Jonty Neaves and Clayton Holmes.

Limiting the impact Sandhurst captain and gun on-baller/mid Lachlan Tardrew has on the match will be a priority for the Two Blues.

A talented Dragons’ team coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, includes Fergus Greene, Cobi Maxted, Joel Wharton and Lachlan Wright in attack.

The classy Noah Walsh will play his first match since round five, and Cooper Smith also returns for the maroon and blue.

Bendigo Pioneers captain Dayten Uerata will also mark his first senior match for the Dragons this season.

The in-form Golden Square will play Maryborough at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs played superb footy to beat Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth Oval last round.

Tom Toma’s return to an on-ball role with Golden Square is a huge plus for younger team-mates such as Kai Daniels, Macey Eaton, Harrison Kelly and ruckman Tanner Rayner.

Key players for the blue and gold include Harrison and Jayden Burke, Jordan Rosengren, Jack Stewart, Jack Coe, Ricky Monti and Tom Strauch.

Another huge challenge for a young Maryborough team jointly coached by Coby Perry and Matt Johnston.

No matter who his opponent will be, Perry is capable of winning plenty of the footy.

His hard-at-it approach inspires team-mates.

Maryborough has Seb Collins in the ruck, Kya Lanfranchi, Alex Brown and Aidan Medlyn leading the defence.

A key will be the Magpies’ play through midfield and around the ground.

Not allowing the Bulldogs easy transition from defence to attack will be a goal for the likes of Joel Swatton, Cobie Read, Ash Humphrey and Mitch McClure.

The Magpies also have Tom Myers in for his fifth senior game of the season.

South Bendigo has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Gisborne 223 per cent, 48 points; Sandhurst 306, 44; Strathfieldsaye 155, 36; Golden Square 133, 32; Eaglehawk 142, 28; Castlemaine 106, 24; South Bendigo 71, 16; Kangaroo Flat 56, 12; Maryborough 15, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

68 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

50 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

49 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

47 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

47 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

40 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

36 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

35 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

28 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

27 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

26 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

26 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

24 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

23 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

23 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

20 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

19 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

19 Jordan Rosengren, Golden Square.

18 Dylan Johnstone, Gisborne.

18 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

17 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

17 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

17 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

16 Bailey Ilsley, Eaglehawk.

16 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

16 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

16 Tom Strauch, Golden Square.

14 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

14 Lachlan Gill, Strathfieldsaye.

14 Zac Greeves, Castlemaine.

14 Joel Mullen, Eaglehawk.

14 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

13 Luke Ellings, Kangaroo Flat.

13 Kalan Huntly, Castlemaine.

13 Ricky Monti, Golden Square.

13 Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Matt Johnston, Maryborough.

12 Jack Lefroy, Kangaroo Flat.

11 Zach Charles, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Jake McLean, Sandhurst.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

10 Matt Harvey, Strathfieldsaye.

10 Tanner Nally, Sandhurst.

10 Mitch Ronchieri, Eaglehawk.

10 Ben Thompson, Eaglehawk.

10 Matt Wilkinson, Sandhurst

KYNETON faces another big fight against Eaglehawk this Saturday in the 16^th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

It’s a must-win match for Kyneton against the third-placed Hawks at Kyneton Showgrounds to stay in contention for the finals.

A point separated these clubs when they met in the Indigenous Round feature match at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

Cameron Manuel’s goal after the siren clinched a dramatic victory for the yellow and black.

A hat-trick of wins by Kyneton, now being coached by Darren Chambers, has kept the heat on Strathfieldsaye and South Bendigo in the battle to decide fourth and fifth.

Kyneton won its latest hit-out at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve by 17 points.

Best for the Tigers included Ben Cameron, Jake Summers, Jye Chambers, and skilful forward Ethan Foreman.

Those to play crucial roles for the Tigers include ruckman Jayden Eales, Harrison Huntley and Mason Crozier in defence, ruck-rover Hamish Yunghanns, and rover Jordan Iudica.

