AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s Senior Football matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.

Bell Park vs St Mary’s

Hamlyn Park, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

A must win game for the home side against one of the form teams of the competition, the past month.

A loss this weekend for James Saker’s squad could impact their finals hopes if South Barwon win this weekend against Newtown.

For St Mary’s, they’re eyeing off a top spot finish, sitting a game outside Newtown and St Joseph’s, however, they have the strongest percentage of the competition.

The Dragons ability to win the footy, particularly the past two weeks, has seen a stark decrease,

Averaging 274.5 disposals per game, compared to their season average of 333.5.

An improvement in this area could see plenty of opportunities going inside 50 for the Dragons.

Geelong VFL-listed player, Hamish Lucas if required should have an enormous impact, averaging 16.2 disposals per game, while averaging 1.5 goals per game.

In tricky conditions last week, St Mary’s were able to total 102 marks for the game,

If Luke Rayner’s side can win the football through contested possessions, their ability to control the ball could pose a threat for the dragons.

Key figures, Jarryd Garner and Jack Blood should see plenty of the footy, averaging 13.0 and 11.2 kicks respectively.

Lara vs Colac

Lara Recreation Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

The home side might find this test challenging, coming up against Colac who are currently on a four-game winning streak.

The Cats kicking efficiency has been below average the past three weeks, averaging 42%, a clean-up in disposal by foot could improve their overall chances.

Brett Henderson will call upon Ryan Bell and Brodie Cambridge to have an impact for their side.

The Tigers produced a season high 113 intercept possessions last weekend,

Evidently, Jason Armistead’s system is working behind the ball and could create issues for the Cats if they’re pressured when disposing of the ball.

Jarrod Walters currently averages 5.6 intercept possessions per game.

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Newtown & Chilwell vs South Barwon

Elderslie Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

Big ramification’s for either side this weekend.

Newtown can look to hang on to top spot, while South Barwon are looking to extend their gap on Bell Park to six points.

The Towners ability to win the football the past fortnight has produced averages of 470 total disposals.

Any number remotely close should go a long way in Steve Johnson’s side coming out on top.

The Swans ability to create space inside 50 has been evident over the past month, averaging 20 marks inside 50.

Mark Neeld’s forwards are getting quality supply from his midfield and defense, a similar outing this weekend could pose a threat for Newtown’s defense.

Skipper, Matthew Caldow and key forward Fraser Fort, average 3.8 and 3.6 marks inside 50 respectively.

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St Albans vs Grovedale

St Albans Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

The last time these two sides played each other in round three, St Albans finished on top.

Grovedale entered half-time with a crucial lead but were overrun by the Saints.

Expect an exciting game of football, with both sides looking to take bragging rights.

St Albans have won two of their past three games, in those games they won, they totalled 73 uncontested marks in both games.

If Rick Munn’s squad can produce numbers similar to this, the Tigers may struggle gaining control of the game.

Tom Higgins and Brock McDonald lead their side, averaging 4.3 and 3.8 marks respectively.

Jacob Spolding’s side average an elite 47.1 clearances per game, last week, they were down on this number, totalling 36 clearances.

The Tigers on-ball brigade could provide headaches for St Alban’s midfield if they can get on top early.

Sean Abbott and William Ford should be influential.

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St Joseph’s vs Leopold

Herne Hill Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

An important game for both sides.

St Joseph’s are currently on a two-game losing streak, while the reigning premiers finals hopes, hang in the balance of their performance this weekend.

If results go either sides way, St Joseph’s could find themselves back on top of the ladder.

Leopold could find themselves equal on points with South Barwon for fifth position.

St Joseph’s currently average a tick under 15 goals per game, that number was significantly down, the past two weekends.

Albeit in tough conditions, Joeys scoring efficiency was 29%, compared to a season average of 58.1%.

Ron Watt’s men will be looking to change this statistic, Paddy De Grandi averages a team high 9.0 score involvements.

Leopold’s past two weeks have been a drastic change, the Lions totalled 111 total turnovers against South Barwon.

Followed by 72 total turnovers against Geelong West Giants, if Luke Kelly’s side can maintain their total turnover rate to a number similarly to last week’s performance.

The Lions may be able to control the football and create opportunities going inside 50.

Mitchell Burgess should be influential with his precision kicking, averaging 15.8 kicks and 5.2 rebound 50’s.

