Sport

Benalla trio bolster Saints cause as former GVL goal-kicker makes way to Cobram

By Josh Huntly

Oct 1, 2026

Benalla has added three recruits to its 2027 line-up. Photo by Karl Phillipson

They’re coming from far and wide to join Benalla’s cause.

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The Saints have been busy in the Goulburn Valley League off-season, making early moves to bolster their 2027 senior squad.

The headline addition to date is NTFL star Braedon McLean, who brings more than 300 games of experience to Benalla’s line-up.

A glittering career has produced three club best-and-fairest’s, six NTFL representative appearances, and several Team of the Year selections, renowned as an elite ball user.

McLean, who has spent most of his time in the NTFL with the Wanderers, will compete in the upcoming Top End season before making his way to the Goulburn Valley.

But he won’t be the only one.

The Saints have enlisted the services of AFL South Coast midfielder Sandon Ashworth after producing an excellent season in the NSW competition.

The Shellharbour City gun was involved in the club’s 2026 premiership while also earning a place in the league’s Team of the Year, consistently polling highly in the Suns’ best-and-fairest and known for his wicked turn of pace.

He’ll form a formidable partnership with fellow recruit Hugh Trewin, also signed on after stints with Central Highlands club Beaufort and VAFA Premier Division club Uni Blues.

Meanwhile, former Mooroopna and Barooga goal-kicker Daniel Johnston will bolster Cobram’s bid for Murray Football League revenge, making the move to Scott Oval from Ballarat Football League club Sunbury.

Johnston arrives with State league experience at his back, splitting his time between the Lions and Coburg in 2026.

The signing of Johnston follows the return of Adam De Cicco to the Tigers, who were beaten by eight points in a classic Murray league decider to Congupna.