All the latest talking points from the latest round of WFNL action

Brian Lake starred in Caroline Springs’ big win, a Sunshine rising star made his mark and the recruits finding their best. Here’s a look at all the key WFNL talking points.

Peter Tomelty and Xavier Kardachi after the game.

Droughts ended and the big names delivered in the most recent Western Football Netball League action.

Here’s everything you need to know.

BONNETT SEIZING HIS CHANCE

Jack Bonnett had only played one game of senior footy before 2024, now he’s among the leading forwards in Division 1. Bonnett has seized his chance in Werribee Districts’ forward line with 19 goals in nine games, kicking at least one major in eight of those. His emergence has come at a key time after premiership stars including Trent Lee departed the club last season. Districts’ forward line flexibility has been highlighted by coach Chris Gilham and on the weekend it was on show as Michael Luxford, formerly of Geelong, kicked four and Jack Fletcher kicked three. Lucas Fava made his senior debut.

LAKE WINDS BACK THE CLOCK

On his day, Brian Lake still remains one of the most dominant key position players in Division 1. He booted seven goals in his return to the Lakers’ line-up on Saturday, after missing a thrilling draw against Werribee Districts a week earlier. He’s only played a handful of games this season but has 16 majors after being held goalless by Parkside in round three.

Brian Lake turned back the clock for Caroline Springs. Picture: George Sal

THAT’S WHY HOPPERS SIGNED MAGUIRE

Sent back to local level by Port Melbourne, Harry Maguire produced the perfect response for Hoppers Crossing. In just his third game for the Warriors, after aligning with the Division 1 club after moving from Sydney, Maguire booted four goals in an impressive display. Ex-Williamstown VFL gun Josh Pickess continued his brilliant season with Jed Anderson also among the request. Is Anderson leading the league medal based on current form?

SMITH HELPS ALBANVALE KEEP TOUCH

Jackson Smith has only played three games for Albanvale this season but when he plays, the Cobras are a better side. He was best afield in a 21-point win over Sunshine Heights. It was an important win as coach Ange Messina’s men remain within touching distance of the top-six.

MARK OF THE YEAR?

Parkside’s Charlie Di Stefano flew higher than any other WFNL player has this season with a huge grab on Saturday. His coach described it as the biggest he has seen at local level. Will we see anything better?

SUNSHINE YOUNG GUN RUNNING HOT

Xavier Kardachi has returned to the Sunshine line-up in recent weeks and he’s put in two dominant displays. The Western Jet has been best afield in two straight games for the Division 2 premiership contender. He was brilliant against the Suns on Saturday, another side who should play finals this year. It follows a matchwinning display where Kardachi kicked four against Wyndhamvale.

IS THE TON ON?

Albion star Jesse Cavanagh leads the Division 2 goalkicking race with 64 majors in 10 games. Stay fit and he probably kicks 100 goals. It’s easier said than done but he’s proven he can easily kick big bags. Could the Cats run home, which includes games against the other top-six teams prove decisive? We’re tipping he gets there.

Justin Condo of Braybrook and Tommy Manley from North Footscray.

BROTHERS PROVING TO BE IMPORTANT RECRUITS

Justin and Matthew Condo are enjoying positive recruits in Braybrook’s finals push. Justin was awarded the Men’s Health Round medal after the win over North Footscray on Saturday. He booted three goals, his put output of the season, to cap a strong display. Meanwhile Matt found some of his best form of the season in the win to be named among the best.

RAFFERTY FINDS HIS BEST

A recruit in the off-season, Rafferty has found his best form for Newport in the last fortnight. He has kicked 11 goals in two games as the Panthers recorded convincing wins over Laverton and West Footscray. He was best afield against West after booting six goals. The ex-Lorne player and Jackson Fullerton, another new face who kicked four, made the most of their opportunities on the smaller ground.

LEWIS CONTINUES IMPRESSIVE RUN

Damon Lewis played just five games in 2023 but is putting together an outstanding season for the Western Rams. As his side ended their 78-game losing streak, Lewis was again named in the best. In fact, Lewis has been named in the best in nine out of the 10 he has played. He booted two goals in the win over North Sunshine.