Surf Coast clubs to face off after the bye

A MUST-WIN encounter for two of the Surf Coast’s most prominent clubs will headline a jam-packed Round 14 schedule in the Bellarine Football League (BFL).

BFL frontrunner Torquay is feeling the sting of its first loss in 2024 but will need to regroup after the bye ahead of the rivalry matchup with Anglesea – which is also in desperate need of a win – on July 14.

Torquay fell to Geelong Amateur at home last Saturday by a single point in Round 13, meanwhile Anglesea was left dumbfounded following an extremely gettable game, falling to seventh-placed Queenscliff by 22 points 11.12 (78) to 8.8 (56)).

The Tigers’ narrow loss to Ammos was reminiscent of Torquay’s one-point loss to Drysdale in Round 17 of 2023, taking place before Dom Gleeson’s side won its next four outings to win last year’s premiership.

A new-look Geelong Amateur was the reason for Torquay’s unexpected 11.16 (82) to 12.11 (83) defeat, with gun recruit Tom Gribble snatching the game-winning goal.

Jai Sheahan, Harry Kershaw, Blake Sutterby, Guy Hardiman and Luke Hillier were also named best on ground for Ammos, while Jesse Dawson was the lone highlight for Torquay with three majors.

Led by co-captains James Darke and Ben McNamara, the Tigers have a chance to bounce back and secure the team as minor premiers.

Anglesea, now in third with nine wins and four losses, is at risk of dropping another spot on the ladder if it is unable to overcome the Tigers and Barwon Heads defeat Ammos that same day.

Torquay co-captain James Darke has been in good form since returning to the side in recent weeks. Photo: CHARLIE YOUNG

Roos forwards Jarod Bacon and Simon Umbers are in decent form, both scoring a pair of goals in last week’s meeting with the Coutas.

Noah McGregor-Dawson, Charlie Lawless, Nicholas Swain, Will Batson, Lewis Beers and Max Virgona were also praised for their efforts in Round 13, led by skipper Ash Caldwell and playing coach Jordan Keras.

If Anglesea is able to steal a win away from Torquay, the Roos have a favourable run home to the finals against three of the bottom sides over the remaining four weeks – Newcomb, Portarlington, Geelong Amateur, and Ocean Grove.

Torquay’s remaining games for 2024 before week one of the finals series comprise matches against Modewarre, Queenscliff, Portarlington and Barwon Heads.

The July 14 clash at McCartney Oval between Torquay and Anglesea begins at 2.10pm.