From three flags in 68 years, Nightcliff’s premiership tally is now six in 71 attempts

Another premiership for the NTFL Tigers and another triumph for the players, coaches, support staff and family members

Their Cup runneth over: coach Chris Baksh, captain Phillip Wills, president Mark Dodge and assistant playing coach Cameron Ilett with the 20-21 Premier League Cup at Nightcliff Oval. Picture: Che Chorley

PREMIERSHIP three-peats are collective efforts and for four Tigers this week the end certainly justified the means.

Coach Chris Baksh, assistant playing coach Cameron Ilett, captain Phillip Wills and president Mark Dodge all played their part in Nightcliff’s sixth flag.

From the depths of a 54-year premiership drought, three grand final wins have flooded the halls and walls of Nightcliff Sports Club.

For Ilett, playing and winning his 12th NTFL Grand Final left a permanent mark on an already successful career.

“It was unbelievable and the match itself was an absolute spectacle for everyone who was there,’’ he told the NT News.

“Both clubs should be very proud of their players and the way we hung in there and believed in each other with the trust we’ve built up over a number of years was a big factor in the win.

“We had 22 players out there and everyone contributed to the win.’’

Ilett said the Premier League side used more than 40 players in 20-21.

“Getting a chance to wear the jumper certainly drives every player to make the most of their opportunities,’’ he added.

“But you’ve got to keep recognising the efforts of your coaching and support staff at the same time.

“That includes the medical people, physios and family members who are on your side every minute of the season.’’

Ilett said the noise of rival supporters and the fans in general was something really special.

“It’s not too often I feel the crowd’s support, but the noise in the dying stages of the match was certainly uplifting for the players,’’ he added.

“It will go down as one of the all-time greatest, if not the greatest grand final and I was very fortunate to be part of it.

“And I’m really pleased for Chris, he took the role on four years ago and knew the challenge ahead would test him mentally and personally.

But he’s done a brilliant job and as one my really close mates and a player under him, I could not be prouder of what he has achieved.’’

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