AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s A Grade Netball matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.

Colac vs St Joseph’s

Central Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

Colac has won their past two games, making some great inroads for the remainder of the season.

However, a tough encounter this weekend against last year’s runners-up St Joseph’s who earlier in the season defeated the Tigers by 47 goals.

St Joseph’s sit a game outside reigning premier Newtown, but with higher percentage.

Tiger’s own, Mary Place has caught the hot hand the past two weeks, shooting 87 goals.

Georgette Paatsch should be at her intercepting best, while experienced wing attack, Emily Post will look to move the ball quickly.

Leopold vs Geelong West Giants

Leopold Memorial Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

Major ramifications for this weekend’s match,

Geelong West Giants are looking to hold off, sides outside the top five from taking their place.

A win would ensure a comfortable gap; however, a loss would bring Leopold and potentially Lara back into the mix.

For Leopold, it’s simple, win and they’re in the hunt.

The Lions will need Natalie Heagney to be accurate in front of goals, having shot 195 goals this season.

The Giants will look to centre, Mimi Lockwood to provide speed and precision passing.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Geelong West Giants (@geelongwestgiants)

Newtown and Chilwell vs Grovedale

Elderslie Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

A clinical win last week from the reigning premiers has them in a pretty position.

Grovedale has faced challenges throughout the season and face a major task against Newtown.

Last year’s inaugural coaches’ player of the year, Vanessa Augustini should garner plenty of attention as she’ll look to control the ball in attack.

Tiger’s goal shooter, Esther Kidmas has shot 279 goals and will need to be accurate against a strong defense.

St Mary’s vs Lara

Kardinia Park, 1:40PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

In terms of ladder positioning, there is no game, more important than this one.

St Mary’s were handed a tough loss to arch-rivals, St Joseph’s, while Lara was clinical in their performance against Lara.

A win for St Mary’s and they may find a little breathing room,

However, a loss and a Lara win will catapult the Cats into fifth spot, making for an exciting spectacle.

St Mary’s own Isabelle Grapsas was down on her usual input in front of goals last week, being held to eight goals, her second lowest of the season, she’s currently shot 253 goals for the season.

Cats centre Claire Newcombe will be all around the court, transitioning the ball from defense to attack, with Tilly Baker dangerous, having shot 37 goals last week.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lara Netball Club (@laracatsnetballclub)

South Barwon vs Bell Park

McDonald Reserve, 1:50PM, Saturday 26^th July, 2025

South Barwon hasn’t lost a game since Geelong West Giants, dating back to round five.

Bell Park is looking to avoid a fifth consecutive loss, after a heartbreaking loss to Geelong West Giants.

The Swans seem to be on a roll with, three-time hot shot winner, Ellen Doyle again dangerous in front of goals, having shot 526 goals for the season.

Dragons own Makaela Connelly, who sits fourth on the goals tally should expect plenty of attention.

Tune into AFL Barwon TV from 1.50pm on Saturday to watch live coverage of this big clash! 

Bye St Albans

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s Senior Football matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.

Geelong West Giants vs Bell Park

West Oval Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Both sides should be fresh and raring to go as we are near the pointy end of the season.

Bell Park currently sits outside the top five on percentage to South Barwon.

Their current form line reads well with previous wins against Leopold and Newtown, any similar showing from James Saker’s squad could cause trouble for the Giants.

The Dragon’s tackling pressure has been evident all season, rating elite with Fraser Marris, Jett Bermingham and Hamish Dawson all averaging over five tackles per game.

The Giants are looking to bounce back after back-to-back loses heading into the bye.

Greg Mallor’s side will continue to utilize a high mark-handball style that rates them above average in disposals.

Expect gun midfielders, Lachlan Taylor and Ethan Liddle to lead the charge, both averaging over 26 disposals per game.

Efficiency inside 50 could be the defining factor between the outcome of the result.

Grovedale vs Lara

Burdoo Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Both sides have had challenges recently, Grovedale have come close in recent games and faded.

For Lara, the potential loss of Darby Henderson could cause some headaches for Brett Henderson’s squad.

With different byes scheduled, the first bounce could be intriguing to see who gets the jump.

Jacob Spolding’s scoring ability has been nullified for much of the season, with the return of Tom Gillett, the Tigers will be hoping to get the ball in his hands as much as possible.

Currently averaging 3.3 goals per game.

The Cats more than likely will lose Darby Henderson for this week’s game, other key figures, Sam Purdy, Thomas Gunther and Brodie Cambridge should be influential.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AFL Barwon (@aflbarwon)

Leopold vs South Barwon

Leopold Memorial Park, 2:10PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

An eight-point game in footy terms, a win for South Barwon and a two-game buffer is created against Leopold.

For the Lions a win would put them on the same points as the Swans and kore importantly closer to a potential top five spot.

The Lions are looking to rectify a two-game losing streak, as opposed to the Swans who are hoping to make it four wins in a row.

Luke Kelly’s side the past two weeks has struggled to hit the scoreboard, going at under 45% forward 50 entries.

