Round 4 of Division 1 shapes as a defining early-season checkpoint, with ladder positions beginning to take shape and some sides already facing must-win scenarios.
West Preston Lakeside hosts Montmorency in a battle of the bottom two on the table and something must give. Both sides are still searching for their first win of the 2026 season, adding extra weight to this clash. Montmorency showed plenty of grit last week in a competitive performance against Eltham, while West Preston Lakeside were well beaten by North Heidelberg.
Despite results not falling their way, both teams have standout performers. Jordan Steele has been superb off half-back for the Pies, averaging 26 disposals at an impressive 84% efficiency, while Felix Dreher has mirrored that consistency for West Preston Lakeside, averaging just under 27 touches per game in defence.
Athough Montmorency has two points in the bank thanks to the Round 1 draw against Diamond Creek, a loss here would see the 2025 finalists a long way back in the pecking order in the race for a top five spot. The Roosters will be very keen to secure their first premiership points at home and jump off the bottom of the table.
Two of the early-season surprise packets in Bundoora and Eltham go head-to-head in what could have major top-five implications.
Bundoora enter off a low scoring four-point loss to Diamond Creek, while Eltham will be full of confidence after an impressive win over Montmorency.
The Bulls have been driven by Isaac McMillan, who is averaging 26.7 disposals and 11 clearances, making him one of the most influential midfielders in the competition. His work has been recognized by the senior coaches as he leads the Coaches MVP voting through three rounds.
Eltham, on the other hand, have found contributors across the board, highlighted by Jason McCormick’s standout performance last week – 24 disposals, three goals, and 11 score involvements. The winner will certainly put their hand up as a genuine finals contender in 2026.
Undefeated reigning premiers Heidelberg will look to extend their dominant start to the season when they host Greensborough in the NFNL Match of the Round at Warringal Park on a day where the Tigers celebrate 150 years since their inception.
The Tigers were typically clinical in their win over Banyule, setting the tone early and never looking back. Their midfield depth is a major weapon, with Posar, Clarke, and Bunker all averaging 26 or more disposals.
Greensborough face a tough challenge, particularly with Tom Mitchell unavailable, but captain Jack Johnston continues to lead strongly, averaging 22 disposals per game and fresh off a three-goal performance last week against Hurstbridge.
These two traditional rivals always put on a good show and there’s no reason to think this Saturday will be any different. You can catch all the action from 2pm on Sportscast Australia and on 88.6 Plenty Valley FM.
Hurstbridge has a chance to consolidate its spot in the top five when it hosts Banyule, as the Bears look for their second win of the campaign.
The Bridges come in with momentum following a strong win on the road over Greensborough last week and the Bears will be keen to address their slow start from last week, knowing they can’t afford to give Hurstbridge an early break.
Individually, this game features elite talent, with Jack Langford averaging 25.7 disposals and nearly nine intercept possessions for Banyule, while Blake Fitzgerald has been outstanding for Hurstbridge averaging 30 disposals and eight clearances. Expect a high-quality, contested battle.
Diamond Creek has made a terrific start to life in Division 1 and will be keen to continue their good form against North Heidelberg at Coventry Oval. The Demons survived a low scoring scrap against Bundoora last week in a night fixture but conditions should suit a more free flowing affair this week.
The Bulldogs are back on track after a strong win over West Preston-Lakeside and will be eager to stay within touching distance of the top five. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Creekers ruckman Bailey Griffiths in dominant form — averaging nearly 15 disposals, 36 hitouts, and eight clearances — supported well by Jacob Booth. Liam Farrar’s inclusion will be a big boost to the Creekers’ forward line.
For the Dogs, Curtis Brown made a huge impact in his return to senior football with 31 disposals, while Jordan Hamilton continues his consistent form, averaging 26 touches. Current ladder positions may not accurately reflect the evenness of the contest.
