Sandhurst

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s the clash of the Calder rivals.

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

Kyneton played exceptional netball last Saturday.

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

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

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

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

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

Both teams have endured a tough start to the season.

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

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

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

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

Big test for Square against Sandhurst

GOLDEN Square faces a huge test against a skilful Sandhurst team in Saturday’s end to the split sixth round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It’s more than premiership points at stake at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street as both clubs compete in the Ron Best Memorial Shield matches.

The Bulldogs and Dragons honour the legendary goalkicker who played at both clubs in a brilliant career which kicked off in the late 60s, charged through the 70s, and early 80s.

On the netball court the Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square will be determined to bring a high level of defensive intensity.

Although it has a one-four record, Golden Square’s been a lot more competitive in this season’s action.

A highlight was a 40-36 victory on Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve in round three.

Past two rounds for Golden Square have been against two of the league’s strongest teams, Kangaroo Flat and Gisborne.

The showdown with the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos ended in a 35-90 loss for the blue and gold at home.

A week later and Golden Square headed down the Calder Highway to play reigning premier Gisborne at Gardiner Reserve.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne won by 27 goals.

It’s been a disjointed run for Sandhurst.

After a 46-39 win on Kangaroo Flat’s court at Dower Park in round one, Sandhurst met Gisborne in the rematch of the ’23 grand finalists at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Another superb contest ended in a 42-38 win for Gisborne.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst then had an extended break.

A bye for all of the Dragons’ teams in round three was followed by another rest a week later for A-grade because Maryborough is not fielding a line-up in the top division.

Sandhurst marked its return to the court at Queen Elizabeth Oval by scoring a 64-14 victory against South Bendigo in round five.

In last Saturday’s start to round six, Kangaroo Flat scored a 59-31 win against Strathfieldsaye on Storm’s court in Tannery Lane.

Gisborne marked its trek to Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park by winning by 28 goals.

It was a bye for Castlemaine, and also a rest for South Bendigo in A-grade as the Bloods hosted Maryborough at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

For Golden Square, Saturday’s match will be just the second it plays in the run to the halfway mark of the season.

The Bulldogs are drawn to play at Maryborough in round seven, will be home to take on South Bendigo a week later on King’s Birthday weekend, and then have the bye.

Sandhurst’s run across the next few weeks is Eaglehawk at the QEO, at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park in round eight, and home against Castlemaine.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 210 per cent, 16 points; Gisborne 163, 16; Strathfieldsaye 112, 12; Sandhurst 155, 8; Eaglehawk 72, 8; Castlemaine 78, 4; Golden Square 61, 4; South Bendigo 54, 4.

LEAGUE powerhouses in Sandhurst and Gisborne meet in this Saturday’s seventh round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It is Indigenous Round in which the feature match will be Eaglehawk against Kyneton at Canterbury Park.

Match of the day in A-grade netball will be on Gisborne’s court at Gardiner Reserve.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne will be striving to break Sandhurst’s unbeaten streak as second takes on first.

Gisborne has a 5-1 record, with its sole loss being a 42-44 result at Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park in round four.

The Bulldogs dominated their latest match on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

A powerful attack fed off Gisborne’s brilliance through mid-court to win 90-19.

Goals against tally for Gisborne is 174.

Pressure from the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst will be high from the first pass until the last.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst has blitzed most rivals.

A key for the maroon and blue is not just the play through mid-court and attack, but also a tight-knit defence.

In a six-nil run, Sandhurst’s winning margins have been 10, 11, 78, 30, 40 and 60 goals.

The 400^th goal was scored in last week’s win against Maryborough at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The goals against tally is 171.

Eaglehawk is at home at Canterbury Park to play Kyneton.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk marked its most recent home game with a 37-50 result against the third-placed Castlemaine in round four.

The Hawks could not halt Kangaroo Flat racing to a 50-goal win last round.

Kyneton will be back on court after last Saturday’s home game against Castlemaine was cancelled.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers have a 2-3 record after a loss at Gisborne in the fifth round.

Castlemaine is at home to play Golden Square at Camp Reserve.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine played brilliant netball in round five to score a 55-39 victory against Kangaroo Flat on the Magpies’ court.

The Magpies have a win-loss tally of 4-1.

For the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square an emphasis will again be on defensive play after Gisborne scored 90 goals against the blue and gold last round.

After a hard-fought draw with South Bendigo last Saturday, Strathfieldsaye is back at home at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane to take on Kangaroo Flat.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm has a win-loss tally of 2-3, but will have gained a lot of confidence from its fightback to claim two points in a 53-all result with South Bendigo at Harry Trott Oval.

Kangaroo Flat passed the 80-goal mark for the first time this season in the round six win at home against Eaglehawk.

It was a great response by the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos as they bounced back from a 39-55 loss at Castlemaine the previous Saturday.

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

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough has a 2-4 record, but faces a tough task chalking up win number three against the Bloods.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo will be determined to hit back from its drawn game against Strathfieldsaye.

The Bloods make their way to the halfway mark of the season by playing Gisborne at Harry Trott Oval in round eight, and then at Castlemaine.

DEFENCES were well on top as Sandhurst beat Gisborne in Saturday’s seventh round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Two of the competition’s most powerful teams of recent seasons took to Gisborne’s court at Gardiner Reserve.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst fought to keep its unbeaten run rolling.

Scores were locked on 11-all at quarter-time before the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won the second term, 10-6.

