Big test for Burra on the road

Sunbury vs Sebastopol
MATCH of the round as the Lions host the Burra who have won their last four in the McDonalds Ballarat Football League. In the past two years, teams travelling up the highway boast a 25 per cent chance of returning with the four points and with the fitness around star on-baller, Lachlan Cassidy, in question, this sets up to be a super close contest with Sebas looking to record their first win at Clarke Oval… ever! Prediction – Sebastopol by five points.

Ballarat v Melton
Another respectable loss by the Swans last week, but the club will be keen to finally register a point in the winner’s column when they host the Bloods this weekend. The only way to describe Melton this year is hot and cold with their good and bad footy too far in-between in what is no doubt a frustrating sight for coach Aaron Tymms. Prediction – Melton… if they come to play.

Darley v Redan
Third placed Darley host the table topping Lions in a true battle of the heavyweights this Saturday at Darley Park. Lachie George was dominant with six majors against the struggling Panthers last week as his status as Henderson Medal favourite firms, while the Graham brothers, Nick and Brian, were at their best for the Devils in the side’s big win over Lake Wendouree. Prediction – Darley in a flip of the coin.

East Point v Bacchus Marsh
Off the back of the bye, the Kangaroos have a big opportunity to regain top spot if they can defeat Bacchus Marsh this weekend. The club is likely to recall captain Paul Koderanko to boost the ruck stocks and will be looking to veteran Brad Whittaker to re-find his earlier season form with the key forward going goalless in his last three outings. Prediction – East Point comfortably.

North Ballarat City v Melton South
It’s City’s season on the line against the struggling Panthers this weekend with a loss no doubt ending any slim chance of Shane Skontra’s men sneaking into the top six. North is currently two games off the pace and with a poor percentage of 77.27 and a big win is required as well to help with a late season charge. The Panthers could regain ex-Carlton player Paul Bower and VFL-listed forward Dylan Conway for this one, which could make this one a very tight tussle. Prediction – North Ballarat City by 24 points.