The Amateur Footballer 2024 - Week 20

SEASON 2024

SEPTEMBER 7

EDITORIAL

VAFA Events Season

Susan Miller Marketing & Events Manager

to be held at 12:00pm in the Elsternwick Park Social Room. With a carvery lunch and drinks flowing for the two-hour duration, you will have the opportunity to hear from both Grand Finalist coaches ahead of the match.

Tickets to the William Buck Premier Women’s and William Buck Premier Men’s Grand Final Day Functions are available through VAFA.com.au and include gate entry.

When September rolls around it signifies that VAFA finals are upon us; additionally, it marks the start of events season.

The VAFA hosts several finals-flavoured events throughout the Finals Series to celebrate the season, individual accolades, team triumphs, and of course the ultimate Premiership success. VAFA events provide a landscape for a holistic celebration across the entire competition comprised of 68 Clubs and 302 teams, as well as the opportunity for all members and stakeholders of our great Association to come together, reconnect, share experiences from the season and celebrate.

The pièce de resistance of the VAFA’s events season is undoubtedly the VAFA Awards Night. The VAFA’s night of nights, awards a Best & Fairest in each section, Leading Goal Kickers, the Anytime Fitness Men’s and Women’s Rising Stars, as well as a host of other accolades that tie up the football season with a ribbon. It is always fantastic to have representation from every club of the Association and an opportunity to celebrate another season in the books with players, volunteers and committee members.

Events season kicks off this Friday 6 September with the annual William Buck VAFA Finals Luncheon. This event is an opportunity for clubs, VAFA partners and VAFA Directors to come together and celebrate the VAFA and AFL Finals Series. It is fantastic to have significant representation from VAFA’s Premium Partner, William Buck, in attendance at the luncheon.

Hosts of the VAFA’s For The Love Of The Game podcast, Jason Bennett, Joey Pignataro, and Paddy Grindlay will deliver a live podcast on stage to discuss the ins and out of finals, who has surprised and who are ones to watch; Premierships that have already been won and finals matches that are yet to be played.

We are lucky to have AFL greats Matthew Lloyd and Campbell Brown as the headline act in what promises to be an afternoon of fabulous footy entertainment.

It is always fantastic to have representation from every club of the Association

In a VAFA first, the Association will be presenting Premiership Flags at this year’s Awards Night to be held on Wednesday 9 October at the San Remo Ballroom. We hope to see Premiership team mates and coaches in attendance to accept their Premiership flags.

The Awards Night promises to be a fantastic occasion, and we look forward to celebrating with the entire VAFA community.

There is plenty on the horizon to look forward to with a couple of notable events already pencilled in on the VAFA’s 2025 Events Calendar. The inaugural VAFA Golf Day Classic will be held on Tuesday 4 February at one of Melbourne’s premier golf courses Kingston Heath. With limited spots available, head to vafa. com.au/events to register your interest.

As we move through September, we arrive at the ultimate showcase of VAFA talent when the VAFA Finals Series culminates with the William Buck Premier Women’s Grand Final as well as the William Buck Premier Men’s Grand Final. These two days are some of the biggest on the VAFA calendar and will be marked with a huge spectacle at Elsternwick Park, the home of the VAFA.

After another successful chapter of Representative Football in 2024, the VAFA will be celebrating the centenary year of the Big V in 2025! The Big V Luncheon promises to be bigger and better than ever and will take place on Friday 11 July, at an exciting new venue for this event.

There is opportunity to attend as a spectator and enjoy the contest, amenities, activations and food vendors situated around the ground, or for a more premium experience, secure your tickets to the official Grand Final Day Functions

Mark these down in your diary, as they are not to be missed!

The Amateur Footballer The Journal of the Victorian Amateur Football Association September 7, 2024 I Vol 23 No. 20 1

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S Jason Bennett

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Down to the wire in William Buck Premier Men’s The double chance, Final Four & relegation races will all come down to a thrilling final Saturday of William Buck Premier Men’s.

“It was great to see us be so competitive against a St Kevin’s team that will go deep in finals. We must regroup quickly for what is now our biggest game of the year!”

Fitzroy kept their hopes of survival alive with a fighting 16-point win over University Blacks at Brunswick Street Oval.

There was plenty on the line as Old Scotch hosted Collegians at Camberwell Sportsground. The Cardinals needed to win to remain second, while the Lions are in a race for fourth against Old Xavs.

Fitzroy kicked 3 goals in 8 minutes entering time-on in the first term, before the Blacks dominated the second quarter to hold the Roys scoreless but wasted their opportunity to seize control with the wind, kicking 2.5 to still trail by a point at the main break.

The champs failed to capitalise on their early territorial dominance until a couple of late goals gave them a 4-point quarter-time lead.

The hosts booted 5.3 to 2.3 in the third for a handy 19-point lead before the Blacks were left to rue their inaccuracy a second time, kicking 1.5 in the last to make it a total of 3.10 with the breeze (compared to the Roys’ 8.5) and that was the difference.

It was a 2-point game at the half before Collegians rode the breeze again in the third quarter. But 3.6 to 1.1 kept the Cards in the game.

However, wayward kicking hampered Old Scotch as well - 2.6 to 1.0 in the final term not enough to mow down Collegians, who hung on for what could be a season-defining 7-point win that snapped Old Scotch’s 9-game winning streak and saw them slip to third behind SKOB.

Fitzroy’s third straight win keeps their season alive, while Blacks have been drawn back into the relegation race once again.

Travis Ronaldson (Fitzroy): “Really proud of the group and our performance. Blacks were one of the form sides of the competition and we put a lot of work in preparing for them and the tough conditions.

Jordie McKenzie (Collegians): “Our contest and pressure was strong. It was very much an arm wrestle throughout the day, with our strongest quarter being the third.

“We stayed patient and were able to capitalise when we got some good looks with the breeze. Heath Ramshaw was exceptional in the midfield (37 disposals & 10 clearances) and gave us plenty of drive.

Jock Green was strong down back and Julian Turner created some great opportunities forward.”

“It was a tight and tense last quarter, and Scotch kept coming at us, but credit to the boys, we were able to stand up in some big moments and ultimately hold on for a terrific win.”

Dale Bower (Uni Blacks): “We weren’t quite at the level we had been in our 3 previous games. All credit to Fitzroy, as they were fantastic.

Mark Gnatt (Old Scotch): “Full credit to Collegians who adapted to the conditions better than we did and put us under pressure with 103 tackles. Some really valuable learnings that will help us prepare for what’s to come over the next few weeks. And that starts on Saturday against Old Xavs.”

“We left a few opportunities on the table, which hurt us. You won’t win many games kicking 5.15.”

Speaking of Old Xaverians, the Lions’ win meant they needed to beat Old Brighton to remain fourth.

St Bernard’s kicked the first five goals against St Kevin’s at TH King Oval before the hosts reduced the deficit to 18 points by quarter-time.

Wind management at Brighton Beach Oval was critical, and the Tonners’ domination out of the middle, combined with the gale at their back, saw them blitz Xavs early, ramming on 6.7 to 0.1 in the opening term.

St Kevin’s then kicked four unanswered goals with the wind in the second term to take the lead before the Snowdogs failed to kick clear with the breeze in the third.

The hosts then defended superbly into the breeze to have a commanding 38-point lead at the main break.

Four goals to three in the final term was enough for St Kevin’s to get the job done with a hard-fought 18-point win.

Xavs’ second half was much improved, kicking 6.6 to 3.5 to press the Tonners late, but the damage was done – Old Brighton officially William Buck Premier Men’s Minor Premiers for 2024, while Xavs slip from the Top 4 and must defeat Old Scotch then hope Fitzroy beat Collegians if they are to sneak into the finals.

Anthony Lynch (St Kevin’s): “After a pretty patchy and flat month from our group, it was a really positive result. St Bernard’s certainly came to play, and our ability to remain disciplined with a team-first focus across four quarters was a highlight.

Marcel Bruin (Old Brighton): “We were really focused on a great start and were really keen on bringing great effort to limiting Xavs’ quick ball movement.

“We think this win can really help return us to our best form at the right time of the year.”

“The second quarter against the breeze was super; huge workrate enabled us to get a few looks and Xavs fortunately wasted a couple of opportunities.

Steve Alessio (St Bernard’s): “We couldn’t capitalise on the wind advantage in the third quarter and that ultimately cost us in the end.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

2

ROUND 17 RESULTS

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S St Kevins: 2.3 6.5 8.6 12.11 (83) St Bernards: 5.3 5.6 6.11 9.11 (65) GOALS: St Kevins: J. Darmody 3, P. Kerr 3, C. Hodges 2, E. Mahoney 2, L. Winter 1, L. Walters 1 GOALS: St Bernards: D. Colaco 4, O. Liberatore 1, L. Said 1, M. Holland 1, B. Overman 1, K. Bharathi 1 BEST: St Kevins: B. McGee Galimberti, L. Walters, J. Andriske, S. Cameron, A. Richards, S. Critchley BEST: St Bernards: B. Overman, L. Alessio, L. Said, N. Conlan, O. Liberatore, D. Colaco

“Huge reward for the group to finish top and really set ourselves up for St Kevin’s on the return leg, and hopefully maintain momentum into the first week of finals.”

Dan Donati (Old Xavs): “We got outplayed in the first half - they used the wind really well in the first quarter, and I thought their pressure and work around the contest early gave them the ascendancy.

“It was always going to be difficult trailing on a windy arvo, but to the boys’ credit, we remained positive and managed to keep the margin under 50 at 3-quarter time, knowing we had the wind in the last.

“A really good last quarter (and second half in general) to get it back under 3 goals, but ultimately, we left too much to do against a genuine contender.”

Old Melburnians will be relegated to Premier B in 2025 after falling to University Blues by 25 points at Melbourne Uni. The Blues entered on a 7-game losing streak but made the most of the wind early, booting 6.4 to 1.1 before three goals apiece in the second term handed the Blues a 35-point half-time lead.

OMs won the second half 6 goals to 4, but as we saw at windswept venues right across Melbourne, managing the breeze early turned out to be decisive, and it was the Blues saluting for the first time since Round 9.

The win guarantees the Blues will remain in Premier Men’s, while the loss consigns OMs to relegation, given they enter the final round a game and a half from safety.

Guy Martyn (Uni Blues): “It’s been a long time between wins for us, so I was just happy for the boys to get a win. We managed to play some decent footy across all four quarters.

“Marty Gleeson and James Stewart were back to their best at either end of the ground, and I was really happy with the performance of James Curran in the midfield who was given more opportunity and made the most of it.”

Paul Satterley (OMs): “We just gave up too big a lead and, given what was at stake, needed a better start to the game. Uni Blues were back to their best.

“Disappointing for all involved at our club as enormous work has been put in across many levels. 2025 will present a great opportunity to reset under a new coach and great players and people to work with.”

ROUND 18 TIPS St Bernard’s v Old Melburnians Old Brighton

v

St Kevin’s Fitzroy

Collegians

v

Old Scotch

v

Old Xaverians

University Blues

v

University Blacks

Old Brighton: 6.7 8.7 11.12 11.12 (78) Old Xaverians: 0.1 2.5 4.6 8.11 (59) GOALS: Old Brighton: J. Segar 2, W. Lewis 2, B. Pryor 1, T. Burnell 1, H. Dick 1, N. Pavlou 1, H. Hill 1, J. Hope 1, S. Collins 1 GOALS: Old Xaverians: T. McRae 2, S. Cross 1, S. Phipps-Parsons 1, J. Soccio 1, M. Stavrou 1, E. Delany 1, A. Spralja 1 BEST: Old Brighton: H. Hill, S. Flockart, Q. Montanaro, A. Jarnestrom, F. Gregson, C. Tweedie BEST: Old Xaverians: J. Feneley, A. Spralja, T. McRae, H. Bowen, E. Delany, M. Stavrou Old Scotch: 2.5 4.9 5.10 7.16 (58) Collegians: 3.3 5.5 8.11 9.11 (65) GOALS: Old Scotch: R. Valentine 2, W. Clark 2, H. Scott 1, A. Symons 1, J. Tarrant 1 GOALS: Collegians: A. Lukic 4, D. Thomas 2, W. Pewtress 1, E. King 1, J. Carroll 1 BEST: Old Scotch: J. Tarrant, A. Franetic, S. Grant, J. Brown, A. Symons, H. Scott BEST: Collegians: S. Beilby, N. Boucher, J. Watson, M. Pinchbeck, A. Lukic, J. Walker University Blues: 6.4 9.7 13.8 13.13 (91) Old Melburnians: 1.1 4.2 7.3 10.6 (66) GOALS: University Blues: J. Stewart 4, M. James 3, S. Grimley 1, J. Lloyd 1, N. Evans 1, S. Hodge 1, D. Crognale 1, G. LaCava 1 GOALS: Old Melburnians: S. Laube 2, J. Paine 2, H. Nicholls 1, J. a’Beckett 1, L. Haysman 1, B. HAYSMAN 1, C. McKay 1, A. Richardson 1 BEST: University Blues: J. Stewart, J. Curran, M. Gleeson, M. James, C. O‚Äôshea, G. LaCava BEST: Old Melburnians: L. Templeton, H. Cooper, J. Lienert, H. Nicholls, J. Paine, B. Harding Fitzroy: 3.2 3.2 8.5 9.7 (61) University Blacks: 0.2 2.7 4.10 5.15 (45) GOALS: Fitzroy: j. turner 3, M. Laidlaw 2, J. Hart 1, H. Grace 1, H. Ramshaw 1, L. Ramshaw 1 GOALS: University Blacks: S. Ackland-Evans 2, A. Makieng 1, J. Ernest 1, L. Vescio 1 BEST: Fitzroy: H. Ramshaw, J. Green, j. turner, D. Toohey, D. Lowrie, J. McKay BEST: University Blacks: M. Gray, L. Knight, L. Vescio, H. Bennett, J. Cassidy, S. McKenzie

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S RESERVES Old Brighton: 4.3 9.3 10.7 12.8 (80) Old Xaverians: 4.3 5.10 6.12 11.14 (80) GOALS: Old Brighton: C. Hathway 4, L. Otto 2, M. Speirs 1, L. Filipovic 1, B. Jakobi 1, N. Freeman 1, L. Read 1, L. Brooks 1 GOALS: Old Xaverians: c. Whitehead 2, C. Knott 2, B. Bilston-McGillen 2, H. Bell 1, F. Pearce 1, M. Mahommed 1, H. Basset 1, W. Brusnahan 1 BEST: Old Brighton: J. Hayter, M. Freeman, T. Howard, J. Travers, L. Filipovic, C. Hathway BEST: Old Xaverians: H. Woodhouse, c. Whitehead, W. Egan, B. Bilston-McGillen, C. Knott, H. Bell Old Scotch: 2.4 8.7 12.15 15.20 (110) Collegians: 0.1 3.2 4.2 7.2 (44) GOALS: Old Scotch: M. Allen 3, H. Robenstone 2, F. Morrisby 2, A. Jones 2, S. Skinner 2, H. Japp 2, C. Jackson 1, T. Holding 1 GOALS: Collegians: L. Keam 2, G. Bowes 1, M. Pollock 1, S. Heriot 1, T. Sargent 1, B. Meachem 1 BEST: Old Scotch: M. Tassiopoulos, M. Allen, R. Walsh, C. Jackson, M. Muller, C. Schilling BEST: Collegians: J. Meacham, T. Sargent, J. Mashni, M. Pollock, B. Meachem, H. Butterss St Kevins: 2.2 6.7 8.11 14.14 (98) St Bernards: 1.4 1.5 2.7 2.8 (20) GOALS: St Kevins: O. Gill 5, B. Bryan 3, T. Davidson 1, B. Mansfield 1, T. Williams 1, J. Romanin 1, L. Mahoney 1, T. Pirola 1 GOALS: St Bernards: M. Szauer 1, M. Bateman 1 BEST: St Kevins: O. Gill, T. Davidson, B. Bryan, B. Mansfield, T. Pirola, L. Mascia BEST: St Bernards: D. Kennedy, M. Szauer, H. Fuller, C. Barrett, I. Montebello, H. Thorpe University Blues: 2.2 3.4 5.4 7.9 (51) Old Melburnians: 2.3 3.7 7.8 10.9 (69) GOALS: University Blues: J. White 3, S. Mcmenamin 2, J. Fisher 1, R. Murphy 1 GOALS: Old Melburnians: B. Jackson 4, O. Hurley 2, D. Dowling 2, C. Higgins 1, L. Curtis 1 BEST: University Blues: T. McKinnis, S. Mcmenamin, T. Ingram, L. Wylie, J. de Steiger, J. White BEST: Old Melburnians: N. Christian, O. Hurley, C. Higgins, L. Curtis, D. Dowling, H. Bede Fitzroy: 1.5 3.9 9.13 12.14 (86) University Blacks: 0.2 0.3 1.3 3.3 (21) GOALS: Fitzroy: W. Zaghis 4, C. Lester 3, T. Kewell 1, W. Hodgman 1, R. Richardson 1, P. Savage 1, C. Johnstone 1 GOALS: University Blacks: J. Connelly 1, C. Gauder 1, Z. Harris 1 BEST: Fitzroy: M. Bombardieri, L. Dean, W. Zaghis, C. Johnstone, J. Bourke, S. Suarez BEST: University Blacks: S. Robertson, H. Attiwill, A. Byrne, F. Raymond, J. Connelly, J. Delahunty 3

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

4

5

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S Lauren Atkinson

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Wild and woolly conditions give rise to weekend of blowouts Round 18 was a weekend plagued with lopsided results, as three sides went goalless. In a year of snakes and ladders, Caulfield Grammarians were the last team to climb, while the Old Yarra Cobras were able to push Melbourne University Women’s down the final slide.