The Dragons upped the margin by two goals going into the final term.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne worked hard to match Sandhurst’s scoring output in the last.

At the final siren, Sandhurst led 38-32.

Gisborne’s defeat has meant the Castlemaine Magpies have soared to the second rung after a 35-goal win at home against Golden Square.

It was an emotional day for all involved at Castlemaine FNC at Camp Reserve.

The Castlemaine team which is coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke led 15-9 at quarter-time and 34-19 by the long break.

Term three was to be the Magpies’ best as they scored 18 goals and kept the blue and gold to just seven.

A 26-goal lead at the start of the fourth term became 35 by the end as Castlemaine marked a 71-36 victory.

Kyneton withstood a spirited challenge from Eaglehawk on the Hawks’ court at Canterbury Park.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk made a superb start to lead 14-9 by quarter-time.

In the second it was Kyneton which lifted to win it, 13-7.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Tigers held a seven-goal buffer at the start of the fourth term, but the Two Blues kept fighting.

Eaglehawk won the last, 11-7, but the yellow and black took the points in a 41-38 result.

Kangaroo Flat dominated play on Strathfieldsaye Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos won 80-37.

After a draw the previous round, South Bendigo hit back for a 50-goal victory on Maryborough’s court at Princes Park.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo led 33-8 at half-time and did not ease the intensity on the way to a 68-18 win.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 215 per cent, 28 points; Castlemaine 136, 22; Gisborne 169, 20; Kangaroo Flat 148, 20; South Bendigo 132, 18; Kyneton 104, 14; Strathfieldsaye 84, 10; Maryborough 65, 8; Eaglehawk 60, 0; Golden Square 38, 0.

In next Saturday’s eighth round, South Bendigo is back on the court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington to play Gisborne.

Play on King’s Birthday holiday weekend includes Sandhurst against Castlemaine at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Golden Square plays Eaglehawk at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

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

Maryborough hosts Strathfieldsaye at Princes Park.

Round seven scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 40 d Sandhurst 34, Castlemaine 52 d Golden Square 34, Eaglehawk 48 d Kyneton 35, Strathfieldsaye 18 lt Kangaroo Flat 50, South Bendigo bye.

B-grade:

Gisborne 38 lt Sandhurst 53, Castlemaine 24 lt Golden Square 45, Eaglehawk 47 d Kyneton 36, Maryborough  26 lt South Bendigo 36, Strathfieldsaye 22 lt Kangaroo Flat 41.

B-reserve:

Gisborne 34 lt Sandhurst 42, Castlemaine 35 d Golden Square 34, Eaglehawk 47 d Kyneton 26, Maryborough 24 lt South Bendigo 52, Strathfieldsaye 29 lt Kangaroo Flat 39.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 49 d Sandhurst 43, Castlemaine 40 lt Golden  Square 43, Eaglehawk 44 d Kyneton 18, Maryborough 62 d South Bendigo 22, Strathfieldsaye 36 d Kangaroo Flat 29.

Ladders after seven rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 229 per cent, 28 points; Sandhurst 175, 24; South Bendigo 111, 20; Kangaroo Flat 110, 16; Castlemaine 105, 16; Strathfieldsaye 76, 12; Eaglehawk 72, 12; Kyneton 60, 8; Golden Square 57, 4.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 195 per cent, 28 points; Kangaroo Flat 143, 24; Gisborne 147, 20; South Bendigo 103, 18; Strathfieldsaye 94, 14; Golden Square 94, 12; Eaglehawk 84, 12; Kyneton 80, 8; Castlemaine 65, 2; Maryborough 51, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 234 per cent, 28 points; Kangaroo Flat 171, 24; Gisborne 146, 20; Eaglehawk 116, 20; Strathfieldsaye 120, 12; South Bendigo 109, 12; Castlemaine 67, 12; Golden Square 70, 8; Kyneton 45, 4; Maryborough 40, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 185 per cent, 28 points; Sandhurst 172, 24; Golden Square 151, 20; Maryborough 137, 20; Strathfieldsaye 96, 16; Kangaroo Flat 101, 10; Castlemaine 97, 10; Eaglehawk 84, 8; South Bendigo 48, 4; Kyneton 22, 0.

Storm strives to end Sandhurst’s run

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Strathfieldsaye also has Caleb Ernst in for consecutive games.

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

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

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

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

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

Midfield duels will be a highlight.

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

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

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

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

Jetta played 159 games for Melbourne from 2009 until 2021.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kangaroo Flat has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

33 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

32 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

26 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

25 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

23 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

20 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

19 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

18 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

16 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

14 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

13 Bryce Curnow, Sandhurst.

13 Jonty Neaves, Eaglehawk.

13 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

12 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

12 Malik Gordon, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Brad Bernacki, Gisborne.

11 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

11 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

11 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

10 Zach Greeves, Sandhurst.

10 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

9 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

9 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

8 Abe Sheahan, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

8 Ben Thompson, Eaglehawk.

8 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

7 Angus Grant, Kangaroo Flat.

7 Lachie Hood, Sandhurst.

7 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

7 Matt Merrett, Gisborne.

7 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

Sandhurst marks emotional victory

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

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

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

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

At quarter-time the Dragons led 32-26.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Bendigo struck back in the third.

