WINNING FORM
Thunder strike back in NEAFL as they down Suns
THE NT Thunder rediscovered its attacking mojo to snap a two-game losing streak and defeat Gold Coast 13.12 (90) to 9.6 (60) at TIO Stadium last night.
And one of its main attacking weapons, spring-heeled youngster Adam Sambono, played a large part in the hosts getting back in the winners’ circle.
The exciting Daly River product booted five goals and got his team off to a flying start.
The Darwin Buffaloes star majored in the fourth minute before kicking a spectacular goal two minutes later, running to the goal square after forward Darren Ewing tapped the ball back over his head.
An impressive left-foot snap from Sambono, also in the first term, gave his team a 22-point lead.
But the Suns wrestled their way back into the contest in a low-scoring and physical second quarter played through the middle, nullifying the Thunder’s outside attacking threats.
The visitors kicked three goals in the second term to trail by 14 points at the main break.
They carried on that mo- mentum early in the third quarter after an early Sambono goal, booting the next three majors to trail by two points.
Midfielder Darcy McPherson was everywhere for the Suns and played a big part in their comeback.
But the Thunder rediscovered their attacking verve late in the third term, Daniel Weetra booting a great goal from 50m out, after nice lead-up body work from Sam Smith.
Nick Yarran then displayed excellent pace and anticipation to score after crumbing well off full forward, Ewing.
Gold Coast scored the last major of the term to trail by 13 at the final break.
Weetra, Smith and Neil Vea Vea were all outstanding for the Thunder at halfback, and complemented by Ben Rioli’s speedy counter-attack.
Tony Olango was skilful in the ruck and Cameron Ilett was his usual super-tough self.
Richard Tambling also had some nice touches, and Michael Coombes put on some huge hits in defence.
A brilliant overhead mark from Olango, before a short handpass to Ewing, who goaled, gave the hosts a matchwinning 23-point lead late in the final term.