In their final game of the season, Coburg hosted St Kevin’s, who were vying with Old Scotch for the minor premiership, separated only by percentage.

It has been a difficult season for Coburg, with wins hard to come by as they struggled for numbers and experienced a change of coach mid-way through the season. The Lions would no doubt be disappointed to have not made a greater impact on the competition in 2024, however, they should be buoyed by the progress and development of their young stars who look set to pounce in 2025.

The scene was set for a blockbuster match at Glen Huntly Oval, with Caulfield Grammarians and West Brunswick meeting in what was effectively an elimination final, with the winner to claim the last ticket in finals.

Disappointingly, the game turned out to be a fizzer, as West Brunswick were outclassed by the Grammarians in a onesided affair.

St Kevin’s made an inaccurate start, booting 5.8 (38) in the first half while Coburg were unable to trouble the scorers.

The second half was much of the same, as the Saints eventually ran away 54-point victors.

Kylie Lynch picked up where she left off last week, kicking the first major of the day for Caulfield within the opening minutes. Sarah Kenny also continued her hot streak with their second later in the term.

Sarah Cameron and Tess Cattle booted two goals apiece for St Kevin’s, the latter walking away with best on ground honours. For Coburg, Sarah Jolly and Dallas Rowland finished with one each.

It was only Caulfield’s inaccuracy in front of goals (2.6.18) that kept West Brunswick in the game in the first half as the Magpies barely had a sniff at goals, only registering the one behind.

Over at Harry Trott Oval, Collegians put up a good fight against ladder leaders Old Scotch, ultimately falling by 22 points.

Caulfield put the foot on the accelerator in the second half, adding another 7 goals while holding West Brunswick scoreless, to win by a whopping 61 points at the final siren.

Old Scotch got off to a strong start, as Billie Holloway lit things up with two goals in a minute to earn her side a 13-point lead going into the first break. However, Collegians dominated the second term, scoring two majors of their own to bring the margin back to 2 points.

Molly Denahy Maloney was instrumental in the victory, dominating the ruck while also able to act as an additional midfielder, while Georgia Foran impressed with her skilful ball use.

It was star forward Eloise Defina’s turn to shine in the second half, stretching Old Scotch’s lead back out with another three majors. While Collegians were able to get the ball into their forward 50 on several occasions, they struggled to get any clean possession, only kicking one behind for the half.

Taylah Watson was the clear standout for West Brunswick, bursting from the pack again and again.

While it was a heartbreaking end to the Magpies’ season, they should be proud of the charge they made for the coveted top four spot, winning 8 of their last 11 games to only fall at the final hurdle.

It has been a disappointing end to the season for Collegians, however, Maddi Shaw can go into the off-season with her head held high knowing that she continuously put her body on the line for her team.

For Caulfield, it was a day full of celebration, as they not only locked away their spot in finals, but also celebrated Pride Round as a club. The team also toasted to dynamic duo, Sarah Kenny and Kylie Lynch, who shared the goals in their milestone 50 th game, taking home three each. The celebrations didn’t stop there when the club found out during the week that the Round 18 Anytime Fitness Women’s Rising Star was one of their own; none other than Charlie Anderson.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

For Old Scotch, Bella Gray was terrific, intercepting every ball that came her way. Lambert-Pearce medallist Jordan Mifsud was also at her best, hitting up her teammates with pinpoint accuracy.

The win locks in the minor premiership for Old Scotch, with the team making history in just their second season in the William Buck Premier competition.

6

ROUND 18 RESULTS

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S

For their final match of the home and away season, Kew travelled to take on Monash Blues, whose position at the bottom of the ladder had already seen them confirmed as wooden spooners prior to the round commencing.

The match was a reflection of both sides’ respective positions in the competition; however, Monash would still be disappointed that they were unable to register a score for the day.

Coburg: 0.0 0.0 1.0 2.1 (13) St Kevins: 3.5 5.8 7.12 9.13 (67) GOALS: Coburg: D. Rowland 1, S. Jolly 1 GOALS: St Kevins: T. Cattle 2, S. Cameron 2, K. Stanton 1, A. Embelton 1, H. Kenealy 1, Z. Guss 1, J. Joyce 1 BEST: Coburg: BEST: St Kevins: T. Cattle, Z. Guss, B. Doyle, A. Embelton, E. Condon, K. Stanton Caulfield Grammarians: 2.3 2.6 7.7 9.8 (62) West Brunswick: 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 (1) GOALS: Caulfield Grammarians: S. Kenny 3, K. Lynch 3, C. Peters 1, S. Pribil 1, G. Moody 1 GOALS: West Brunswick: BEST: Caulfield Grammarians: M. Denahy Maloney, G. Foran, C. Peters, K. Lynch, C. Anderson, M. Purcell BEST: West Brunswick: T. Watson, A. Fithall, M. Hammond, S. Scott-Hickie, C. Balbata, K. De Pellegrini

Kew were comfortable heading into half time with a 30-point lead, which stretched out to 76 points by the end of the day.

Claire Dyett kicked three goals in her best game of the season, while captain Rachel McDonough booted two, as did vicecaptain Alexandra Fitridge. Grace Osborne was named best on ground, while Ella Stephenson was the Blues’ best.

Finally, Old Yarra Cobras hosted Melbourne University Women’s at Doncaster Reserve in a do-or-die relegation battle.

Old Yarra Cobras: 1.1 5.2 6.5 9.7 (61) MUWFC: 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0) GOALS: Old Yarra Cobras: E. Buckley 3, C. Baldassarre 3, E. Woodford 1, I. Zafiriou 1, S. Damon 1 GOALS: MUWFC: BEST: Old Yarra Cobras: E. Lee, E. Woodford, N. Phipps, E. Buckley, S. Damon, J. Major BEST: MUWFC: A. Roan, I. Robson, V. Holt, L. Harris, J. Collins, B. Randall

Coming into the game, MUWFC were the favourites being two points clear of Old Yarra Cobras with a superior percentage.

Having not recorded a win since Round 6, the Cobras were desperate to find their early season form that saw them go 3-3 in the first six rounds.

Monash Blues: 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0) Kew: 3.1 4.6 7.9 11.10 (76) GOALS: Monash Blues: GOALS: Kew: C. Dyett 3, A. Fitridge 2, R. McDonough 2, T. Nash 1, l. stevens 1, E. Brown 1, A. Dawborn 1 BEST: Monash Blues: E. Stephenson, E. Grills, C. Linehan, S. Dekker, S. Lock, S. Rose BEST: Kew: G. Osborne, C. Dyett, L. Mayne, D. Villiva, M. Harding, R. McDonough

All eyes turn to finals now for Kew who have a showdown with Caulfield awaiting.

Collegians: 0.1 2.1 2.1 2.2 (14) Old Scotch: 2.2 2.3 4.5 5.6 (36) GOALS: Collegians: E. Angelopoulos 1, J. Thomas 1 GOALS: Old Scotch: E. Defina 3, B. Holloway 2 BEST: Collegians: m. shaw, A. Hose, S. Skinner, M. Harrison, K. Russell, E. Angelopoulos BEST: Old Scotch: B. Gray, J. Mifsud, G. Fraser-Smith, E. Defina, J. Wise, M. Caffry

The formula was clear for both sides – percentage was irrelevant; a win would guarantee the right to remain in William Buck Premier competition for another year.

It was a tough first term as both sides adjusted to their nerves and the blustery conditions. Only Cecilia Baldassarre managed a goal which provided Old Yarra a 7-point lead at the first change. WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S RESERVE With the wind on their side, Old Yarra unleashed in the second term, kicking four unanswered goals to make things extremely difficult for Melbourne University going into the second half.

The major break did not help the visitors, as the Cobras continued to dominate in the second half. The compelling 9.7 (61) to 0.0 (0) result proves that Old Yarra Cobras are deserving of a place in William Buck Premier, while MUWFC will have several areas of improvement to focus on in Premier B next year.

Despite the grim result, Angelena Roan and Isabella Robson impressed for the Mugars, while Evie Lee and Erin Woodford were instrumental in getting the Cobras over the line.

Coburg: 0.0 4.2 4.2 St Kevins: 2.1 3.2 5.4 GOALS: Coburg: A. Duguid 1, E. Maitland 1, J. McArdle 1, J. Laffey 1 GOALS: St Kevins: A. Straford 3, A. Wallace 2, I. Hoal 1, G. Nolan 1 BEST: Coburg: M. McNally, C. Cashman, A. Adams, T. Murphy, J. Laffey, T. Brett BEST: St Kevins: I. Hoal, A. Straford, S. Vallejo, D. Garcia, M. Weinstein, G. Nolan

4.3 (27) 7.5 (47)

Collegians: 1.3 3.3 3.4 5.4 (34) Old Scotch: 0.0 1.1 1.1 1.3 (9) GOALS: Collegians: B. Tuszynski 3, A. Henderson 1, C. Mcdermott 1 GOALS: Old Scotch: A. Connor 1 BEST: Collegians: K. White, C. Mcdermott, K. Dudley, Z. Gurr, A. Henderson, C. Pritchard BEST: Old Scotch: S. Beddison, A. Stubbings, E. Crump, J. Cheng, J. Palmer, Z. Fodor Caulfield Grammarians: 0.6 0.6 1.7 1.7 (13) West Brunswick: 0.0 1.0 2.1 2.3 (15) GOALS: Caulfield Grammarians: D. Hadwin 1 GOALS: West Brunswick: I. Reynolds 1, G. Fogarty 1 BEST: Caulfield Grammarians: P. Laurie, G. Casey, R. Finster, D. Hadwin, R. Hong, E. Rawson BEST: West Brunswick: A. Boyce, J. Still, I. Reynolds, R. Ullrich, A. Lound, M. Mullins

Looking ahead to this weekend, two fiery contests await. First up, Kew and Caulfield will face off in an elimination final at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday, with Kew seeking revenge for the 1-point loss they were dealt in Round 16. On Sunday, Old Scotch and St Kevin’s will meet at Elsternwick Park, with the winner to book a spot in this year’s Grand Final.

Monash Blues: 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 (6) Kew: 3.1 5.5 8.9 11.12 (78) GOALS: Monash Blues: L. Das 1 GOALS: Kew: BEST: Monash Blues: G. Koster, E. Millen, S. Blackshaw, D. Gower, L. Das, H. Moffatt BEST: Kew: y. vinycomb, D. Graham, K. Camilleri, j. carey, E. Laussen, L. Potts

SEMI FINALS TIPS

Old Yarra Cobras: 4.1 7.2 9.4 11.6 (72) MUWFC: 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0) GOALS: Old Yarra Cobras: T. Limburg 4, S. Finch 2, B. Harris 2, K. Lyth 2, S. Cleverly 1 GOALS: MUWFC: BEST: Old Yarra Cobras: E. Westwood, J. Morton, R. McGavin, T. Limburg, S. Finch, K. Lyth BEST: MUWFC: G. McDonald, A. Stephens, C. Kaschula, I. Raines, I. Moller, I. Grutzner

Kew v Caulfield Grammarians Old Scotch v St Kevins 7

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

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PREMIER B MEN’S Paddy Grindlay

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Premier B relegation race reaches conclusion In a heel-turn for how many expected the Premier B homeand-away season to conclude, Beaumaris has drawn the short straw, falling into the bottom two for the first time since Round 1 and punching a ticket to Premier C football in 2025.

Old Trinity needed to win to shore up its place in third, and in doing so have locked in a semi-final with Old Geelong this weekend at Trevor Barker Beach Oval.

“They’ve been a real solid side - they had one little blip against Old Haileybury, but aside from that, they’ve been a pretty consistent side over the last two seasons,” said coach Donald McDonald. “I think ‘Browny’ (OGs coach Nathan Brown) has put a really good system in place with them they move the ball well, they’ve got a great ruck and midfield, and they’ve got plenty of options up forward.”

The Sharks, who have struggled this year due to injury and availability, started last weekend with a game and a tick under 4% on Caulfield Grammarians, who had not won a game since Round 5 and had been in ninth place since Round 15.

But the Fielders saved their best performance of 2024 for last, defeating Old Camberwell 16.10 (106) to 7.11 (53) at Glenhuntly Oval, while the Sharks went down to Old Trinity by 42 points.

The OGs in any other week would be the story of the round, Nathan Brown’s men making a statement in Round 18 by handing De La Salle its first loss since Round 9 - fittingly, also at the hands of Old Geelong.

The four-point gap made up, all eyes turned to the percentage column - and it was good news for Caulfield Grammarians, Guy McKenna’s team safe out of the drop zone by 1.99%. “I told the group, ‘all we have to do is just win,’” said McKenna. “‘Forget what Beauy are doing, we have to control what we’re doing.’”

But where last time’s contest was gritty and low-scoring, last Saturday’s match saw 32 goals kicked, the OGs starting on fire to take a stunning 46-point lead at half time.

“They were dominant around stoppage and made the most of the wind advantage in the first quarter,” said De La coach Nick Hyland. “We couldn’t really get our game going and struggled to find any rhythm, but credit to Old Geelong as they didn’t allow us to.”

Julian Dobosz kicked five goals in his best performance in front of goal since Round 5, under 19s player Nick Madgwick booted three in his best senior performance, while Jack Webster was excellent on his wing.

This will be Old Geelong’s first-ever finals campaign in Premier B - and they go in red-hot, the likes of Tim Jones (32 disposals, 21 clearances), Jack Sheridan (16 disposals, 69 hitouts) and Sam Barnett (23 disposals, two goals) in great form. “This young group’s done something that’s never been done - this club’s been around nearly 70 years,” Brown said.

“They were ecstatic. The players were jumping for joy,” said McKenna. “We had extra motivation - we both went to gear four, but we had the extra gear and the turbo button to push.”

Josh Bourke’s Beaumaris side, which played before the Fielders, expected to see a stronger Caulfield side named and knew it needed a big performance. At three quarter time, the Sharks trailed the Ts by two points - but Old Trinity came home strongly with the wind.

With De La’s loss, Old Haileybury was assured of top spot regardless of outcome but finished the home-and-away season strongly with a 17.14 (116) to 8.7 (55) defeat of Old Ivanhoe. The eye is drawn to Charlie Harrop’s outing: 24 disposals, 11 marks and nine goals in an astonishing display in blustery conditions.

“I was fairly confident that Caulfield would have a pretty reasonable win, and it was upon us to have a real crack,” said Bourke. “I certainly didn’t hide or protect (the players) from a little bit of frustration (post-match). Yes, we’ve been significantly hampered by availability, but at the end of the day there’s been a number of games where I’ve felt that we’ve had enough on the park (where we could win).

“We got a good look at one of the best teams in the competition on Saturday,” said Old Ivanhoe coach Jarrod Gieschen. “Although I was happy with our playing group’s effort and endeavour, there was a noticeable skill and class gap between the two sides.”

“At the same time I signalled there was some real pride that in a tough year a portion of the group had really stuck fat and fought it out. That effort’s worth acknowledging.”

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

Old Ivanhoe’s year has been promising after rising from Premier C, the Hoers still a mathematical chance for finals going into Round 18 but having their hopes extinguished by 10

ROUND 18 RESULTS a loss to the ladder-leaders. “We learnt a lot about what is required to be competitive at Premier B level this year and our best footy was very exciting,” Gieschen said.

Old Haileybury’s semi-final with De La Salle will be must-watch football from Box Hill City Oval, kicking off from 2:10pm this Saturday.

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers has finished its 2024 season on a high note, holding off Williamstown CYMS’ late charge to win just its third game of the year. Brindisi Street was rocking on past players day, and Brad Berry’s quarter time and three-quarter time huddles were well populated as a Tigers team intent on farewelling Premier B football with a victory was stirred into a frenzy. “We probably underrate that home ground advantage, the whole ‘Brindisi Street’ thing,” laugh Berry With two more club debutants - bringing this year’s figure of new players to a whopping 25 and a total of 49 players used - Berry’s men found a gear, the likes of Matt Lehpahmer, Jake Harding, Max Hoult and Jack Ferraro key. Ferraro exploded into the game with four first-quarter goals and would finish with five for the game after receiving some closer checking after the first break.

