Grey Morris picks the NTFL’s top 25 players: 25 to 21

Who were the top players of the NTFL season? NT News football writer Grey Morris carves up the season and counts down the top 25. Here are 25 to 21.

NT News football writer Grey Morris carves up the just finished NTFL season picks his top 25 players. Picture: Justin van Rossum

• Saints regroup to beat the Buffs
• Nightcliff’s efficient show of class
• Tiwis beat Eagles to finish third
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The 2019-20 NTFL season has produced several extraordinary feats, goals from the boundary line, long runs and big marks.

NT News football writer Grey Morris sat down this week to pick his best 25 players from the season that just ended, a task similar to running down Tiwi star Ross Tungatalum or kicking longer than Nightcliff midfielder Brodie Filo.

25: Joel Jeffrey – Wanderers

A genuine rising star of Territory football, Jeffrey is a ready-made goal kicker with his powerful leading, strong marking and accurate kicking. The son of former great Russell Jeffrey will be a target for AFL recruiting staff next year.

Wanderers player Joel Jeffrey looks for a clear space to kick the ball during a 2018 game against St Mary's. Picture: Keri Megelus

24: Tim Eldridge – Buffaloes

An attacking defender who lets nothing get in his way, Eldridge has built his reputation on a no-fear approach to the football and powerful running when in possession.

Timothy Eldridge after scoring against St Mary's at Gardens Oval on the weekend. Picture Glenn Campbell

23: Rory O’Brien – Southern Districts

The epitome of an on-baller, O’Brien is always where the ball is and he usually does something with it when he gets his hands around the football. A key player in Districts’ bid to play in a third successive NTFL grand final.

Rory O'Brien in the losing grand final against Nightcliff last year. Picture: Glenn Campbell

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22: Shannon Rioli – St Mary’s

The Saints skipper is still one of the best in the business with his disposal efficiency and ability to read the play. Probably has three or four seasons left at the top level as he aims to steer the Green Machine to more senior flags.

Shannon Rioli has a snap in a game against Palmerston in December. Picture: Glenn Campbell

21: Braedon McLean – Wanderers

An unobtrusive player, McLean’s clean skills and strong aerobic capacity make him one of the mainstays of the Eagles backline. Often given a defensive role on the opposition’s best forward, McLean is always on his side’s best player list.

Braedon McLean with the ball against Nightcliff last week. Picture Glenn Campbell