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

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

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

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

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

Bulldogs’ captain Jayden Burke added two majors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kangaroo Flat had the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

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

Sandhurst and Castlemaine clash at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

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

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

Golden Square has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

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

LADDER leaders Sandhurst and Castlemaine meet in Saturday’s eighth round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst has answered all challenges to be seven-nil and perched on top of the ladder.

Castlemaine is on a four-game winning streak and a season record of five wins, one loss, and a draw.

The depth of the Sandhurst squad was on show in last Saturday’s victory on Gisborne’s court at Gardiner Reserve.

Although the maroon and blue was without Ruby Turner, injured, and Imogen Sexton, overseas, it defended brilliantly to win 38-32 in a hard-fought contest between two of the league’s strongest teams.

Key players for the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst include Bec Smith in attack, Charlotte Sexton in defence, and captain Meg Williams in the centre.

There is also the experience of goaler Kelsey Meade and dual Betty Thompson medallist as league fairest and best in Heather Oliver at goal defence.

A superb run by Castlemaine in ’23 included the 55-39 win on its court at Camp Reserve against Kangaroo Flat in round five.

Jointly coached by Gary Cooke and Fiona Fowler, also a star at goal defence, Castlemaine struck back from a 35-43 loss at home to Gisborne in the second round to win its next three matches.

The league declared the A-grade netball match a draw, so two points were awarded to the Magpies and Tigers.

Castlemaine was back on court last Saturday to score a 71-36 victory against Golden Square.

Players to watch for the Magpies include Shaid Sasalu at goal defence and Mikaela Vaughan in attack.

There have been changes to both line-ups, but Castlemaine can gain plenty of belief from last season’s stunning victory against Sandhurst.

The Magpies upstaged the Dragons, 47-46 in the 18^th round of the ’22 season at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

Sandhurst won its next three finals to claim the premiership cup once again.

Another crucial match in Saturday’s round eight action will be at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval where South Bendigo takes on Gisborne.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo dominated last Saturday’s match at Maryborough’s Princes Park to record a 68-18 victory.

The Bloods have a win-loss tally of 4-2 and drew their most recent game at Harry Trott Oval with Strathfieldsaye.

Pressure in all thirds of the court will be much higher against a Gisborne line-up on the rebound from defeat.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne took it right up to Sandhurst last round, but some turnovers proved costly.

After a hard-fought 41-38 win on Eaglehawk’s court at Canterbury Park, Kyneton is back home to face Kangaroo Flat.

Victory for the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton would draw it two points closer to Kangaroo Flat and also keep the heat on the fifth-placed South Bendigo.

Beating the Kangaroos who were runner-up in ’22 will not be an easy task.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat have been beaten by Sandhurst and Castlemaine, but showed in a 44-42 win against Gisborne what it is capable of.

Kangaroo Flat’s mid-court and attack was superb in an 80-37 win at Strathfieldsaye’s Triple M Park last round.

Eyes of Golden Square and Eaglehawk will be firmly set on ending their winless run as they take to the court at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square had a tough match at Castlemaine last round.

The Hawks made a brilliant final quarter fightback in their home game against Kyneton.

A 38-41 result was clearly one of the best performances from the Kylie Piercy-coached line-up from the Borough this season.

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

A win for the Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough will put it above Strathfieldsaye on the ladder.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye will be determined to mark win number three and keep the pressure on the fifth and sixth-placed Bloods and Tigers.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 215 per cent, 28 points; Castlemaine 136, 22; Gisborne 169, 20; Kangaroo Flat 148, 20; South Bendigo 132, 18; Kyneton 104, 14; Strathfieldsaye 84, 10; Maryborough 65, 8; Eaglehawk 60, 0; Golden Square 38, 0.

Meanwhile, selectors have finalised the Bendigo FNL’s open team to contest the upcoming Association championships in Melbourne.

The BFNL’s open and 17-and-under squads will compete against teams from across the state on June 18 at the State Netball Centre in Parkville.

Bendigo’s open team includes six of Sandhurst’s premiership-winning stars, plus representatives from Gisborne, Kangaroo Flat and South Bendigo.

The Bendigo FNL open team is being coached by Kangaroo Flat’s Jayden Cowling, with Strathfieldsaye’s Steph Freemantle as assistant coach.

Goalers are Claudia Mawson from Gisborne, Kangaroo Flat’s Abbey Ryan, and Sandhurst’s Rebecca Smith.

The mid-court rotation is Sandhurst clubmates Shae Clifford and Meg Williams, along with Gisborne’s Kirby Elliot, and Kangaroo Flat’s Ashley Ryan.

A strong defence includes South Bendigo’s Alicia Gladman joining forces with Heather Oliver, Charlotte Sexton and Sophie Shoebridge from Sandhurst.

SANDHURST won every quarter to record a 21-goal victory against Castlemaine in Saturday’s eighth round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

Unbeaten in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive premiership, Sandhurst outplayed the Magpies on the court at Queen Elizabeth Oval on the King’s Birthday holiday weekend.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst led 17-7 at quarter-time and 28-18 by the long break.

Jointly coached by Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke, Castlemaine fought back to score 10 goals in the third as the maroon and blue added 12.

A hot Dragons’ mid-court and attack did not let up the intensity as it won the final quarter, 15-6, and the contest, 55-34.

Brilliant play across the second and third quarters set up a huge win for Gisborne on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 15-10 at quarter-time and 30-17 by the long break.

Gisborne then unleashed an 18-goal blitz in the third as it held the Bloods to just six goals.

By the final siren Gisborne led 59-27.