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Geelong West Giants vs North Shore

West Oval Reserve, 2:10PM, Sunday 3^rd August, 2025

Either side hasn’t won for a month, which should excite supporters.

Geelong West Giants have averaged 273.75 total disposals per game, the past month, which is well below their season average of 341.3 disposals per game.

Greg Mallor’s squad will look to gain the football in the middle of the ground and look to score from stoppages.

Ethan Liddle, Lachlan Taylor and Tanner Lewis lead their squad, all averaging six or more clearances per game.

North Shore has averaged 90 total turnovers, the past two weeks.

A number Mark Hounslow would be looking to improve for this week, if the Seagulls can minimise this number, their inside 50 and scoring rate could improve.

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s A Grade Netball matches in the Bellarine Football Netball League.

Drysdale vs Ocean Grove

Drysdale Recreation Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 2nd August, 2025

The reigning premiers should be hard to beat as they continue their dominant season, remarkably still without a loss.

Drysdale no doubt will put up a strong performance after a brave fight last weekend against Torquay.

For the Grubbers, Zanna Woods should be important in attack, having shot 88.4% in front of goals this season.

Chloe Hobbs ability to play multiple positions in attack and defense for the Hawks will be crucial for their chances this weekend.

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Geelong Amateur vs Torquay

Queens Park Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 2nd August, 2025

Could be a week one finals preview which should excite the competition,

The last time both sides played each other, back in round one, Geelong Amateur’s came out on top by 24 goals.

Be sure to see Torquay come out and apply the heat early with a top three spot guaranteed with a win.

Ammos centre/wing attack, Georgia Duncan should have a major impact on court, particularly with her passing and poise.

Tigers goal shooter, Daisy O’Kane is in a rich rein of form having shot 38 goals last week, expect plenty of opportunities this weekend.

Tune into AFL Barwon TV from 1.50pm on Saturday to watch live coverage of this big clash! 

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Modewarre vs Anglesea

Mount Moriac Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 2nd August, 2025

Both sides have faced challenges this season, yet you can always expect a fierce contest from both clubs.

Last time both sides played each other, back in round eight, Anglesea defeated Modewarre by 21 goals.

The Warriors will be looking for a fast start, putting the Roos defense on the back burner.

At either end of the court, Jemma Nelson for Modewarre and Jessica Coker for Anglesea should figure to see plenty of opportunities in front of goals.

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Portarlington vs Queenscliff

Portarlington Recreation Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 2nd August, 2025

A massive game for both sides, Portarlington’s finals hopes hang in the balance, they must win this weekend and hope other results fall their way to stay alive.

Queenscliff are playing for a second chance, sitting one game outside the top three, winning is a must.

The Dees have been in some strong form, outing up a strong fight against Geelong Amateur’s last week,

Laura Robinson will be pivotal in defense for the Dees,

While Coutas wing defense, Keely Kinsey should be important around the court.

Newcomb vs Barwon Heads

Grinter Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 2nd August, 2025

Newcomb can sure up a second consecutive finals appearance with a win this weekend.

Barwon Heads however would love to claim a major scalp this weekend, their form over the past month has been pretty strong, competing against the best sides in the competition.

The last time these two sides played each other, the Power won by 14 goals, expect the Gulls to come out with a point to prove.

The Power will look to, last year’s equal best and fairest, Jessica Duke in defense, particularly her intercepting ability.

Macie Mortlock will be important for the Seagulls in centre court, with her ability to create opportunities for her teammates in attack.

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s Senior Football matches in the Bellarine Football Netball League.

Drysdale vs Ocean Grove

Drysdale Recreation Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

Plenty to play out with Drysdale looking to respond after a tough defeat to the reigning premier, as they fight for a top three spot.

While Ocean Grove are after back-to-back wins for the first time this season.

The Hawks average 74.1 marks per game, in tough conditions last week, they totalled 38 marks, a number Ben Carmichael would like to forget quickly.

If they can get back to their normal ways this weekend, which has seen them win games, the Hawks could give the Grubbers some headaches around the ground.

VFL listed player, Luke Preece and Tom Ruggles average 5.4 and 4.9 marks per game.

The Grubbers ability to be well set behind the ball has been evident, averaging 91.7 intercept possessions per game.

If Dave Farrell’s side can continue to be positioned well behind the ball, the Grubbers may be able to move the footy in attacking ways out of the back half of the ground.

Jamison Hallam and Gus Bourke average 9.2 and 6.0 intercept possessions per game.

