Sport
1 May, 2026
2026 MCDFNL Football Round 4 Preview — Natte Bealiba vs Trentham
In a crucial match for both teams, Trentham travels to Natte Bealiba for a rematch of the 2024 Grand Final.
Even with their round three bye, very few would’ve predicted Natte Bealiba being alongside Campbells Creek and Lexton as teams without a win heading into round four at the start of the season, but that’s the reality the Swans find themselves in.
While defeats to fellow contenders Navarre and Carisbrook aren’t something head coach Denis Grinton will be ringing the alarm bells on so early in the season, their effectiveness inside forward 50 against the Redbacks is cause for concern.
After finishing in the top four for points scored during the last three seasons, the Swans were limited to 17 points a fortnight ago while Carisbrook overran their defence.
With 27 disposals and nine intercept possessions, Jaxson Stewart was a bright spot for the Swans alongside stalwart Kurt Mortlock and former Maryborough junior Aidan Medlyn in defence. The trio will be put to the test against a Saints team that showcased all of its offensive talent on Anzac Day in a 95-point victory over Newstead.
While star forwards Jake Keogh and James Regan, a duo that combined for a staggering 133 goals in 2025, booted four goals each, Trentham’s stacked midfield also provided some scoring punch through Joel Cowan, Jye Adamson and Joel Dovaston.
Very few teams possess the reigning premiers’ midfield firepower, but with Stephen Ross, who’s nearing 400 games, starting the season in spectacular form and star recruit Ryan Semmel adapting quickly to his new surroundings, the Swans will be confident they can match the Saints.