Kangaroo Flat jumped to the third rung following a 38-goal victory at Kyneton.

At the end of an evenly-fought first term, Kangaroo Flat led 11-8.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Roos dominated the next two quarters.

It was 23-7 in favour of the green and white in the second, and 21-11 in the third.

The only blow in Flat’s charge to a 72-34 was a knee injury to gun goaler Louise Dupuy.

Eaglehawk marked its first win of the season on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

The Hawks and Bulldogs were both determined to mark victory number one.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk poured in 22 goals in the opening term to gain a 14-goal buffer on the blue and gold.

A 14-8 second term put the Borough up 36-16 by the long break.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square lifted to score 10 goals in the third as the Two Blues added 11.

Eaglehawk’s play through mid-court and into attack was excellent as it won the final term, 16-9, to record a 63-35 victory.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye stayed in touch with the top five by scoring a 30-goal win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Storm surged to a 19-7 lead by quarter-time and then added 18 goals as it kept the Magpies to just seven in the second.

Quarters three and four went Strathfieldsaye’s way, 17-13 and 15-12.

At the final siren the Storm led 69-39 against the Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough.

Storm is a win, but 24 per cent behind the fifth-placed South Bendigo in the premiership race.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 208 per cent, 32 points; Gisborne 174, 24; Kangaroo Flat 155, 24; Castlemaine 122, 22; South Bendigo 117, 18; Strathfieldsaye 93, 14; Kyneton 92, 14; Maryborough 64, 8; Eaglehawk 70, 4; Golden Square 40, 0.

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

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

Gisborne is home at Gardiner Reserve to play Maryborough.

Eaglehawk takes on Sandhurst at Canterbury Park.

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

Strathfieldsaye meets Kyneton at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Round eight scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Sandhurst 65 d Castlemaine 36, South Bendigo 27 lt Gisborne 66, Kyneton 32 lt Kangaroo Flat 65, Golden Square 37 lt Eaglehawk 51, Eaglehawk bye.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 63 d Castlemaine 21, South Bendigo 28 lt Gisborne 61, Kyneton 37 lt Kangaroo Flat 45, Golden Square 41 lt Eaglehawk 46, Maryborough 34 lt Strathfieldsaye 39.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 61 d Castlemaine 15, South Bendigo 33 lt Gisborne 45, Kyneton 19 lt Kangaroo Flat 82, Golden Square 21 lt Eaglehawk 48, Maryborough 24 lt Strathfieldsaye 48.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 54 d Castlemaine 37, South Bendigo 19 lt Gisborne 56, Kyneton 7 lt Kangaroo Flat 64, Golden Square 63 d Eaglehawk 29, Maryborough 36 dr Strathfieldsaye 36.

Ladders after eight rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 223 per cent, 32 points; Sandhurst 173, 28; Kangaroo Flat 121, 20; South Bendigo 95, 20; Castlemaine 94, 16; Eaglehawk 79, 16; Strathfieldsaye 76, 16; Kyneton 58, 8; Golden Square 59, 4.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 205 per cent, 32 points; Kangaroo Flat 140, 28; Gisborne 154, 24; Strathfieldsaye 96, 18; South Bendigo 92, 18; Eaglehawk 87, 16; Golden Square 94, 12; Kyneton 80, 8; Castlemaine 60, 2; Maryborough 55, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 248 per cent, 32 points; Kangaroo Flat 192, 28; Gisborne 145, 24; Eaglehawk 124, 24; Strathfieldsaye 128, 16; South Bendigo 104, 12; Castlemaine 60, 12; Golden Square 66, 8; Kyneton 41, 4; Maryborough 41, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 194 per cent, 32 points; Sandhurst 169, 8; Golden Square 158, 24; Maryborough 132, 22; Strathfieldsaye 96, 18; Kangaroo Flat 122, 14; Castlemaine 92, 10; Eaglehawk 77, 8; South Bendigo 46, 4; Kyneton 21, 0.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coby Perry steps up to be playing coach at Maryborough.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fergus Payne has gone to Inglewood as an assistant coach.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Another key recruit is Harrison Monk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Dragons will now face Strathfieldsaye in the preliminary final.

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

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

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

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

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

The Bulldogs’ goalkickers were Macey Eaton and Jack Vinnicombe.

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

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

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

Defences were on top for a lot of this contest.

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

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

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

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

Jarrod Ainsworth and James Gray were on target for Gisborne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seniors at 2.50pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.

Reserves at 12.45pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.

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

CASTLEMAINE bounced Kangaroo Flat from the A-grade netball premiership race on Sunday.

The Magpies swooped for a 42-41 victory in the first semi-final at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Last season’s runner-up and third at the end of the home-and-away series, Kangaroo Flat was beaten in consecutive weeks in the finals series.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos were on the rebound from a six-goal loss to Gisborne in the qualifying final.

Castlemaine had won the elimination final against South Bendigo by 23 goals.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine have moved to week three of the finals series where they take on Gisborne in the preliminary final.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst showed it’s going to be extremely difficult to stop as it won Saturday’s second semi-final against Gisborne.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst fired up for a 44-38 victory.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne worked hard, but the maroon and blue was able to answer a spirited challenge.

Second semi-final day featured four matches between Sandhurst and Gisborne.

The Dragons won the A-reserve match by 11 goals, and the 17-and-under contest by three goals.

Gisborne marked a 48-46 win against the maroon and blue in B-grade.

