South Bendigo

AFTER four consecutive defeats in A-grade netball action, South Bendigo won at Kyneton in Saturday’s 12^th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It was a great contest between the Tigers and Bloods at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo was desperate for victory to be a chance of reclaiming its place in the top five.

The Bloods led 16-14 at quarter-time, but the Tigers fought back to make it 24-all by half-time.

Quarter three was to be one of South Bendigo’s best in many weeks as it scored 14 goals and held the yellow and black to a tally of eight.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton scored eight goals in the final term, but the Bloods added 11 to complete a 49-40 victory.

Strathfieldsaye was on its court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane to play Castlemaine.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine won the first term, 14-10, and then upped its intensity in the second.

A 12-7 result in the second gave the Magpies a nine-goal buffer by half-time.

In the third, Castlemaine scored 13 goals as Storm added nine.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye fought on to win the last, 13-12, but the match ended in a 51-39 victory for the Magpies.

Eaglehawk was up against the in-form Gisborne at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 11-8 at quarter-time and 27-12 by the main break.

An Eaglehawk team coached by Kylie Piercy tried hard, but Gisborne’s slick passing in all thirds of the court was superb.

Gisborne won the third term, 14-4, and the last, 14-6.

At the final whistle the Bulldogs led 55-22.

Kangaroo Flat dominated its match against Maryborough.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Roos won 85-34 on their court at Dower Park.

Golden Square faced a daunting task against Sandhurst at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

It was another red-hot start by the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst which led 23-9 by quarter-time.

Formidable in all thirds of the court, Sandhurst won the next two terms, 25-5 and 23-9.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square never stopped trying against an opponent stacked with multiple premiership winners.

Sandhurst netted a 97-29 victory.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 217 per cent, 48 points; Gisborne 180, 40; Kangaroo Flat 167, 36; Castlemaine 129, 34; South Bendigo 106, 22; Strathfieldsaye 99, 22; Kyneton 91, 18; Eaglehawk 73, 12; Maryborough 56, 8; Golden Square 35, 0.

In next Saturday’s 13^th round, Gisborne hosts Kangaroo Flat at Gardiner Reserve in the clash between second and third.

The unbeaten Sandhurst faces Strathfieldsaye at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

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

South Bendigo and Golden Square meet at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

At Maryborough’s Princes Park it’s the Magpies up against Kyneton.

Round 12 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Kyneton 29 lt South Bendigo 47, Strathfieldsaye 39 lt Castlemaine 46, Eaglehawk 38 lt Gisborne 61, Kangaroo Flat bye, Golden Square 25 lt Sandhurst 64.

B-grade:

Kyneton 36 dr South Bendigo 36, Strathfieldsaye 60 d Castlemaine 23, Eaglehawk 55 lt Gisborne 68, Kangaroo Flat 53 d Maryborough 21, Golden Square 32 lt Sandhurst 59.

B-reserve:

Kyneton 26 lt South Bendigo 50, Strathfieldsaye 52 d Castlemaine 39, Eaglehawk 38 lt Gisborne 47, Kangaroo Flat 104 d Maryborough 26, Golden Square 18 lt Sandhurst 53.

17-and-under:

Kyneton 15 lt South Bendigo 34, Strathfieldsaye 43 d Castlemaine 27, Eaglehawk 21 lt Gisborne 57, Kangaroo Flat 39 lt Maryborough 50, Golden Square 47 lt Sandhurst 50.

Ladders after 12 rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 200 per cent, 48 points; Sandhurst 180, 44; South Bendigo 101, 32; Kangaroo Flat 117, 28; Castlemaine 96, 28; Strathfieldsaye 87, 24; Eaglehawk 74, 20; Kyneton 62, 10; Golden Square 57, 6.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 196 per cent, 48 points; Gisborne 172, 40; Kangaroo Flat 137, 40; Strathfieldsaye 104, 26; South Bendigo 101, 26; Eaglehawk 89, 22; Golden Square 89, 20; Kyneton 76, 10; Castlemaine 56, 6; Maryborough 47, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 236 per cent, 44 points; Kangaroo Flat 192, 44; Gisborne 145, 36; Strathfieldsaye 130, 32; Eaglehawk 118, 28; South Bendigo 111, 24; Castlemaine 63, 16; Golden Square 68, 12; Kyneton 40, 4; Maryborough 41, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 192 per cent, 48 points; Sandhurst 190, 44; Golden Square 149, 32; Maryborough 122, 30; Strathfieldsaye 115, 30; Kangaroo Flat 106, 18; Castlemaine 96, 18; Eaglehawk 66, 12; South Bendigo 54, 8; Kyneton 19, 0.

DEFEATING Golden Square twice in a season is a feat South Bendigo has not achieved for a long time.

The Bloods have a chance to do so in Saturday’s 13^th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

South Bendigo is at its new home at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington to tackle the Bulldogs.

The Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods go into the match in third place, but could drop to the fifth rung if they are beaten and Strathfieldsaye and Eaglehawk win.

Back in round four, South Bendigo celebrated a 76-75 win on Golden Square’s turf at Fur Life Oval.

The Bloods will need strong contributions from a lot of players to beat the Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs.

Brody Haddow is in brilliant form in the centre for the Bloods and will play a huge role against Ryan Hartley.

A Bloods’ attack led by Steven Stroobants, Brock Harvey and Will Keck is up against Harry Burke, Jon Coe and Jack Hickman.

A highlight will be in the ruck where Bloods’ gun recruit Mac Cameron takes on Matt Compston.

Other key players for South Bendigo are Sam Langley, Isaiah Miller, Braydan Torpey, Andrew van Heumen, and Oscar White.

A powerful Golden Square attack includes Joel Brett, Jayden Burke, Tom Strauch  and Braydon Vaz.

The run and skill of Jack Geary, Jake Thrum, Tom Toma and Ricky Monti sets up so many of the Bulldogs’ attacks.

Sandhurst is on the rebound from its first defeat of ’23 when it takes on Strathfieldsaye at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Dragons could not stop Golden Square’s final quarter charge of 23-nil to complete a 96-72 victory.

A Sandhurst squad co-coached by Ash Connick, non-playing, and Bryce Curnow, playing, includes Lee Coghlan, Andy Collins, Sam Conforti, Hamish Hosking, Cooper Smith, Nick Stagg and Lachlan Tardrew.

In round four, Sandhurst won at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye by five goals.

The Darryl Wilson-coached Storm beat Castlemaine by 70 points last round as captain Lachlan Sharp kicked 11 goals.

Players to watch for Storm include Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Gill, Malik Gordon, Luke Webb and Riley Wilson.

Strathfieldsaye also has Baxter Slater, Mitch Hallinan, Shannon Geary, Lachlan Bonney and Lachlan Ratcliffe.

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

The Brad Fox-coached Gisborne outgunned Eaglehawk by seven goals in last Saturday’s clash on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.

Bulldogs’ ruck-rover Brad Bernacki kicked four goals and was best afield against the Hawks.

A talented Gisborne line-up includes captain Jack Reaper who has switched from defence to attack, ruckman Braidon Blake, rover Flynn Lakey, and Matt Merrett on a wing.

The Bulldogs also have the marking power of Jed and Zac Denahy.

Kangaroo Flat marked a 15-point win at home against Maryborough last round.

The Jeremy Hayes-coached Roos face a huge task at Gisborne.

Harry Whitty and Nic Keogh are key targets in a Roos’ attack that includes Sam Barnes and Ethan Roberts.

A key to Flat’s chances will be the on-ball and midfield duels where Toby Roberts, Mitch Collins, Campbell Smith and Liam Collins are up against some of the league’s best.

Maryborough is back at Princes Park to take on Kyneton.

It’s been a big week off-field at Tigerland as Paul Chapman has stepped down as senior coach because of increased working commitments.

It was a mutual agreement for Chapman and the club to part ways in his third season with the yellow and back.

Assistant coach Darren Chambers will be in charge for the rest of the season.

Maryborough went so close to break its winless run last round.

The Coby Perry-coached Magpies did a lot right on Kangaroo Flat’s ground.

The play of Magpies’ key defender Kya Lanfranchi who racked up 25 disposals, 19 intercepts, 13 intercept marks and 214 ranking points earned the Barry Plant Player of the Round award.

Lanfranchi will again play a key role against the Tigers, along with Jake Postle and Lucas Hurse in defence, Joel Swatton in the centre, Chris Freeman and Taj Bond in attack.

