Classy Nightcliff outfit outplays a young and inexperienced Magpie side on a sad day for both clubs
NIGHTCLIFF’S defence of its Premier League crown took another step forward when they clawed a young Palmerston side by 101 points in the Warren Berto Memorial game
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NIGHTCLIFF’S defence of its Premier League crown took another step forward when they clawed a young Palmerston side by 101 points in the Warren Berto Memorial game at PSC BM Oval.
On an emotional day for both clubs it was Nightcliff’s superb defence and better use of the football that saw them pounce on the Magpies.
Michael Hagan was creative around the ball and up forward, Kaine Riley the general in defence and Koko Niki a real livewire in a small forward role.
The Tigers took control after an even first term, running down the ground in waves and spotting up forward targets with monotonous regularity.
Hagan won the Berto Medal as the best player in the Nightcliff side, while big marking Magpie defender Dylan Gordon won the award for his club.
The second year Tiger said playing depth and club culture had been ingrained into the players.
“Anyone who comes into the side is going to play his role and that’s all we need to progress week in, week out.
“Both teams wanted to show their pride at having the old man (Berto) as part of their club and Palmerston, to their credit definitely came out strongly.’’
Liam Evans booted four goals in a reminder he adds an extra string to the Tigers’ goalkicking bow and first gamer Christos Gikas kicked two late goals in a memorable debut.
Gordon and big Magpie ruckman Jack Berry were the best for the visitors, who lacked the class to go with the premiers for four quarters.
A trip to the Tiwi Islands is next on the agenda for the Magpies and more than likely, a matchup with four-time Hawthorn premiership player Cyril Rioli.
NIGHTCLIFF 2.5 8.7 13.13 19.18 (132)
PALMERSTON 2.1 3.4 3.5 4.7 (31)
GOALS — Nightcliff: L Evans 4 C Ilett 3 L Holt-Fitz 2 C Gilas 2 T Melville 2 M Hagan 2 G Monic-Wakefield D Bowles K Niki T Kidney. Palmerston: J Berry 2 S Lorenzo R Davey.
BEST — Nightcliff: M Hagan K Riley L Holt-Fitz L Evans K Niki. Palmerston: D Gordon J Berry A Diamond M Smiler L Dhurrkay.
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