In B-reserve, Sandhurst took on Kangaroo Flat where the Dragons won a closely-fought match, 45-43.

Fans were treated to dramatic finishes to Sunday’s first semi-finals.

In A-reserve, Kangaroo Flat beat South Bendigo by a goal.

The Kangaroos also took out the B-grade clash with Strathfieldsaye by two goals.

A tough day for Strathfieldsaye Storm included a five-goal loss to Gisborne in B-reserve.

Golden Square’s rising stars stayed in the premiership race when they scored a 48-41 win against Strathfieldsaye in the 17-and-under match.

Second semi-final scoreboard:

A-grade: Sandhurst 44 d Gisborne 38.

A-reserve: Gisborne 33 lt Sandhurst 44.

B-grade: Sandhurst 46 lt Gisborne 48.

B-reserve: Sandhurst 45 d Kangaroo Flat 43.

17-and-under: Sandhurst 46 d Gisborne 43.

First semi-final scoreboard:

A-grade: Kangaroo Flat 41 lt Castlemaine 42.

A-reserve: Kangaroo Flat 38 d South Bendigo 37.

B-grade: Kangaroo Flat 49 d Strathfieldsaye 47.

B-reserve: Gisborne 39 d Strathfieldsaye 34.

17-and-under: Golden Square 48 d Strathfieldsaye 41.

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

A-grade at 3.20pm: Gisborne v Castlemaine.

A-reserve at 2pm: Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat.

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

B-reserve at 11.20am: Kangaroo Flat v Gisborne.

17-and-under at 10am: Gisborne v Golden Square.

FOR the 10^th time, Golden Square and Sandhurst will fight for the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup in Saturday’s grand finale to the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy season.

Another clash between two of the league’s greatest rivals will be played out at Queen Elizabeth Oval in View Street from 2.20pm.

The record of season deciders between the Bulldogs and Dragons stands at 7-3 in favour of Sandhurst.

Seven years ago it was Sandhurst which beat the Bulldogs to claim its 27^th senior flag.

Neither club has featured in a senior grand final since then.

The Bulldogs and Dragons were the dominant teams across the home-and-away series.

The Christian Carter-coached Golden Square was on a 14-game winning streak going into the finals series and has since beaten Strathfieldsaye in the qualifying final, and Sandhurst in the second semi.

Sandhurst’s record across 18 rounds was 16 wins, a draw, a loss.

Sole defeat for a team coached by Ash Connick, playing, and Bryce Curnow, non-playing, was on Golden Square’s turf at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street in the 12^th round.

The Bulldogs won that clash by four goals.

When these clubs met in round three on the QEO it Sandhurst which retained the Ron Best Memorial Shield after a 94-59 victory.

In the second semi it was Golden Square which overturned a three-goal deficit in the second term into a 14-point win to be first to the grand final and earn a week’s rest.

Sandhurst’s fighting spirit was to the fore as it hit back from three goals down going into the last quarter to win the preliminary final against Strathfieldsaye by eight points.

There will be many key match-ups in Saturday’s grand final.

One of the most pivotal will be in the ruck where Golden Square veteran Matt Compston takes on Hamish Hosking.

At ground level the Bulldogs have Thomas Toma, Ryan Hartley, captain Jack Geary and Ricky Monti who are superb at centre ball-ups and stoppages.

A five-time premiership winner in the Bulldogs’ golden era of 2019 to ’13, Jack Geary is a dual Nalder medallist from best on ground performances in the grand finals of 2010 and ’13.

Key target in attack is Joel Brett who followed up winning the Ron Best Medal as leading goalkicker in ’22 by going into Saturday’s match with a season tally of 90.

The Bulldogs also have the marking power of Braydon Vaz and Tom Strauch, the high-leaping Hamish Morcom and skilful Jack Stewart to trouble the Dragons’ defence.

A tight-knit back six for Golden Square includes Jon Coe, Jayden Burke, Harrison Burke and Jake Thrum who could be switched to a midfield role if needed.

It’s the young guns of Sandhurst such as Sam Conforti and Noah Walsh who have played big roles in the team’s success.

They work brilliantly with experienced campaigners such as captain Lee Coghlan, Zach Pallpratt, James Coghlan and Nick Stagg.

Marking strength of Matt Thornton, Lachlan Wright and Cobi Maxted will trouble the Dogs especially if Sandhurst can move the ball quickly into the forward 50m arc.

In terms of “big game players” the Dragons have Bryce Curnow and Andy Collins.

A Nalder medallist as best afield in Strathfieldsaye’s grand final win of 2019, Curnow’s intercept marking across half-back and on-field leadership as co-coach is a huge plus.

In 2014, Curnow claimed the Rod Ashman Medal as best on ground as Golden Square won the under-18s premiership.

The experience Collins brings from an AFL stint with Richmond and Carlton is invaluable, especially in a grand final.

Young guns such as Cooper Smith and Archer Day-Wicks will be fired up for the match which matters most.

Golden Square:

B: Jake Thrum, Zack Shelton, Harrison Burke.

Hb: Jon Coe, Jayden Burke, Jack Hickman.

C: Jack Threlfall, Ricky Monti, Thomas Toma.

Hf: Hamish Morcom, Tom Strauch, Liam Barrett.

F: Jack Stewart, Braydon Vaz, Joel Brett.

Foll: Matt Compston, Jack Geary, Ryan Hartley.