Tom Myers will start in the ruck with Matt Johnston as ruck-rover for the Coby Perry-coached Maryborough.

The Tigers will be snarling after a big loss to South Bendigo at home.

Best in Kyneton’s latest hit-out included Jye Chambers, Jordan Iudica, Cameron Manuel, Brady Muir and Harrison Sheahan.

The Tigers also have Ethan Foreman and Thomas Quinn in attack.

Castlemaine is at home at Camp Reserve to face an Eaglehawk team on the rebound from defeat.

The Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies will be aiming to carry the momentum of a five-goal final term at Strathfieldsaye into this contest.

Leading goalkickers for Castlemaine last round were Riley Pedretti, three; Brad Keogh and John Watson, two.

Players to watch for the black and white include Brodie Byrne, Matt Filo, Bailey Henderson, Callum McConachy, John Watson and Liam Wilkinson.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks will be fired up.

Eaglehawk’s line-up includes Lewin Davis, Billy Evans, Kallen Geary, Dylan Hanley and Sam Harper.

Key defender Oscar Madden is in for his first senior game of the year.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 214 per cent, 42 points; Golden Square 222, 40; South Bendigo 152, 32; Strathfieldsaye 142, 32; Eaglehawk 193, 30; Gisborne 125, 20; Kyneton 75, 20; Kangaroo Flat 60, 16; Castlemaine 41, 8; Maryborough 20, 0.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

55 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

55 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

38 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

37 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

32 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

29 William Keck, South Bendigo.

27 Cameron Manuel, Kyneton.

23 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

21 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

20 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

20 Braydon Vaz, Golden Square.

18 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

17 Andy Collins, Sandhurst.

17 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

16 Cam McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

16 Hamish Morcom, Golden Square.

16 Darcy Richards, Eaglehawk.

15 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

15 Nick Stagg, Sandhurst.

14 Callum McCarty, Strathfieldsaye.

13 Dylan Hird, Eaglehawk.

13 Liam Marciano, Eaglehawk.

13 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

A FIRST-QUARTER blitz of seven goals set up Golden Square’s big win against South Bendigo in Saturday’s 13^th round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

When these clubs met in round four it was the Bloods who claimed a one-point victory on Golden Square’s turf.

This time it was the Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs who were fired up from the first contest at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

The Dogs charged to a 46-2 lead by the first break and then scored 5.1 to 5.2 in the second.

Across the final hour the blue and gold added 9.6 to 5.6 to complete a 137-70 victory.

Braydon Vaz led the Dogs’ attack on four goals as onballer Tom Toma added three.

Other multiple goalkickers for the winners were Joel Brett, Lachlan Humphrey, Hamish Morcom and Ricky Monto with two.

The Bloods’ attack was led by Steven Stroobants, four, and Brock Harvey, three.

Golden Square’s best were Jon Coe, Tom Toma, Jack Hickman, Jake Thrum, Braydon Vaz and Liam Barrett.

Sam Langley, Josh Connolly, Riley Walsh, Tait Poyser, Mac Cameron and Alex Smith were best for the Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods.

Sandhurst’s defence was superb in the clash with Strathfieldsaye at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Dragons had worked superbly to keep Storm to just two goals for most of the match until a late surge by the visitors cut the winning margin to 27 points.

Former Richmond and Carlton mid/forward Andy Collins kicked a match-high four goals in a 67-40 victory for Sandhurst.

Storm captain Lachlan Sharp became the first in club history to play 200 senior games, but it was one of the few matches of a brilliant career where he was held goalless.

The play of James Coghlan against Sharp earned best afield honours for the Dragons.

Storm’s attack was led by James Schischka on three.

Best for the Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Sandhurst were James Coghlan, Andy Collins, Hamish Hosking, Sam Conforti, Zach Pallpratt and Noah Walsh.

Riley Wilson, Patrick Blandford, Ben Lester, Mitch Hallinan, Hunter Lawrence and Bode Stevens were best for the Darryl Wilson-coached Storm.

Gisborne’s winning run kept rolling.

The Brad Fox-coached Bulldogs were home at Gardiner Reserve to take on Kangaroo Flat.

Gisborne led 18-16 at quarter-time and blew the contest wide open as it added 6.4 to 2.1 in the seond term.

Zac Denahy went on to kick four goals and Matt Merrett added three as Gisborne won 14.19 (103) to 8.12 (60).

Tom Cassidy and Luke Ellings both kicked two goals for the Bulldogs.

Kangaroo Flat’s leading goalkickers were Sam Barnes, Connor Evans and Luke Foreman on two each.

Best for Gisborne were Zac Denahy, on-ballers Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey and Brad Bernacki, along with Matt Merrett and Zac Vescovi.

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

It was a first-up victory for Kyneton’s interim coach Darren Chambers as the Tigers played at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Chambers stepped up from being assistant after Paul Chapman stepped aside as senior coach earlier in the week because of increased work commitments.

The Tigers turned a one-goal lead at half-time into a 28-point buffer by the last after they scored 4.4 to a goal in the third quarter.

Ethan Foreman and Thomas Quinn went on to kick a team-high three goals apiece and Cameron Manuel added two as the Tigers claimed a 102-44 victory.

There were no multiple goalkickers for Maryborough.

Best for the Tigers were Lucas Iudica, Bailey McGee, Hamish Yunghanns, Caleb Fisher, Jake Summers and James Gaff.

Joel Swatton, Tom Myers, Jake Postle, Kya Lanfranchi, Aidan Medlyn and Kalan Constable played well for the Coby Perry-coached Maryborough.

Stung by defeat to Gisborne the previous round, Eaglehawk bounced back for a 100-point win at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The Travis Matheson-coached Hawks led 32-13 at quarter-time and then scored 5.2 to a behind in the second.

Lewin Davis and Jack O'Shannessy kicked three goals each as Darcy Richards, Noah Wheeler and Dillon Williams added two in a 121-21 victory.

The Hawks defence worked well to hold the Magpies to a tally of three goals.

Eaglehawk’s best were Joel Mullen, Dylan Hird, Jack Thompson, Connor Dalgleish, Dillon Williams and Blake McGregor.

Matt Filo, Callum McConachy, Bailey Henderson, Brodie Byrne, Curtis McLennan and John Watson were best for the Brendan Shepherd-coached Magpies.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

Sandhurst 211 per cent, 46 points; Golden Square 219, 44; Eaglehawk 206, 34; South Bendigo 138, 32; Strathfieldsaye 136, 32; Gisborne 128, 24; Kyneton 81, 24; Kangaroo Flat 60, 16; Castlemaine 39, 8; Maryborough 21, 0.

There are several big games in next Saturday’s round 14 action.

Sandhurst takes on past co-tenant South Bendigo at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Eaglehawk is on home turf at Canterbury Park to play Strathfieldsaye.

Kyneton and Gisborne clash at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Kangaroo Flat  meets Castlemaine on the Kangaroos’ ground at Dower Park.

Golden Square tackles Maryborough at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

57 - (2) - Joel Brett - Golden Square Seniors
55 - (0) - Lachlan Sharp - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
41 - (4) - Steven Stroobants - South Bendigo Seniors
41 - (3) - Brock Harvey - South Bendigo Seniors
33 - (1) - Lachlan Wright - Sandhurst Seniors
30 - (1) - William Keck - South Bendigo Seniors
29 - (2) - Cameron Manuel - Kyneton Seniors
26 - (3) - Lewin Davis - Eaglehawk Seniors
24 - (3) - James Schischka - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
24 - (4) - Braydon Vaz - Golden Square Seniors
21 - (4) - Andrew Collins - Sandhurst Seniors
20 - (0) - Matt Thornton - Sandhurst Seniors
19 - (1) - Harry Whitty - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
18 - (1) - Ryan Hartley - Golden Square Seniors
18 - (3) - Thomas Quinn - Kyneton Seniors
18 - (2) - Darcy Richards - Eaglehawk Seniors
18 - (2) - Hamish Morcom - Golden Square Seniors
17 - (1) - Cameron McGlashan - Eaglehawk Seniors
15 - (0) - Nicholas Stagg - Sandhurst Seniors
15 - (2) - Noah Wheeler - Eaglehawk Seniors
15 - (3) - Matthew Merrett - Gisborne Seniors
14 - (3) - Thomas Toma - Golden Square Seniors
14 - (0) - Callum McCarty - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
13 - (0) - Dylan Hird - Eaglehawk Seniors
13 - (0) - Liam Marciano - Eaglehawk Seniors
13 - (4) - Zac Denahy - Gisborne Seniors
13 - (1) - Jack Stewart - Golden Square Seniors
13 - (3) - Jack O’shannessy - Eaglehawk Seniors
12 - (2) - Jack Hickman - Golden Square Seniors
12 - (3) - Ethan Foreman - Kyneton Seniors
12 - (2) - Sam Barnes - Kangaroo Flat Seniors
12 - (0) - Jed Brereton - Strathfieldsaye Seniors
12 - (0) - Liam Collins - Kangaroo Flat Seniors

Huge test for Bloods on Gisborne’s court

A TOUGH run for South Bendigo in A-grade netball rolls on this Saturday’s 13^th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

A week after playing Kangaroo Flat, South Bendigo makes its way down the Calder Highway to play Gisborne at Gardiner Reserve.

