Nightcliff pursuing its first win in three attempts under the new lights at the Tigers’ den

Several changes to the top five sides as the 20-21 NTFL season enters the home straight

St Mary's Raphael Clarke, at rear, tries to grab Waratah ruckman Zach Westerberg in their Round 7 clash at TIO Stadium. Picture: Felicity Elliott

TWO-TIME Nightcliff premiership coach Chris Baksh smiled when asked why his Tigers had not got out of third gear in 10 rounds of trying.

Nightcliff’ and Wanderers share top billing on the Premier League ladder, half a game ahead of last season’s losing grand finalists St Mary’s, who have flown under the radar with four successive wins.

Tonight’s opponents the Darwin Buffaloes will be full of run and intent as they look to regain the form and confidence that saw them win their first four games.

Nightcliff snapped the Buffaloes’ winning run in their Round 5 clash and Baksh is confident they can overcome their rivals with an adjusted side.

Busy midfielder Danny Butcher will play his first game of the season, Mack Rivett returns and key position player Hugo Drogemuller is back.

“We’re trying a few different things which could explain why we haven’t hit our straps yet,’’ Baksh told the NT News.

“The Buffaloes are always a challenge, but it’s important we get the points this week and win a home game under lights for the first time.’’

The Buffaloes regain clever small Isaac Seden-Kurnoth for the 6.30pm game, along with Patrick Boles and Kevin Maroney.

Waratah will be without Abe Ankers and Sam Godden for its third v fourth clash with St Mary’s at Marrara.

But Joel and Ned Stevens, Jae McGrath and Brock Orval are among the inclusions.

Shannon Rioli is out of the St Mary’s side, but Anthony Long and Raphael Clarke are among a long list of ins.

Palmerston gets the Davey brothers — Aaron and Alwyn — back for its must-win against Southern Districts at Fred’s Pass.

Nigel Lockyer Jr, Chris Williams and Daniel Stafford also return against a Districts side strengthened by Brodie Lake’s inclusion in defence.

The Motlop cousins — Brenton and Thomas — have been included in the Wanderers line-up for tomorrow’s afternoon game against the Tiwi Bombers.

Shane Thorne and ball magnet Shaun Mannagh are out of the side.

Big marking forward Adam Sambono and skilful youngster Jack Munkara return for a Tiwi side still looking for its first win of the season following a week of turmoil and coaching suspensions for umpire abuse.