BFNL Netball Preview | Round 18
AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s A Grade Netball matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.
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Torquay vs Ocean Grove
McCartney Oval, 1:50PM, Saturday 16th August, 2025
Ocean Grove were handed their inaugural defeat last week—a wakeup call that has now put their aspirations of securing a Week One finals bye firmly on the line.
A victory this weekend is essential—not just to bounce back, but to potentially reclaim top spot on the ladder, which could offer them a crucial opportunity to go back-to-back.
Looking to rebound: Torquay are eager to recover after a recent setback—having been defeated by Queenscliff, the Tigers will need to win this week, by a large sum and hope results go their way.
One of Torquay’s top shooters, Elissa Hall will need to be at her shooting best to give the Tigers an opportunity to win.
At the opposite end of the ground, grubbers goal attack Zanna Woods has been super impressive in front of goals, as she looks to continue her impressive run of goals.
Anglesea vs Queenscliff
Ellimatta Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 16th August, 2025
The equation is simple for Queenscliff, win this weekend, and they book a qualifying final against either Geelong Amateur or Ocean Grove.
However, a loss to Anglesea and a Torquay win by a decent sum could cause a major shake-up of the final ladder positioning ahead of week one finals, with an elimination game against Newcomb booked.
The Roos, in front of home fans will be hoping to cause one last twist as their season comes to a close.
Roo’s goalkeeper, Lulu Higgins will play a major role through her intercepting and IQ.
As for the Coutas, midcourt Caitie Kennedy should provide poise around the court.
Geelong Amateur vs Newcomb
Queens Park Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 16th August, 2025
Geelong Amateur’s opened up major talking points with their incredible come from behind win against Ocean Grove last weekend.
A win that now has them in the box seat to claim the all-important week one finals bye.
Newcomb is locked into an elimination final and will leave no stone unturned as they will use this match as a finals preview.
A win for the Power would bring crucial momentum into their second consecutive finals campaign, while potentially causing a change at the top of the table if Ocean Grove come out on top.
Michelle Winch in front of goals for Ammos will have plenty of opportunities after shooting 22 goals last weekend.
For the Power, Ebony Side who has played multiple positions all season should be important in defense and through the midcourt.
Modewarre vs Portarlington
Mount Moriac Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 16th August, 2025
Modewarre has faced plenty of challenges this season, a shining light would be a win to end their campaign.
Portarlington shored up sixth position on the ladder last weekend with a win against Drysdale, heading into next season, back-to-back wins could be a great motivator for season 2026.
Warriors goal defense, Maddison Quilliam should see plenty of opportunities to intercept and further progress the ball up the court.
Dees goal shooter, Tully Bethune should be prevalent in front of goals.
Barwon Heads vs Drysdale
Howard Harmer Oval, 1:50PM, Saturday 16th August, 2025
Barwon Heads have put in a strong late-season finish as they look towards season, 2026.
Currently the Seagulls have won three out of their last five games, finding form at the pointy end of the season.
Drysdale has faced challenges towards the end of the season, currently on a five-game losing streak.
Both clubs played each other back in round 10, the Hawks came out on top in a close encounter.
Expect an exciting finish as both clubs look to claim bragging rights for next season.
Seagulls midcourt, Chelsea Baker will look to provide crucial linking between attack and defense.
For the Hawks, midcourt Mia Fallon should also play a major role in terms of their ball movement.