It’s another huge challenge for the Alicia McGlashan-coached Bloods as they take on the reigning premiers.

When these clubs met in round four it was the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne which won 61-37 on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

It’s been an extended break for Gisborne since it beat Sandhurst by 11 goals on June 29 at Gardiner Reserve.

A rest for inter-league on July 6 was followed by Gisborne being drawn to play at Maryborough last round.

The Magpies are not fielding an A-grade team this season.

As the Bulldogs had a rest, South Bendigo took on Kangaroo Flat in the 12^th round.

A highlight was Alicia McGlashan playing her 300^th BFNL match.

The Bloods worked hard, but could not stop the Roos bounding away to a 23-goal win.

Kangaroo Flat will be back on its Dower Park court this Saturday to play Golden Square.

Most recent clash between the neighbours ended in a 90-35 win for the Jayden Cowling-coached Roos at Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval.

The Teigan Redwood-coached Golden Square will be determined to be a lot more competitive and take it right up to the Roos in every quarter.

The blue and gold will have gained a lot of confidence from scoring 78 goals against Castlemaine last round.

Defensive intensity will be much higher and for longer on the Roos’ court.

It’s a showdown of the birds as the Castlemaine Magpies play Eaglehawk Hawks at Camp Reserve.

Tough test for the Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine as it aims to bounce back from a big loss to Golden Square.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk played well to beat Strathfieldsaye by 13 goals last Saturday.

It’s a rest for Sandhurst in A-grade, but the maroon and blue will play Maryborough in the lower grades at Queen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigo.

Strathfieldsaye Storm has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Kangaroo Flat 180 per cent, 28 points; Sandhurst 170, 28; Gisborne 138, 28; Strathfieldsaye 93, 20; Eaglehawk 83, 20; Golden Square 74, 12; South Bendigo 76, 8; Castlemaine 56, 4.

STRATHFIELDSAYE Storm withstood a final quarter fightback by South Bendigo to Saturday’s round 15 clash in Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy action.

Stakes were high as the fifth-placed Storm took on the fourth-placed Bloods at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

South Bendigo led 28-27 at quarter-time before Storm took control to score 5.4 to 1.1 in the second.

A 26-point lead at the long break for Strathfieldsaye was six goals going into the last term after it added 5.1 to 3.3 in the third.

The final quarter was to be South Bendigo’s best as it slammed on 5.5, but Storm’s tally of two goals ensured a 104-91 victory.

Storm captain Lachlan Sharp was in superb form as he kicked a match-high seven goals.

Jack Exell marked his return from a lengthy break because of injury with four goals as Jed Brereton chipped in with three.

The Bloods’ attack was led by Brock Harvey on six.

Best for the Darryl Wilson-coached Storm were Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Gill, Ben Lester, Tim Hosking, Lachlan Sharp and Lachlan Ratcliffe.

Brock Harvey, Oscar White, Sam Langley, Andrew van Heumen, Brody Haddow and Isaiah Miller played well for the Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods.

Kyneton kept in touch with the top five after a hard-fought 17-point win at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve.

The Brendan Shepherd-coached Castlemaine started well to lead 23-16 at quarter-time.

Term two was when the Darren Chambers-coached Kyneton took control.

The Tigers added 2.4 to a point for a 32-24 lead by the main break.

Both teams scored 3.1 in the third term.

Led by the play of Ben Cameron, Jake Summers and Jye Chambers, Kyneton won an entertaining final term, 27-18, and the match, 78-61.

Ethan Foreman led the Tigers’ attack on three goals as Jordan Iudica, Thomas Quinn and Harrison Sheahan added two.

Best for the yellow and black included Ethan Foreman, Mitch Comben and Francis Randall.

A list of Castlemaine’s goalkickers and best players was not supplied.

Golden Square marked a 40-point win on Gisborne’s turf at Gardiner Reserve.

The Christian Carter-coached Golden Square led 17-6 at quarter-time and 42-25 by the long break.

A closely-fought third term went Square’s way, 27-25.

The blue and gold dominated the final term to score 4.3 to a goal to complete a 96-56 victory.

Liam Barrett led Golden Square’s attack on four goals as Tom Toma added three and Joel Brett chipped in with two.

Harry Luxmoore kicked three goals for Gisborne as Sam Graham added two.

Best for Golden Square were Ricky Monti, Ryan Hartley, Zavier Murley, Liam Barrett, Jayden Burke and Jack Geary.

Braidon Blake, Matt Weber, Liam Spear, Jack Reaper, Zac Vescovi and Harry Luxmoore played well for the Brad Fox-coached Gisborne.

A five-goal haul by gun on-baller Sam Conforti capped a best on ground performance in Sandhurst’s win at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

The Dragons kicked an incredible 12 straight goals in the opening term.

Maryborough hit back to score 2.1 in the second as Sandhurst’s accuracy went astray as it added 2.10.

Accuracy was back as Sandhurst slammed on 10.1 to nil in the third term.

In the last the maroon and blue added 4.9 to 1.1 for a 188-27 result.

Multiple goalkickers for Sandhurst were Lachlan Wright, six; Sam Conforti, five; Matt Thornton, four; Bryce Curnow, Will Moran and Nick Stagg, three; and Cobi Maxted, two.

The Magpies’ goalkickers were Kaian Constable, Bailey Jacobs, John Leathan and Brad Wootton.

Sam Conforti, Cooper Smith, James Coghlan, Hamish Hosking, Lachlan Wright and co-coach Bryce Curnow were best for a Sandhurst team jointly coached by Ash Connick.

Best for the Coby Perry-coached Maryborough were Brady Neill, Kaian Constable, Jake Postle, Joel Swatton, Kya Lanfranchi and Bailey Jacobs.

Six goals to one in the first quarter set up Eaglehawk’s win at home against Kangaroo Flat at Canterbury Park.

The Borough led 37-6 at quarter-time.

Defences were on top in the second as the Roos added 1.2 to 1.1.

The Travis Matheson-coached Eaglehawk added 5.7 in the third and just as importantly restricted the Roos to just three behinds.

Kangaroo Flat hit back to win the last, 14-4, but it was the Hawks who took the points, 85-31.

Jack and Sam O’Shannessy, and Noah Wheeler all kicked two goals for the Two Blues.

Goalkickers for the Roos were Nic Keogh, Aaron Nevins, Toby Roberts and Harry Whitty.

Eaglehawk’s best were Noah Wheelher, Connor Dalgleish, Lewin Davis, Liam Marciano, Jack Thompson and Dillon Williams.

Liam Collins, Ryan O’Keefe, Zac Rouse, Jake Hywood, Mitch Trewhella and Mitch Collins played well for the Jeremy Hayes-coached Kangaroo Flat.

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.

Highlight of next Saturday’s 16^th round will be Kyneton against Eaglehawk at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Sandhurst tackles Gisborne at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

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

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

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

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

Golden Square marks best victory of season

GOLDEN Square showed it will be a danger at senior footy finals time as it upset Sandhurst in Saturday’s 15^th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

It was a completely different looking Golden Square team which returned to Queen Elizabeth Oval for the first time since last September’s grand final win against Sandhurst.

The Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs started well to lead 27-25 at quarter-time.

In the second it was the Dragons who took control and scored 4.2 as it kept the blue and gold to a tally of 1.3.

Quarter three was dominated by Golden Square.

Square’s dominance at stoppages was a highlight and the attack capitalised on many scoring chances.

As the Dogs slammed on six goals the Dragons added just one.

It was a remarkable turnaround as the Bulldogs turned a 15-point deficit at half-time into a 13-point lead going into the final term.

As the Bulldogs added 2.4 in the last the defence worked hard to hold the Dragons to a goal.