Inter: Liam Duguid, Hugh Freckleton, Brodie James, Zavier Murley.

Emerg: Macey Eaton.

Coach: Christian Carter.

Sandhurst:

B: Tanner Nally, Liam Ireland, Darcy Mills.

Hb: Alex Wharton, Bryce Curnow, Noah Walsh.

C: Jake McLean, Zach Pallpratt, Cooper Smith.

Hf: Lee Coghlan, Lachlan Wright, Archer Day-Wicks.

F: Matt Thornton, Cobi Maxted, Sam Conforti.

Foll: Hamish Hosking, Nick Stagg, James Coghlan.

Inter: Andy Collins, Caleb Connick, Isaac Ruff, Matthew Wilkinson.

Coaches: Ash Connick, Bryce Curnow.

In the flashbacks of the Bendigo FNL grand finals the 1983 grand final between Sandhurst and Golden Square rates as one of the best.

The Dragons beat the Bulldogs by seven points 40 years ago.

This year marks the 50^th anniversary of when the Ron Best-coached Sandhurst beat Golden Square for the cup.

In a move akin to Ron Barassi crossing from Melbourne to Carlton, goalkicking legend Best was lured from Golden Square to the Dragons.

He was captain-coach as Sandhurst beat the blue and gold by 46 points to be the premiers of ’73.

Half-a-century later and another team of Dragons and Bulldogs are striving for glory once more.

PHOTO: Darren Howe, Bendigo Advertiser

Tomorrow, we unite to celebrate a true “Legend” of the Bendigo Football Netball League, Ron Best – a name that will be forever synonymous with the BFNL. 

The surname of ‘Best’, serves as a fitting and accurate description of the greatest goalkicker the BFL has witnessed. 

Golden Square host Sandhurst in a Round 6 stand-alone match paying tribute to one of the inaugural members elevated to ‘Legend’ status of the Bendigo Football Netball League Hall of Fame, and arguably the greatest player to take to the field in the history of our League – Ron Best. 

In October 2020, Ron Best passed away only a few days after his 71st birthday. A charismatic and wonderful person, Ron’s contribution to our league and the game in general was significant. Possessing a playing record that is truly unrivalled and at times unbelievable, and purely on statistics alone a record that may never be matched or surpassed.  

Such was the impact and greatness of Ron’s forward line dominance and ability to win a match off his own boot, the league senior goalkicking award is named in his honour. Ron made a sensational debut in Round 4 of 1968 as an 18-year-old, booting an incredible 14 goals and 9 behinds for Golden Square in one of the greatest debuts ever witnessed in the League.  

Best became the youngest premiership/coach in BFNL history at only 23 years of age, leading Sandhurst to the 1973 premiership. 

Just take a moment to let these numbers sink in –  

• He nailed a total of 1624 majors across 270 games, including bags of 10 goals or more no less than 48 times, during his stellar career. 
• He bagged 10-plus majors 29 times at Golden Square, 12 at Sandhurst and then seven more times at Northern United. 
• His biggest individual haul was 16 majors (against Kyneton in round 20 of 1969), but he also nailed 15 twice, 14 goals six times and 13 twice also. 
• His 48-game tally in which he kicked double figures comes to 556. 
• Ron’s most prolific season was 1980 when he drove home 161 goals for Golden Square, including eight games of 10-plus. 
• He was a 5-time premiership player, including being the youngest ever BFNL premiership coach at 23 years of age.
• BFL leading goalkicker on 10 occasions
• Reached the 100 goals in a season mark on 13 occasions (12 in the BFL).
• Slotted 14.9 on senior debut in 1968 at age 18.
• Kicked 11 goals in his last match in 1984, in a grand final victory for Northern United. 
• Was an 18-time BFL Interleague representative (10 as captain and 8 as coach)
• Inducted into the BFNL Hall of Fame in 1986
• Elevated to ‘Legend’ status of the BFNL in 2019.
• BFNL senior goalkicking award named the “Ron Best Medal”. 

The sad passing of Ron in 2020 has instigated traditional BFNL rivals of whom Ron played for both - Golden Square and Sandhurst, to annually unite and recognise his contribution to not only the clubs he played with, but the BFNL and local football in general, with the coveted prize being the Ron Best Memorial Shield. 

IT’S not often a footy club claims a premiership trifecta.

This Saturday both Gisborne and Sandhurst will be vying to do so in the grand final to the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bulldogs and Dragons will fight for glory on the Queen Elizabeth Oval turf in View Street from 2.20pm.

Premiers of two seasons ago, Gisborne can cap a remarkable fightback after falling to the seventh rung in ’23.

It’s two-one in Gisborne’s favour against the Dragons this season.

Most recent showdown was the second semi-final where the Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs marked a 23-point victory.

The Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, coached Dragons launched a final quarter fightback to overrun Strathfieldsaye Storm in the preliminary final.

Grand final week kicked off with a dramatic finish to last Sunday night’s calling of votes in the Michelsen Medal for league fairest and best.

Gisborne centreman Brad Bernacki and ruckman Braidon Blake, and Sandhurst on-baller/mid Lachlan Tardrew all tied on 20 votes.

Bernacki and Blake became the fifth and sixth Gisborne players to claim the league’s highest individual honour.

Tardrew is the 13^th from the Dragons den to be added to the Michelsen Medal honour board.

All three now have sights set on capturing a premiership medal.

Blake has two – one at Sandhurst in 2016, Gisborne in ’22; Bernacki in ’22; and Tardrew with the Dragons of 2016.

