As the 2025 Melbourne Greyhounds Division 1 season reaches its midpoint, Round 8 promises a series of compelling matchups as teams contend for crucial ladder positions.
An enticing second vs fourth battle between Montmorency and Hurstbridge is set to take place this weekend at Montmorency Park North Oval.
The Magpies are riding high after securing back-to-back victories against Greensborough and Bundoora by 17 and 30 points respectively.
Coach Nick Rutley’s squad has found its rhythm, with their midfield dominance from Marcus Lentini and efficient forward entries from him being pivotal in recent successes.
VFL-listed player William Bella, who has tallied an impressive 15 goals over six games, will be one of many key offensive threats, along with Partick Dozzi, that Hurstbridge must contain.
They’ll look to leverage their home-ground advantage hosting second-placed Hurstbridge in a crucial top five clash.
Hurstbridge, on the other hand, has shown resilience this season. After their massive 82-point win against Bundoora, they’ll aim to challenge Montmorency’s momentum.
With an impressive tally of 24 goals in 7 matches, Joel Naylor stands as the second-leading goalkicker this season. Alongside him, Mitchell Moschetti has gained 26 MVP votes, highlighting his significant impact on the field.
Hurstbridge will look to leverage the strengths of these key players to secure victory. Their ability to perform under pressure will additionally be tested in this encounter.
In their most recent matchup, during Round 14 of the 2024 season, Montmorency edged out Hurstbridge in a tightly contested game. Both teams will be eager to assert dominance and secure a vital win.
Eltham returns to Eltham Central Park this weekend to host North Heidelberg in a crucial matchup for both sides.
The Panthers have been impressive at home, with their new midfield strength being a key factor in their success.
Recruit Alex Jacobs is emerging as a promising talent, having secured 4 MVP votes in the last round. He’s eager to make a significant impact this Saturday
Alongside fellow newcomer Nathan Jensen and mainstay David Evans, the Panthers are taking advantage of skills these players bring to the team.
A few U19’s boys made their debut last week, including Matt Zrna and Jett Williams, who are eager to continue their season with the seniors.
North Heidelberg has had a mixed season but remains a formidable opponent, sitting only two positions above Eltham on the ladder.
Securing the win last week with a goal after the siren, Zane Souleiman will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities to challenge Eltham.
Jesse Tardio, currently sitting sixth on the leaderboard with 28 Coaches MVP votes, continues to be a formidable presence in the midfield. His consistent performances, including a standout game where he secured 10 votes, puts up a clear challenge for Eltham.
Their last encounter saw North Heidelberg defeat Eltham by 31 points in Round 16 of 2024 season. This match promises to be another close contest with both teams vying for a top five spot.
Heidelberg continue to lead the ladder, progressing their supremacy to take on Bundoora at Warringal Park.
The Tigers have been dominant all season long, with Zane Barzen has been a formidable force in Heidelberg’s forward line, kicking a combined 11 goals against Eltham and Greensborough.
Along with VFL-listed Matthew Signorello coming off a nine-vote performance, the Berg will bring another impressive lineup.
After an 82-point loss, Bundoora are striving to bounce back with up-and-coming players such as Jesse King, kicking 18 goals in the last 7 matches and securing 16 MVP votes.
It won’t be easy but Bundoora needs to approach this week with determination to climb the ladder. The Bergers claimed a 77-point victory over the Bulls in the 2024 season.
Greensborough have had an inconsistent season but will look to make the most on their advantage at Greensborough War Memorial Park against West Preston-Lakeside.
After a promising start in round 7 against rivals Montmorency, they allowed the Magpies to run away with a 17-point win.
Greensborough leading goal kicker, Rayden Garrad, has quickly become a key asset for the Boro alongside defender Jackson Davies.
West Preston-Lakeside has struggled to find consistent form this season. With a focus on rebuilding, they’ll aim to challenge Greensborough and gain momentum.
Roosters will rely on key players Matthew Harmen, Riley Clarke and Dante Colosimo, along with the new addition of Arben Dani, who recently transferred from Banyule.
Their last matchup saw Greensborough securing a comfortable win. West Preston will be eager to turn the tables in this encounter.
After a hard-fought win against West Preston, Banyule is looking to have more success at Beverley Road Oval this weekend when they welcome South Morang.
South Morang have shown some potential but are in need of some success themselves, coming up from Division 2.
Tyrone Leonardis and Joshua Lansfield will need to step up to compete effectively and secure their first success of the season.
Damian Truslove’s side is sitting comfortably at 3rd place on the ladder and are looking to reinforce their control in winning essential contests.
After missing last week’s game, the Bears hope to have key midfielder player Noah Wheeler back into the squad. Wheeler has been a standout performer this season, gaining 23 Coaches MVP votes.
Kye Yodgee showed up again in the win last round, with crucial defenders Devin Macdonald and Nicholas Biscontin keen to put up a strong fight against the Lions.
This will be the first time the two sides have met since the 2017 Heidelberg Golf Club Division 3 Grand Final at the Whittlesea Showgrounds.
That day the Bears were victorious, securing their first NFNL senior men’s premiership and starting them on the path to Division 1 footy.
