BACK TO BACK
Nightcliff Tigers take home premiership
AFTERNOON showers parted by yesterday evening, allowing for prime sporting conditions in last night’s NTFL grand final clash of the titans, with the Nightcliff Tigers narrowly defeating the St Mary’s Saints.
While numbers were significantly down at TIO Stadium, at a little over half capacity – most likely in light of coronavirus concerns – Darwinites in attendance were treated to a quality display of the Territory’s finest going head-to-head.
Nightcliff supporter Caitlin Wills was excited to watch her husband Phillip Wills take to the midfield for Tigers as the men’s premier league captain. She was emblazoned in team colours with daughters Sophie, 4, and Stella, 5.
“It’s been a big week, it’s been very exciting for all of us,” she said.
“They’re (the girls) right into it – they love it.
“Phil was pretty cool, calm and collected today, which is nice. It keeps us all grounded as well.”
Former AFL NT staffer Liz Cruse was out in support of St Mary’s, with her children Fraser, 9, and Lily, 6, campaigning with a huge home made banner to back the Wanderers into the big dance.
There were also Top End sporting personalities from other codes, with Dragons’ NRL NT stalwart Stem Edwards watching on from the stands.
The grand final even attracted fans from the other side of the country, with Adelaide man Alan Stringer in the Top End for a piece of the action “I was up here last year, and I was very fortunate to watch Nightcliff win their first premiership in 54-years,” he said.
“I’ve come back again this year, and I’m great mates with some of the fellas involved in the club.
“I’ve got to know a few of the boys, I enjoy coming up.
“I love the footy, I love Darwin, and I love being here.”