There are many great match-ups for fans to watch in this grand final.

Gisborne’s on-ball brigade of Blake, Bernacki, Flynn Lakey and Jackson Cardillo played a key role in the team finishing the home-and-away series on top of the ladder.

It will be a huge challenge for Sandhurst ruckman Connor Sexton, Lachlan Tardrew, Cooper Smith and Nick Stagg in limiting the impact their opponents have.

The Bulldogs have the marking power of Pat McKenna, Harry Luxmoore, Zac Denahy and Jack Scanlon in attack and the skillful Matt Merrett and Seb Bell-Bartels at ground level.

Leading goalkickers for the Bulldogs are McKenna, 60; Luxmoore, 58; Bernacki, Dylan Johnstone and Matt Merrett, 29; and Zac Denahy, 25.

Sandhurst’s defence is led by Bryce Curnow, Liam Ireland and Isaac Ruff, and also has the running power of Isaac Carracher from a pocket, and James Coghlan and Noah Walsh off half-back.

Midfield duels are always crucial on the big ground.

The brilliant Bernacki is flanked by Ryan Bourke and talented teen Dylan Johnstone who kicked five goals in the qualifying final victory.

Sandhurst’s midfield is Smith in the centre and Caleb Connick and Lachie Hood on the wings.

Bulldogs’ captain Jack Reaper leads a tight-knit defence.

A highlight will be the duel between Jed Denahy and Sandhurst’s gun forward and Ron Best medallist Fergus Greene.

The Bulldogs also have the versatility of Liam Spear, Zac Vescovi, Frank Schipano and Jake Normington to play on small or tall in defence.

Greene has brought experience from AFL level with Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn in this return to the den and kicked 82 goals.

Wearing number six which his father Chris wore in many matches for the Dragons, Fergus Greene will play a crucial role in Sandhurst’s bid to win its first senior premiership in eight years.

The Dragons also have the marking power of Lachlan Wright and Cobi Maxted, high workrate of Jake McLean and Matt Wilkinson, and creativity of flair Joel Wharton in his 200^th senior match for the club.

Maxted has kicked 33 goals, while Wright has booted 26 in a season where he has played as a key defender and forward.

The classy Wharton has booted 23 goals.

There was one change to Gisborne’s team as Patrick Trotta is in for the injured Shane Clough.

Gisborne:

B: Jack Reaper, Zac Vescovi, Frank Schipano.

Hb: Jake Normington, Jed Denahy, Liam Spear.

C: Ryan Bourke, Brad Bernacki, Dylan Johnstone.

Hf: Matt Merrett, Harry Luxmoore, Jack Scanlon.

F: Pat McKenna, Zac Denahy, Seb Bell-Bartels.

Foll: Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey, Jackson Cardillo.

Inter: Patrick Trotta, Macklan Lord, Jarrod Ainsworth, James Gray.

In: Patrick Trotta.

Out: Shane Clough (injured).

Coach: Rob Waters.

Sandhurst:

B: Isaac Carracher, Liam Ireland, Isaac Ruff.

Hb: James Coghlan, Bryce Curnow, Noah Walsh.

C: Caleb Connick, Cooper Smith, Lachie Hood.

Hf: Jake McLean, Lachlan Wright, Matt Wilkinson.

F: Joel Wharton, Cobi Maxted, Fergus Greene.

Foll: Connor Sexton, Lachlan Tardrew, Nick Stagg.

Inter: Harrison Free, Zach Pallpratt, Darcy Mills, Dayten Uerata.

Coaches: Ash Connick, non-playing; Bryce Curnow, playing.

Gisborne’s journey:

Rd 1: bye.

Rd 2: lt Sandhurst, 73-88 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 3: d Maryborough, 273-15 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 4: d South Bendigo, 180-31 at Harry Trott Oval.

Rd 5: d Golden Square, 104-56 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 6: d Eaglehawk, 97-63 at Canterbury Park.

Rd 7: d Strathfieldsaye, 110-82 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 8: d Castlemaine, 99-58 at Camp Reserve.

Rd 9: d Kangaroo Flat, 99-51 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 10: bye.

Rd 11: d Sandhurst, 73-67 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 12: d Maryborough, 169-51 at Princes Park.

Rd 13: d South Bendigo, 153-26 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 14: d Golden Square, 94-75 at Fur Life Oval.

Rd 15: d Eaglehawk, 126-74 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 16: lt Strathfieldsaye, 69-92 at Triple M Park.

Rd 17: d Castlemaine, 92-39 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 18: d Kangaroo Flat, 236-39 at Dower Park.

Sandhurst’s run:

Rd 1: d Kangaroo Flat, 171-29 at Dower Park.

Rd 2: d Gisborne, 88-73 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 3: bye.

Rd 4: d Maryborough, 347-14 at Princes Park.

Rd 5: d South Bendigo, 167-30 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 6: d Golden Square, 102-48 at Fur Life Oval.

Rd 7: d Eaglehawk, 112-40 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 8: d Strathfieldsaye, 116-91 at Triple M Park.

Rd 9: d Castlemaine, 100-49 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 10: d Kangaroo Flat, 152-38 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 11: lt Gisborne, 67-73 at Gardiner Reserve.

Rd 12: bye.

Rd 13: d Maryborough, 201-8 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 14: d South Bendigo, 150-18 at Harry Trott Oval.