The Tigers also have Thomas Quinn roving contests in attack.

Eaglehawk’s line-up is strengthened by the return of former St Kilda captain Jarryn Geary.

Named at full-forward, Geary could switch to half-back or even play through midfield.

A talented line-up from the Borough coached by Travis Matheson includes Billy Evans, Kallen Geary, Lewin Davis, Liam Marciano, Charlie Langford and the Thompson trio of Ben, Jack and Sam.

Sandhurst tackles Gisborne at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

It will be Gisborne’s first hit-out at the iconic ground since last year’s grand final victory.

Huge test for the Bulldogs in trying to upset the ladder-leading Sandhurst which has a win-loss tally of 13-1 and a draw.

Sandhurst must keep winning as it leads Golden Square by just two points.

Jointly coached by Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst has many players in great form.

Since his return from a VFL stint with Essendon, Sam Conforti has starred for the maroon and blue, especially last Saturday’s clash at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

A tally of 42 possessions, 24 contested, 10 marks, nine clearances, five goals, and 227 points against the Magpies earned Conforti the Barry Plant Player of the Round award.

Conforti was named rover for Saturday’s clash with Gisborne.

The Dragons have ruckman Hamish Hosking and ruck-rover James Coghlan to team with Conforti against Braidon Blake, Matt Weber and Flynn Lakey.

Another key match-up will be in the centre where the Dragons have named Cooper Smith.

His opponent is the brilliant Brad Bernacki.

The Dragons have plenty of goalscoring options which will test the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne all match.

Players to watch in Sandhurst’s attack are Andy Collins, Nick Stagg, Matt Thornton and Lachlan Wright.

In defence the Dragons have Jake Wilkinson, Bryce Curnow and Lachie Hood to take on Zac Denahy, Harry Luxmoore and Adam Brancatisano.

Gisborne has the run of Sam Graham and Matt Merrett which is vital on the wide expanses of the QEO.

South Bendigo plays Maryborough at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

After a hat-trick of defeats the Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods must bounce back.

Brock Harvey kicked six goals in the clash at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park and will be a huge threat to the Magpies.

South Bendigo’s attack includes Steven Stroobants, Will Keck and Sam Langley.

The Bloods will be without number one ruckman Mac Cameron, so Riley Walsh steps into the role to team with in-form on-ballers Brody Haddow and Oscar White.

A young Maryborough team will be working hard to not allow the Bloods to slam on goals in quick succession.

Playing key roles on and off-field at Maryborough, Joel Swatton will be keen to perform well against his former club.

Swatton is in the centre where he will flanked by Magpies’ coach Coby Perry and Nic Swan.

Been a  superb season once again by Kya Lanfranchi in Maryborough’s defence.

The Magpies will look to Kaian Constable, Bailey Jacobs, Matt Johnston, Brady Neill and Jake Postle to win plenty of contests.

Kangaroo Flat and Strathfieldsaye clash on the Kangaroos’ ground at Dower Park.

Another big test for the Jeremy Hayes-coached Kangaroos following last week’s clash on Eaglehawk’s turf.

Among the most crucial match-ups for the Roos will be an opponent for Storm co-captain and gun forward Lachlan Sharp who kicked seven goals in the win against South Bendigo.

The Roos have named Noah Furlong at full-back.

Kangaroo Flat defenders in Ryan O’Keefe, Zac Rouse and Jake Hywood face a daunting challenge against James Schischka, Jack Exell and Callum McCarty.

In the centre Liam Collins takes on Michelsen medallist and Storm co-captain Jake Moorhead.

The Roos will look to Mitch Collins, Mitch Trewhella and Kyle Symons to set up scoring chances for the likes of Harry Whitty, Sam Barnes, Nic Keogh and R.J. Watson.

A Darryl Wilson-coached Storm line-up which includes Luke Webb, Ben Lester, Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Ratcliffe and Tim Hosking should take the points.

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

The Bulldogs will want to play well following the passing of multiple premiership-winning coach Brian Walsh.

Golden Square’s winning streak should hit 12.

