Sport
24 July, 2026
MCDFNL Round 15 Football Preview — Newstead vs Navarre
Round 15 serves up one of the biggest games of the season as premiership heavyweights Newstead and Navarre clash in a contest that could have a significant bearing on the race for the double chance.
Both clubs have been among the competition’s benchmark teams throughout 2026 and neither will want to give an inch with finals just around the corner.
Newstead enters the blockbuster in outstanding form following an emphatic 118-point victory over Avoca. The Steaders were dominant from the opening bounce, piling on 23 goals in another polished team performance.
Captain Joel Smith again led by example, while Lincoln White, Adam Hunter, Sam Winnard, William Moran and Liam O’Brien were all outstanding contributors. Winnard continued his remarkable season in front of goal with another seven-goal haul, while O’Brien and Smith provided plenty of support to ensure the Steaders had a plethora of scoring threats.
Navarre also produced one of its most impressive performances of the year with a commanding 77-point win over Natte Bealiba. After leading comfortably at half time, the Grasshoppers put the game beyond doubt with a devastating seven-goal third quarter that showcased their ability to overwhelm quality opposition.
Oliver Notting starred for Navarre and received excellent support from Sam Walker, Nick Birthisel, Shannon Treloar, Harry Schroder and Darcy Claughton. Their midfield was relentless around the stoppages, while Riley Bibby and Jack Mentha provided plenty of drive and creativity moving the football.