After playing a midfield or on-ball role for most of the season, Jordan Rosengren led Golden Square’s attack on four goals in an 89-68 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for the Bulldogs were co-captain Tom Toma on three and Zac Wescott with two.

The Dragons’ attack was led by Cobi Maxted and Nick Stagg on two.

High-leaping and athletic ruckman/forward Kai Daniels continued his great form to be best on ground for Golden Square.

Others to star for the Bulldogs were Harrison Burke in defence, Tom Toma, Tom Strauch, Hugh Freckleton and Jordan Rosengren.

Best for the Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Sandhurst were Caleb Connick, Lachlan Tardrew, Jack Keating, Darcy Mills, Matt Wilkinson and Jake McLean.

A seven-goal blitz in the first quarter set up Gisborne’s victory against Eaglehawk at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne charged to a 47-14 lead by quarter-time.

The Bulldogs won the next two terms, 21-9 and 33-19.

Eaglehawk fought on to outscore Gisborne in the last, 32-25.

At the final siren Gisborne led 126-74 and in the process jumped to top of the ladder following Sandhurst’s defeat to Golden Square.

In-form forward Harry Luxmoore kicked four goals for Gisborne as Pat McKenna added three.

Other multiple goalkickers for the red, white and blue were Braidon Blake, James Gray and Matt Merrett on two.

Eaglehawk’s attack was led by Kyen Burrill-Grinton, Joel Mullen, Jack O’Shannessy and Darcy Richards with two each.

Best for Gisborne were Flynn Lakey, Harry Luxmoore, Jackson Cardillo, Zac Vescovi, Pat McKenna and Brad Bernacki.

Billy Evans, Joel Mullen, Kyen Burrill-Grinton, Jack O’Shannessy, Cam McGlashan and Brayden Frost were best for the Travis Matheson-coached Hawks.

Strathfieldsaye scored a 15-goal win on Kangaroo Flat’s ground at Dower Park.

After consecutive defeats the Luke Freeman-coached Storm made a flying start to this contest.

Storm surged to a 44-9 lead by quarter-time.

Strathfieldsaye’s run did not let up as it scored 5.4 to 1.3 in the second.

Storm won the next quarter, 31-16.

The classy Copper Jones finished with a match-high five goals as Storm kicked away for a 141-50 victory.

Other multiple goalkickers for Strathfieldsaye were Riley Mulquiny and Riley Wilson, three; Hugh Behrens and Tim Hosking, two.

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

Best for Strathfieldsaye were Lachlan Gill, Daniel Clohesy, Cooper Jones, Shannon Geary, Tim Hosking and Ethan Featherby.

Lachlan Dalziel, Campbell Smith, Luke Ellings, Dion Symons, Jake Hywood and Corey Ash played well for the Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos.

Just as they had done earlier in the season, Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants dominated in South Bendigo’s attack against Maryborough.

Harvey kicked 12 goals and Stroobants booted 10 as the Bloods surged to a 203-48 victory on Maryborough’s turf at Princes Park.

The Bloods led 38-8 at quarter-time and then scored 9.3 to 2.2 in the second.

Nine goals in the third were followed by eight goals in the last.

Although it was Harvey and Stroobants who capped off most moves, South Bendigo also had Aidan Avery chip in with three goals as Matt McNaughton kicked two.

Austin Long booted two goals for Maryborough.

Best for the Bloods were Brody Haddow, Cody Brooks, Darcy Backway, Anthony Zimmerman, Steven Stroobants and Brock Harvey.

Joel Swatton, co-coach Coby Perry, Seb Collins, Alex Brown, Beau Trahar and Kya Lanfranchi were best for a Maryborough team which has Matt Johnston as co-coach.

Castlemaine had 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.

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

Castlemaine’s line-up will be bolstered by the inclusion of St Kilda great Leigh ‘Joey’ Montagna through the Carlton Draft as the Magpies take on Kangaroo Flat at Camp Reserve.

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

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

South Bendigo has the bye.

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

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

LOCKED on 26 points, Strathfieldsaye and South Bendigo meet in Saturday’s match of the day in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s A-grade netball action.

Storm has home-court advantage at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane as sixth takes on fifth in the 15^th round.

When these teams met in round six scores were 53-all at the final whistle at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

Saturday’s duel will go a long way to determining whether the Bloods or Storm will feature in the finals action.

The Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo goes into the round leading Storm by 14 per cent.

The Bloods are on the rebound from a 49-goal loss to Sandhurst.

In the run home South Bendigo takes on Maryborough at Harry Trott Oval, but is then against two of the competition’s best in Gisborne, away, and Castlemaine, home.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye scored a 44-40 win in last Saturday’s match on Eaglehawk’s court at Canterbury Park.

After facing the Bloods, Storm will play at Kangaroo Flat, take on Maryborough at Triple M Park, and then head to Kyneton.

The Castlemaine Magpies are back on their court at Camp Reserve to play the Kyneton Tigers.

A 23-goal loss at Kangaroo Flat last round meant the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Magpies dropped to the fourth rung.

The round six match between Kyneton and Castlemaine was abandoned.

Big task for the Magpies to reclaim third place and the double chance as the run to the finals will be matches against Golden Square, away; Sandhurst, home; and South Bendigo, away.

A win for the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton at Castlemaine will keep the yellow and black in finals contention.

The Tigers were beaten in last Saturday’s home clash with Gisborne by 26 goals.

Kyneton’s run to end the home and away series involves a home game against Eaglehawk, a trek to Kangaroo Flat, and home against Strathfieldsaye.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk is back on its court this Saturday to play Kangaroo Flat.

Huge challenge for the Two Blues against the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos who dominated their latest hit-out against Castlemaine.

In round six the Roos charged to a 50-goal win against the Hawks.

Maryborough is at Princes Park to take on the unbeaten Sandhurst.

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Magpies marked their third win of the season last Saturday after a hard-fought 49-40 victory at Golden Square.

Huge test to try and maintain a high level of pressure against the slick-moving Sandhurst across four quarters.

It’s a formidable Sandhurst line-up which is coached by Tamara Gilchrist.

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

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne scored 90 goals at Golden Square in round six and on form could do so again.

Been a tough season for a young Golden Square line-up which is coached by Benita Swatton.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 219 per cent, 56 points; Gisborne 177, 48; Kangaroo Flat 161, 40; Castlemaine 121, 38; South Bendigo 107, 26; Strathfieldsaye 93, 26; Kyneton 92, 22; Eaglehawk 74, 12; Maryborough 58, 12; Golden Square 36, 0.

SOUTH Bendigo surged clear of Strathfieldsaye in the last quarter to win Saturday’s A-grade netball match in the 15^th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods and Storm played on Strathfieldsaye’s court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

A top-five berth was up for grabs as both teams were on six wins, seven defeats and a draw.

Previous meeting between the teams in round six ended 53-all at South Bendigo’s home in Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

It was another high-scoring shoot-out on Saturday.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm started well to lead 14-12 at quarter-time.

South Bendigo hit back to win the second term, 18-11.

It was a goal-for-goal for a lot of the third stanza in which Strathfieldsaye added 16 goals and the Bloods scored 13.

A two-goal lead for the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo at the start of the final term was nine by the end after the red and white kicked clear.

An 18-9 goal term sealed a 61-52 victory for South Bendigo.

Other matches across the league went as expected.

Closest tussle in A-grade was at Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve where the Magpies took on Kyneton.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton led 12-11 at quarter-time.

Castlemaine led 25-23 by the long break.

In the third the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine was able to take control through mid-court.

The Magpies won the vital third term, 12-9.

Up by five at a quarter to play, Castlemaine went on for a 48-40 victory.

Gisborne was ruthless on its court at Gardiner Reserve against Golden Square.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 14-4 at quarter-time and then dominated the second.

A 19-2 tally for the team meant Gisborne led 33-6 by the main break.

It was an impressive performance in all thirds of the court by Gisborne, especially in defence as the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square was held to 12 goals for the match.

At the final whistle the red, white and blue led 63-12.

Eaglehawk was on its court at Canterbury Park to play Kangaroo Flat.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos jumped away for a 65-20 victory against the Kylie Piercy-coached Two Blues.

A young Maryborough faced the might of the unbeaten Sandhurst in the Magpies’ home at Princes Park.

The Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough worked hard to score nine goals in the first term and be within at quarter-time.

From there the Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst won the next three terms, 22-6, 24-11 and 23-7.

A red-hot Dragons team won 90-33.

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.