Geelong Amateur vs Torquay

Queens Park Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

A top of the table clash that will be sure to bring supporters, in which should be the match of the round.

Geelong Amateurs can sure up top spot on the ladder with a win.

For the reigning premier, a win against Ammos could give a pulse for finishing on top of the ladder.

Sam Lloyd’s side average 109.4 marks per game, which ranks elite for the competition.

If Ammos can get first use with the football, look for a high kick-mark brand of football,

Which was successful last time these two sides played each other in round one.

Midfielders, Tom Gribble and Riley Ferguson average 5.6 and 5.2 marks per game respectively.

Torquay ranks elite for total handballs per game, averaging 151.3 handballs per game.

Last time the Tigers faced Ammos, they produced 122 handballs.

Expect newly signed Dom Gleeson to have an added focus towards moving the ball with speed through overlap handballs.

Both Ham brothers, Charlie and Sheldon should have an influence on the game, averaging 10.8 and 6.5 handballs per game.

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Modewarre vs Anglesea

Mount Moriac Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

Massive implications for this weekend’s game, regarding which side may play finals.

A win for Modewarre would bring them back within a game of Anglesea, however a loss would end their finals hopes.

For Anglesea, a win this week would ensure they maintain fifth spot.

If Barwon Heads were to lose against Newcomb, the Roos would build an eight-point buffer for fifth position.

The Warriors totalled a season high 57 total hard ball gets, with finals on the line, expect Mark Hovey’s men to be desperate to win the football in contested situations.

Callen Farrell and Josh Finch average 11.6 and 7.5 total ground ball gets per game respectively.

The Roos laid a season high 108 tackles last weekend, expect nothing less of Jordan Keras’s squad this weekend, as they’ll be desperate to apply the early heat in the midfield, as their season is on the line.

Harrison Ling leads his side averaging 7.5 tackles per game.

Tune into AFL Barwon TV from 2.10pm on Saturday to watch live coverage of this big clash! 

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Portarlington vs Queenscliff

Portarlington Recreation Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

Last weekend’s result for Queenscliff hurt their chances of consolidating a top three position.

Currently, level with Drysdale on points, the Coutas will be hoping to put on a strong performance against a tough Portarlington squad.

The Dees will be looking to bounce back after a tough month with an important win this weekend to finish off a strong season.

The past two weeks, Heath Jamieson’s side has averaged 93 turnovers per game, a number he would like to reduce heading towards a finals campaign.

Important ball users, Jordy Mcivor-Clark and Jake Lindrea should have an influence averaging 19.5 and 12.5 kicks per game.

The Dees past month, they have averaged 61.8 marks per game, down on their season average of 78.4 marks per game.

Expect a high priority of Nathan Storer’s this weekend to maximise their number of marks per game.

Teia Miles and Nicholas Sing average 6.8 marks per game each.

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Newcomb vs Barwon Heads

Grinter Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 2^nd August, 2025

Finals implications are high on the agenda for this weekend’s game.

Last weekend’s heartbreaking loss should fuel Newcomb this weekend as they look to take some momentum into next season.

Barwon Heads finals hopes are on the line, after a disappointing second half last week against Anglesea.

The Seagulls need to win to either stay within four points of Anglesea or potentially leapfrog them back into the top five.

The Powers ability to win the football the past month has been much higher than their season average of 308.9 total disposals, averaging 347 disposals per game.

However, their high turnover rate has hurt their chances of scoring when inside 50.

The return of Jack Duke this week for Tony Mirabella’s side should provide some support inside 50, Duke currently averages 2.7 goals per game.

Heading into last weekend’s game, the Seagulls were averaging 56.5 pressure acts per game over their last six games.

That number dropped to 37 against Anglesea, as their overall pressure dropped in the second half for Sam Schaller’s side.

Expect Barwon Heads overall pressure to improve this week as they push for a finals spot.

Sammy Baker and Lachlan Wilson lead their side, averaging 3.9 and 3.4 pressure acts per game.

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s Senior Football matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.

Colac vs St Joseph’s

Central Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

A top four clash that could have big ramifications for the loser,

St Joseph’s were handed their second loss of the season last week, out classed by St Mary’s in tricky conditions.

Colac on the other hand where able to stretch away in the second half against a gallant St Albans.

A win for Ron Watts squad would come close to guaranteeing a finals spot and improve their top three credentials.

However, a loss could widen the top of the ladder with Newtown breathing on their necks for a week one finals bye.