Fixing this statistic could help the likes of Connor Giddings and Samuel Scott get dangerous inside 50.

The Swans haven’t conceded more than seven goals in their past three outings, on the back of their disposal efficiency being such an impressive number.

Mark Neeld will be hoping to again control the football and look to score from defensive 50 transitions.

Dylan Starkie will be leading the charge averaging 6.4 rebound 50’s per game.

North Shore vs Newtown and Chilwell

Windsor Park, 2:10PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Both sides will be looking to bounce back in a big way, North Shore have conceded over 70 goals in their past two outings, a number Mark Hounslow would like to reduce.

Newtown are sitting comfortably, second on the ladder, a strong showing in front of goals could give Steve Johnson’s side the percentage they have been after.

Harry Purcell and Bradlee Tregenza should see plenty of the football for the Seagulls both averaging over 17 disposals per game.

For the Towners, Cameron Wilkinson should be influential with his tap work averaging 42 hit outs per game, with the ability to spread from the contest.

St Albans vs Colac

St Albans Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Saint Albans find themselves back on the winners list after a long layover between wins.

The challenge is now against a Colac outfit that has been dominant their past two outings.

The Saints young midfield brigade has fought hard all season, rating above average for clearances.

Fletcher Keck, Jed Warrin and Bailey Brogdon will all need to have an impact either in the coalface or around the ground.

The trio are averaging over 17 disposals per game.

The Tigers’ ball winning ability is evident, rating above average for total disposals, elite for both marks and inside 50.

Expect the footy to be moving with pace for Jason Armistead’s squad.

Particularly through star midfielder, Ben McCarthy who averages 28.4 disposals per game and 8.3 clearances per game.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AFL Barwon (@aflbarwon)

St Joseph’s vs St Mary’s

Herne Hill Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

In round six, both clubs played each other on the Big Freeze MND Day, which turned out to be one of the matches of the season.

If their previous outing was anything to go by, then we’re in for a cracking game of footy against the arch-rivals.

Ron Watt’s side are looking for their fifth win in a row.

Their current scoring ability, particularly their capacity to have a range of players hit the scoreboard is an imposing feat.

With Paddy De Grandi, Oscar Morrison, Mitch Chafer and Hunter Lewis all averaging over two goals per game.

Much like St Joseph’s, Luke Rayner’s squad’s scoring ability is a compelling force, averaging 19 goals per game.

However, in their past month, their scoring numbers have been down from their season average.

Sam Bourke and Patrick Dowling could give headaches to Joeys defenders both averaging three or more goals per game.

Tune in to Krock Football this weekend: krockfootball.live

Or krockfootball.live/FM 88.5 @ ground

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s A Grade Netball matches in the Geelong Football Netball League.

Grovedale vs Lara

Burdoo Reserve, 11:50AM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Lara comes into this game with a strong performance against St Albans.

Grovedale are fresh off a disappointing loss, losing to Colac by 10 goals in a game they couldn’t capitalize on opportunities.

The Cats are still in finals contention and are hoping to continue their winning ways.

Cats’ shooter, Tilly Baker has shot 261 goals, shooting at 84.5%.

For the Tigers Esther Kidmas has shot 259 goals, shooting at 85.5%.

Watch Live stream on AFL Barwon TV

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AFL Barwon (@aflbarwon)

Geelong West Giants vs Bell Park

West Oval Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Back-to-back losses has Geelong West Giants fighting for both a top three spot, and finals position.

A win against Bell Park could be the catalyst to getting their season back on track.

The Dragons past three weeks have been a difficult schedule facing three sides inside the top six teams on the ladder.

This could present as a danger game to the Giants and an opportunity for the Dragons.

Giants goal shooter, Aleisha McDonald has shot the second most goals in the competition with 397 goals, shooting at 84.1%.

Dragon’s defenders, Molly Jozwik and Makeely Rogers will play a pivotal role in nullifying McDonald’s shooting ability, which could determine the outcome of the match.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Geelong West Giants (@geelongwestgiants)

Leopold vs South Barwon

Leopold Memorial Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Sitting a game outside the top five, Leopold are in need of a big scalp with South Barwon in great touch having won their last six matches.

The Swans have looked much like their usual selves under interim coach, Jed Christian after parting ways with Billy Mahoney.

Star Goal Shooter, Ellen Doyle, should have a major impact in attack, leading the competition with a whopping 474 goals at 86.2%.

For the Lions, Charlotte Murray has been important shooting 163 goals for the season.

A win for the Lions and finals is well and truly on the cards, for the Swans, a win would almost guarantee a top three spot for finals.

St Albans vs Colac

St Albans Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

Both sides have faced their challenges this season,

However, a win could help bring added excitement for the remainer of the season.

Expect a fast and fierce contest between the Saints and Tigers, both sides looking to climb up the ladder.

St Joseph’s vs St Mary’s

Herne Hill Reserve, 1:40PM, Saturday 19^th July, 2025

There should be a finals like atmosphere between the arch-rivals.

Both teams are currently on a two-game winning streak and would certainly like to make it a third.