Aided by the wind, the Tigers led by 36 points at quarter time, the CYs forced to play catch-up from that point onwards. “I thought their ability to chain on hands and run out of stoppages was amazing,” said CYs coach Con Terzoglou.

At the final break, with the wind at their backs, the CYs had a 20-point deficit to haul in and had their opportunities on goal with eight scoring shots to two. But the Tigers held fast, only one CYs scoring shot resulting in a goal, and St Bedes/Mentone held on to win 15.10 (100) to 11.15 (81).

It’s a win that should serve as a launchpad for Berry’s young and hungry group, with a 2025 season in Premier C ahead. “We needed that (win) to go into the off-season,” he said.

For Terzoglou, it’s been a great escape from what looked to be almost certain relegation - but it’s ultimately one win short of the six-win goal he set for his side at the King’s Birthday break. “The lesson here is about resilience. That’s the one-word answer,” he said.

“The plan that we had going into the season was derailed reasonably early on. Sitting 1-7 going into the King’s Birthday break, you have to re-assess…we stumbled early (in our plan) and persevered.”

In this Saturday’s second semi-final, Old Haileybury and De La Salle will play for a place in the Grand Final from 2:10pm at Box Hill City Oval, before Old Trinity and Old Geelong battle for the preliminary final slot at Trevor Barker Beach Oval from 2:40pm.

SEMI FINALS TIPS Old Haileybury v De La Salle Old Trinity v Old Geelong

PREMIER B MEN’S St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: 8.4 10.6 15.8 15.10 (100) Williamstown CYMS: 2.4 8.7 10.8 11.15 (81) GOALS: St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: J. Ferraro 5, B. Martin 2, S. Beasley 2, J. Behnk 1, L. Hanson 1, J. Harding 1, M. Lehpamer 1, D. Goodman 1, M. Hoult 1 GOALS: Williamstown CYMS: W. Smyth 3, H. Miller 2, N. Sayers 1, R. Cockerell 1, J. Busuttil 1, R. Diwell 1, Z. Provest 1, Z. Galea 1 BEST: St Bedes / Mentone Tigers: M. Hoult, B. Murphy, L. Palfrey, J. Behnk, J. Ferraro, S. Beasley BEST: Williamstown CYMS: N. Sayers, R. Diwell, J. Haines, W. Smyth, R. Cockerell, H. Miller Caulfield Grammarians: 1.1 10.7 10.8 16.10 (106) Old Camberwell: 3.4 3.4 6.7 7.11 (53) GOALS: Caulfield Grammarians: J. Dobosz 5, N. Madgwick 3, J. Hutchings 1, W. Vesely 1, O. Ursini 1, C. Cooke 1, D. Ting 1, A. Loughnan 1, I. Dammersmith 1, O. Lowe 1 GOALS: Old Camberwell: L. Thomas 2, C. Finlayson 1, R. West 1, P. Blew 1, D. McColl 1, H. Laukens 1 BEST: Caulfield Grammarians: J. Dobosz, J. Webster, W. Vesely, O. Lowe, S. McInerney, N. Sutherland BEST: Old Camberwell: L. O‚ÄôNeill, R. West, J. Allen, B. Hart, H. Veitch, D. McColl De La Salle: 1.5 5.8 10.11 14.12 (96) Old Geelong: 7.6 13.6 17.8 18.11 (119) GOALS: De La Salle: A. Indovino 5, L. Healy 3, T. Lyngberg 2, C. Algeri 1, H. Curtis 1, C. Bedford 1, L. Wood 1 GOALS: Old Geelong: M. Wallis 4, C. Dixon 3, P. Kol 2, N. Morwood 2, S. Barnett 2, M. Nicholls 1, H. Kol 1, J. Adams 1, T. Breadmore 1 BEST: De La Salle: L. Healy, A. Indovino, T. Lyngberg, J. Stewart, S. Fisher, T. Filipovic BEST: Old Geelong: J. Sheridan, M. Wallis, S. Barnett, P. Kol, M. Nicholls, W. Eggins Old Haileybury: 4.3 8.6 12.8 17.14 (116) Old Ivanhoe: 3.1 3.2 8.6 8.7 (55) GOALS: Old Haileybury: C. Harrop 9, A. Stefanakis 3, J. Bell 2, P. Gleadhill 2, C. Riley 1 GOALS: Old Ivanhoe: W. Murphy 2, L. Scuderi 2, M. Mitris 2, M. Whiteman 1, A. Franklin 1 BEST: Old Haileybury: C. Harrop, B. Steele, J. Gasparini, D. Seccull, R. Seccull, C. Riley BEST: Old Ivanhoe: H. Reid, W. Murphy, J. Harper, N. Riddle, M. Mitris, T. Nagel Beaumaris: 1.2 3.4 9.7 10.7 (67) Old Trinity: 4.3 8.8 9.9 16.13 (109) GOALS: Beaumaris: T. Spencer 3, L. Pecer 2, N. Dear 2, T. Murray 1, O. McMaster 1, W. Skinner 1 GOALS: Old Trinity: H. Beasley 4, D. Payman 3, T. Ferrier 2, C. Manoussakis 2, L. Davidson 2, F. Robertson 1, S. Barendregt 1, S. Barendregt 1 BEST: Beaumaris: R. Virtue, P. Pecer, J. Challands, N. Dear, C. Heath, T. Spencer BEST: Old Trinity: L. Jackson, L. Davidson, S. Phillips, C. Manoussakis, H. Beasley, G. Belcher

PREMIER B MEN’S RESERVES Beaumaris: 3.3 4.3 5.6 5.6 (36) Old Trinity: 3.0 6.7 7.13 11.20 (86) GOALS: Beaumaris: A. Reark 1, R. Whitehouse 1, A. Poll 1, D. Kelly 1, N. Beveridge 1 GOALS: Old Trinity: E. Chard 4, L. Scobie 3, H. TAYLOR 2, H. Taylor 1 BEST: Beaumaris: A. Reark, R. Whitehouse, N. Hayes, B. Young, O. Phillips, S. Coote BEST: Old Trinity: T. Rasdell, C. Pohl, R. Hughson, H. Taylor, E. Chard Caulfield Grammarians: 4.1 7.13 9.15 15.20 (110) Old Camberwell: 3.4 3.4 6.8 7.9 (51) GOALS: Caulfield Grammarians: N. van der Linden 4, D. Sherman 3, B. Mullen 3, L. Sari 1, C. Pietsch 1, L. Lawrence 1, H. McKenzie 1, H. Appel 1 GOALS: Old Camberwell: O. Purcell 2, M. Vogel 2, A. Warburton 1, C. Hillier 1, S. Bennett 1 BEST: Caulfield Grammarians: H. McKenzie, L. Sari, N. van der Linden, H. Neave, H. short, B. Mullen BEST: Old Camberwell: T. Heavey, O. Purcell, M. Vogel, H. Kimmitt, S. Bennett, K. Buntine Old Haileybury: 2.0 3.3 4.6 5.6 (36) Old Ivanhoe: 5.2 5.6 9.9 12.13 (85) GOALS: Old Haileybury: M. WALSTAB 2, J. Hardeman 1, B. Prior 1, A. Williamson 1 GOALS: Old Ivanhoe: J. Erman-Keogh 6, G. Battistella 2, F. Knight 2, N. Hill 1, B. Gliddon 1 BEST: Old Haileybury: P. McPhee, W. Abraham, S. Connolly, J. Gillon, N. Traficante, T. McPhee BEST: Old Ivanhoe: B. Gliddon, E. Worsam, N. Hill, N. Graham, T. corben, D. Steele St Bedes/Mentone Tigers: 4.2 8.6 11.7 15.10 (100) Williamstown CYMS: 4.2 4.2 8.6 9.10 (64) GOALS: St Bedes/Mentone Tigers: L. Bowles 7, J. Cain 2, T. Aughterson 2, S. Dimachki 1, C. McFarlane-Squires 1, E. Hale 1, A. Barba 1 GOALS: Williamstown CYMS: J. Walker 3, H. Azzopardi 2, B. Johnson 1, L. Taylor 1, C. Taylor 1, L. Downey 1 BEST: St Bedes/Mentone Tigers: L. Bowles, T. Nash, S. Dimachki, B. Goodchild, K. Chandler, B. Williams BEST: Williamstown CYMS: H. Azzopardi, A. Greaves, C. Diwell, L. Downey, J. Walker, D. Bolonis De La Salle: 2.0 4.1 5.3 7.6 (48) Old Geelong: 4.1 5.6 7.9 8.10 (58) GOALS: De La Salle: K. Rossiter 2, J. Harper 1, D. Kaminaris 1, H. Pietsch 1, S. McNidder 1, J. Wiseman 1 GOALS: Old Geelong: H. Gubbins 3, D. Morgan 2, J. Grimshaw 1, W. Simson 1, T. Wilson 1 BEST: De La Salle: S. McGraw, N. Jarvis, T. Fogarty, S. Pennell, S. McNidder, K. Rossiter BEST: Old Geelong: J. Dunstan, M. Planner, M. Kirkwood, S. Jess, T. Hosking, H. Gubbins 11

PREMIER B WOMEN’S Kylie Lynch

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Old Geelong make history in a memorable Grand Final victory over Fitzroy In a Grand Final for the ages, Old Geelong claimed their first-ever VAFA Senior Women’s Premiership, defeating Fitzroy in the Premier B Women’s Grand Final by a mere 7 points in a gripping contest at Elsternwick Park. The 5.6 (36) to 4.5 (29) victory was not just a historic moment for Old Geelong, but also a showcase of the talent and depth of women’s football in the VAFA competition. The windy conditions, with a clear scoring end on the southern side of the ground, added an extra layer of intrigue to a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final siren.

The competition’s leading goal scorer Matilda Arthur then brought the scores level with a well-taken goal, before Celia Cody and Mietta Passon took some unbelievable marks in front of goal and converted to put Old Geelong ahead. The Old Geelong fans found their voice as their team surged. By halftime, Old Geelong had turned the game on its head, taking a 4.2 (26) – 2.2 (14) lead into the break, with Fitzroy managing just a solitary behind for the quarter.

The third quarter saw Fitzroy return to the scoring end, and they took full advantage. Nessa Cooney Hunt was again in the thick of the action, adding two more goals to her tally and bringing her team right back into the contest.

Her ability to find space and her accuracy in front of goal were key to the Roys’ resurgence.

Fitzroy, with the wind at their backs at the start, made the most of the advantage in the first quarter. Their forward pressure was relentless, and they kept the ball locked in their attacking half for most of the term.

Esther Boles was the first to impact the scoreboard, taking a brilliant, contested mark in front of goal and converting to give Fitzroy the early lead. Nessa Cooney Hunt, who had been a standout throughout the final’s series, added another goal with a composed finish from a set shot, extending Fitzroy’s lead.

Old Geelong, on the other hand, found themselves under constant pressure as Fitzroy piled on the attack. Despite the best efforts of their defence, with Kathleen Dunn leading the charge and taking some great intercept marks, Old Geelong struggled to clear their defensive zone. As the quarter wore on, Fitzroy’s dominance became more apparent, and by the time the siren sounded to end the third quarter, they had regained the lead, with the scoreboard reading 4.5 (29) to 4.2 (26) in their favour.

Old Geelong’s tackle pressure was immense, with some very hard hits. However, they struggled to clear their defensive 50, with Fitzroy’s midfield applying intense pressure. Despite their best efforts, Old Geelong could only manage a single behind for the quarter, and as the siren sounded to end the first term, Fitzroy held a 2.1 (13) – 0.1 (1) lead.

With everything to play for in the final quarter, both teams threw everything they had into the contest. For Old Geelong, skipper Brooke McKay was everywhere, with speed and athleticism that saw her making some great clearances towards the scoring end.

With the wind now in their favour, Old Geelong came out for the second quarter with renewed energy and purpose.

From the first bounce, their tackling pressure intensified, and they began to win the crucial midfield battles that had eluded them in the opening term.

It became a game of surge footy, with both teams just getting the ball to boot to gain territory, knowing they needed to take their chances if they were to claim victory.

The wind continued to play a significant role, with neither team able to break the deadlock early in the quarter.

Sophia McCarthy was the catalyst for Old Geelong’s comeback, kicking their first goal of the day after a strong mark inside 50. The goal seemed to ignite Geelong, who began to dominate possession and territory. Fitzroy’s defence, which had been resolute in the first quarter, was suddenly under siege.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

The tension around Elsternwick Oval was palpable as the clock ticked down. Fitzroy had several opportunities to extend their lead, including a crucial free kick in front of goal after a late hit by Old Geelong. However, nerves seemed to get the better of Fitzroy’s forwards, and they were unable to convert their chances.

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GRAND FINAL RESULTS With the scores locked at 4.6 (30) to 4.5 (29) for majority of the term and time running out, the game was on a knife’s edge. The turning point came in the dying moments when Sophia Rothfield, who had been a standout for Geelong all day, found herself in space inside 50. Gathering the ball cleanly and bursting through a pack, she steadied herself and launched a shot from a very tight angle that sailed through the middle of the goals, sparking wild celebrations from the OGs faithful.

Fitzroy, to their credit, fought to the final siren, but Old Geelong’s defence held firm. As the final siren sounded, the scoreline read 5.6 (36) to 4.5 (29) in Old Geelong’s favour, confirming their status as 2024 Premier B Women’s Premiers and the first senior women’s team to win a Grand Final in their club’s history.

Old Geelong showed incredible resilience to fight back from a slow start and claim their first-ever Premiership. This victory was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

Coach Jack Crameri thanked the Williamstown CYMS for setting the standard for the competition and said that the game was “a representation of what women’s footy has become.”

An elated Old Geelong captain, Brooke McKay said, “we went out with a goal of making history and we’ve done it.”

In what would’ve been a very difficult decision to make with such talent displayed on the day by both teams, Sophia Rothfield received the best on ground medal, which was solidified when she won her moment and scored the gamewinning goal in the dying moments of the game.

Fitzroy, while undoubtedly disappointed, can hold their heads high. Captain Steph Pitt exemplified true sportsmanship in a warming address at the presentation, sharing her pride in her team and club, while congratulating Old Geelong for their performance on the day.

Nessa Cooney Hunt for Fitzroy was superb with three goals, and Esther Boles’ early impact set the tone for a fierce contest. Olivia Brilliant and Simone Mooney were also instrumental in Fitzroy’s performance, and their efforts will be remembered as part of a Grand Final that could have easily gone either way.

This Grand Final had it all – drama, tension, and a fairytale ending for Old Geelong, who stood tall and etched their names in the history books as the 2024 VAFA Premier B Women’s champions.

As the celebrations began for Old Geelong, the significance of the achievement was clear. This was more than just a Premiership win; it was a moment of history for the club, a reward for years of persistence, and a victory that will be remembered for years to come.

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PREMIER B WOMEN’S Old Geelong: 0.1 4.2 4.2 5.6 (36) Fitzroy: 2.1 2.2 4.5 4.5 (29) GOALS: Old Geelong: S. McCarthy 1, M. Arthur 1, M. Passon 1, C. Cody 1, S. Rothfield 1 GOALS: Fitzroy: N. Cooney Hunt 3, E. Boles 1 BEST: Old Geelong: A. Latimer, M. Passon, C. Cody, B. Mckay, S. Rothfield, K. Dunn BEST: Fitzroy: O. Brilliant, S. Mooney, N. Cooney Hunt, M. de Bondt, L. Atkinson, S. Lynas

PREMIER B WOMEN’S RESERVES Fitzroy: 4.4 6.4 9.4 11.5 (71) Westbourne: 0.0 1.2 1.2 1.5 (11) GOALS: Fitzroy: C. Haritopoulos 5, A. Lietz 2, C. Poole 1, T. Tonzing 1, H. Fitzgerald 1, C. Kelly 1 GOALS: Westbourne: T. Huta 1 BEST: Fitzroy: C. Haritopoulos, C. Hetherington, A. Lietz, E. Bourke, M. McLachlan, T. Tonzing BEST: Westbourne:

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PREMIER C MEN’S Raj Johnston

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Old Carey defeats AJAX to secure the double chance Marcellin recorded their fifth victory as they defeated Mazenod by 12 points. This game was closely fought for three quarters as both sides kept each other in check as only 1-point separated the two sides at three-quarter time.

Ultimately, Marcellin came out harder in the final quarter, and despite a couple of late goals from Mazenod, it was the home side who managed to get over the line and take the four points. Marcellin would be pleased that they won three of their last four games, however were unable to get the wins when they mattered earlier in the season, so finish 2024 in 8th position. Mazenod end the year 5th in a season where they produced some great footy but could not break into the dominant top four.

An epic finish to the home and away season with the three top teams on equal points saw ladder leaders Old Carey defeat AJAX to lock in top spot, sending AJAX to third, replaced by the Hampton Rovers who have secured the double chance.