Rd 15: lt Golden Square, 68-89 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 16: d Eaglehawk, 114-48 at Canterbury Park.

Rd 17: d Strathfieldsaye, 62-32 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Rd 18: d Castlemaine, 115-64 at Camp Reserve.

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

Under-18s at 9.15am: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

Reserves at 11.50am: Sandhurst v Gisborne.

Seniors at 2.20pm: Gisborne v Sandhurst

SANDHURST captain Lee Coghlan will be aiming to square his premiership tally at two-two this Saturday when the Dragons tackle Golden Square in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy grand final.

After consecutive grand final defeats in 2014 and ’15, Coghlan and his team-mates beat Golden Square in the 2016 grand final by 32 points.

There’s been plenty happen since then, particularly a Covid pandemic which meant no play in 2020 and abrupt end at the halfway mark of the ’21 campaign.

After missing last year’s finals Sandhurst is now a win from capturing the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup.

“For the whole club it’s great to be back playing on grand final day.

“It’s what every player wants to achieve, no matter what level they are at.”

It was an incredibly consistent run by Sandhurst as it ended the 18-round home-and-away series on top spot after chalking up 16 wins, a draw, and just one loss to grand final opponent, Golden Square.

“A lot of credit has to go to Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow. They are brilliant coaches,” said Coghlan.

The Dragons will be fired up after a 14-point loss to Golden Square in the second semi.

“They outplayed us that day. We took a lot from that match.

“Golden Square is incredibly strong at stoppages and set up well in defence,” said Coghlan.

Among the many keys for the Dragons will be pressure and workrate at stoppages and the ability to move the ball quickly into attack.

Coghlan said the Bulldogs have plenty of attacking options to try and stop.

“They are not overly tall, but quick on the lead, and just as dangerous at ground level.”

Equally as important is Sandhurst’s forward line which has Matt Thornton, Andy Collins, Lachlan Wright and Cobi Maxted to test the Dogs’ back six.

Since his senior debut in 2007, Coghlan has racked up plenty of accolades.

One of his greatest highs was the Michelsen Medal as league fairest in 2009.

A teacher at Catherine McAuley College, Coghlan teams up on the footy field with some of the students he coached in the college’s footy team.

“Sam Conforti, Cooper Smith and Noah Walsh were in the year eight footy team that I was coaching.

“Now they are playing in the same team with me.

“I am incredibly proud of what they have done so far.

“They are super players in their own right and will be for a long time,” Coghlan said.

There’s also long-time team-mates such as Nick Stagg and Matt Thornton who continue to play crucial roles for the maroon and blue.

“Having Nick Stagg and Andy Collins back at the club is great.

“Their leadership and ability to step up the big moments is inspirational.

“They did it in the last quarter of the preliminary final, and both are capable of just about anything on the footy field.”

Although his role has changed markedly in recent years, Coghlan said he looks forward to the challenge of every match, no matter the opponent.

PHOTO: Darren Howe, Bendigo Advertiser

A NALDER Medal for best on ground in a senior premiership victory added to what was a remarkable football season by Sandhurst captain Lachlan Tardrew in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s senior footy action.

The Year of the Dragon was just that as Sandhurst claimed the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup for the first time in eight years.

Just days after being declared joint winner of the Michelsen Medal as league fairest and best with Gisborne’s Braidon Blake and Brad Bernacki it was Tardrew who had a dramatic impact in the grand final.

He became just the third player since the Nalder Medal was presented in 1983 to be a Michelsen Medallist, Nalder Medallist and premiership player in the same season.

The feat was first achieved by Gisborne rover Matt Fitzgerald in 2003, and by Sandhurst’s Kristian Height in 2016.

Centre clearances, ability to link up with team-mates, two goals and Tardrew’s superb leadership were all to the fore in a dramatic 68-64 victory.

Back at Sandhurst as a full-time player after a successful stint with Collingwood in the VFL, Tardrew said the victory meant so much to so many people.

“It’s not just what happens on-field, but the work by all the coaches, committee led by Mark O’Farrell, sponsors and volunteers.”

The joy that hard work brings was etched in the smiles of all involved with Sandhurst.

Tardrew’s first senior premiership victory was in 2016 with the Dragons.

Team-mates included ruckman Tim Martin, and on-ballers Kristian Height and Lee Coghlan who had won the Michelsen Medal, in Martin’s case, back-to-back.

“They were absolute stars and I learnt so much from them.

“In 2016 I was the young kid just trying to do my best.”

Eight years on and Tardrew led the Dragons to a 29^th premiership and first since 2016.

Among the many career highs was the Neville Strauch Memorial Trophy as Bendigo Pioneers club champion in what was the-then TAC Cup in 2015.

A team-mate in Saturday’s grand final was Dayten Uerata who kicked the first goal and was the Pioneers in this year’s Coates Talent Cup action.

Tardrew said Sandhurst had a great blend of experience and emerging talent.

“Nick Stagg and Joel Wharton just keep on going.”

Add in the young guns such as Uerata, Noah Walsh, Caleb Connick and Cobi Maxted and it’s a bright future in the den.

“We had Jack English win the league under-18s best and fairest and be a premiership captain. There is so much talent pushing for a place in the senior team.

“The Sandhurst culture is incredible. It’s a great club to be around.”

As he savours the moment of a premiership victory, Tardrew also looks forward to the challenge of being co-coach with Bryce Curnow as the Dragons eye back-to-back cup wins in ’25