St Joseph’s can stay within touching distance of Newtown in the hopes of a week one bye.

St Mary’s can create a gap between them and Leopold for fifth spot and potentially find themselves in a position to contend for a top three spot if results go their way.

St Joeys goal shooter, Ella Closter should remain dangerous in front of goals, shooting a total of 394 goals for the season.

While experienced goal defense, Tori Honner should see plenty of intercepts.

For the Saints Ellie Kennedy will be important in defense, as will Isabelle Grapsas in front of goals.

AFL Barwon writer Wil Spence previews this weekend’s Senior Football matches in the Bellarine Football Netball League.

Drysdale vs Geelong Amateur

Drysdale Recreation Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19th July, 2025

Plenty to play out for both sides with five games left, a win for Drysdale would continue their top three aspirations with Queenscliff right on their heels.

A win for Geelong Amateur’s this weekend, and top spot is almost guaranteed.

Ben Carmichael’s squad are looking to make it a month of wins,

Jack Jenkins, who played a pivotal role against Newcomb in defense, should see plenty of the ball, averaging 7.2 rebounds per game, to go with 6.2 marks per game.

Riley Kershaw’s men are hoping to make it eight wins in a row, with the Hawks being one of the toughest challenges yet.

Averaging an astonishing 111 marks per game, it will take a lot of pressure from the Hawks to gain the footy back from Ammos.

Major ball winners, Tom Zeitz, Riley Ferguson and Joe Maishman will utilize their foot skills, all averaging over 14 kicks per game.

Watch Live stream on AFL Barwon TV

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AFL Barwon (@aflbarwon)

Modewarre vs Torquay

Mount Moriac Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19th July, 2025

Modewarre have found some form at the right time of the season as they try and snag a spot in the top five.

However, Torquay’s run of wins, dating back to round nine has them in a strong position to push deep into September.

Mark Hovey’s squad will need to kick more than their average goals of 10.9 per game to beat the Tigers.

In fact, the Warriors have only scored over 100 points once this season, in round five against Newcomb.

The clearance battle will be where scores are created from, Callen Farrell, Josh Finch and Matty McKim will lead the way, all averaging 5 or more clearances per game.

For Dom Gleeson’s side, expect plenty of run through overlap handballs, which could cause the Warriors some problems, the Tigers rate elite for handballs per game.

James Darke, Matthew Boag and Charlie Ham all average 11 or more handballs per game.

Barwon Heads vs Ocean Grove

Howard Harmer Oval, 2:10PM, Saturday 19th July, 2025

The highly anticipated battle of the bridge shapes like an exciting game of football.

Much to play out for both sides, particularly Barwon Heads who currently sit in the top five on percentage.

A dominant showing for Sam Schaller’s side could give some breathing room for outsiders looking in.

The Grubbers’ last six weeks have been a step in the right direction for Dave Farrell’s young squad.

A spot in the limelight will give us an indication of what the future may hold.

Experienced trio, Zach Walter, Damian McMahon and Luke Davis will be influential in stoppages around the ground.

Walter and McMahon currently average 24.9 and 34.6 disposals per game respectively.

With Davis averaging 49 hit outs per game, to go with 6 clearances per game.

The Grubbers midfield brigade of Joseph McDonald and Geelong VFL listed player, Taj Wyburd, both average over 20 disposals per game and will need to lead a young on-ball group.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AFL Barwon (@aflbarwon)

Queenscliff vs Newcomb

Queenscliff Recreation Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19th July, 2025

Last time these two sides face each other in round one, Newcomb came out on top.

A lot has changed since this game, however, expect a hotly contested game of football.

The Coutas past month has been a challenging period facing clubs above or around them on the ladder.

Heath Jamieson’s squad currently rates above average for goals and inside 50’s per game.

Expect Sol Bowtell to be dangerous forward of centre, averaging 6.3 score involvements per game.

The Power’s last quarter fades have hurt Tony Mirabella’s squad this season.

However, the round one win against the Coutas, where they come from behind to win brings optimism to the squad.

Combative skipper, Ryan Jackman will lead the charge in the midfield, averaging 17.8 disposals per game.

Portarlington vs Anglesea

Portarlington Creation Reserve, 2:10PM, Saturday 19th July, 2025

Both sides are still vying for a spot in the top five, shapes as one of the matches of the round.

Portarlington’s form reads well, with three out of their last five matches being wins.

Albeit a loss to fifth place Barwon Heads by 14 points, there’s plenty to like for the Dees.

Anglesea have found themselves in a five-week winless block they would like to get out of.

The great mind of Jordan Keras should help dive into the issues the Roos have faced over the middle part of the season.

Ex AFL listed player, Connor Menadue has started to look dangerous after returning from injury for the Dees.

He’s currently averaging 2.5 goals per game for Nathan Storer’s side.

The Roos average an elite 48.5 clearances per game, their previous match against Torquay had an impressive 53 clearances.

However, a season low six centre clearances could suggest an area Keras would like to bring back to their normal figure.

Lachlan Smith, Harrison Ling and Dale Kerr average four of more clearances per game.