Nightcliff’s historic back-to-back Premier League flags a tribute to their volunteers and fans

WINNING premierships is all about the supporters and volunteers around a football club, Nightcliff’s dual premiership coach Chris Baksh has said

Nightcliff coach Chris Baksh says success in football should spread to fans and volunteers. Picture: Keri Megelus

WINNING premierships is all about the supporters and volunteers around a football club, Nightcliff’s dual premiership coach Chris Baksh has said.

Baksh’s comment came almost 24 hours after his Tigers ended a fairytale run from grand final opponents St Mary’s.

The 13-point win was significant because it secured historic back-to-back Premier League flags and a fifth senior premiership pennant for the beachside club.

“I’m very pleased with the effort the boys put in for the fans and volunteers, that’s what it is al about,’’ Baksh said.

“It wasn’t easy, St Mary’s class meant they came at us in the third quarter, which kept us on our toes.

‘But I thought our boys really dug deep when it counted and I include the forwards, defenders and midfielders in that.’’

Baksh’s opposite number Anthony Vallejo was proud of his players’ efforts.

“In terms of effort and workrate the boys were great against a pretty good opposition,’’ he said.

“It was the third quarter when we had a real chance to win it, but credit to Nightcliff, they’re well coached and most of them have been together for three years now.

“Their model is something for us to look at and try to copy as we start to get better.’’

Vallejo played four under-18 Saints in the grand final, proof the 32-time NTFL premier is rebuilding around its rising youngsters.

“All of those kids contributed in what was a close loss, including Maurice (Rioli Jr) who will probably get drafted later in the year,’’ Vallejo said.

“We don’t like to lose grand finals like every other club, but we’re confident we’ve got the players and the intent to be there again and very soon.’’