Highlight of next Saturday’s 16^th round will be the showdown between top A-grade teams Sandhurst and Gisborne at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

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

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

It’s the clash of the Tigers and Hawks as Kyneton hosts Eaglehawk at Kyneton Showgrounds.

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

Round 15 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 33 lt South Bendigo 47, Eaglehawk 35 lt Kangaroo Flat 47, Castlemaine 47 d Kyneton 44, Gisborne 72 d Golden Square 31, Sandhurst bye.

B-grade:

Strathfieldsaye 46 d South Bendigo 36, Eaglehawk 48 lt Kangaroo Flat 54, Castlemaine 29 lt Kyneton 55, Gisborne 68 d Golden Square 41, Maryborough 23 lt Sandhurst 76.

B-reserve:

Strathfieldsaye 42 d South Bendigo 34, Eaglehawk 41 lt Kangaroo Flat 63, Castlemaine 38 d Kyneton 25, Gisborne 51 d Golden Square 31, Maryborough 19 lt Sandhurst 97.

17-and-under:

Strathfieldsaye 65 d South Bendigo 13, Eaglehawk 40 lt Kangaroo Flat 47, Castlemaine 66 d Kyneton 10, Gisborne 44 lt Golden Square 49, Maryborough 46 lt Sandhurst 48.

Ladders after 14 rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 189 per cent, 60 points; Sandhurst 175, 56; South Bendigo 109, 40; Kangaroo Flat 115, 36; Castlemaine 97, 32; Strathfieldsaye 84, 28; Eaglehawk 78, 24; Kyneton 64, 14; Golden Square 54, 10.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 201 per cent, 60 points; Gisborne 168, 52; Kangaroo Flat 137, 48; South Bendigo 98, 30; Strathfieldsaye 97, 30; Eaglehawk 95, 30; Golden Square 87, 24; Kyneton 84, 18; Castlemaine 53, 6; Maryborough 47, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 240 per cent, 56 points; Kangaroo Flat 190, 56; Gisborne 147, 44; Strathfieldsaye 124, 40; Eaglehawk 114, 32; South Bendigo 101, 24; Golden Square 76, 20; Castlemaine 60, 20; Kyneton 44, 8; Maryborough 40, 0.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 191 per cent, 56 points; Sandhurst 185, 56; Golden Square 153, 44; Strathfieldsaye 121, 38; Maryborough 124, 34; Castlemaine 113, 30; Kangaroo Flat 102, 22; Eaglehawk 67, 12; South Bendigo 47, 8; Kyneton 18, 0.

Bloods eye chance to pass Bulldogs in 'Bendigo Bank' round

SOUTH Bendigo will aim to climb above Golden Square on the A-grade netball ladder in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s 17^th round on Saturday.

It’s Bendigo Bank Round with matches being played in Kennington, Gisborne, Maryborough, and at Bendigo’s iconic Queen Elizabeth Oval.

South Bendigo and Golden Square will meet at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

Just four points separate sixth and seventh.

Although South Bendigo is a win behind the blue and gold, it is more than three per cent in front of its opponent.

It was a great clash when these teams met in round eight on Golden Square’s court at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street.

On that occasion the Teigan Redwood-coached Golden Square fought on to score a 38-36 victory.

This Saturday will be Golden Square’s final match of the home-and-away series as it has the bye in the 18^th round.

The Alicia McGlashan-coached Bloods round out their season by playing Golden Square and then head to Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

Reigning premier Gisborne is a strong chance to regain top spot on the ladder when it hosts Castlemaine at Gardiner Reserve.

A record of 11 wins and one defeat has the Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne in second place going into this round.

The red, white and blue is in great form approaching its showdown with the Magpies and then on Kangaroo Flat’s Dower Park court in the last hit-out before finals.

Massive challenge for a Castlemaine team aiming to rebound from last Saturday’s big loss on its court at Camp Reserve against Kangaroo Flat.

In round eight, Gisborne was under pressure for a long time before it broke away to record a 10-goal win against the Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine.

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

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst has a 10-2 record and will start favourite to take the points.

The Dragons always bring a high level of defensive heat to every match.

Latest hit-out for the maroon and blue ended in a 45-goal win on Eaglehawk’s court in Canterbury Park.

Facing Sandhurst follows Strathfieldsaye’s game against Gisborne last round.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm will be keen to perform well in the lead-up to the elimination final on September 1 against Eaglehawk.

It’s a rest for the Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk as the Two Blues are drawn to play Marborough.

The Hawks will take on the Magpies in all other grades of netball at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Kangaroo Flat has 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

Square fights on for victory

GOLDEN Square fought on for a two-goal victory in its final game of the season in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’S A-grade netball action on Saturday.

The Bulldogs took on South Bendigo on the Bloods’ court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.

South Bendigo led 12-10 at quarter-time and 22-21 by the long break.

In the third quarter it was the Teigan Redwood-coached Golden Square which lifted to win the term, 11-10.

Scores were 32-all going into the final quarter.

The blue and gold withstood a spirited challenge from the Alicia McGlashan-coached South Bendigo to mark a 42-40 victory.

It was Golden Square’s fourth win of the season.

At Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve it was a special occasion for A-grade coach Tarryn Rymer and mid-court ace Tiana Newman as both marked their 300^th matches for the club.

The reigning premier showed it’s on track to be a strong challenger again.

Gisborne led 21-3 at quarter-time and 46-5 by half-time.

The Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine kept working hard, but it was a ruthless Gisborne which won the third term, 36-6.

Although it held a 71-goal lead by the last change, Gisborne’s intensity at the contest did not let up.

The red, white and blue won the last, 24-1, on the way to a 106-12 victory.

Sandhurst won all four quarters on its way to a 55-goal victory against Strathfieldsaye at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst led 20-5 at quarter-time and 41-13 by the long break.

The maroon and blue surged clear of Storm to claim an 81-26 victory against the Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye team.

It was a rest for the Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk in A-grade, but the Hawks played Maryborough in all other grades on the Magpies’ court at Princes Park.

Kangaroo Flat had the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Gisborne 210 per cent, 48 points; Kangaroo Flat 218, 44; Sandhurst 188, 44; Strathfieldsaye 81, 24; Eaglehawk 70, 24; Golden Square 65, 16; South Bendigo 68, 8; Castlemaine 45, 4.

Top spot is up for grabs next Saturday when Kangaroo Flat takes on Gisborne on the Kangaroos’ court at Dower Park.

Eaglehawk faces South Bendigo on the Borough’s court in Canterbury Park.

Castlemaine will be home at Camp Reserve to play Sandhurst.

It’s a rest for Strathfieldsaye in A-grade, but Storm takes on Maryborough in all other grades at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

Golden Square has the bye.

Round 17 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

South Bendigo 51 d Golden Square 48, Gisborne 72 d Castlemaine 19, Sandhurst 44 lt Strathfieldsaye 45, Maryborough 51 d Eaglehawk 37, Kangaroo Flat bye.

B-grade:

South Bendigo 45 d Golden Square 27, Gisborne 82 d Castlemaine 23, Sandhurst 58 d Strathfieldsaye 32, Maryborough 26 lt Eaglehawk 54, Kangaroo Flat bye.

B-reserve:

South Bendigo 43 d Golden Square 29, Gisborne 71 d Castlemaine 30, Sandhurst 45 d Strathfieldsaye 35, Maryborough 15 lt Eaglehawk 58, Kangaroo Flat bye.

17-and-under:

South Bendigo 20 lt Golden Square 69, Gisborne 37 dr Castlemaine 37, Sandhurst 51 d Strathfieldsaye 36, Maryborough 48 d Eaglehawk 30, Kangaroo Flat bye.

League ladders:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 224 per cent, 60 points; Strathfieldsaye 124, 44; Kangaroo Flat 129, 42; Sandhurst 135, 40; Maryborough 100, 38; South Bendigo 76, 20; Castlemaine 65, 12; Eaglehawk 64, 8; Golden Square 63, 8.

B-grade:

Gisborne 197 per cent, 56 points; Sandhurst 162, 52; Kangaroo Flat 145, 52; Strathfieldsaye 106, 36; South Bendigo 92, 26; Castlemaine 75, 20; Eaglehawk 82, 18; Golden Square 74, 12; Maryborough 43, 0.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 217 per cent, 60 points; Gisborne 182, 52; Kangaroo Flat 129,40; Strathfieldsaye 127, 40; South Bendigo 119, 32; Eaglehawk 105, 24; Golden Square 67, 16; Castlemaine 54, 8; Maryborough 34, 0.

