Western Jets storm home to stun Northern Knights in thrilling NAB League clash at Ikon Park
A final quarter fadeout proved costly for Northern Knights as Western Jets stormed home from four goals down to claim a thrilling NAB League season-opening win.
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Northern Knights coach Justin Wenke believes his team’s final-quarter fadeout will teach his players an invaluable footy lesson.
Western Jets stormed home from four goals down in the final 10 minutes to claim a seven-point win in their Round 1 NAB League clash at Ikon Park.
After a slow start, the Knights recovered to hold a 23-point lead in the final term but couldn’t stop a six-goal onslaught from the Jets.
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Wenke said while everyone was disappointed, it was a important lesson for his players.
“Credit to Western, they played really well in the midfield and we weren’t able to defend them,” he said.
“Across the day … we probably got just under three quarters right for the day and then we weren’t able to nail that 10 minute phase.
“To be that far in front and lose was really disappointing but we look at some learning opportunities.
“We probably needed to slow the game up a bit, even the numbers up at the stoppage and force the ball out wide.”
Ryan Sturgess collected 20 disposals, seven marks and two goals in an excellent all-round performance while Sunny Brazier was prominent with 18 touches, three tackles, eight inside 50s and 1.1
Wenke was also impressed with Sam Philp’s return from injury and underage tall Nick Cox.
“Sam Philp had a really strong game in and around the midfield on limited preparation,” he said.
“I think he had something like nine tackles, which was an outstanding effort, he kicked a goal and had some score assists for his first game back.
“Nick Cox is a bottom-age boy. A tall, 195cm skinny kid who’s got some real ability - kicks on both sides of his body - he’s going to be a really nice prospect for us.”
For the Jets, father-son prospects Archi Manton and Josh Kellett impressed while Bailey Ryan was the top disposal winner with 19.
It doesn’t get any easier for Northern with Sandringham Dragons waiting in Round 2 after they smashed Calder Cannons by 109 points.
Wenke said he expected his players to use their disappointment.
“We’ve got Sandringham, who won by over 100 points against the Cannons, so it’s a huge challenge for us,” he said.
“I’m pretty sure the boys will have some fire in the belly after one that got away, it’s all about what you do next that counts.”
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