It sets the scene for what promises to be a fascinating finals series with two exciting match-ups looming.

All eyes were on Bulleen for Old Carey v AJAX with the winner to finish top of the table and secure the allimportant double chance, whilst the loser would drop to third and face off with the Parkdale Vultures in a do or die semi final. Old Carey triumphed in style by 46 points, to claim bragging rights heading into the finals. Despite a resurgence from AJAX in the second quarter, the day belonged to Old Carey who made an early statement with five goals to one in the first quarter, backing it up with a strong second half as they continued to build momentum.

Tristan Borghouts and Timothy Newton impressed for the home side while Riley Thompson and Trent Warren contributed with three goals each. For AJAX, Remy Spicer, Nicholas Lewis and Jake Wrobel were amongst their best players. Old Carey have a massive match-up with the Hampton Rovers in the first week of the finals, whilst AJAX’s season will be on the line when they play the Parkdale Vultures.

Locked into fourth spot, the Parkdale Vultures defeated PEGS by 20 points. The Vultures dominated the first half, converting opportunities into success on the scoreboard as they banked a healthy 33-point lead going into half-time. PEGS had a brilliant third quarter to silence the home side and turn that deficit into a 4-point lead at three-quarter time, however despite inaccuracy, the Vultures managed to get over the line with three goals and six behinds in the last quarter. This game was of little consequence for the Vultures who could not leave fourth position, whilst this result means PEGS finish the season in 7th with 6 wins, providing the foundations for more growth in 2025. Jack Fenner was the standout player for PEGS with an impressive six goals, taking his tally this season to 53 goals.

Glen Eira/Old McKinnon continued their positive finish to the season with a 50-point victory over the Monash Blues. The Blues had a great first quarter in which they kept the Gryphons scoreless to take a 15-point lead into quarter-time, however their fortunes quickly turned in the second quarter as the Gryphons kicked 4.9.33 with Monash unable to score. The Gryphons managed to control the second half, albeit both teams were quite inaccurate in front of goal with the strong wind, blazing away in the last quarter with five goals as they claimed the win and ended their season on a good note. Special mention to Alex Bennett who kicked all three of the Blues’ goals. Unfortunately for Monash, they finish in 9 th and for the second consecutive season will face relegation, whilst the Gryphons in their first season in Premier C would be pleased with the eight wins they collected, providing some optimism and hope for their chances in 2025.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

The Hampton Rovers were successful in their pursuit of a top-two finish and a double chance for the finals series, with a big 66-point victory over Oakleigh. With a lot on the line, the Rovers came to play in the difficult conditions and were in control from start to finish, dominating on the scoreboard as the Krushers struggled to keep up. Will Crawford starred up front with six goals for the winning side. This win sees the Rovers priming up to face Old Carey in the major semi final, and whilst Oakleigh showed their potential throughout the season in Premier C with some impressive performance, they ultimately could not piece together enough wins and have finished bottom, facing relegation back to division 1.

16

ROUND 18 RESULTS

PREMIER C MEN’S Old Carey: 5.2 8.6 13.11 17.13 (115) AJAX: 1.1 6.4 6.9 9.15 (69) GOALS: Old Carey: R. Thompson 3, T. Warren 3, M. Wooffindin 2, Z. Adam 2, I. Ellwood 2, J. Rule 2, T. Jepson 1, N. Brewin 1, L. Godden 1 GOALS: AJAX: T. Sheezel 2, A. Bryer 1, A. Caplan 1, T. Lipton 1, J. Cohen 1, C. Zielinski 1, B. Krongold 1, K. Nissenbaum 1 BEST: Old Carey: T. Borghouts, T. Newton, B. Andrews, B. Waters, J. Alexander, I. Ellwood BEST: AJAX: R. Spicer, N. Lewis, J. Wrobel, C. Hamilton, A. Bryer, C. Chrapot

With the regular season now finished, only four teams remain to battle it out in the finals series as we wait to see who will be crowned the best team in Premier C. A high-stakes elimination final looms between AJAX and the Parkdale Vultures at Trevor Barker Oval. On the two occassions these sides met this year, Parkdale won in Round 5 by 48 points, yet AJAX retaliated in Round 12 with a 19 point victory. AJAX would be favourites on paper considering they had three more wins than Parkdale during the home and away season, however any side would fear the Vultures at full strength.

The major semi final brings together Old Carey and Hampton Rovers at Elsternwick Park. It is hard to separate these two dominant sides who both finished the season with sixteen wins and a strong percentage. When they met earlier this year, Old Carey won by 12 points in Round 5, whilst more recently, Hampton won by 47 points in Round 12. Expecting a hard-fought contest here with both sides eager for a direct ticket to the Grand Final and immediate promotion to Premier B.

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: 0.0 4.9 5.11 10.21 (81) Monash Blues: 2.3 2.3 3.10 3.13 (31) GOALS: Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: W. Green 2, H. Bass 1, L. Mirams 1, C. Kadish 1, J. Chilcott 1, t. noonan 1, S. Carey 1, N. Pruscino 1, j. Richardson 1 GOALS: Monash Blues: A. Bennett 3 BEST: Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: j. Richardson, J. Maxfield, A. Carey, S. Carey, t. noonan, L. Mirams BEST: Monash Blues: A. Vague, N. Hall, J. Meade, C. Cosgriff, J. Storer, A. Bennett Marcellin: 1.4 2.6 7.7 11.10 (76) Mazenod: 2.1 3.4 7.8 9.10 (64) GOALS: Marcellin: A. Strempel 2, E. Stapleton 2, Z. Tolley 2, W. Campitelli 1, J. Harrowell 1, A. Tomaro 1, P. Howe 1, J. Miller 1 GOALS: Mazenod: F. Ford 2, J. Mucha 1, A. Saliba 1, H. Boxshall 1, H. Boyce 1, J. Boyle 1, J. D‚ÄôAngelo 1, M. Fewings 1 BEST: Marcellin: E. Atwell, J. Atwell, A. Tomaro, M. Lane, E. Stapleton, W. Campitelli BEST: Mazenod: J. Raffa, J. Sullivan, M. Fewings, N. Peck, R. Mann, S. Lovell Oakleigh: 0.1 0.4 2.4 4.7 (31) Hampton Rovers: 5.2 9.3 13.6 15.7 (97) GOALS: Oakleigh: C. Athans 2, L. Ashen 2 GOALS: Hampton Rovers: W. Crawford 6, J. Keys 2, A. Folino 2, L. O’Driscoll 2, J. Delaney 1, L. Cairns 1, J. McPherson 1 BEST: Oakleigh: H. BOONTJES, P. Ioannidis, J. Roach, T. Gillard, L. Ashen, L. Gillard BEST: Hampton Rovers: D. Melnjak, H. Crisp, W. Crawford, J. Prosser, H. Lay, T. Ellinghaus Parkdale Vultures: 3.3 7.12 7.15 10.21 (81) PEGS: 2.3 3.3 9.7 10.7 (61) GOALS: Parkdale Vultures: J. Elcock 3, M. Phillips 2, J. Cheep 1, N. Sullivan 1, C. Williamson 1, K. Colella 1, L. Bailey 1 GOALS: PEGS: J. Fenner 6, B. Murphy 1, D. Pleban 1, J. Young 1, E. Caddeo 1 BEST: Parkdale Vultures: J. Elcock, J. Cheep, J. Peake, N. Sullivan, D. Brown, J. Ricco BEST: PEGS: R. Simmons, J. Fenner, s. ghasimzadeh, R. Macdonald, J. Mckernan, B. Roach

PREMIER C MEN’S RESERVES Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: 1.1 5.5 6.5 10.9 (69) Monash Blues: 3.1 3.2 5.7 6.7 (43) GOALS: Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: S. Cockle 3, H. El Shorbagy 2, S. O‚ÄôBrien 1, j. hattingh 1, B. Fullerton 1, B. Tang 1, H. Ritchie 1 GOALS: Monash Blues: J. Godfrey 4, R. Phillips 1, A. Olsen 1 BEST: Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: B. Fullerton, T. Clayson, M. Harrison, H. El Shorbagy, Z. Jacobs, B. Ng BEST: Monash Blues: J. Godfrey, A. Olsen, Z. Watson, W. Kennedy, A. Kennedy, C. McNearney Parkdale Vultures: 9.3 14.5 24.8 31.13 (199) PEGS: 0.0 0.3 0.3 3.4 (22) GOALS: Parkdale Vultures: L. Marshall 10, L. Sargeant 6, J. Brown 3, J. Vorbach 2, T. Brimble 2, B. Hopcraft 2, H. Bean 2, L. Smith 1, S. Sargeant 1, H. Hay 1, D. Ford 1 GOALS: PEGS: J. Kilpatrick 1, S. McCann 1, D. Callanan 1 BEST: Parkdale Vultures: L. Marshall, J. Vorbach, B. Macdermid, L. Sargeant, H. Hay, J. Brown BEST: PEGS: S. McCann, N. Senserrick, D. Cooke, J. Latter-Gauci, J. Rizzo, J. Kilpatrick Marcellin: 1.6 4.9 6.16 Mazenod: 1.1 3.3 4.3 GOALS: Marcellin: GOALS: Mazenod: S. Quirk 2, J. McCluskey 1, J. Zapedowski 1, G. Chen 1 BEST: Marcellin: BEST: Mazenod: T. Patterson, S. Quirk, A. Rubino, O. Tuck, J. Murdock, M. Noone

SEMI FINALS TIPS Old Carey

v

Hampton Rovers

AJAX

v

Parkdale Vultures

9.16 (70) 5.3 (33)

Old Carey: 2.7 3.10 9.11 12.16 (88) AJAX: 3.0 6.1 9.3 11.7 (73) GOALS: Old Carey: C. Ogilvie 3, H. Patel 2, N. Valentine 2, J. Virgona 2, Z. Mccarthy 2, J. Peterson 1 GOALS: AJAX: B. Mond 2, O. Black 2, N. Spitz 2, N. Micmacher 1, E. Herszberg 1, C. Wasbutzki 1, C. Efron 1, t. kanat 1 BEST: Old Carey: H. Patel, Z. Dempsey, N. Valentine, M. Vandersteen, C. Ogilvie, A. Jenkin BEST: AJAX: B. Mond, J. Burston, C. Wasbutzki, S. Hendler, E. Herszberg, J. Spicer Oakleigh: 0.0 2.2 3.2 4.3 (27) Hampton Rovers: 5.1 6.3 10.8 16.12 (108) GOALS: Oakleigh: K. Donovan 2, D. Goodwill 1, J. Rossington 1 GOALS: Hampton Rovers: H. Twigg 4, B. Deighton 3, N. Jackson 3, A. Woolston 2, R. Leslie 1, S. Ebbott 1, B. Crothers 1, P. Somogyi 1 BEST: Oakleigh: J. Rossington, z. thiessens, C. Pinney, J. Murphy, M. Goodwill, J. Hunt BEST: Hampton Rovers: B. Crothers, N. Jewell, B. Deighton, H. Twigg, S. Ebbott, D. Field 17

THE OFFICIAL NON-ALCOHOLIC BEER OF THE VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION FINALS.

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18

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

Send any FTLOTG stories to media@vafa.com.au

by Tuesday 5pm.

VAFA Clubs empowering Women & Girls

Last week 17 VAFA clubs gathered to show their commitment to enabling and empowering Women at all levels within VAFA clubs. These 17 clubs participated in AFL facilitated workshops to support clubs becoming signatories to the AFL Women & Girls Community Football Charter.

The AFL Victoria Women & Girls Community Football Charter is a pledge by Community Football Clubs to create welcoming, safe, and inclusive environments for women and girls in community football.

The VAFA would like to thank all the clubs who participated in the workshops and would welcome any other clubs who would like to be involved in this program to get in touch.

19

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

Women’s Premiers

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2 20

Send any FTLOTG stories to media@vafa.com.au

by Tuesday 5pm.

The VAFA has crowned their Premierr B and Divisional Women’s Grand Finalists. Braving strong Melbourne winds, there were some hard fought contests for the flag with multiple clubs making history with their inaugural Senior Women’s Premiership.

Congratulations to all teams who have won a Premiership and best of luck to all those yet to play in the 2024 VAFA Finals Series.

Premiers Premier B Women’s – Old Geelong Premier B Reserve Women’s – Fitzroy Division 1 Women’s – Old Brighton Division 2 Women’s – Glen Eira/Old McKinnon Division 3 Women’s – Therry Penola y Grand Finals.

Visit the VAFA website to read more about Sunday’s

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Women’s Rising Star Nominee Charlie Anderson (Caulfield Grammarians) The VAFA congratulates Charlie Anderson from Caulfield Grammarians, who has received the Anytime Fitness Rising Star nomination for Round 18. As a defender, a players impact can sometimes go unnoticed in comparison to that of a midfielder, however Charlie has proved this all wrong, featuring as one of the best afield in 11 of her 14 matches played this year.

What the club said: Charlie Anderson’s rise to fame has been years in the making. The first father-daughter player in Caulfield’s club history, Charlie has been an asset to the program since debuting in 2021. With speed to burn, an eye for back-with-the-flight intercepts, and an elite work rate, Charlie has put together a consistently brilliant campaign this season.

Her perseverance to overcome injury obstacles in the past year cannot be understated and the output even more impressive knowing the mountain of work Charlie has put in behind the scenes to stay healthy on the park. The Fields are so proud of way Charlie carries herself on and off the field, and are so excited to see her footy journey continue to progress in leaps and bounds.

Coach Dani said, “Charlie is a key pillar of our backline. Her sheer strength and ability to read the flight of the ball has allowed us to really propel off half back this year.

Despite being so young, Charlie is an important leader of our squad - her directional communication, coupled with her incredible intercept marking ability and exceptional work rate sets the standard at training and on game day.

Off the field, Charlie is a great friend, has an awesome sense of humour and is an absolute pleasure to coach. We absolutely love having Charlie at the club and can’t wait to watch her grow.”

Men’s Rising Star Nominee Joey Campigli (Old Brighton) The VAFA congratulates Joey Campigli from Old Brighton who has received the Anytime Fitness Rising Star nomination for Round 18. Joey’s breakout performance came in Round 15 where he booted 5 goals and took 12 marks. He has been a proficient addition to the Tonners’ forward line.

What the club said: Joey joined us in 2023 as an Under 19 out of the school. He was the leading goal kicker and Best and Fairest for the Under 19s last year, following in his brother Finn’s footsteps who won back to back Under 19s Best and Fairests in 2018 and 2019.

Joey is an understated hard worker who has put a lot of effort into getting himself ready for the step up to senior footy. He doesn’t say much, just goes about his business quietly and professionally. He has very quickly earned the respect and admiration of his senior team mates who love playing with Smokin’ Joe. Coach Marcel Bruin said “Jonah forced his way into the senior side after a string of terrific performances at U19 level having made his senior debut midway through the 2023 season. He has thoroughly taken to the forward role, complementing our group holistically and making the forward group really dynamic. Joey’s a very talented athlete with a great work rate, competing strongly in the air and when the ball hits the ground Joey’s speed and ability to close space quickly can put opposition defenders under real pressure.”