A talking point may be the goals tally for Joel Brett who leads the race for the Ron Best Medal on 71.

Players to watch for the blue and gold include Tom Toma, Ryan Hartley, Jack Geary, Ricky Monti, Jayden Burke and Jon Coe.

The Bulldogs also have talented youngsters such as Brodie James, Tom Strauch, Jack Threlfall and Macey Eaton playing their role in pursuit of premiership glory.

Castlemaine worked incredibly hard in a 61-78 result against Kyneton at Camp Reserve last round.

Best for the Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies in that contest were Bailey Henderson, Matt Filo, Brad Keogh, David Wilson, Callum McConachy and Brodie Byrne.

The Magpies have had John Watson winning plenty of the footy in every match.

Castlemaine’s squad includes Ethan Hein, Ethan Maltby, Ben Moran and Liam Wilkinson.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 226 per cent, 54 points; Golden Square 234, 52; Eaglehawk 198, 42; Strathfieldsaye 129, 36; South Bendigo 127, 32; Kyneton 85, 32; Gisborne 119, 24; Kangaroo Flat 62, 20; Castlemaine 43, 8; Maryborough 20, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

71 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

65 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

47 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

44 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

41 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

33 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

30 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

29 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

27 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

25 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

24 Andy Collins, Sandhurst.

24 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

24 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

23 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

21 Hamish Morcom, Golden Square.

21 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

20 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

19 Tom Toma, Golden Square.

18 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

18 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

18 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

17 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

16 Jed Brereton, Strathfieldsaye.

16 Sam Conforti, Sandhurst.

16 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

16 Jack O’Shannessy, Eaglehawk.

15 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

15 Ethan Foreman, Kyneton.

14 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

14 Luke Ellings, Gisborne.

14 Billy Evans, Eaglehawk.

14 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

14 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

14 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

14 Callum McCarty, Strathfieldsaye.

13 Jack Hickman, Golden Square.

13 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

13 Zavier Murley, Golden Square.

13 Jack Reaper, Gisborne.

13 Jake Summers, Kyneton.

12 Sam Barnes, Kangaroo Flat.

12 Liam Collins, Kangaroo Flat.

12 Baxter Slater, Strathfieldsaye.

Strathfieldsaye breaks Gisborne’s streak

STRATHFIELDSAYE ended Gisborne’s winning streak on 12 matches as the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL marked the 16^th round of senior footy action on Saturday.

The Storm surged to a 31-point lead by three quarter-time of the contest at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Four goals to two in the second quarter and then a tally of 5.3 to 3.1 in the third put the Luke Freeman-coached Strathfieldsaye in control of the match.

Gisborne hit back to win the last, 22-14, but it was Storm which marked a 92-69 victory and showed it can be a strong challenger for the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup.

Defeat ended Gisborne’s one-week stay at the top of the ladder.

Strathfieldsaye’s attack was led by Cooper Jones and Riley Wilson on four and three goals.

In the third game of his senior career, Hugh Behrens kicked two goals for Storm as Malik Gordon also chipped in with two majors.

The premiership-winning captain of ’22, Pat McKenna kicked three goals for Gisborne as Shane Clough and James Gray added two.

Best for Strathfieldsaye were Tim Hosking, Caleb Sheahan, Ethan Featherby, Malik Gordon, Bode Stevens and Matt Harvey.

Macklan Lord, Flynn Lakey, Matt Merrett, Jake Normington, Pat McKenna and Braidon Blake were best for the Rob Waters-coached Gisborne.

Stung by defeat the previous round, Sandhurst charged to an 11-goal win on Eaglehawk’s turf at Canterbury Park.

The Dragons led 22-8 at quarter-time and then scored 4.5 to 2.1 in the second term.

A closely-fought third quarter went Sandhurst’s way, 28-19.

Five goals as it kept the Hawks to just one capped a 114-48 victory for the Dragons.

Fergus Greene increased his lead in the race for the Ron Best Medal by kicking six goals.

