Palmerston Raiders ready for tough battle against determined Nightcliff Dragons side

PALMERSTON Raiders coach Daniel Keelan expects a tough forward battle against Nightcliff in tonight’s Round 4 match-up between the last unbeaten sides of the 2020 NRL NT premiership

Palmerston Raiders player Will Smith has been in strong form so far in 2020. Picture: Keri Megelus

PALMERSTON Raiders coach Daniel Keelan expects a tough forward battle against Nightcliff in tonight’s Round 4 match-up between the last unbeaten sides of the 2020 NRL NT premiership.

The Raiders ground out a 32-28 win over reigning premiers Litchfield at Fred’s Pass last Saturday, giving themselves an early scalp over their biggest rivals.

“It was a good grinding win against them and showed that we could stand up against them,” Keelan told the NT News.

“It’s an important win for us and for the rest of the league after they went unbeaten in the regular season last year, so it’s important to get the win this time around.”

OTHER NT SPORT STORIES

Dragons, Brothers play out thrilling draw in NRL NT A-grade

NTRU and Swampdogs in union against a killer

First Territorian Supercars driver to make history in Darwin

Dragons who also remain undefeated after three rounds, after a last-effort draw against arch-rivals Brothers.

Nightcliff was able to capitalise on mistakes from the Brethren to get back into the contest and level the encounter.

“We’ve had a week off so we may be a little rusty, but we’re expecting them to bring it to us,” Keelan said.

“I’m expecting a tough battle from them, particularly in the forwards with their captain David Paull taking on a lot of responsibility there.

“I would also love to see their coach Reg Rose out there.

“We’re going to need to focus on being patient to control the ball and control the game.

“I would back our forwards against anyone else.

“And if they’re working they will give our backs plenty of room to kick into gear for our running game.”

LIMITED TIME: New NT News subscription offer: $1 a week for the first 12 weeks

Keelan is expecting his whole side to put on another massive effort, with captain Alex Johnson and centre Will Smith standing out against Litchfield.

Keelan also has his eyes set on a big game from his halves pairing, with Blake Fletcher and the returning Matt Bennett expected to fire.

The remaining NRL NT sides will return to action next week.