Bulletin runs the rule over NPL champions the Gold Coast Knights to deliver its 2019 report card

AS the dust settles on the Gold Coast Knights’ hugely-successful maiden NPL campaign, the Bulletin runs the rule over Grae Piddick’s side to deliver its 2019 report card.

AS the dust settles on the Gold Coast Knights’ hugely-successful maiden NPL campaign, the Bulletin runs the rule over Grae Piddick’s side to deliver its 2019 report card.

Stream over 50 sports Live & On-Demand with KAYO SPORTS on your TV, computer, mobile or tablet. Just $25/month, no lock-in contract. Get your 14-day free trial and start streaming instantly

OVERVIEW

Finish: 2nd, grand final winners

Results: 24 wins, 4 draws, 2 losses

Rating: A

KNIGHTS’ UNSUNG HERO HAPPY TO FLY UNDER GRAND FINAL RADAR

THE HIGHLIGHT

In a campaign that delivered more than its fair share of memorable moments, the undoubted highlight was the 2-1 grand final win against Olympic in which the Knights played with 10 men for more than half the game.

The Gold Coast Knights celebrate their 2019 NPL Queensland grand final win over Olympic. Picture: Ian Judd/Football Queensland

THE LOWLIGHT

Low points in the season were few and far between but the Knights will rue two draws against Gold Coast United, with the four points dropped ultimately proving the gap between them and premiers Lions FC.

THE MOMENT THAT SEALED BURLEIGH SUCCESS

THE STAR

It’s easy to pick out names like Sam Smith, Mitch Nichols and Matt Smith but without defensive rock Oskar Dillon, who chipped in with three crucial goals, the Knights would have found the going much harder.

Defender Oskar Dillon (right) celebrates his goal during the NPL grand final against Olympic on Sunday night. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

THE BACKBONE

One of the first players picked each week, midfielder Max Brown quietly went about his business to finish with 13 goals, second only to Jarrod Kyle (16).