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22

2024 VAFA FINALS SERIES DIVISIONAL WOMEN’S – GRAND FINALS Sunday 8th September Competition

Final

Home Team

Away Team

Time

Venue

Division 4 Women’s

Grand Final

St Kevin’s

MCC FC

2:10 PM

Elsternwick Park

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S – SEMI FINALS Saturday 7th September Competition

Final

Home Team

Away Team

Time

Venue

Premier Women’s

1st Semi Final

Kew

Caulfield Grammarians

9:20 AM

Box Hill City Oval

Sunday 8th September Competition

Final

Team

Team

Time

Premier Women’s

2nd Semi Final

Old Scotch

St Kevin’s

11:40 AM

Elsternwick Park

Venue

Premier Women’s Reserves

1st Semi Final

West Brunswick

Old Scotch

9:20 AM

Elsternwick Park

Premier Women’s Reserves

2nd Semi Final

Collegians

Kew

11:40 AM

Box Hill City Oval

HOLMESGLEN U19 MEN’S – SEMI & PRELIMINARY FINALS Saturday 7th September Competition

Final

Home Team

Away Team

Time

U19 Division 1 Men’s

Preliminary Final

St Bernard’s

Old Haileybury

2:50 PM

Venue Waverley Oval

U19 Division 2 Men’s

Preliminary Final

Parkdale Vultures

University Blues

9:20 AM

Trevor Barker Beach Oval

U19 Division 4 Men’s

2nd Semi Final

St Mary’s Salesian

Beaumaris

12:40 PM

Waverley Oval

U19 Division 4 Men’s

1st Semi Final

De La Salle

Caulfield Grammarians

9:20 AM

Elsternwick Park

Sunday 8th September Competition

Final

Team

Team

Time

Venue

U19 Premier Men’s

Preliminary Final

Old Brighton

Old Scotch

9:20 AM

Trevor Barker Beach Oval

U19 Division 3 Men’s

Preliminary Final

Ormond

Preston

12:40 PM

Waverley Oval

PREMIER MEN’S – SEMI FINALS Saturday 7th September Competition

Final

Team

Team

Time

Venue

Premier C Men’s

1st Semi Final

AJAX

Parkdale Vultures

2:10 PM

Trevor Barker Beach Oval

Premier C Men’s

2nd Semi Final

Old Carey

Hampton Rovers

2:10 PM

Elsternwick Park

Premier C Men’s Reserves

1st Semi Final

Old Carey

Hampton Rovers

11:40 AM

Elsternwick Park

Premier C Men’s Reserves

2nd Semi Final

Parkdale Vultures

AJAX

11:40 AM

Trevor Barker Beach Oval

Sunday 8th September Competition

Final

Team

Team

Time

Venue

Premier B Men’s

1st Semi Final

Old Trinity

Old Geelong

2:40 PM

Trevor Barker Beach Oval

Premier B Men’s

2nd Semi Final

Old Haileybury

De La Salle

2:10 PM

Box Hill City Oval

Premier B Men’s Reserves

1st Semi Final

Old Ivanhoe

Old Geelong

11:40 AM

Trevor Barker Beach Oval

Premier B Men’s Reserves

2nd Semi Final

Old Trinity

De La Salle

9:20 AM

Box Hill City Oval

DIVISIONAL MEN’S – SEMI & PRELIMINARY FINALS Saturday 7th September Competition

Final

Team

Team

Time

Venue

Division 1 Men’s

Preliminary Final

Parkside

UHS-VU

2:10 PM

Box Hill City Oval

Division 1 Men’s Reserves

Preliminary Final

Ormond

West Brunswick

11:40 AM

Box Hill City Oval

Division 3 Men’s

2nd Semi Final

North Brunswick

St John’s

2:10 PM

Martin Reserve (Hadfield)

Division 3 Men’s Reserves

2nd Semi Final

Power House

North Brunswick

11:40 AM

Martin Reserve (Hadfield)

Sunday 8th September Competition

Final

Team

Team

Time

Division 2 Men’s

Preliminary Final

Brunswick

South Melbourne

2:50 PM

Venue Waverley Oval

Division 2 Men’s Reserves

Preliminary Final

MHSOB

St Mary’s Salesian

11:40 AM

Whitefriars College

Division 3 Men’s

1st Semi Final

Power House

Canterbury

2:10 PM

Whitefriars College

Division 3 Men’s Reserves

1st Semi Final

Richmond Central

St John’s

9:20 AM

Whitefriars College

23

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LIVE COVERAGE THIS WEEK SEPTEMBER 7-8

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN'S R18: St Bernard’s vs Old Melburnians

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S

SATURDAY - ROUND 18 11:40am - Reserves 2:00pm - Seniors

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S 1st SEMI FINAL SATURDAY 9:20am

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S

MATCH OF THE DAY

2nd SEMI FINAL SUNDAY 11:40am

Live coverage from 1:45pm SEN App, SEN.com.au VAFA.com.au

HOLMESGLEN U19 PREMIER

PREMIER C MEN’S

PRELIMINARY FINAL SUNDAY 9:20am

2ND SEMI FINAL SATURDAY 2:10pm .COM.AU

FULL DETAILS AND LIVE STREAM LINKS: VAFA.com.au/live-coverage

VAFA PODCASTS Listen to the Official VAFA Podcasts now on the VAFA Website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube.

25

DIVISION 1 MEN’S Liam Cole

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UHS-VU fight off late scare, as Prahran go through to GF Prahran were clinical in their Qualifying Final defeating Parkside by 60 points, 12.8 (80) to 2.8 (20). The difficult conditions at Trevor Barker Beach Oval, meant both sides needed to adjust — with Prahran winning the toss and kicking with the breeze.

Trailing by 53 points at three-quarter time, Devils coach Rick Frost wanted to hear more voice from his side and urged the players to build some momentum for next week’s Preliminary Final. Last term was a stalemate, as both sides were eager to get unscathed with injury.

Prahran’s midfield got to work early, winning the centre clearance battle five to nil in the first term — with Rory Brodie providing first use for his teammates. Parkside’s defence struggled to defend one-on-one and when Shaun Chapman put through his first, signs were looking ominous.

In the other fixture of the weekend (a win or go home eliminator), a late last quarter surge was not enough for Ormond, as UHS-VU held on in a five-point thriller, 7.12 (54) to 6.13 (49).

The Vultures started strongly with the breeze, with Esubalew Ramsay and Harrison Kennedy dominating the contested ball against a young Monders midfield. As the Skipper steered one late in the quarter, to give them a 16-point buffer at quarter time.

With the Devils trailing at quarter time by only 19 points, Prahran knew they needed to apply elite pressure against the breeze, and they certainly did. “I thought our pressure applied to the ball carrier was outstanding, which was a real focus going into the game,” Prahran coach Craige Milward said.

The Monders had a plethora of inside 50’s in the second quarter, but credit to youngster Archie Frazer, who showed a calm head down back for the Vultures.

The Devils, a team that like to take the game on, were forced back on numerous occasions due to the ongoing heat. Even kicking against a four-goal breeze, Prahran were able to outscore their opposition with their remarkable efficiency, scoring three times from just four inside 50’s.

Only one goal was scored for the second term, as it was turning into a real arm-wrestle as UHS-VU lead by eight points at the main break. In the third the game opened up in favour of the Vultures, who kicked four goals to the Monders’ one.

When Patrick Brookes kicked a ripping check side goal, his side were 26 points up at three-quarter time — but with the Monders kicking with the breeze in the last, it was never over.

At half time, the Prahran coaching staff would’ve been rapt with the team’s execution of the fundamentals — a tackle count of 22-12 in their favour and plenty of work to do for the Devils.

Ormond knew it had to be bold because there was no second chance and crucial clearance wins gave them the perfect start. Senin Seymour set the crowd alight with some strong dash across the half-back, as Jackson Hille started to throw his weight around and be influential in the contest.

The third term was owned by Prahran, as they continued to dominate the inside 50 battle 9-2.

On any chance given — the numerous turnovers made by the Devils, in their defensive half were pounced upon.

With Rory Brodie dominating in the ruck and taking big clunks down the line, there was nowhere to go for the Devils. “(Rory Brodie) was outstanding, for him to be able to ruck for three-quarters of the ground, for an entire game… just a tremendous athlete,” Milward said.

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Noah Seiderman kicked a much-needed steadier for the Vultures, with seven minutes remaining — but Ethan Hanley responded with a big time goal on the run. Vultures skipper Harrison Kennedy won a match-defining centre clearance and his side were able to lock the ball in their forward half, for the dying minutes.

26

SEMI FINALS RESULTS

DIVISION 1 MEN’S Ormond: 0.0 1.4 2.8 6.13 (49) UHS-VU: 2.4 2.6 6.10 7.12 (54) GOALS: Ormond: L. Crnogorac 3, S. Seymour 2, E. Hanley 1 GOALS: UHS-VU: N. Seiderman 2, j. fox 1, H. Kennedy 1, J. Healey 1, P. Brookes 1, N. Couper-Johnston 1 BEST: Ormond: B. Hardwick, M. Oaten, S. Seymour, J. Hille, A. Grey, J. Mason BEST: UHS-VU: S. Adams, j. fox, P. Brookes, J. Hunt, B. Cracknell, T. Rocke

Monders defender Benjamin Hardwick was exceptional on Div 1’s leading goal scorer Brandon Jackson keeping him scoreless and Matthew Oaten was superb down back.

Starting in the thirds midway through the season, Vultures half-forward Tristan White played his role beautifully in his senior debut, embodying a great story of perseverance. “Our pressure and attack on the contest was as good as it has been for the year and after a slump mid-year, it’s been great to bounce back the way we have,” Vultures captain Harrison Kennedy said. A disappointing result for the Monders, who gave it their all to the very last second — but couldn’t hit September with the right momentum.

This weekend, it’s a huge Preliminary final with Parkside taking on UHS-VU. Head-to-head the Vultures have beaten the Devils on both occasions this year, with a combined total of 18 points, so expect another beauty.

Prahran FC: 4.1 6.2 10.8 12.8 (80) Parkside: 1.0 2.3 2.3 2.8 (20) GOALS: Prahran FC: s. chapman 3, J. Hume 2, J. Partridge 1, J. Simonetta 1, M. Clifford 1, R. Brodie 1, J. Musster 1, T. Bamford 1, T. Maya 1 GOALS: Parkside: R. Williams 2 BEST: Prahran FC: R. Brodie, J. Musster, M. Mayne, J. Hume, s. chapman, J. Bell BEST: Parkside: M. Romano, M. Lawson, L. Caldwell, Y. Stecki, B. Douglas, R. Williams

DIVISION 1 MEN’S RESERVES Parkside: 2.0 4.4 8.9 9.14 (68) Ormond: 0.1 1.3 1.4 1.8 (14) GOALS: Parkside: M. Soligo 3, B. Smith 2, A. Bianchi 2, J. Woods 1, J. Manthorpe 1 GOALS: Ormond: T. Natsikas 1 BEST: Parkside: A. McEvoy, M. Soligo, B. Smith, J. Woods, O. Benson, J. Manthorpe BEST: Ormond: D. Smith, N. Lane, D. Dilettoso, R. Konstanty, K. Baker Hill, H. Bingham

Vultures forward Brandon Jackson has kicked a combined 10 goals against the Devils, so it will be interesting to see how Prahran: Rick Frost’s men structure up.

1.5 2.9 4.11 6.12 (48) West Brunswick: 3.2 4.3 6.5 8.6 (54) GOALS: Prahran: E. Espinosa 1, J. MATHERSON 1, N. O’Sullivan 1, g. torney 1, T. Jennings 1, B. Graham 1 GOALS: West Brunswick: M. Hofstein 2, T. Cottrell 1, S. Pritchard 1, D. McMahon 1, D. Fitzpatrick 1 BEST: Prahran: g. torney, M. Howden, M. Woods, J. Matherson, T. Loomes, B. Graham BEST: West Brunswick: A. Mackenzie, D. McMahon, M. Turnbull, A. Tilley, H. McKendry, C. Ralph

PRELIMINARY FINAL TIP Parkside v UHS-VU

27

DIVISION 1 WOMEN’S Annie Ireland

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Old Brighton reigns supreme in heavyweight battle Old Brighton have capped off a stunning season with a Grand Final victory to claim the Premiership; made even sweeter by knocking off reigning premiers Marcellin.

Old Brighton co-captains India Tait and Caterina O’Brien could not be split for best on ground. The pair led their team to victory from the front with truly inspirational performances, both kicking two goals apiece.

Two very deserving and proud Premiership captains.

It promised to be a cracking Grand Final, with the two best teams all year going head-to-head once again and both with a point to prove. Marcellin were looking to defend their Premiership title, whilst Old Brighton were looking to back up their minor Premiership with the real deal.

Lily Tait was held goalless for the first time all year, with Marcellin placing emphasis on their defense. On the other side of the ledger, Zoe Glascott scored two goals for Marcellin, whilst it was their captain in Alana Pane who was awarded the best on ground for the match as determined by the officiating umpire panel. It really was a day out for all captains involved.

It was a low scoring affair, keeping the game close and entertaining. Marcellin were the better of the two teams in the first quarter, with one goal to none.

However, Brighton took the reins in the second quarter, kicking 3.3 to Marcellin’s three behinds.

That wraps up an impressive season for the Division 1 Women’s Competition. The depth of talent amongst the competition was highlighted throughout the season and alludes to the growth of Women’s footy. Hopefully we will see an even bigger competition next year as Old Brighton kick off as the reigning premiers whilst the other teams will be seeking premiership glory.

Brighton’s strong second quarter placed them in good stead for the remainder of the game – their ability to capitalise when it mattered ultimately won them the game.

Both teams were wayward in front of goal, with Brighton kicking 2.6 after half time and Marcellin 1.3.

They both had their chances to put the game away and, on their terms, but were unable to.

Over the times they’ve played each other this year, we’ve seen some great battles with the talent these lists both have to offer.

With sharpshooting forwards like Lily Tait and Zoe Glascott both vying forward line positions in the team of the year, as well as some of the great captains in Alana Pane, Caterina O’Brien and India Tait lining up to try take their team to Premiership glory, the match ups in this game were always going to be exciting.

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GRAND FINAL RESULTS

DIVISION 1 WOMENS Old Brighton: 0.0 3.3 4.4 5.9 (39) Marcellin: 1.0 1.3 1.6 2.6 (18) GOALS: Old Brighton: C. OBrien 2, I. Tait 2, L. Mitchell 1 GOALS: Marcellin: Z. GLASCOTT 2 BEST: Old Brighton: C. OBrien, I. Tait, J. Tait, S. Hodgkinson, C. Hodgson, C. George BEST: Marcellin: A. Pane, H. Harley, B. Harvey, L. Robertson, Z. GLASCOTT, O. Frost

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THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

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DIVISION 2 MEN’S Jainarayan Tiwari

Access Team Lists on PlayHQ via VAFA.com.au

Elsternwick Stuns Brunswick, South Melbourne Edges Out Whitefriars The Elimination Final pitted the 3rd ranked South Melbourne Districts against the 4th ranked Whitefriars at ETU Stadium.

Division 2’s first week of finals once again proved the ageold adage of the ‘season starting again come finals time’ and that wins and losses in the home & away season mean little other than where you qualify come September.

The Swans started well to lead by 9 points at quarter-time before Whitefriars kicked the only goal of the second term to reduce the margin to 2 points at the half as two seasons hung in the balance.

Brunswick won the minor premiership by two and a half games but entered the finals having lost two of their last three games to fellow contenders Whitefriars and South Melbourne Districts in the lead-up.

But it was the Swans who seized control of their own destiny, capitalising with the wind in the third quarter, booting 7.3 to 2.3 to open up a 32-point lead for Whitefriars to try and chase down in the final term.

They faced Elsternwick in the Qualifying Final on a blustery day at LaTrobe University and managed to hold the Wickers goal-less in the first term, kicking 2.5 with the breeze themselves to lead by 15 points at the first change.

But despite holding South scoreless into the breeze, their own inaccuracy cost them dearly – Whitefriars kicking 1.8 in the final term to leave them 3 goals short and drawing a close to their season while the Swans will progress to the Preliminary Final.

Elsternwick then made better use of the wind in the second quarter, kicking 5.1 to 1.1 to hit the front and lead by 9 points at the half.

It was a goal apiece in what turned out to be a decisive tight third term as Brunswick failed to get back in front with the breeze at their backs, peppering the goals but kicking 1.6 to 1.3.

Jesse Andrew kicked 3 goals for the winners, ably supported by Jamie Brooker, Aris Moustakas and Leigh Sfetkidis, who all booted 2 apiece. Nicholas Garratt was the only multiple goalscorer for Whitefriars, finishing with 2 goals.

As a result of that inaccuracy, Elsternwick headed into the final quarter with a one-goal lead and were able to control the game late, kicking 3 goals to 2 to complete the upset and progress straight through to Grand Final Day, 9.9 (63) to Brunswick’s 6.15 (51) by 12 points.

After the game, South Melbourne’s coach, Nick Abbott, said, “We’re obviously very happy with the win and are taking away a lot of positives from the game. Whitefriars is a quality team, and they had beaten us both times this year.”

Flynn Brosnan, Daniel Marchese and skipper Julian Yeatman all finished with 2 goals for Elsternwick, while Brunswick had six individual goalscorers.

“Brunswick is no different—they were the top team for a reason. Tom and Ben lead their club exceptionally well, and this will be a great matchup between two quality teams.

Unfortunately, the losing side will feel unlucky not to be moving up.”

Elsternwick’s coach, Peter Higginbotham, expressed his happiness after the game, saying, “We’re really happy with the result. We went in as underdogs, focused on capitalising on turnovers, and knew we had to give our best. We believed we could bring the pressure, which paid off—we won and now have a week off before the Grand Final.

All eyes now turn to the Division 2 Men’s Preliminary Final, which will see Brunswick face South Melbourne Districts at Waverley Oval (East Malvern) from 2.50pm this Sunday.

The winner will progress to face Elsternwick on Grand Final Day the following weekend.

“Coming from Division 3, just qualifying was a huge achievement for us. We know we can apply pressure over the ball and are excited about what’s ahead.”