For Jason Armistead’s men, a win would keep them well in the hunt for a top three spot.

Although, a loss could bring them back vying for a top five spot.

Important figure, Cooper Hayes, should receive plenty of attention, averaging 22.8 disposals per game, 14.8 of those being kicks.

Unheralded Zac Knights should have a major impact, averaging 18.5 disposals per game, while averaging 5 marks per game.

Leopold vs Geelong West Giants

Leopold Memorial Park, 2:10PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

Last week’s crazy finish for reigning premier, Leopold has made things a little bit harder.

Sitting six points behind fifth place Bell Park, winning their remaining six games is paramount for the Lions.

The Giants put in a strong performance last weekend against Bell Park, but faded in the last quarter, a four-quarter performance this week could make for an exciting game of football.

The Lions total marks per game, currently sits at 81.8 per game, rating below average, a statistic Luke Kelly would be looking to improve on.

Billy Ritchie, Riley Stone and Darcy Brislane all average 4.7 or more marks per game.

The Giants clearance numbers have been below average this season, averaging 40.6 clearances per game,

Greg Mallor would love to improve this number with Finley O’Keefe and Max Kelly both averaging 5.0 and 4.4 clearances respectively.

Newtown and Chilwell vs Grovedale

Elderslie Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

Newtown gained some much-needed percentage after defeating North Shore by 195 points,

They now sit a game and roughly four percent behind last year’s minor premiers St Joseph’s.

If results go their way this week, they could find themselves on top of the ladder.

Grovedale find themselves back on the winners list for the first time since round six.

Contested possessions have been a statistic Steve Johnson’s squad would like to clean up heading into the latter parts of the season,

Averaging 150.7 contested possessions per game, ranking below average in the competition,

Key figures Ned Harris, Liam Nash and Gennaro Bove should lead the way, all averaging 11.5 or more per game.

The Tigers totaled 92 marks in last weeks game against Lara, 90 seems to be the magic number for Jacob Spolding’s side, winning three out of four games.

Rory Quinn and Eward Adams both average five or more marks per game.

North Shore vs St Albans

Windsor Park, 2:10PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

Both sides were handed tough defeats, North Shore were outclassed while St Albans were held scoreless until the last quarter.

The Seagulls totaled 102 turnovers last weekend; while kicking the footy at 42% efficiency, a number Mark Hounslow would clearly want to improve.

Leaders, Lachlan Hayes and Harry Purcell both average 20.2 and 18.1 kicks per game respectively.

St Albans will look to put speed on the ball through overlap handballs, a number they rate below average for.

Rick Munn will look to contested bulls, Jim Botsaris and Jacob Russell, who both average 9.0 and 8.7 contested possessions per game.

South Barwon vs Bell Park

McDonald Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

There should be a final-like atmosphere this weekend.

Huge ramifications regarding ladder positioning for either side,

A win for Bell Park will bridge a six-point buffer between South Barwon.

However, a win for the Swans would catapult the Dragons back into the top five by two points.

Although tricky conditions, Mark Neeld’s side totaled 102 turnovers last weekend, the most before this was 94.

An area he would want to fix for this upcoming match.

Key figure, Jack Driver and Sam James should lead the way, averaging 5.8 intercept possessions and 24.2 disposals respectively.

The Dragons have won seven of their last eight games, Euriah Holland and Jack Sarcevic have been important, Holland averaging 14.5 disposals per game, while Sarcevic is averaging 3.2 goals per game.

Tune in via krockfootball.live/FM 88.5 @ ground

St Mary’s vs Lara

Kardinia Park West, 2:10PM Saturday 26^th July, 2025

St Mary’s made a statement last weekend defeating top of the table St Joseph’s by 48 points.

Every game counts now as they fight for a top three spot.

Some wayward kicking hurt Lara’s chances of their first win of the season.

St Mary’s scoring prowess is evident, averaging an astonishing 18.7 goals per game, ranking elite in the competition.

Luke Rayner’s trust in his forwards to all be on the same page has resulted in Patrick Dowling and Sam Bourke to be first and sixth respectively in the competition’s goal kicking.

The Cat’s kicking efficiency has let them down in recent weeks, averaging 41% in their last two outings,

An area of concern for Brett Henderson’s men, which he’d like to clean up.

William Nicholls and Banjo Hickey should have impacts averaging 14.0 and 12.4 disposals per game.