17-and-under:

Golden Square 168 per cent, 60 points; Sandhurst 224, 56; Maryborough 106, 44; Strathfieldsaye 106, 28; Castlemaine 104, 26; Gisborne 103, 26; South Bendigo 75, 20; Eaglehawk 49, 12; Kangaroo Flat 41, 0

A BRILLIANT defensive effort by South Bendigo stunned Gisborne in Saturday’s 17^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods marked one of their best victories in several seasons to hold the highly-rated Gisborne to just 28 goals at Gardiner Reserve.

Rarely beaten at home, Gisborne battled to match the Bloods’ intensity after quarter-time.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 9-7 at quarter-time, but South seized control to win the second term, 12-6.

Although Gisborne won the third, 8-7, the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo held a three-goal buffer going into the last.

Defences were on top in the final term.

The Bloods added just six goals, but more importantly limited the Bulldogs to just five to clinch a 32-28 victory.

Sandhurst’s unbeaten streak kept rolling.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst faced a danger game on Castlemaine’s court at Camp Reserve.

A year ago it was the Magpies who broke the Dragons’ winning streak in a one-goal victory.

This time a fired-up Sandhurst dominated the first term to lead 20-9 at the break.

Castlemaine hit back to win the second term, 15-14.

It was a closely-fought third quarter which went the way of the visitors, 12-11.

The Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine worked hard to win the final quarter, 13-11, but it was Sandhurst which took the points in a 57-48 result.

Kangaroo Flat was too strong for Kyneton on the Roos’ court at Dower Park.

The Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroos jumped away to a seven-goal lead by quarter-time and then led 33-19 by the main break.

Quarter three was to be the Roos’ best as they added 18 goals and held the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton to a tally of three.

A 51-22 scoreline at three quartrer-time was 64-30 by the final whistle.

Eaglehawk won every quarter on its way to a 63-35 victory against Golden Square on the Borough’s court at Canterbury Park.

The Hawks led 14-10 at quarter-time and 31-18 by half-time.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk won the third term, 19-9, but the Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square did well to score eight goals in the last and held the Two Blues to a tally of 13.

Strathfieldsaye dominated its match against Maryborough on Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm led 16-4 at quarter-time and 37-13 by the long break.

Strathfieldsaye’s relentless attack kept rolling as it scored 20 goal in the third term and held the Magpies to just nine.

The last went Storm’s way, 14-8 against a young Maryborough line-up coached by Jordan Macilwain.

At the final whistle, Strathfieldsaye led 71-30.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 210 per cent, 68 points; Gisborne 169, 52; Kangaroo Flat 167, 52; Castlemaine 120, 46; South Bendigo 113, 38; Strathfieldsaye 96, 30; Kyneton 87, 22; Eaglehawk 78, 20; Maryborough 55, 12; Golden Square 37, 0.

Highlight of next Saturday’s 18^th and final round in the home and away series will be South Bendigo against Castlemaine on the Bloods’ court at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

Sandhurst takes on Eaglehawk at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Maryborough and Gisborne meet at Maryborough’s Princes Park.

Golden Square takes on Kangaroo Flat at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Kyneton and Strathfieldsaye clash in Tigerland at Kyneton Showgrounds.

Round 17 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 46 d South Bendigo 22, Castlemaine 36 lt Sandhurst 59, Kangaroo Flat 62 d Kyneton 33, Eaglehawk 59 d Golden Square 39, Strathfieldsaye bye.

B-grade:

Gisborne 59 d South Bendigo 29, Castlemaine 31 lt Sandhurst 84, Kangaroo Flat 42 d Kyneton 29, Eaglehawk 36 dr Golden Square 36, Strathfieldsaye 52 d Maryborough 17.

B-reserve:

Gisborne 36 d South Bendigo 29, Castlemaine 12 lt Sandhurst 77, Kangaroo Flat 90 d Kyneton 23, Eaglehawk 36 dr Golden Square 36, Strathfieldsaye 67 d Maryborough 25.

17-and-under:

Gisborne 53 d South Bendigo 9, Castlemaine 26 lt Sandhurst 58, Kangaroo Flat 69 d Kyneton 10, Eaglehawk 24 lt Golden Square 58, Strathfieldsaye 35 lt Maryborough 41.

Ladders after 17 rounds:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 181 per cent, 66 points; Sandhurst 167, 62; Kangaroo Flat 118, 44; South Bendigo 104, 44; Castlemaine 97, 36; Strathfieldsaye 84, 32; Eaglehawk 83, 28; Kyneton 66, 18; Golden Square 55, 10.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 194 per cent, 66 points; Gisborne 164, 58; Kangaroo Flat 133, 52; Strathfieldsaye 105, 38; Eaglehawk 97, 36; South Bendigo 97, 34; Golden Square 91, 30; Kyneton 83, 18; Castlemaine 52, 6; Maryborough 47, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 245 per cent, 64 points; Kangaroo Flat 193, 64; Gisborne 138, 48; Strathfieldsaye 126, 44; Eaglehawk 117, 38; South Bendigo 103, 28; Golden Square 83, 26; Castlemaine 55, 20; Kyneton 42, 8; Maryborough 41, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 182 per cent, 64 points; Gisborne 186, 60; Golden Square 154, 52; Maryborough 128, 42; Strathfieldsaye 117, 38; Kangaroo Flat 112, 30; Castlemaine 105, 30; Eaglehawk 72, 16; South Bendigo 44, 8; Kyneton 18, 0.

IT’S an elimination final prelude as South Bendigo and Castlemaine meet in Saturday’s 18^th round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods and Magpies will play on South Bendigo’s court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

Although Castlemaine has had two more wins than the Bloods and holds fourth place it’s up against an opponent which won by four goals at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve last round.

The only other line-up to have won at Gisborne at this season was the unbeaten Sandhurst in a 38-32 victory in the seventh round.

Castlemaine’s trek to Gisborne in the 11^th round ended in a 29-28 win for the home team.

When the Bloods and Magpies last met in round nine it was the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine which won 44-31 at Camp Reserve.

Defensive intensity by the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo was a key factor in beating Gisborne last Saturday.

The Bloods will be aiming to bring the same or higher level of pressure against the Magpies.

Although it was almost a year ago there’s also the memory of a 28-goal loss to Castlemaine in the elimination final to spur the Bloods line-up.

In other matches to be played on Saturday, Sandhurst takes on Eaglehawk at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst will start hot favourite to mark an 18^th consecutive victory.

Last round, Sandhurst answered a spirited challenge from Castlemaine to win 57-48 on the Magpies’ court at Camp Reserve.

The Kylie Piercy-coached Eaglehawk goes into this match following a 63-35 win on its court at Canterbury Park against Golden Square.

Kyneton and Strathfieldsaye will be aiming to end their season with a victory in their showdown at Kyneton Showgrounds.

The Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton was beaten by 34 goals in last Saturday’s match on Kangaroo Flat’s court at Dower Park.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Strathfieldsaye is chasing back-to-back following a 71-30 result against Maryborough on Storm’s court at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

In round nine, Storm beat the Tigers by eight goals.

Maryborough is home at Princes Park to take on a Gisborne line-up aiming to bounce back from its fourth defeat of the season.

Massive task for a young Maryborough team coached by Jordan Macilwain.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne will be determined to put in a strong four-quarter performance in the lead-up to another qualifying final.

Golden Square and Kangaroo Flat meet on the Bulldogs’ court at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

Been a tough run for a young Golden Square squad coached by Benita Swatton.

The Kangaroos scored 106 goals against the blue and gold in the round nine clash at Dower Park.

A goal for the Jayden Cowling-coached Kangaroo Flat will be not only its attacking flair, but also strong defence as it prepares to meet Gisborne in a qualifying final.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Sandhurst 210 per cent, 68 points; Gisborne 169, 52; Kangaroo Flat 167 52; Castlemaine 120, 46; South Bendigo 113, 38; Strathfieldsaye 96, 30; Kyneton 87, 22; Eaglehawk 78, 20; Maryborough 55, 12; Golden Square 37, 0.

Ladder positions in a couple of other grades could also be switched after Saturday’s play.

In A-reserve the third and fourth-placed Kangaroo Flat and South Bendigo are locked on 44 points.

The Roos play at Golden Square, and South Bendigo meets the fifth-placed Castlemaine at Kennington.

In B-grade, the fifth-placed South Bendigo has 34 points and 97.65 per cent going into a clash with Castlemaine.

