 After kicking one goal in round 1 against Hawthorn, Newton was dropped to the VFL to play for Melbourne's previously affiliated club, Sandringham, which is where he picked up the injury.Newton returned for Melbourne in the AFL late in the 2008 season and was in and out in 2009, although after being dropped to the VFL, Newton responded by booting 5 goals for Casey Scorpions.Newton managed five games in 2009 for 60 disposals and kicked six goals.