Round 3 of the Hampden Football Netball League has been split across two weekends, with a cracking Good Friday clash kicking things off in style. In front of a big crowd at Victoria Park, South Warrnambool proved too strong for Koroit in a tight, high-quality contest. With the game in the balance at three-quarter time, it was a dominant final term from Max Irving and Daniel Nicholson that saw the Roosters lift and claim a 6-point win in what could prove to be a pivotal early-season result.
The action now turns to two significant Anzac Day fixtures. Hamilton and Portland will face off at the newly redeveloped Melville Oval, marking the first senior football match to be played at the impressive new venue. The match carries extra weight, not only due to the Anzac Day setting but also as a chance for both teams to assert themselves early in the season.
Meanwhile, Terang Mortlake and Cobden will head to D.C. Farren Oval in Mortlake for their Anzac Day clash. This game will also celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Mortlake’s 1975 premiership – a cherished memory in the club’s history. A large number of players from that victorious side are expected to be in attendance, making it a special day for the Bloods faithful and the broader football community.
A major personal milestone will also be celebrated this weekend with North Warrnambool’s Adam Wines set to play his 250th game. Adam has been a consistent and courageous performer for the Eagles and now joins an elite group in receiving Hampden FNL Life Membership. He joins his father Ken and brother Matthew in the league’s Life Member ranks – a remarkable family achievement and a testament to Adam’s contribution to football in the region.
Off the field, the HFNL has also announced its junior coaches for the upcoming South West Junior Carnival. Stephen Sinnott (Camperdown) and Justin Marris (South Warrnambool) will coach the U14 sides, while Aaron Ross (North Warrnambool) and Justin Impey (Portland) will lead the U17 teams. Squad announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
Big matches, big milestones, and big celebrations – it’s set to be a memorable round of Hampden FNL football.