Other multiple goalkickers for the maroon and blue were Cobi Maxted, Noah Walsh and Lachlan Wright on two.

Eaglehawk’s attack was led by Darcy Richards with four goals.

Cobi Maxted, Lachlan Tardrew, James Coghlan, Fergus Greene, co-coach Bryce Curnow and Connor Sexton were best for a Sandhurst team which has Ash Connick as non-playing co-coach.

Best for the Travis Matheson-coached Hawks were Clayton Holmes, Jonty Neaves, Sam O’Shannessy, Darcy Richards, Billy Evans and Joel Mullen.

Although Leigh ‘Joey’ Montagna’s on-field stint with Castlemaine was cut short by a quad injury, a big crowd watched the Magpies winning run keep rolling.

Leigh Montagna’s one-off appearance for Castlemaine was part of the Carlton Draught-backed Carlton Draft promotion to assist country clubs.

Montanga hurt his leg in the opening minute of the clash with Kangaroo Flat at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The St Kilda great returned to the field in a forward pocket, but from quarter-time watched on from the sidelines and mingled with the fans.

It was another ruthless performance by the Magpies.

Castlemaine led 40-19 at quarter-time and 76-39 by the long break.

Defences were on top in most of the third quarter as the Pies scored two goals and the Roos added 1.1.

The last term was one of Castlemaine’s best this season as it slammed on 9.8 and held the Roos to a tally of 2.3.

At the final siren the Magpies led 150-61.

Lists of best players and goalkickers for both teams were not supplied.

A tally of 54 scoring shots to just one was a sign of Golden Square’s dominance of its match with Maryborough at Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

The Bulldogs led 41-nil at quarter-time and then slammed on 11 goals as it kept the Magpies scoreless in the second term.

Tom Toma, Jack Stewart and Harrison Kelly set up or finished off many of Golden Square’s attacking moves.

Maryborough finally goaled off the boot of Cobie Read in the final term.

A group of 13 goalkickers for the Bulldogs in the 194-6 victory was led by Jack Stewart, six; Tom Toma, five; Jack Sampson, four; Tanner Rayner, three; Tom Strauch, two.

Best for the Brad Eaton-coached Golden Square included Terence Reeves, Jack Sampson and Jordan Rosengren.

Joel Swatton, co-coach Coby Perry, Kya Lanfranchi, Alex Brown, Tom Myers and Aidan Medlyn were best for a Maryborough team which has Matt Johnston as co-coach.

South Bendigo had the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

In next Saturday’s round 17 action, Gisborne will be back at Gardiner Reserve to take on Castlemaine.

Sandhurst and Strathfieldsaye meet in a duel between first and third at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Maryborough will be home at Princes Park to play Eaglehawk.

South Bendigo takes on Golden Square at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

