Palmerston young gun Jonty Patrick wins his club’s first ‘19-20 Rising Star nomination

NTFL club Palmerston got a lot of firsts last weekend, beginning with a drought breaking win over Wanderers and ending with a Rising Star nomination

Palmerston Magpie Jonty Patrick's leg speed and disposal skills have made him the Round 13 nomination for the NT News Rising Star. Picture: AARON BLACK/AFLNT MEDIA

NTFL club Palmerston got a lot of firsts last weekend, beginning with a drought breaking win over Wanderers and ending with a Rising Star nomination.

The Magpies beat Wanderers to record their first win of a testing season and 17-year-old Jonty Patrick secured the club’s first NT News Rising Star nomination in Round 13.

Rotating through the midfield, half back and forward lines, Patrick was one of seven under-18 players thrown into the Premier League cauldron by coach Alwyn Davey.

Patrick’s leg speed played a big part in his match role.

The Magpies were aware of the number of quick players in the Wanderers side.

Davey placed him on a wing with a licence to roam through the midfield and forward line.

“We wanted some pace on the outside and he gave us a lot of run right across the midfield,’’ Davey said.

“Jonty’s been home for the school holidays so we’ve used him for five games and he hasn’t let us down.’’

Part of Territory Thunder’s underage program, Patrick has played at U16 and U18 national level in the NT jumper.

Round 13 proved lucky for several youngsters with the eight Premier League clubs playing several of them on matchday.

Southern Districts defender Brodie Lake was a standout again with his poise when in possession.

And Wanderers got good service from Beau O’Connell who continues to find the football and do something positive with it.

Jacob Long’s run and carry has been a constant for St Mary’s all season.

And this season’s nominees in Joseph Salmon, Maurice Rioli Jr and Brandon Rusca all impressed for their clubs.