Wanderers legend Russell Jeffrey likes what he sees in an Eagles side desperate for success

The Wanderers youth program is starting to bear fruit after several youngsters star in a win over the Buffaloes

Wanderers' Simon Bates grabs Buffalo Max Kennedy in an example of the Eagles' defensive pressure during their 50-point win. Picture: Felicity Elliott AFLNT/Media

WANDERERS legend Russell Jeffrey says his club should be aiming for a top three spot in the Premier League finals after their 50-point win over the Buffaloes on Saturday.

The AFLNT Hall of Famer watched his old side apply pressure to the opposition ball carrier for four quarters and use the ball well when in possession against a Buffalo side who found themselves with little room to move on the big Marrara ground.

“That’s the closest we’ve got to playing four quarters of football this season and I know they’ve been aiming for that,’’ Jeffrey told the NT News.

“Their defensive pressure was really good right around the park and that makes a massive difference, plus they used the ball quite well for long periods of the game.

“Another thing I liked was they choked their opponents and took away their run and carry, which is a big weapon of the Buffaloes.’’

Jeffrey also applauded spearhead Brett Eddy’s five goals and the target he was presenting to teammates further up the ground.

“Brett’s becoming a great focal point, he brings a wealth of experience with his size and strength and as we saw in the first quarter with his long run and goal, a bit of pace about him.’’

Wanderers’ expansive underage program, where several players have made their name in the under-18 and U16 grades before stepping up to senior football appears to be finally paying dividends on the scoreboard.

“The younger blokes have had a lot of games pumped into them over the last couple of years and they’ve been successful in the 18s competition,’’ Jeffrey said.

“They’re a lot more comfortable and confident at league level now, which means the junior program that has been running for a long time is starting to bear fruit.’’

So how far can Shannon Motlop’s go after three seasons without finals football?

“It is early, but we’ve played seven rounds and with six wins already under our belt we should be aiming for finals,’’ Jeffrey said.

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