Lakers need a win in round 7

Lake Wendouree v Sunbury
SHOCKWAVES went through the McDonalds Ballarat Football League last week as Melton South upset the Lakers, which begs the question; are they really good enough for finals football this year. A ‘favourable’ draw had pundits thinking the Lakers could be as high as second if Dale Power’s men were able to capitalise, yet so far they have not. Sunbury have been hot and cold with their best and worst footy too far and in-between and their bad record in Ballarat, could cost them vital points against the disappointing Lakers. Prediction – Lakers to bounce back at home.

Melton vs. Redan
The best match on paper this round as the Lions head up the highway for the first time this season to take on the Bloods who are returning to MacPherson Park this week after a disappointing loss against Sunbury last week.

A game into the legs of Ben Archard will do them the world of good and will look to their co-captain to dominate in the ruck with Lion’s big man, Orren Stephenson, expected to miss the with a shoulder injury. Prediction – Melton to snap Redan’s undefeated start to the season.

Bacchus Marsh v Darley
IT was only six short weeks ago when these archrivals met last time, with Darley being too good at home. Since then, the Cobras have bounced back with consecutive victories and more importantly look to have the balance up forward working again between 2018 Tony Lockett Medallist, Aaron Willitts and club co-captain, Jake Owen. Darley will still be without their best player, Brain Graham, who will serve his second week of his suspension and his disappearance could be the difference in this one. Prediction – Bacchus Marsh by under a goal.

Sebastopol v Melton South
YOU would be an absolute genius if you predicted not just one, but both these sides going into this clash off victories last week.

The Panthers completed a 200 plus point turnaround with a victory over Lake Wendouree  last week. Port Melbourne VFL-listed forward, Dylan Conway, booted six for the Panthers last week, but will be challenged by the zoning defence of Sebastopol with the likes of Tony Lockyer and Sam Jenkins set to be more than he could bargain for. Prediction – Sebastopol comfortably.

North Ballarat City v East Point
NORTH Ballarat and East Point are desperate to get back on the winners list. Matt Johnston plays against his former side, with the ’Roos premiership player coming off the back of a best on ground performance which also included a mark of the year contender. Expect to see him at his finest along with brother, Jordan, as East Point should be too good for the struggling North Ballarat. Prediction – East Point by 30 points.