Eaglehawk is sixth on 34 points and 97.32 per cent, but up against the ladder-leading Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

SOUTH Bendigo and Castlemaine played out a draw in Saturday’s 18^th round of A-grade netball action in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods and Magpies were already locked in to meet in next Sunday’s elimination final as they took to the court at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington’s Neale Street.

A superb contest ended 45-all.

Earlier in the season it was the Fiona Fowler and Gary Cooke-coached Castlemaine which scored a 44-31 victory against the Jannelle Hobbs-coached South Bendigo on the Magpies’ court at Camp Reserve.

In pursuit of a fifth consecutive A-grade premiership, Sandhurst capped an unbeaten run in the home and away series.

The Tamara Gilchrist-coached Sandhurst took on Eaglehawk in Saturday’s match at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Sandhurst led 16-7 at quarter-time and 39-13 by the main break.

Slick passing and strong defensive efforts were keys as the maroon and blue went on to record a 79-32 victory against the Kylie Piercy-coached Hawks.

Kyneton faced Strathfieldsaye at Kyneton Showgrounds.

In what may be Kyneton’s final match in the Bendigo FNL as it awaits a move to the Riddell competition the Tigers started well in Saturday’s showdown with Storm.

At quarter-time it was Strathfieldsaye which led 10-9.

Storm surged to a 25-19 lead by the main break.

In the third the Steph Freemantle-coached Storm added 13 goals as the Tigers poured in 12.

A seven-goal lead for Storm at the start of the final was nine by the end as Strathfieldsaye marked a 53-44 win against the Dianne Guest-Oakley coached Kyneton.

Gisborne took charge after quarter-time of the clash on Maryborough’s court at Princes Park.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Gisborne led 17-13 at quarter-time and then unleashed a second term blitz of 16 goals as the Magpies added just two.

Warming up for a qualifying final, Gisborne won the next two quarters, 18-7 and 17-5 for a 68-27 result against the Jordan Macilwain-coached Maryborough.

A tough season for Golden Square ended in a clash with Kangaroo Flat at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.

The Jayden Cowling-coached jumped to a 21-1 lead by quarter-time.

In the second the Roos added 27 goals and defensive pressure was high as the Bulldogs were held to a single goal.

It was a ruthless performance by Kangaroo Flat in the lead-up to a qualifying final showdown with Gisborne.

The Roos won the third term of the match on Square’s court, 30-2.

The Benita Swatton-coached Golden Square added eight goals in the final term as the Roos went on for a 98-12 victory.

Final standings in A-grade after the 18-round home and away series:

Sandhurst 212 per cent, 72 points; Kangaroo Flat 180, 56; Gisborne 174, 56; Castlemaine 119, 48; South Bendigo 112, 40; Strathfieldsaye 98, 34; Kyneton 87, 22; Eaglehawk 75, 20; Maryborough 54, 12; Golden Square 36, 0.

Round 18 scoreboard:

A-reserve:

South Bendigo 40 lt Castlemaine 42, Kyneton 53 lt Strathfieldsaye 62, Sandhurst 55 d Eaglehawk 41, Gisborne bye, Golden Square 31 lt Kangaroo Flat 76.

B-grade:

South Bendigo 43 d Castlemaine 23, Kyneton 36 lt Strathfieldsaye 47, Sandhurst 76 d Eaglehawk 34, Maryborough 18 lt Gisborne 71, Golden Square 29 lt Kangaroo Flat 42.

B-reserve:

South Bendigo 43 d Castlemaine 31, Kyneton 21 lt Strathfieldsaye 66, Sandhurst 63 d Eaglehawk 25, Maryborough 18 lt Gisborne 69, Golden Square 32 lt Kangaroo Flat 66.

17-and-under:

South Bendigo 36 lt Castlemaine 56, Kyneton 8 lt Strathfieldsaye 74, Sandhurst 67 d Eaglehawk 23, Maryborough 40 lt Gisborne 50, Golden Square 65 d Kangaroo Flat 33.

Final ladders after 18 rounds in the home and away series:

A-reserve:

Gisborne 181 per cent, 70 points; Sandhurst 164, 66; Kangaroo Flat 125, 48; South Bendigo 104, 44; Castlemaine 98, 40; Strathfieldsaye 87, 36; Eaglehawk 82, 28; Kyneton 67, 18; Golden Square 54, 10.

B-grade:

Sandhurst 196 per cent, 70 points; Gisborne 170, 62; Kangaroo Flat 133, 56; Strathfieldsaye 106, 42; South Bendigo 100, 38; Eaglehawk 92, 34; Golden Square 90, 32; Kyneton 82, 18; Castlemaine 52, 6; Maryborough 45, 2.

B-reserve:

Sandhurst 245 per cent, 68 points; Kangaroo Flat 194, 68; Gisborne 145, 52; Strathfieldsaye 132, 48; Eaglehawk 110, 38; South Bendigo 105, 32; Golden Square 80, 26; Castlemaine 56, 20; Kyneton 41, 8; Maryborough 40, 0.

17-and-under:

Sandhurst 186 per cent, 68 points; Gisborne 181, 64; Golden Square 156, 56; Strathfieldsaye 128, 42; Maryborough 125, 42; Castlemaine 108, 34; Kangaroo Flat 106, 30; Eaglehawk 69, 16; South Bendigo 46, 8; Kyneton 18, 0.

Finals action starts next Saturday at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Teams which finished second and third have earned a double chance and will contest qualifying finals.

On Sunday it’s the elimination finals between the fourth and fifth-placed teams.

A great run by Sandhurst FNC included its A-grade, B-grade, B-reserve and 17-under teams all finishing on top of the ladder and having a week’s rest as the finals begin.

Gisborne led the A-reserve ladder.

Schedule for Saturday’s qualifying finals:

• A-grade: Kangaroo Flat v Gisborne.
• A-reserve: Sandhurst v Kangaroo Flat.
• B-grade: Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat.
• B-reserve: Kangaroo Flat v Gisborne.
• 17-under: Gisborne v Golden Square.

Draw for Sunday’s elimination finals:

• A-grade: Castlemaine v South Bendigo.
• A-reserve: South Bendigo v Castlemaine.
• B-grade: Strathfieldsaye v South Bendigo.
• B-reserve: Strathfieldsaye v Eaglehawk.
• 17-under: Strathfieldsaye v Maryborough.

McGlashan leads Bloods on Roos’ court

A PREMIERSHIP star with Kangaroo Flat, Alicia McGlashan returns to Dower Park as playing coach of South Bendigo for Saturday’s third round of A-grade netball in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

One of the league’s best across many seasons, McGlashan has stepped up from being star player to be the on-court coach for Bloods.

A one-one record has the Bloods in sixth place on the A-grade ladder.

McGlashan’s coaching debut began with a hard-fought win against Strathfieldsaye on Storm’s court at Triple M Park.

In round two it was Castlemaine which beat South Bendigo, 41-27 in the Bloods’ home at Kennington’s Harry Trott Oval.

Defeated by seven goals in the round one clash with Sandhurst, Kangaroo Flat had a rest last Saturday because Maryborough is not fielding an A-grade team.

A skilful Kangaroos’ line-up coached by Jayden Cowling will start favourite to take the points against the Bloods.

Among the players to watch for the Roos will be goaler Chloe Langley who crossed from South Bendigo.

Mid-court duels will be crucial and it’s where Flat may hold an edge through the play of Chelsea Sartori, Ash Ryan and Milly Wicks.

Key players for the Bloods include Ella Flavell, Steph Goode, Chloe Gray, and goaler Olivia Mason.

The ladder-leading Strathfieldsaye is at home in Tannery Lane to take on Eaglehawk.

Storm teamed superbly on Golden Square’s court last Saturday to record a 56-36 victory.

The Steph Freemantle-coached Storm will be aiming to bring a high level of defensive intensity and slick teamwork to a showdown with the Two Blues.

Best in Strathfieldsaye’s win at Golden Square were Brooke Mangan and goaler Claire Gibbs.

An Eaglehawk team coached by Kylie Piercy started the season with an 11-goal win against Golden Square on the Borough’s court in Canterbury Park.

Eaglehawk had the bye last round.

The Hawks’ squad includes Tiarni Baxter, Morgan Keating, Elley Lawton and Rani Madden.

The Chloe Hughes-coached Castlemaine will chase consecutive wins when it hosts Golden Square at Camp Reserve.