74 - (6) - Fergus Greene - Sandhurst Seniors
50 - (0) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo Seniors
50 - (0) - Harry Luxmoore - Gisborne Seniors
47 - (0) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
46 - (0) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo Seniors
43 - (3) - Pat McKenna - Gisborne Seniors
42 - (6) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square Seniors
42 - (7) - Michael Hartley - Castlemaine Seniors
29 - (1) - Jayden Burke - Golden Square Seniors
29 - (2) - Cobi Maxted - Sandhurst Seniors
29 - (3) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
26 - (0) - Jonty Neaves - Eaglehawk Seniors
25 - (2) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst Seniors
25 - (2) - Bailey Henderson - Castlemaine Seniors
24 - (0) - Bradley Bernacki - Gisborne Seniors
21 - (2) - Malik Gordon - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
20 - (1) - Jordan Rosengren - Golden Square Seniors
20 - (0) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne Seniors
20 - (4) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk Seniors
19 - (1) - Dylan Johnstone - Gisborne Seniors
19 - (1) - Jack O’shannessy - Eaglehawk Seniors
18 - (2) - Tom Strauch - Golden Square Seniors
18 - (5) - Kalan Huntly - Castlemaine Seniors
18 - (1) - Matthew Merrett - Gisborne Seniors
17 - (0) - Lachlan Tardrew - Sandhurst Seniors
17 - (0) - Nicholas Stagg - Sandhurst Seniors
16 - (2) - Zachary Greeves - Castlemaine Seniors
16 - (0) - Bailey Ilsley - Eaglehawk Seniors
16 - (3) - Riley Wilson - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
16 - (0) - Abe Sheahan - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
15 - (1) - Joel Wharton - Sandhurst Seniors
14 - (1) - Luke Ellings - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
14 - (0) - Lachlan Gill - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
14 - (0) - Joel Mullen - Eaglehawk Seniors
14 - (0) - Bryce Curnow - Sandhurst Seniors
13 - (0) - Ricky Monti - Golden Square Seniors
13 - (2) - Noah Walsh - Sandhurst Seniors
12 - (1) - Jake Mclean - Sandhurst Seniors
12 - (0) - Jack Lefroy - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
12 - (0) - Matthew Johnston - Maryborough Seniors
11 - (1) - Matthew Wilkinson - Sandhurst Seniors
11 - (4) - Jack Sampson - Golden Square Seniors
11 - (0) - Zach Charles - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
11 - (1) - Ben Thompson - Eaglehawk Seniors
10 - (4) - Cooper Jones - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
10 - (1) - Blake Mcgregor - Eaglehawk Seniors
10 - (0) - Matt Harvey - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
10 - (0) - Mitchell Ronchieri - Eaglehawk Seniors
10 - (0) - Tanner Nally - Sandhurst Seniors
10 - (5) - Thomas Toma - Golden Square Seniors

EAGLEHAWK ended Kyneton’s finals hopes as it scored an 87-point victory in Saturday’s 16^th round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Hawks led 32-23 at half-time of the clash at Kyneton Showgrounds and then slammed on 9.2 to 1.1 in the third quarter.

Led by the play of Noah Wheeler, ruckman Connor Dalgleish and Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk outran and outworked the Tigers in the second half.

As the Travis Matheson-coached Hawks scored 14.8 in the final hour, Kyneton added 2.2.

Sam O’Shannessy kicked a match-high five goals as Lewin Davis booted four and Noah Wheeler added three.

The Hawks again showed they have plenty of attacking options as Billy Evans and Jarryn Geary added two goals in a 124-37 victory.

Kyneton’s goalkickers were Cameron Manuel, three, and Ethan Foreman, two.

Best for the Borough included Sam O’Shannessy, Billy Evans and Joel Mullen.

Bailey McGee, Hamish Yunghanns, Cameron Manuel, Harrison Huntley, Harrison Sheahan and James Orr were best for the Darren Chambers-coached Kyneton.

At two rounds to play the sixth-placed Kyneton is a win and 57 per cent behind South Bendigo.

The Tigers play Kangaroo Flat and Strathfieldaye in the next fornight, while the Bloods take on Gisborne and Castlemaine.

A brilliant 14-goal haul by Strathfieldsaye co-captain Lachlan Sharp has put him six clear in the race for the Ron Best Medal.

Sharp was in superb touch as Strathfieldsaye overwhelmed Kangaroo Flat on the Roos’ ground at Dower Park.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Storm led 57-14 at quarter-time and did not let up.

Strathfieldsaye scored five goals in the second, 10 in the third, and eight in the last.

The Kangaroos tried hard, but could not stop Storm’s carry and run through midfield and into attack where Sharp reigned supreme.

As Sharp kicked 14 goals, Storm also had Jack Exell, Baxter Slater and Bode Stevens, three; Caleb Ernst and James Schischka, two; on target.

At the final siren, Strathfieldsaye led 32.17 (209) to 9.9 (63).

Best for Strathfieldsaye were Lachlan Sharp, Jed Brereton, Daniel Clohesy, Callum McCarty, Baxter Slater and co-captain Jake Moorhead.

Zac Rouse, Ryan O’Keefe, Liam Collins, Mitch Trewhella, Ethan and Toby Roberts were best for the Jeremy Hayes-coached Kangaroo Flat.

