Late Wanderers collapse a surprise for the Eagles’ coaching staff after their own come from behind wins

Nightcliff’s late heroics to grab a win from the jaws of defeat an important lesson for Wanderers

First year recruit Brodie Newman has been a revelation in defence for Wanderers. Picture: Felicity Elliott AFLNT/Media

WANDERERS’ late collapse against reigning premier Nightcliff on Saturday night even surprised their coach.

Shannon Motlop had watched his players come from behind in wins over Southern Districts and St Mary’s and was confident they would not let an opponent do it to them.

“We gave it away right at the end which certainly surprised me in the final wash-up of the game,’’ Motlop told the NT News.

“The players had been great until then and it probably took the experience of a Cameron Ilett to make it happen for them.’’

The Wanderers defence had been magnificent all night, with first year recruit Brodie Newman and youngster Dray Thompson prominent in repelling the Nightcliff forwards.

“We’re a different side this year with the players prepared to take on a lot more responsibility and I think you’re seeing it out on the ground,’’ Motlop said.

“Dray is an example of that with the hard work he has been doing across half back and Simon Bates provided a scoring option all night with his hard running.’’

Motlop has also welcomed the addition of midfielders Josh Cubillo and Shaun Mannagh and the poise of Newman across half back.

“We’re still a young side but we’ve got players there now who want success and they’re prepared to work hard to get it,’’ he said.

“Unfortunately we were beaten at centre bounces late in the game and lost our way a little bit.

“Three centre clearances in a row hurt us and we paid the price, but we’ll learn from that and come back a better side in all aspects of the game.’’