After a delayed start to the ’24 campaign as it was drawn to play Maryborough in the stand-alone match on Good Friday, Castlemaine played well to beat the Bloods in round two.

Although it’s winless the Chris O’Sullivan-coached Golden Square has put in some strong quarters against Eaglehawk and Strathfieldsaye.

Reigning premier Gisborne has a rest this round because Maryborough is not fielding an A-grade team.

The Tarryn Rymer-coached Bulldogs scored a 42-38 victory against Sandhurst on the court at Queen Elizabeth Oval last Saturday.

All other grades of netball between Gisborne and Maryborough will be played at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.

Sandhurst has the bye.

Standings in the Bendigo FNL A-grade netball competition:

Castlemaine 151 per cent, 4 points; Eaglehawk 133, 4; Strathfieldsaye 125, 4; Gisborne 110, 4; Sandhurst 103, 4; South Bendigo 84, 4; Kangaroo Flat 84, 0; Golden Square 69, 0.

SOUTH Bendigo won a thrilling clash on Golden Square’s turf in Saturday’s fourth round of senior footy in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.

The Bloods had not won at Fur Life Oval in Wade Street for many years.

The team in red and white snapped Square’s streak in a dramatic 76-75 result.

On the rebound from defeat, Golden Square led 28-14 at quarter-time, but the Bloods lifted to win the second, 4.3 to 1.2, and led 41-36 by the main break.

A high-scoring third quarter was marked by both line-ups scoring five goals apiece.

The Christian Carter-coached Bulldogs were back in front, 68-67.

There were plenty of defensive efforts and stoppages in the final quarter.

The Bloods score of 1.3 to 1.1 was enough to take the premiership points.

Bloods’ small forward Brock Harvey kicked four goals against his former club.

The pace and skill of Will Keck and Steven Stroobants was always going to test the Dogs and it did as they booted two goals apiece for the Nathan Horbury-coached Bloods.

Captain Jack Geary led Golden Square’s attack on three goals as Hugh Freckleton and Braydon Vaz added two each.

Bloods’ ruckman Mac Cameron played a crucial role in the victory as did Oscar White, Brock Harvey, Braydan Torpey, Tait Poyser and Isaiah Miller.

Golden Square’s best were Jayden Burke, Matt Compston, Jon Coe, Ricky Monti, Ryan Hartley and Jack Geary.

Sandhurst overcame a slow start to score a five-goal win against Strathfieldsaye on Storm’s turf at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane.

Despite illness and injury testing club depth, Storm started well to lead 14-7 at quarter-time.

Defences were well on top in the second term, but the Dragons score of 2.3 to 0.4  gave them a four-point buffer at the main break.

Both teams scored four goals apiece in the third as Sandhurst led 50-42 at a quarter to play.

Led by James Coghlan, Andy Collins and Isaac Ruff, Sandhurst fired up dominate most of the last term.

The Dragons scored 4.5 to 1.1 to complete a 79-49 victory.

Andy Collins and Lachlan Wright led Sandhurst’s attack on two goals each.

Storm key forward James Schischka kicked a match-high three goals as captain Lachlan Sharp chipped in with two.

Best for a Dragons team jointly coached by Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow included Cooper Smith, Noah Walsh and Matt Wilkinson.

Mitch Hallinan, Jed Brereton, James Schischka, Jake Moorhead, Lachlan Ratcliffe and Luke Webb were best for the Darryl Wilson-coached Storm.

Gisborne kicked away in the second half to score a 94-42 win against Kangaroo Flat on the Roos’ ground at Dower Park.

The Brad Fox-coached Gisborne led 22-15 at quarter-time and 42-27 by the long break.

In the third it was the Bulldogs who did plenty of attacking.

Gisborne scored 5.7 and held the Roos to just three points.

Matthew Merett went on to kick a match-high three goals as Shane Clough, Hayden Doricic and Macklan Lord added two each in a 94-42 win by the reigning premier.

The only multiple goalkicker for the Roos was Connor Evans on two.

Gisborne’s best were on-baller Flynn Lakey, Matt Merrett, Sam Graham, Braidon Blake, Luke Ellings and Macklan Lord.

Connor Evans, Noah Furlong, Liam Collins, Toby Roberts, Sam Barnes and Ryan O’Keefe worked hard for the Nathan Johns-coached Kangaroos.

Kyneton broke a three-match losing streak in a big way.

The Paul Chapman-coached Tigers scored 28 goals in a 156-point win against Maryborough at Kyneton Showgrounds.

It was a memorable 150^th match for key defender Harrison Huntley who also kicked two goals.

The classy Cameron Manuel won plenty of contests and kicked three goals in a best afield performance for the yellow and black.

Jake Summers kicked a match-high five goals.

Gun recruit Thomas Quinn kicked four goals and Ethan Foreman marked his best match in his return to Tigerland from Gisborne by booting four goals.

Other multiple goalkickers for Kyneton were captain James Orr, three; and Bailey McGee, two.

Goalkickers for Maryborough were Chris Freeman, Jai Howell, Matt Johnston, and captain Ty Stewart.

The Tigers’ best included Brady Muir, Jye Chambers, Ethan Foreman, Jake Summers and Dom Bennington.

Chris Freeman, Lucas Hurse, Jake Postle, Jai Howell, Cobie Read and Alex Brown were best for the Coby Perry-coached Magpies.

Eaglehawk’s forwards capitalised on the workrate of the midfield and on-ballers to score 30 goals in the clash with Castlemaine on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.

The Hawks scored 9.2 to a point in the first quarter and kicked away to lead 92-13 by half-time.

It was another nine-goal blitz in the third as Kallen Geary, ruckman Connor Dalgleish, and small forward Lewin Davis dominated.

The unbeaten Two Blues went on to win 199-33 against a young Castleamine team coached by Brendan Shepherd.

Davis kicked a match-high six goals and Darcy Richards added four.

The Geary brothers, Jarryn and Kallen chipped in with three, as did co-captain Billy Evans.

Castlemaine’s leading goalkicker was Callum McConachy on two.

Best for the Travis Matheson-coached Hawks included Marcus Angove, Billy Evans and Ben Thompson.

Brodie Byrne, Matt Filo, Callum McConachy, Liam Wilkinson, David Wilson and Jack Sutherland were best for the Magpies.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

12 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

12 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

10 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

10 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

9 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

9 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

9 Cameron McGlashan, Eaglehawk.

9 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

8 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

8 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

7 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

7 Sam Griffiths, South Bendigo.

7 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

7 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

The Graeme Wright Memorial Cup will be up for grabs when South Bendigo meets Sandhurst in next Saturday’s round five showdown at Harry Trott Oval in Neale Street, Kennington.

Maryborough is on home turf at Princes Park to take on Golden Square.

Castlemaine and Kangaroo Flat clash on the Magpies’ turf at Camp Reserve.

Strathfieldsaye is back at Triple M Park in Tannery Lane to host Eaglehawk.

Gisborne and Kyneton fight for premiership points at Gardiner Reserve.

Red-hot Dragons tackle previous QEO co-tenant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne is in great form.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maryborough has the bye.

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

20 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

17 Pat McKenna, Gisborne.

16 Fergus Greene, Sandhurst.

16 Michael Hartley, Castlemaine.

16 Harry Luxmoore, Gisborne.

16 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

9 Bailey Henderson, Castlemaine.

9 Lachlan Tardrew, Sandhurst.

8 Justin Bateson, Kangaroo Flat.

8 Jayden Burke, Golden Square.

8 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

8 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

8 Noah Walsh, Sandhurst.

8 Joel Wharton, Sandhurst.

8 Harry Whitty, Kangaroo Flat.

7 Sam Graham, Gisborne.

7 Cobi Maxted, Sandhurst.

7 Fraser Russell, Maryborough.

7 Jack Stewart, Golden Square.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On-ball duels will be a highlight.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bendigo FNL senior footy ladder:

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

Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:

12 Will Keck, South Bendigo.

12 James Schischka, Strathfieldsaye.

12 Lachlan Sharp, Strathfieldsaye.

11 Joel Brett, Golden Square.

10 Steven Stroobants, South Bendigo.

10 Lachlan Wright, Sandhurst.

9 Lewin Davis, Eaglehawk.

9 Brock Harvey, South Bendigo.

9 Thomas Quinn, Kyneton.

8 Kallen Geary, Eaglehawk.

8 Matt Thornton, Sandhurst.

7 Zac Denahy, Gisborne.

7 Ryan Hartley, Golden Square.

7 Noah Wheeler, Eaglehawk.

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.