Sandhurst scored an eight-goal win against Gisborne at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

With premiership-winning coach Rob Waters back in charge, Gisborne started well to lead 13-9 at quarter-time.

The Dragons fired up to win the second term, 23-8, and then added 4.2 to 0.5 in the third term.

Sandhurst’s defensive play was a highlight as it held the Bulldogs to a score of 5.12 (42) across four quarters.

Nick Stagg and Matt Wilkinson kicked three goals and Jake McLean chipped in with two as the Dragons won 91-42.

Gisborne’s attack was led by Matt Merrett on two.

Sandhurst co-coach Bryce Curnow was best afield as Noah Walsh, Nick Stagg, Zach Pallpratt, James Coghlan and Caleb Connick also played well in a team jointly coached by Ash Connick.

Best for Gisborne were ruckman Braidon Blake, captain Jack Reaper, Matt Weber, Macklan Lord, Flynn Lakey and Liam Spear.

South Bendigo forwards Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants dominated the clash with Maryborough at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Harvey kicked a match-high 10 goals and Stroobants booted seven as the Bloods won 27.17 (179) to 8.6 (54).

The Coby Perry-coached Maryborough started well to score 2.3 to 3.3 in the first term.

By half-time the Bloods led 61-39.

After the main break it was South Bendigo which seized control.

The Bloods slammed on 10 goals in the third term and eight in the last as the Magpies added just two goals in the second half.

Other multiple goalkickers for the Nathan Horbury-coached South Bendigo were Sam Langley, three; Dujon Fuzzard and Sam Griffiths, two.

Kaian Constable, Bailey Jacobs and Jacob Lohmann kicked two goals each for the Magpies.

South Bendigo’s best were Brock Harvey, Sam Griffiths, captain Zac Hare, Sam Langley, Will Keck and Steven Stroobants.

Joel Swatton, Jacob Lohmann, Brady Neill, Kaian Constable, Nic Swan and Alex Brown played well for Maryborough.

A 10-goal blitz in the opening term set up Golden Square’s big win against Castlemaine at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Bulldogs slammed on 10.2 to nil in the first quarter.

Castlemaine worked hard to limit the Dogs to goal tallies of three and two in the next two terms as it added three goals.

In the last the Christian Carter-coached Golden Square scored 8.3 to complete a 150-25 victory.

Braydon Vaz led the Dogs’ attack on five goals as Jack Stewart booted four.

Other multiple goalkickers for the blue and gold were Joel Brett, Ryan Hartley and Tom Strauch on two.

Goalkickers for the Magpies were Daniel Lawson, Ben McConachy and Ben Moran.

The hard-running Jake Thrum was best on ground for Golden Square as Jack Hickman, Ricky Monti, Braydon Vaz, Tom Strauch and Jack Threlfall won many contests.

Castlemaine’s best were Riley Pedretti, Brodie Byrne, Lloyd Butcher, Ben McConachy, Brendan Josey and Liam Wilkinson.

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.

Highlight of next Saturday’s round 17 action will be Eaglehawk against Golden Square in the showdown of third and second at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

Kangaroo Flat will aim to bank on home-ground advantage at Dower Park to beat Kyneton.

Castlemaine is home at Camp Reserve to play Sandhurst.

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

Gisborne versus South Bendigo at Gardiner Reserve.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

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

Fight for top spot rages on

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Bendigo has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both teams recorded impressive victories last Saturday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kyneton and Eaglehawk clash at Kyneton Showgrounds.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

Kangaroos dominate clash on Castlemaine’s court

KANGAROO Flat almost marked a 100-goal victory on Castlemaine’s court in Saturday’s 16^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The ladder-leading Kangaroos continued a strong build-up to another finals campaign as they poured in 115 goals at Camp Reserve.

Just as impressive was the defensive intensity of the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos to hold the Magpies to a tally of 17 goals.

Was another tough afternoon for the Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine.

At Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park it was fifth against third as the Hawks took on Sandhurst.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks struggled to stop Sandhurst’s slick movement from mid-court to attack.

At the final whistle the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Dragons led 73-28.

Strathfieldsaye had home-court advantage at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane as it took on Gisborne.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne doubled Storm’s score in the opening term to lead 16-8 at quarter-time.

Term two was to be the Bulldogs’ best of the contest as they scored 19 goals and held Strathfieldsaye to a tally of five.

It was more of the same in the third as Gisborne led 52-17 at a quarter to play.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm lifted to achieved a match-high nine goals in the last, but Gisborne added 13 on the way to a 65-26 victory.

It was  a rest for Golden Square in A-grade, but the blue and gold played Maryborough in all other grades at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

South Bendigo had the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 218 per cent, 44 points; Gisborne 187, 44; Sandhurst 180, 40; Strathfieldsaye 88, 24; Eaglehawk 70, 24; Golden Square 63, 12; South Bendigo 66, 8; Castlemaine  49, 4.

In next Saturday’s 17^th round, Golden Square will fight to hold sixth place as it plays on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

Sandhurst will be back at Queen Elizabeth Oval to take on Strathfieldsaye.

Gisborne plays Castlemaine on the Bulldogs’ court at Gardiner Reserve.

It’s a rest for Eaglehawk in A-grade, but the Hawks will head west to Maryborough’s Princes Park to play the Magpies in all other netball grades.

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Round 16 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 49 lt Gisborne 71, Eaglehawk 16 lt Sandhurst 70, Castlemaine 37 lt Kangaroo Flat 68, Golden Square 46 d Maryborough 34, South Bendigo bye.

B-grade:

Strathfieldsaye 34 lt Gisborne 58, Eaglehawk 41 lt Sandhurst 62, Castlemaine 37 lt Kangaroo Flat 47, Golden Square 60 d Maryborough 41, South Bendigo bye.

B-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 45 lt Gisborne 46, Eaglehawk 31 lt Sandhurst 54, Castlemaine 25 lt Kangaroo Flat 54, Golden Square 56 d Maryborough 36, South Bendigo bye.

17-and-under:

Strathfieldsaye 50 d Gisborne 42, Eaglehawk 18 lt Sandhurst 68, Castlemaine 58 d Kangaroo Flat 26, Golden Square 55 d Maryborough 31, South Bendigo bye.

League ladders:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 217 per cent, 56 points; Kangaroo Flat 129, 42; Sandhurst 140, 40; Strathfieldsaye 126, 40; Maryborough 97, 34; South Bendigo 74, 16; Castlemaine 69, 12; Eaglehawk 63, 8; Golden Square 61, 8.

B-grade:

Gisborne 189 per cent, 52 points; Kangaroo Flat 145, 52; Sandhurst 161, 48; Strathfieldsaye 111, 36; South Bendigo 89, 22; Castlemaine 82, 20; Eaglehawk 77, 14; Golden Square 74, 12; Maryborough 43, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 225 per cent, 56 points; Gisborne 179, 48; Strathfieldsaye 131, 40; Kangaroo Flat 129, 40; South Bendigo 118, 28; Eaglehawk 98, 20; Golden Square 67, 16; Castlemaine 55, 8; Maryborough 34, 0.

17-and-under:

Golden Square 161 per cent, 56 points; Sandhurst 232, 52; Maryborough 104, 40; Strathfieldsaye 109, 28; Castlemaine 104, 24; Gisborne 103, 24; South Bendigo 81, 20; Eaglehawk 48, 12; Kangaroo Flat 41, 0

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

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

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

In term two it was Sandhurst which seized control.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both teams added 14 goals in the second term.

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

At the final whistle Eaglehawk led 59-50.

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

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

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

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

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

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

The 17^th round will be played next Saturday.

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

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

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

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

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

Round 16 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

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

B-grade:

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

B-reserve:

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

17-and-under:

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

Ladders after 16 rounds:

A-reserve:

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

B-grade:

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

B-reserve:

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

17-and-under:

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