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

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SEMI FINALS RESULTS

DIVISION 2 MEN’S Brunswick FC: 2.5 3.6 4.12 6.15 (51) Elsternwick: 0.2 5.3 6.6 9.9 (63) GOALS: Brunswick FC: A. Coverdale 1, W. McKenzie 1, R. Hogenbirk 1, J. Schmidt 1, L. Bonney McKenzie 1, T. Hedley 1 GOALS: Elsternwick: D. Marchese 2, J. Yeatman 2, F. Brosnan 2, B. Pantas 1, J. Howard 1, F. O‚ÄôDonnell 1 BEST: Brunswick FC: R. Hogenbirk, A. Coverdale, L. Bonney McKenzie, B. Wilson, T. O‚ÄôFarrell, B. Young BEST: Elsternwick: F. Brosnan, J. Howard, M. Harvey, P. Sanderson, T. Malan, K. Tran South Melbourne Districts: 2.5 2.7 9.10 9.10 (64) Whitefriars: 1.2 2.5 4.8 5.16 (46) GOALS: South Melbourne Districts: J. Andrew 3, J. Brooker 2, L. Sfetkidis 2, A. Moustakas 2 GOALS: Whitefriars: N. Garratt 2, A. Jenkin 1, T. Jacotine 1, . 1 BEST: South Melbourne Districts: V. Armenia, Z. Howson, T. Foley, J. Brooker, J. Andrew, B. Craig BEST: Whitefriars: C. Feher, N. Sealey, T. Jacotine, M. Warrick, R. Turner, B. Ostermeyer

DIVISION 2 MEN’S RESERVES St Marys Salesian: 5.1 6.3 8.7 8.10 (58) South Melbourne Districts: 2.1 3.1 3.2 4.5 (29) GOALS: St Marys Salesian: J. Sutherland 3, Z. Gucciardo 2, L. McIntosh 1, M. Baysinger 1, B. Mcnally 1 GOALS: South Melbourne Districts: D. Stewart 2, J. Elliott 1, H. Watson-Hann 1 BEST: St Marys Salesian: J. Salloum, M. Baysinger, L. Powell, J. Sutherland, J. Sharp, N. Bainbridge BEST: South Melbourne Districts: Brunswick: 2.0 5.5 5.6 8.9 (57) MHSOB: 2.3 3.4 5.7 5.9 (39) GOALS: Brunswick: B. Marchionna 2, A. Alexandris 1, B. Daly 1, S. houghton 1, A. Pollock 1, D. Heenan 1, P. Scamporlino 1 GOALS: MHSOB: P. Pirozek 2, B. Gunn 2, D. Epa 1 BEST: Brunswick: A. Pollock, L. Pearson, W. Kempt, T. Kearney, D. Spencer, B. Marchionna BEST: MHSOB: A. Rogers, P. Pirozek, W. Suhr, B. Gunn, R. Rae, L. Stone

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DIVISION 2 WOMEN’S Susan Miller

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Gryphons Grand Final glory The rude awakening of the uphill battle that lay ahead came in the second term, as the Rovers were left in a head spin, as the Gryphons took control of the game.

They used their experience and dominance to take full advantage of kicking to the ‘scoring end’ with the wind.

Eliza Morrison and Stella Wilson combined for 2 goals to extend Glen Eira’s lead out to 20 points at the main break.

It really was the dream run through the 2024 season for the Glen Eira/Old McKinnon Gryphons. Their form was unmatched, their ball skills – next level, and their cohesion as a team was something others would aspire to. With all three combined they proved a very tough side to come up against throughout the season, only losing one match.

Fittingly, that one side who were able to take down the Gryphons in Round 5 of the home and away season was the Hampton Rovers, the very team they would have to overcome to claim the Premiership flag. The Grand Final clash between the two sides was an opportunity for the Gryphons to level the score and exert their total dominance over the competition as the already minor Premiers of Division 2 Women’s. And that they did.

While they found themselves with scoring shots aplenty, due to the hard work to create opportunities in their forward 50, Glen Eira suffered some wayward kicking which suggests the scoreboard could’ve reflected an even bigger blowout. With the conditions not doing any favours, every single major was crucial.

Within ten minutes of the first quarter Glen Eira had taken ascendency in the match, controlling possession and taking a handy 1 goal lead into the first break, coming off the boot of Caroline Hart.

With the chips down and a mountain to overcome, the VAFA’s Round 14 Anytime Fitness Rising Star nominee, Isla Tucker, stood tall for the Rovers and was impactful around the ground. The young gun used her speed and endurance to challenge to edge her side forward and apply pressure to Glen Eira’s run of play.

The conditions played a factor on Sunday morning at Elsternwick Park with strong winds inhibiting the flight of the ball. The Gryphons seemed all but effected by the elements and stuck to their compelling brand of footy, transitioning the ball well and utilising all facets of their talented line up.

Whatever inspirational message Hampton coach Brent Ward delivered at half time to his side clearly lit a fire, and they came out hungry to compete with a half of football to play. Hampton Rovers’ first, and what would be their only, goal for the match came in the opening minute of the third term thanks to Alana Graham.

Despite taking an early deficit, 0.2 (2) to 1.2 (8), the Rovers retained their cool composure, ready to come out firing and put up a good contest understanding the stakes of a Grand Final. Their victory over Glen Eira earlier in the season undoubtedly spurred Hampton on, along with their string of recent form, only compounding their confidence in their ability to compete with the best.

Unfortunately, Hampton was not able to capitalise in the same manner as their counterparts when kicking with the wind. The Gryphons showed no mercy and continued to rampage with their eyes set on that illustrious Premiership cup.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

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GRAND FINAL RESULTS

DIVISION 2 WOMEN’S Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: 1.2 3.5 4.8 9.11 (65) Hampton Rovers: 0.2 0.3 1.4 1.4 (10) GOALS: Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: E. Morrison 3, C. McIntosh 1, E. Williams 1, A. Whittle 1, E. Medland 1, C. Hart 1, S. Wilson 1 GOALS: Hampton Rovers: A. Graham 1 BEST: Glen Eira / Old McKinnon: E. Morrison, A. Whittle, J. Pavlou, S. Fitzpatrick, C. McIntosh, C. Hart BEST: Hampton Rovers: I. Tucker, P. Daniel-Reid, B. Kavanagh, B. Arnold, C. Politarhis, H. Gould

DIVISION 3 WOMEN’S In the fourth, Glen Eira/Old McKinnon kicked a barrage Therry Penola: 0.3 2.4 7.7 7.8 (50) of goals to put the game to bed and affirm their title as La Trobe: 0.0 0.2 0.2 1.8 (14) 2024 Division 2 Women’s Premiers. While Eliza Morrison GOALS: Therry Penola: E. German 3, A. Duggan 3, R. O‚ÄôHalloran 1 GOALS: La Trobe: J. Yew 1 finished with 3 goals, the Gryphons had six additional goal BEST: Therry Penola: G. Macgregor, E. German, A. Duggan, R. O‚ÄôHalloran, E. Pullen, M. Halton scorers who each contributed one major. This not only BEST: La Trobe: J. Lowry, I. Warrillow, K. Bond, E. Lauritsen, C. Croome, speaks to the depth of their squad but more importantly T. D’Angelo their sense of teamwork and camaraderie, sharing the football around.

DIVISION 4 WOMEN’S (PRELIMINARY FINAL)

At the final siren, the Elsternwick Park scoreboard read 9.11 (65) to 1.4 (10). A resounding victory capped off a phenomenal home and away season for the Glen Eira/Old McKinnon Gryphons. This is the club’s second Women’s Premiership in their history and exemplifies the growth and depth of their women’s program.

Whilst Aleesha Whittle, Julia Pavlou and Sarah Fitzpatrick joined Eliza Morrison as the stand out best performers of the Grand Final for Glen Eira, there is no question that all 24 Gryphons’ players played their role to secure this victory.

With another season in the books, there is a lot of promise as to what lies ahead in Divisional Women’s football in 2025.

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MCC: 1.7 3.8 5.11 5.11 (41) Albert Park: 0.0 1.0 1.1 1.3 (9) GOALS: MCC: A. Harris 3, C. Sexton 1, J. Wulkan 1 GOALS: Albert Park: BEST: MCC: J. Wulkan, B. Harris-Hart, I. Jeffrey, L. Scally-Leprevost, D. Sandys, C. Sexton BEST: Albert Park:

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DIVISION 3 MEN’S Callum Farquhar

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St John’s cause Power outage, Canterbury survive Snake scare The first weekend of Division 3 Men’s finals football perfectly encapsulated the essence of September action.

High-pressure, desperation, and the ability for any team to win on any given day. Both victors in the first qualifying and elimination finals were favourites albeit, but they didn’t win without genuine challenge from their opposition.

Canterbury have survived a stunning second quarter from Richmond Central that flipped the game on its head. The Cobras made the most of their opportunities in the first quarter, scoring 4.2 (26) to the Snakes’ 1.3 (9).

Richmond Central returned from their quarter-time huddle with fire in the belly however, outworking Canterbury relentlessly in an unexpected twist.

St John’s will advance to the Semi Final after a dominant opening term defied a resilient Power House outfit. The JOC’s kicked 5.8 (38), three of which was contributed

by Timothy Werner, to Power House’s 1.1 (7) in the first quarter, instantly forcing Power House into catch-up footy for the remainder of the match.

The Snakes kicked 4.6 to Canterbury’s two behinds, heading into the sheds with an 11-point halftime lead. An upset was on the cards. Yet, Canterbury would return to the field a hungrier outfit, the second quarter being the wake-up call they needed.

Power House responded in the next term however, booting five goals to three to close the gap down to 19 points at the main break. Despite a strong wind factor, Power House restricted St John’s to extending their lead by just an additional 11 points. With a 30-point deficit, Power House coach Jeff Scotland viewed St John’s’ lead as gettable. “We tried hard all day and at three-quarter-time I thought we might’ve been in range,” Scotland said. “But they defended too well.”

Ruing wasteful first-half goalkicking, Richmond Central’s efforts would unravel by three-quarter-time, as a late Liam Di Martino goal handed the Cobras back the lead. It was a momentum-boosting score, Canterbury surging with their tail up in the last quarter.

The Cobras went on to score 6.2 to the Snakes’ 2.3, keeping their premiership chances alive with a 26-point win. Canterbury coach Josh Ward applauded Richmond Central for their persistent pressure throughout the final.

“To Richmond’s credit, they brought a lot of heat, and we struggled to execute for the first three quarters due to their pressure,” Ward said. “But we were able to click and deliver our game plan in the last quarter and were able to run away with it.”

St John’s were outscored in the last, however managed to keep their noses in front, recording a 19-point victory that ensures another double-chance clash against North Brunswick next week. St John’s coach Tim Edwards credited the resistance of Power House whilst commending his troops. “[I] was impressed with the standard of footy from both teams. Really worthy of a big final. In trying conditions both teams came to play,” Edwards said. “Our boys had some really good moments and ultimately it was enough. Looking forward to next week’s challenge.”

Brad Kelleher was all-round dominant for Canterbury, kicking a game-high three goals that earned him beston-ground. Di Martino and Michael Wheeler were also amongst the Cobras best. Jack Bilson, a high-polling Snake in 2024, was once again honoured as best-onground, as Eric Nelson punted three majors.

2023 Division 4 Best and Fairest winner Corey Ely flexed his football craft, earning best-on-ground votes for the match. Werner, who ultimately scored five goals, and Callum Houghton cap off the JOCs’ best performers.

The loss closes the curtains on an outstanding season for Richmond Central, who stormed home in the second half of the year to lock in a finals spot. In their first finals appearance since 2014 (albeit qualifying in an unfinished 2021 season), the future looks bright for the yellow and black. Only the top four teams now remain in season 2024, a group of clubs that only lost as many as four games, if not less, in the 18-round season.

Jesse Muscatello was Power House’s best-on, joined by season-long vote-polling players Benjamin Circosta and Max McCulloch. Jack Taylor-Evans top scored with four goals.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

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SEMI FINALS RESULTS

DIVISION 3 MEN’S

North Brunswick return from the minor premiership bye with a blockbuster clash against St John’s. In the two encounters this season between the top two teams, the ledger is squared at one apiece, however their most recent fixture saw the JOCs victorious by 62 points.

A win in this match earns a spot in the Grand Final and promotion to Division 2. Expect the heat to be applied from the bounce in this one.

With Canterbury’s win, the Cobras take on Power House in a do-or-die semi-final next week. Another rivalry locked at 1-1 for their two meetings this season, the average winning margin between the two sides is just 12 points. An epic elimination battle awaits.

St Johns: 5.8 8.10 12.12 14.12 (96) Power House: 1.1 6.3 8.6 11.11 (77) GOALS: St Johns: T. Werner 5, M. Carnelley 2, T. Neal 2, H. Emery 1, C. Houghton 1, D. Wilsnach 1, J. Grima 1, B. Ayache 1 GOALS: Power House: J. Taylor-Evans 4, B. Circosta 2, N. Smyth 2, M. McCulloch 1, J. Muscatello 1, M. Auchettl 1 BEST: St Johns: C. Ely, T. Werner, C. Houghton, J. Mourant, T. Neal, D. Abou-Karroum BEST: Power House: J. Muscatello, M. Devine, B. Circosta, M. McCulloch, j. dempster, S. Shier Canterbury: 4.2 4.4 8.8 14.10 (94) Richmond Central: 1.3 5.9 7.11 9.14 (68) GOALS: Canterbury: B. Kelleher 3, L. Di Martino 2, M. Fotia 2, T. Lowden 2, J. Nicolopoulos 2, N. Szabo 1, J. Boarotto 1, L. Shearer 1 GOALS: Richmond Central: E. Nelson 3, C. Brook 2, B. Plummer 1, H. Spurr 1, C. Spring 1, B. Adams 1 BEST: Canterbury: B. Kelleher, L. Di Martino, m. wheeler, L. Shearer, M. Szabo, M. Topp BEST: Richmond Central: J. Bilson, C. Spring, B. Browning-Briese, D. Holland, N. Poole, C. Mellor

DIVISION 3 MEN’S RESERVES St Johns: 1.4 4.7 7.10 8.14 (62) Canterbury: 0.2 3.5 3.8 4.10 (34) GOALS: St Johns: M. Clarke 4, M. De Poilly 3, J. Proctor 1 GOALS: Canterbury: J. Scammell 3, H. Ymer 1 BEST: St Johns: M. Clarke, J. Dexter, J. Rudd, C. Emery, t. tomich, J. Proctor BEST: Canterbury: J. Collins, O. Millward, H. Ymer, D. Duggan, M. Deane, P. Brenchley Richmond Central: 0.1 2.5 6.6 6.10 (46) North Brunswick: 4.2 6.3 8.3 8.5 (53) GOALS: Richmond Central: GOALS: North Brunswick: A. Ramzy 2, R. Marson 1, J. Horwood 1, F. Walton 1, A. Rae 1, A. Abou-Eid 1, J. McDonald Eveleigh 1 BEST: Richmond Central: O. Kelly, B. Foster, D. Pratt, L. Fitch, M. Broughton, J. Harward BEST: North Brunswick: F. Walton, M. Skinner, A. Rae, J. Tom, L. Pardini, S. Widdicombe

PRELIMINARY FINAL TIPS North Brunswick v St John’s Power House v Canterbury 39

HOLMESGLEN U19’S REPORT Joel Kennedy

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SKOB stamp their Grand Final ticket, whilst Uni Blues fall The Old Scotch crew, having advanced, would later settle amongst the eager crowd to watch Old Brighton duke it out against St Kevin’s. Finishing first and second respectively at the conclusion of the home and away season, each side had a point to prove, to be the first team admitted into the Grand Final of 2024.

Like the stone-cold winds of winter, Finals fever has well and truly hit in the Holmesglen Under 19 Premier Men’s competition. Over the weekend, it was four teams who braved the extreme weather conditions in search of victory. The tension and excitement was palpable as back-to-back games would take place at Box Hill City oval on Saturday.

In this one, the winner would receive a golden ticket, a direct pass to the big dance. The loser would take advantage of their double-chance privileges, to play Old Scotch in a Preliminary Final.

Kicking off the day’s proceedings, was the highly touted Elimination Final featuring Uni Blues and Old Scotch.

Each side trading blows throughout the duration of the first quarter, it was evident that every player was desperate that spot in the Prelim, hellbent on defending their season.

It was an opening quarter onslaught from St Kevin’s that would stun the minor Premiers, four goals to one. From the opening bounce SKOB just looked superior, their midfield firing on all cylinders, allowing a plethora of chances for those forward of the ball.

Initially, it was a low-scoring affair. Each side toiled hard, in a contest that was ridden with congestion. The scoreboard was indicative of the poor conditions, as Uni Blues registered just 13-points as they headed to the main break.

Realizing the game was slipping away, Old Brighton reasserted themselves, powering to draw scores level at the main break. A game that was reminiscent of a tug-of-war battle saw the usual suspects begin to accumulate the football.

Skills were also noticeably poor amongst the chill and strong winds: the Sherrin bounding relentlessly between the forward 50 arcs. Consequently, the Blue boys remained behind the eight ball, offering up a 15-point lead to Scotch. A lackluster first half with their season on the line, the blues required a miracle in the second half.

