The fallout: Where to now for the rejected Mornington Peninsula-eager clubs

A selection of clubs that had their hopes of moving to the MPFNL dashed have spoken publicly for the first time since the decision. Here’s what they said.

Disappointed but not surprised is the consensus from the clubs denied entry into the Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League (MPFNL).

Cranbourne, Carrum Patterson Lakes, Frankston Dolphins, Narre Warren, South Mornington and Pakenham were all denied entry at a meeting among existing clubs on Wednesday night to vote on their bids.

The six MPFNL-eager clubs needed 75 per cent of approval.

Narre Warren president Stuart Stephenson felt his club’s application was strong but will now need to assess their options moving forward.

“We thought we made a strong application and thought we could bring some strong benefits to MPFNL clubs and the overall competition,” he said.

“Having a look at the wider footprint, more access to spectators, sponsors and the like, we felt we put in a good application and are disappointed with the result.

“We need to consider all our options, there was a strong push within the club to be in the MPFNL – that was definitely our preferred option.

“We need to regroup now and have a look at what our different options are.”

Narre’s Kurt Mutimer. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Tom Toner. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Frankston Dolphins is hopeful of reapplying but will assess the fallout of this rejection, according to president Malcolm Lewis.

“We have to see what transpires and how they (MPFNL) handle it,” he said.

“We will look at it, geographically it makes sense for us to be there but you can’t keep doing the same thing and getting the same result.

“Something has to give.”

Frankston Dolphins playing-coach Richard Mathers. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Cranbourne will now focus on back-to-back Southern league titles. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Cranbourne president Terry Gleeson said the Eagles had braced for this outcome.

“We have been open and transparent with our members and players all through this process,” he said.

“On Tuesday night we had an information session to cover off what might happen.

“We have been down this path before so no one will really be surprised by this outcome. The potential was always there, the odds of getting it across the line were greater of it falling down.

“We will just cop this on the chin and focus on finishing this season off on a high and being the best we can next season.”

Carrum Patterson Lakes, meanwhile, kept its response short but did hint at another attempt if given the opportunity.

“Whilst we are disappointed with last night’s outcome, we will continue to work with the development and relationship with our juniors so that we continue to be ready to join the MPFNL if the opportunity arises in the future,” president Steve Benson said.

South Mornington and Pakenham have both been contacted for comment.