Lions leader White on-board for ’27

SUNBRY coach Matthew White has inked a one-year contract extension, taking him through until the end of 2027.

The former Richmond and Port Adelaide winger’s decision to recommit for a fourth year at Clarke Oval comes as the Lions continue their fight for a 2026 season finals berth in what has been a rollercoaster ride this season.

Their chances were enhanced with a high-stakes nine-point win over Melton at Macpherson Park.

The Lions, currently in sixth spot on the ladder, joined fifth-placed Melton at 6–7, putting them a game clear of Bacchus Marsh (seventh) and two ahead of Redan (eighth), with five rounds remaining.

They face another must-win clash against Bacchus Marsh at Clarke Oval this Saturday, with the Cobras in a desperate battle of their own to back up last year’s breakthrough finals appearance following a gallant 29-point loss to Darley.

White, who played his junior football with Sunbury, said he was “stoked” to sign on for another year.

“After an incredible 2025, this season has thrown some challenges our way, but playing 40 players before round 11 due to injuries and VFL call-ups just shows how much depth and future talent we have,” he said. “We’ve got a massive final block of games ahead, and we’re fully focused on climbing back up that ladder to finish the home and away season strong.”

In a club statement, the Lions said they were “thrilled” to have locked in White for another season.

“In his third season as head coach, Whitey has worked tirelessly since his arrival to return our great club to the top end, taking our seniors to their first grand final appearance in nearly 10 years in only his second year in charge,” the statement read.

“Through this year’s challenges, Whitey has stayed as focused and driven as ever, having full confidence in our whole senior football group to continue towards the ultimate success.”

A tough run home for Sunbury beyond its Bacchus Marsh clash includes top-of-the-ladder Sebastopol, North Ballarat (fourth), East Point (ninth) and Ballarat (third).

The Lions went 2–3 in those games earlier in the season, beating Sebastopol and East Point but

losing to the Cobras, Roosters and Swans.

An arm-wrestle for most of the day, their win over Melton was led by crunch-time performances from Joshua Guthrie, who kicked four goals, Tyson Lever, Jack Newitt (three goals), Ben Eales, Myles Gollant and Mitch Mclean.

The Lions led by 17 points at three-quarter-time, but held firm against a surging Bloods, who booted four goals to two in a tense final term.