Oliver Aloi, Oscar Newstead and Ryan McKenzie shone for the Tonners, whilst Samuel Jones, Paul Parakilas and Liam Hepburn for the Old Boys.

The equation was simple, a second half to stake your claim on the 2024 Grand Final. It was St Kevin’s who would hold a 3-point lead after the conclusion of the third quarter; a display of skill, with a sprinkle of luck with the wind favouring their passages of play saw them get their nose in front.

Suh an effort would never come. Old Scotch would eventually hold out the gallant Blues, driving a stake into the heart of their premiership ambitions. They would go on to win by just 15-points, after goalkicking was wayward in the hurricane-like winds.

The result means that Old Scotch have progressed into a preliminary final this upcoming Saturday, leaving Uni Blues in their dust. Sam Norman, Connor Ferguson and Ned Maginness were the names who willed Scotch to victory, the dream of a premiership still lingering in their imagination.

For Old Brighton, the challenge was set, a come from behind victory required to avoid a Preliminary Final date with Old Scotch. Such a task proved to be all too much for the Ladder-leaders. They would fall agonisingly short, St Kevin’s registering a famous 3-point victory to acquire a Grand Final berth in the Holmesglen Under 19 Premier Men’s competition.

In what would be a disappointing end for the Blues, the side can hold their head high after an impressive latter half of the year. Whilst they lost, they can draw confidence from the fact they were amongst the league’s best for a majority of the 2024 season. It was Johnny Pring, Henry Wicks and Jack Whitehead who impressed in the losing result.

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

Old Scotch will play Old Brighton this upcoming weekend, the final spot in the Grand Final up for grabs…

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HOLMESGLEN U19 RESULTS HOLMESGLEN U19 PREMIER MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN U19 DIVISION 2 MEN’S

Old Scotch: 2.7 3.10 6.17 6.20 (56) Uni Blues: 1.1 1.7 4.9 5.11 (41) GOALS: Old Scotch: A. Johnson 2, S. Vidor 1, C. Ferguson 1, F. Nankervis 1, P. Johnson 1 GOALS: Uni Blues: L. Di Lallo 2, J. Whitehead 1, M. Duffell 1, O. Sleiman 1 BEST: Old Scotch: S. Norman, C. Ferguson, N. Maginness, H. Dixon, A. Johnson, O. Iser BEST: Uni Blues: J. Pring, H. Wicks, J. Whitehead, L. Francis, O. Williams, L. Di Lallo

University Blues 2: 4.4 7.5 10.11 19.13 (127) Oakleigh: 0.1 3.1 3.2 3.4 (22) GOALS: University Blues 2: D. Shier 7, m. scanlon 4, S. Litras 3, F. Wright 1, F. Hanegraaf 1, C. Lawson 1, G. Ingram 1, L. Rees 1 GOALS: Oakleigh: N. Clifton 2, B. Robinson 1 BEST: University Blues 2: F. Hanegraaf, D. Shier, C. Lawson, S. Ryan, A. Spencer, c. porter BEST: Oakleigh:

Old Brighton: 1.3 4.6 5.7 5.12 (42) St Kevins: 4.4 4.7 5.10 6.10 (46) GOALS: Old Brighton: R. McKenzie 2, O. Goodger 1, M. Chilcott 1, L. McCluskey 1 GOALS: St Kevins: R. Smythe 2, H. Lefoe 2, S. Jones 1, G. Delimitrou 1 BEST: Old Brighton: O. Aloi, O. Newstead, R. McKenzie, M. Szonyi, J. Lohan, T. Howden BEST: St Kevins: S. Jones, P. Parakilas, L. Hepburn, B. Ball, B. Palmer, J. Luscombe

HOLMESGLEN U19 DIVISION 1 MEN’S Old Haileybury: 2.6 7.10 10.13 12.18 (90) Old Carey: 2.2 3.2 4.3 9.7 (61) GOALS: Old Haileybury: J. Kennedy 3, S. Lynch 2, W. Hardeman 2, W. McPhee 2, L. Riedel 1, J. Connell 1, B. Yates 1 GOALS: Old Carey: D. Godden 4, J. Sharrock 3, J. Smith 1, L. Mcconnon 1 BEST: Old Haileybury: J. Connell, W. McPhee, J. Kennedy, M. Cowell, W. Hardeman, A. Daniel-Reid BEST: Old Carey: A. Simpson, D. Godden, J. McDonald, L. Neilson, J. Sharrock, L. Zimmermann St Bernards: 3.3 3.5 8.8 9.8 (62) Hampton Rovers: 1.0 8.4 12.4 15.7 (97) GOALS: St Bernards: S. Guida 2, A. Ryan 1, J. Costa 1, M. Loukomitis 1, D. Gilham 1, D. Restuccia 1, N. Mathewes 1, T. Basile 1 GOALS: Hampton Rovers: C. Kilburn 7, C. McSwain 2, B. Seddon 1, J. Taranto 1, W. Rogacki 1, N. Astill 1, J. Grima 1, M. Carrigan 1 BEST: St Bernards: A. Ryan, T. Lowrie, K. Hughes, T. Basile, D. Restuccia, S. Guida BEST: Hampton Rovers: C. Kilburn, Z. Ziesing, B. Seddon, B. Jensen-Muir, L. Celantano

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Old Camberwell: 3.2 6.4 13.7 14.8 (92) Parkdale Vultures: 1.0 3.0 3.1 6.6 (42) GOALS: Old Camberwell: L. Davidson 4, D. Albert 3, J. Blew 2, L. Ross 2, M. Gibert 1, B. Gale 1, F. Askew 1 GOALS: Parkdale Vultures: A. Boyle 3, A. Valastro 1, N. Petty 1, J. Foster 1 BEST: Old Camberwell: B. Carlisle, D. Albert, L. Davidson, B. Gale, J. Spalding, W. Allsop BEST: Parkdale Vultures: r. bowles, A. Boyle, N. Groves, N. Petty, L. Galjar, B. Fenech

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VAFA congratulates the following players on reaching these incredible milestones. Well done!

MILESTONES

Matt Bennett (St John’s OC)

100

Congratulations Matt “Marshy” Bennett who plays his 100 th club game for St John’s this weekend in the reserves semi-final. After arriving at the club in 2017 Mr Reliable found his way racking up B.O.G. in the reserves by winning the Best & Fairest after playing only 11 games in the reserves & debuting in the seniors. Matt is loved by his teammates with his agility to burst out of the pack & finish off with his silky skills.

Everyone at the club respects Marshy both on & off the field, playing across the seniors & reserves throughout his JOCS career. The JOCS family wishes Matt, wife Bernie & daughter Mae all the best in his milestone game & hopefully he gets us over the line once again. Well done Matt & congratulations on this achievement.

Marcus Holland (St Bernards)

100

Good luck to Marcus Holland on his 100th VAFA game for the club.

Marcus won WRFL Rep honours as a St Bernards Junior, Marcus progressed through U19 ranks before making his senior debut in 2018.

A dynamic small forward and midfielder Marcus has explosive speed and great goal sense. Marcus’s strong early season form saw him play at VFL level with Northern Bullants this year. We look forward to seeing Marcus rack up many more games at ‘the pit’ into 2025 and beyond.

Please send milestones to media@vafa.com.au by 5pm Tuesday, including a brief description and photo.

43

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SHARPSHOOTERS

LR

TOTAL

William Buck Premier Women’s

LR

TOTAL

Patrick Kerr

St Kevins

3

48

Eloise Defina

Old Scotch

3

32

James Stewart

University Blues

4

41

Hannah Smith

St Kevins

0

27

Sam Grimley

University Blues

1

38

Sarah Kenny

Caulfield Grammarians

3

26

Charlie MacIsaac

Old Xaverians

0

32

Asha Price

MUWFC

0

25

William Buck Premier Men’s

William Buck Premier Reserve Men’s

LR

TOTAL

William Buck Premier Reserve Women’s

LR

TOTAL

Ben Jackson

Old Melburnians

4

38

Brooke Tuszynski

Collegians

3

36

Cam Hathway

Old Brighton

4

36

yolanda vinycomb

Kew

0

15

Harrison Bell

Old Xaverians

1

35

Bethany Carr

St Kevins

0

15

Ryan Agg

Old Brighton

0

34

Alice Straford

St Kevins

3

15

LR

TOTAL

LR

TOTAL

Premier B Women’s

Harry Laukens

Old Camberwell

1

46

Matilda Arthur

Old Geelong

0

34

Dominic Payman

Old Trinity

3

45

Loren Mills

Williamstown CYMS

0

30

Premier B Men’s

Adrian Indovino

De La Salle

5

35

Sofi Georgas

Williamstown CYMS

0

21

Connor Dixon

Old Geelong

3

33

Alessia Acquaro

Williamstown CYMS

0

21

LR

TOTAL

Premier B Reserve Women’s

LR

TOTAL

Jake Erman-Keogh

Old Ivanhoe

6

37

Larissa Lewis

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers

0

26

Luke Scobie

Old Trinity

3

32

Kensley Ward

Westbourne

0

19

Jonty Wiseman

De La Salle

1

31

Summer Farley

Westbourne

0

16

Lucas Liakakos

De La Salle

0

31

Tui Huta

Westbourne

0

15

Premier B Reserve Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Division 1 Women’s

LR

TOTAL

Mitch Brown

Parkdale Vultures

0

78

ZOE GLASCOTT

Marcellin

0

56

Richie Simon

AJAX

0

62

Lily Tait

Old Brighton

0

40

Jordan Cohen

AJAX

1

60

Sienna Symons

Parkdale

0

27

Riley Thompson

Old Carey

3

56

Caterina OBrien

Old Brighton

0

27

LR

TOTAL

Premier C Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Division 2 Women’s

Liam Marshall

Parkdale Vultures

10

65

Zoe Rossiter

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

0

20

Noah Dempsey

Old Carey

0

50

Kaitlyn Sidopoulos

Oakleigh

0

19

Dylan Williamson

Parkdale Vultures

0

47

Maegan Miller

Hampton Rovers

0

17

Andrew Woolston

Hampton Rovers

2

46

Lily Fitzpatrick

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

0

16

Premier C Reserve Men’s

Holmesglen U19 Premier Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Division 3 Women’s

LR

TOTAL

Luca Di Lallo

Uni Blues

0

37

Abbey Duggan

Therry Penola

0

39

Nicholas DYNAN

St Kevins

0

33

Eliza German

Therry Penola

0

35

Callum Hankin

Caulfield Grammarians

0

33

Ruby O’Halloran

Therry Penola

0

29

Jonah Campigli

Old Brighton

0

33

Amy McCormack

Old Carey

0

25

LR

TOTAL

LR

TOTAL

Division 4 Women’s

Alex Dowsley

Uni Blues

0

61

Jade Wulkan

MCC

0

35

Linden Brunt

Fitzroy

0

33

Johannah Griffin

Albert Park

0

28

Matthew Canning

St Kevins

0

28

Ruby-Rose Gibson-Haywood

North Brunswick Football Club

0

19

Joshua Willmott

St Kevins

0

25

Isabella Allan

Collegians 3

0

12

Premier Thirds Men’s

THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

50

SHARPSHOOTERS

LR

TOTAL

Division 1 Reserve Men’s

Brandon Jackson

UHS-VU

0

50

Matthew Mallia

UHS-VU

0

51

Bailey Payze

Old Peninsula

0

47

Sam Pritchard

West Brunswick

0

41

Ned Waters

Kew

0

42

JACK MATHERSON

Prahran

0

37

Lachlan Crnogorac

Ormond

0

37

Declan Marrows

Prahran

0

34

LR

TOTAL

Division 1 Men’s

LR

TOTAL

LR

TOTAL

Division 2 Reserve Men’s

Hayden Parker

Brunswick FC

0

71

Jonathon Haddad

Brunswick

0

53

Spencer Hankin

Elsternwick

0

65

Ben Daly

Brunswick

0

47

Division 2 Men’s

Sam Kieseker

Whitefriars

0

61

James Lake

MHSOB

0

46

Nicholas Garratt

Whitefriars

0

43

Lucas Zita

Whitefriars

0

39

LR

TOTAL

LR

TOTAL

Division 3 Reserve Men’s

Matthew Carnelley

St Johns

0

72

James Scammell

Canterbury

0

56

Luke Stubbs

Power House

0

54

Matthew De Poilly

St Johns

0

54

Division 3 Men’s

Blake Williams

Box Hill North

0

41

Declan Nannery

Power House

0

35

Nick ferguson

Swinburne University

0

39

Tom Roberts

Swinburne University

0

34

LR

TOTAL

Holmesglen U19 Division 1 Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Thirds Division 1 Men’s

Louis Hodder

Fitzroy

0

69

Amir Meyerowitz

Ajax

0

42

Charles Kilburn

Hampton Rovers

0

54

Rory Calvert

Old Xaverians 2

0

31

Samson Guida

St Bernards

0

39

Will Mantesso

Old Xaverians 2

0

30

Bailey Yates

Old Haileybury

0

37

Charlie Fox

Old Geelong

0

25

Holmesglen U19 Division 2 Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Thirds Division 2 Men’s South

LR

TOTAL

Jai Pugsley

St Bedes / Mentone 2

0

50

Laurence Panozzo

De La Salle

0

23

Donovan Shier

University Blues 2

0

44

Samuel Doree

De La Salle

0

21

Lachlan Webber

Parkside

0

35

Jordan Brasher

De La Salle

0

18

Lachie Ross

Old Camberwell

0

34

Bailey Rohan

Old Brighton 2

0

18

LR

TOTAL

Holmesglen U19 Division 3 Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Thirds Division 2 Men’s North

Samuel Bailey

Ormond

0

36

Josh Lyon

Old Xaverians 3

0

64

Jack Beker

Preston

0

28

Matt Perrett

Old Xaverians 3

0

28

Ryan Meeuw

Kew

0

25

Sam Hartmann

Richmond Central

0

23

Patrick Di Berardino

Preston

0

24

Emmett O’Donnell

Kew

0

22

Holmesglen U19 Division 4 Men’s

LR

TOTAL

Thirds Division 3 Men’s South

LR

TOTAL

Angus Kenny

St Marys Salesian

0

42

Christopher Chilcott

Mazenod OC

0

44

Charles Galvin

Beaumaris 2

0

31

Costas Hronopoulos

Mazenod OC

0

36

Ryan Eldering

De La Salle 2

0

30

Steve Mann

Mazenod OC

0

35

Charlie Matthews

St Marys Salesian

0

29

Caden MacDonald

Wattle Park

0

31

LR

TOTAL

LR

TOTAL

Thirds Division 3 Men’s North

Steve Crapper

Marcellin

0

10

Sam Linkin

Whitefriars

0

37

Dustin Cracknell

Marcellin

0

9

Matt Volpe

Old Ivanhoe

0

33

Jason Wood

Marcellin

0

6

Conor O’Brien

Old Xaverians 4

0

27

Anthony Bourke

Marcellin

0

5

Todd Owen

Old Ivanhoe

0

24

Mecwacare Masters

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53

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S RESERVES

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Brighton

17

15

2

0

0

60

147.78

Old Xaverians

17

16

0

1

0

66

255.57

St Kevins

17

12

4

1

0

50

120.9

St Kevins

17

14

3

0

0

56

148.08

Old Scotch

17

12

5

0

0

48

135.82

Old Brighton

17

11

5

1

0

46

182.05

Collegians

17

10

7

0

0

40

109.42

Old Scotch

17

11

6

0

0

44

121.41 92.11

Old Xaverians

17

9

8

0

0

36

112.99

University Blues

17

7

10

0

0

28

University Blues

17

7

10

0

0

28

88.01

Old Melburnians

17

7

10

0

0

28

83.88

University Blacks

17

6

11

0

0

24

79.17

St Bernards

17

7

10

0

0

28

77.22 72.83

St Bernards

17

5

12

0

0

20

88.41

Collegians

17

6

11

0

0

24

Fitzroy

17

5

12

0

0

20

74.06

Fitzroy

17

5

12

0

0

20

68.88

Old Melburnians

17

3

13

1

0

14

75.21

University Blacks

17

0

17

0

0

0

30.98

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Haileybury

18

14

3

1

0

58

160.41

Old Trinity

18

17

1

0

0

68

239.97 214.94

PREMIER B MEN’S

PREMIER B MEN’S RESERVES

De La Salle

18

13

5

0

0

52

147.43

De La Salle

18

14

4

0

0

56

Old Trinity

18

12

5

1

0

50

128.2

Old Ivanhoe

18

13

5

0

0

52

167.59

Old Geelong

18

12

6

0

0

48

110.92

Old Geelong

18

13

5

0

0

52

149.82

Old Ivanhoe

18

10

8

0

0

40

96.54

Williamstown CYMS

18

9

9

0

0

36

102.16

Old Camberwell

18

9

8

1

0

38

97.22

Old Camberwell

18

9

9

0

0

36

101.62 91.48

Williamstown CYMS

18

5

12

1

0

22

78.5

St Bedes/Mentone Tigers

18

7

11

0

0

28

Caulfield Grammarians

18

5

13

0

0

20

80.77

Beaumaris

18

5

12

0

0

20

65.62

Beaumaris

18

5

13

0

0

20

78.78

Old Haileybury

18

2

15

0

0

8

48.48

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers

18

3

15

0

0

12

64.8

Caulfield Grammarians

18

1

15

0

0

4

30.5

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Carey

18

16

2

0

0

64

208.07

Parkdale Vultures

18

17

1

0

0

68

381.27

PREMIER C MEN’S

PREMIER C MEN’S RESERVES

Hampton Rovers

18

16

2

0

0

64

183.37

AJAX

18

16

2

0

0

64

270.06

AJAX

18

15

3

0

0

60

182.03

Old Carey

18

14

4

0

0

56

129.92

Parkdale Vultures

18

12

6

0

0

48

149.96

Hampton Rovers

18

13

5

0

0

52

263.24

Mazenod

18

9

9

0

0

36

90.13

Marcellin

18

9

9

0

0

36

110.54

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

18

8

10

0

0

32

73.77

Monash Blues

18

6

12

0

0

24

63.56

PEGS

18

6

12

0

0

24

91.2

Mazenod

18

5

13

0

0

20

52.44

Marcellin

18

5

13

0

0

20

67.51

Oakleigh

18

4

13

1

0

18

51.71

Monash Blues

18

2

16

0

0

8

47.47

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

18

4

13

1

0

18

50.16

Oakleigh

18

1

17

0

0

4

47.33

PEGS

18

1

16

0

0

4

26.43

HOLMESGLEN UNDER 19 PREMIER MEN’S

THIRDS PREMIER MEN’S

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Brighton

18

15

3

0

0

60

166.03

Old Xaverians

16

13

3

0

0

52

185.89

St Kevins

18

13

5

0

0

52

166.24

St Kevins

16

10

6

0

0

40

166

Old Scotch

18

12

6

0

0

48

155.68

Old Scotch

16

10

6

0

0

40

124.89

Uni Blues

18

12

6

0

0

48

153.96

Old Trinity

16

10

6

0

0

40

102.69

Old Xaverians

18

10

7

1

0

42

114.25

Uni Blues

16

8

7

0

0

32

128.77

St Bedes / Mentone

18

10

8

0

0

40

96.98

Old Brighton

16

5

10

0

0

20

83.15

Caulfield Grammarians

18

6

12

0

0

24

63.95

St Bernards

16

5

10

0

0

20

45.07

De La Salle

18

5

12

1

0

22

67.45

Fitzroy

16

4

12

0

0

16

68.55

Williamstown CYMS

18

4

13

0

0

16

67.3

Beaumaris

18

2

16

0

0

8

44.98

Sports Injuries Arthritis Fractures THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

54

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS DIVISION 1 MEN’S

DIVISION 1 MEN’S RESERVES

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Prahran FC

18

16

2

0

0

64

196.74

Parkside

18

16

2

0

0

64

276.01 193.21

Parkside

18

13

5

0

0

52

158.25

Ormond

18

14

4

0

0

56

Ormond

18

12

6

0

0

48

136.16

Prahran

18

13

5

0

0

52

163.74

UHS-VU

18

12

6

0

0

48

128.29

West Brunswick

18

13

5

0

0

52

157.38

Old Peninsula

18

10

8

0

0

40

104.24

Kew

18

11

7

0

0

44

149.43

Kew

18

8

9

1

0

34

102.09

UHS-VU

18

9

9

0

0

36

112.24

Preston Bullants

18

7

10

1

0

30

85.66

Old Yarra Cobras

18

6

12

0

0

24

69.32

Therry Penola

18

5

13

0

0

20

63.52

Preston Bullants

18

5

13

0

0

20

53.81

West Brunswick

18

4

14

0

0

16

62.79

Therry Penola

18

2

16

0

0

8

29.3

Old Yarra Cobras

18

2

16

0

0

8

53.8

Old Peninsula

18

1

17

0

0

4

38.63

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Brunswick FC

18

15

3

0

0

60

150.53

Brunswick

18

17

1

0

0

68

311.41

Elsternwick

18

12

5

1

0

50

111.25

MHSOB

18

15

3

0

0

60

201.39

South Melbourne Districts

18

12

6

0

0

48

122.09

St Marys Salesian

18

13

5

0

0

52

168.47

Whitefriars

18

11

6

1

0

46

125.02

South Melbourne Districts

18

11

7

0

0

44

171.02

Hawthorn

18

11

7

0

0

44

104.82

Whitefriars

18

11

7

0

0

44

151.9

MHSOB

18

7

10

1

0

30

92.47

Elsternwick

18

8

10

0

0

32

90.56

St Marys Salesian

18

6

11

1

0

26

96.86

Hawthorn

18

7

11

0

0

28

95.71 63.53

DIVISION 2 MEN’S

DIVISION 2 MEN’S RESERVES

Aquinas

18

5

13

0

0

20

75.67

Wattle Park

18

5

13

0

0

20

Wattle Park

18

4

13

1

0

18

79.82

Aquinas

18

3

15

0

0

12

62.97

Bulleen Templestowe

18

4

13

1

0

18

68.24

Bulleen Templestowe

18

0

18

0

0

0

11.07

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

North Brunswick

17

15

2

0

1

60

230.42

Power House

16

14

2

0

2

56

247.06

St Johns

16

14

2

0

2

56

280.46

Richmond Central

17

14

3

0

1

56

311.45

Power House

16

13

3

0

2

52

217.18

North Brunswick

17

13

3

1

1

54

194.13

Canterbury

17

13

4

0

1

52

175.28

St Johns

16

11

5

0

2

44

202.26

Richmond Central

17

10

7

0

1

40

117.47

Canterbury

17

11

6

0

1

44

168.3

Swinburne University

17

7

10

0

1

28

91.07

Box Hill North

16

7

8

1

2

30

121.4

Albert Park

16

6

10

0

2

24

72.43

Swinburne University

17

7

10

0

1

28

107.8

Box Hill North

16

4

12

0

2

16

58.89

La Trobe

16

6

10

0

2

24

92.79

DIVISION 3 MEN’S

DIVISION 3 MEN’S RESERVES

La Trobe University

16

3

13

0

2

12

71.97

Albert Park

16

4

12

0

2

16

46.73

Eley Park

16

3

13

0

2

12

29.81

Chadstone

16

2

14

0

2

8

29.95

Chadstone

16

2

14

0

2

8

50.7

Eley Park

16

0

16

0

2

0

13.84

MECWACARE MASTERS TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Marcellin

7

5

2

0

0

12

243.36

De La Salle

6

5

1

0

0

12

203.01

Preston

5

0

5

0

2

0

21.85

Oakleigh

2

0

0

0

2

0

0

Sports Injuries Arthritis Fractures 55

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S

DIVISION 1 WOMEN’S

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Scotch

18

17

1

0

0

68

417.07

Old Brighton

16

15

1

0

0

60

484.68

St Kevins

18

17

1

0

0

68

355.09

Marcellin

16

14

2

0

0

56

395.22

Kew

18

12

6

0

0

48

175.74

Parkdale

16

8

8

0

0

32

126.67

Caulfield Grammarians

18

11

6

1

0

46

132.83

Collegians 3

16

6

10

0

0

24

53.05

West Brunswick

18

10

8

0

0

40

82.01

Old Melburnians

16

5

11

0

0

20

63.78

Collegians

18

9

9

0

0

36

91.44

Old Haileybury

16

4

11

0

0

16

61.66

Coburg

18

4

14

0

0

16

58.87

Old Yarra Cobras

18

4

14

0

0

16

48.49

MUWFC

18

3

14

1

0

14

60.68

DIVISION 2 WOMEN’S

Monash Blues

18

2

16

0

0

8

20.63

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

16

15

1

0

0

60

378.92

Whitefriars

16

12

4

0

0

48

181.01

Power House

16

11

4

1

0

46

286.94

Hampton Rovers

16

11

4

1

0

46

196.21

Oakleigh

16

11

5

0

0

44

159.5

Richmond Central

16

6

10

0

0

24

107.16

WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S RESERVES TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Collegians

18

16

2

0

0

64

497.98

Kew

18

16

2

0

0

64

431.47

West Brunswick

18

13

5

0

0

52

171.48

Old Scotch

18

13

5

0

0

52

169.62

St Kevins

18

11

7

0

0

44

210.63

Caulfield Grammarians

18

7

11

0

0

28

75.4

Coburg

18

5

10

1

0

22

51.32

Old Yarra Cobras

18

4

13

1

0

18

53.97

Monash Blues

18

2

16

0

0

8

22

DIVISION 3 WOMEN’S

MUWFC

18

2

16

0

0

8

15.41

TEAM

P

Therry Penola

16

La Trobe

16

De La Salle

16

Box Hill North

PREMIER B WOMEN’S TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Williamstown CYMS

16

16

0

0

0

64

314.89

Old Geelong

16

13

3

0

0

52

253.19

Fitzroy

16

11

5

0

0

44

267.33

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers

16

9

7

0

0

36

136.4

Beaumaris

16

6

10

0

0

24

89.44

Westbourne

16

5

11

0

0

20

81.78

Aquinas

16

4

12

0

0

16

26.92

Old Xaverians

16

3

13

0

0

12

42.02

PREMIER B WOMEN’S RESERVES

Old Trinity

16

6

8

0

0

24

48.62

Hawthorn

16

4

12

0

0

16

52.12

Mazenod OC

16

3

13

0

0

12

40.66

Old Camberwell

16

1

15

0

0

0

15.07

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

15

1

0

0

60

570.37

11

5

0

0

44

156.34

10

6

0

0

40

135.26

16

10

6

0

0

40

127.85

Old Carey

16

9

7

0

0

36

89.9

UHS-VU

16

7

9

0

0

28

88.54 82.74

Parkside

16

7

9

0

0

28

Wattle Park

16

4

12

0

0

16

41.5

Preston Bullants

16

4

12

0

0

16

36.03

Brunswick

16

3

13

0

0

12

54.99

DIVISION 4 WOMEN’S TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

St Kevins Div 4

15

13

1

0

1

52

280

MCC

16

11

4

0

0

44

613.86

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Albert Park

14

9

5

0

2

36

169.8

Fitzroy

16

14

2

0

0

56

451.5

Kew Div 4

15

9

6

0

1

36

115.93

Old Xaverians

16

11

5

0

0

44

163.18

North Brunswick Football Club

15

7

8

0

1

28

236.94

Westbourne

16

10

5

0

0

40

268.18

St Marys Salesian

15

6

9

0

1

24

125.81

St Bedes / Mentone Tigers

16

10

6

0

0

40

157.43

South Melbourne

15

5

10

0

1

20

30.27

Williamstown CYMS

16

8

8

0

0

32

115.93

Canterbury

14

4

10

0

2

16

59.67

Beaumaris

16

7

9

0

0

28

104.02

Old Yarra Cobras Div 4

15

4

9

0

1

16

52.65

Old Geelong

16

6

10

0

0

24

58.08

Elsternwick

15

3

12

0

0

12

57.17

Aquinas

16

0

15

0

0

0

4.77

West Brunswick Div 4

15

2

13

0

1

8

13.51

Sports Injuries Arthritis Fractures THE AMATEUR FOOTBALLER 2024

56

ORTHOSPORT VICTORIA VAFA PREMIERSHIP LADDERS HOLMESGLEN U19 DIVISION 1 MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN U19 DIVISION 3 MEN’S

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

St Bernards

18

15

3

0

0

60

173.86

Collegians

17

15

1

0

1

60

208.07 143.36

Hampton Rovers

18

14

4

0

0

56

173.16

Ormond

18

13

5

0

0

52

Old Haileybury

18

14

4

0

0

56

152.03

Kew

18

12

6

0

0

48

135.9

Old Carey

18

9

9

0

0

36

129.25

Preston

18

11

7

0

0

44

144.8

Fitzroy

18

9

9

0

0

36

86.92

St Bernards 2

18

11

7

0

0

44

127.25

Old Xaverians 2

18

6

12

0

0

24

75.19

Mazenod OC

18

5

13

0

0

20

78.85

Old Melburnians

18

5

12

0

0

20

65.46

Monash Blues

17

3

14

0

1

12

58.87

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

18

4

14

0

0

16

62.43

PEGS

17

3

14

0

1

12

57.44

HOLMESGLEN U19 DIVISION 2 MEN’S

HOLMESGLEN U19 DIVISION 4 MEN’S

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Camberwell

18

16

2

0

0

64

213.16

St Marys Salesian

17

13

4

0

1

48

225.87

Parkdale Vultures

18

15

3

0

0

60

189.06

De La Salle 2

17

13

4

0

1

52

216.01

University Blues 2

18

12

5

0

0

48

195.47

Beaumaris 2

16

12

4

0

2

48

179.07

Oakleigh

18

11

6

1

0

46

152.19

Caulfield Grammarians 2

17

11

4

0

1

44

150.27

St Bedes / Mentone 2

18

10

8

0

0

40

97.37

Williamstown CYMS 2

17

10

6

0

1

40

130.26

Parkside

18

9

9

0

0

36

111.77

Therry Penola

16

7

9

0

2

28

128.26

St Kevins 2

18

6

11

1

0

26

74.57

Bulleen Templestowe

17

7

8

0

1

24

90.84

Old Trinity

18

5

13

0

0

20

80.75

Old Xaverians 3

17

5

12

0

1

20

80.45

Old Ivanhoe

18

3

12

2

0

16

56.87

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon 2

16

4

9

0

2

16

49.56

University Blacks

18

1

16

0

0

4

24.97

St Kevins 3

16

3

13

0

2

12

61.26

MHSOB

17

0

17

0

0

0

26.17

THIRDS DIVISION 1 MEN’S

THIRDS DIVISION 3 MENS SOUTH

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Xaverians 2

14

14

0

0

2

56

233.12

Mazenod OC

16

15

1

0

0

60

521.73

St Kevins 2

14

12

2

0

2

48

183.98

Ormond

16

12

4

0

0

48

181.89

Ajax

14

10

4

0

2

40

164.34

Parkdale

16

10

6

0

0

40

173.14

Fitzroy 2

14

9

5

0

2

36

151.16

St Marys Salesian

16

10

6

0

0

40

110.32

Williamstown CYMS

13

7

6

0

3

28

114.1

Wattle Park

16

10

6

0

0

40

96.79

University Blacks

14

4

10

0

2

16

54.04

Oakleigh

16

7

9

0

0

28

75.41

Old Geelong

15

4

10

0

1

16

45.8

South Melbourne

16

5

11

0

0

20

90.82

Collegians

14

2

8

0

2

8

55.21

Elsternwick

16

4

12

0

0

16

73.47

THIRDS DIVISION 2 MEN’S SOUTH

Monash Blues

16

3

13

0

0

12

37.5

Masala 2

16

0

16

0

0

0

18.5

THIRDS DIVISION 3 MENS NORTH

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Mentone Panthers

16

15

1

0

0

60

287.47

Old Xaverians 4

16

12

3

1

0

50

356.22

De La Salle

16

13

3

0

0

52

218.99

Old Ivanhoe

12

11

1

0

0

44

305.94

Ajax 2

16

12

3

0

0

48

299.08

Whitefriars

16

10

6

0

0

40

154.42

Old Brighton 2

16

10

6

0

0

40

143.01

Marcellin 2

16

10

6

0

0

40

90.92

Glen Eira / Old McKinnon

16

6

8

0

0

24

57

MHSOB

16

9

6

1

0

38

120.08

Old Scotch 2

16

4

11

0

0

16

54.39

Hawthorn

16

8

8

0

0

32

109.64

Hampton Rovers

16

3

12

0

0

12

56.19

Box Hill North

16

7

8

0

0

28

83.56

Williamstown CYMS 2

16

3

9

0

0

12

54.95

West Brunswick

16

6

10

0

0

24

69.5

UHS-VU

16

5

11

0

0

20

63.3

Swinburne

16

3

13

0

0

12

39.35

Old Yarra Cobras

16

3

12

0

0

12

35.71

Canterbury

16

2

14

0

0

8

42.11

THIRDS DIVISION 2 MEN’S NORTH TEAM

P

W

L

D

B

PTS

%

Old Xaverians 3

16

16

0

0

0

64

413.49

Old Carey

16

14

2

0

0

56

168.71

Old Camberwell

16

8

7

1

0

34

89.98

Masala

16

8

8

0

0

32

95.13

Marcellin

16

8

8

0

0

32

94.39

Kew

16

7

8

1

0

30

107.56

Parkside

16

7

9

0

0

28

88.58

Richmond Central

16

2

12

0

0

8

56.68

57

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