On Saturday 26th July the Northern Knights travelled up the Princes Freeway to Morwell to take on Gippsland Power in Round 15 of the TAC Cup. Overcast greasy conditions greeted the Knights as they arrived and the boys knew they would be in for a physical encounter. The first quarter was an even affair with the two teams evenly matched throughout. The Knights with goals to Kieran Malone, Garret McDonagh & Sam Switkowski were able to take a five point lead into the first change. Gippsland began to get on top in general play during the second quarter but goals from Liam Hunt and Jacob Booth kept the Knights in touch and they trailed by just four points at the long break. The Power were quick out of the blocks after half time and kicked the first four goals of the third term to stretch their lead out to over five goals, but late goals from Malone and Anthony Di Paolo gave Northern a chance heading into the final stanza. Again the two teams traded goals early in the last, but then Gippsland got on top and three goals in succession put the game beyond doubt. Late goals by Hunt & Chris McCabe were not enough for the Knights eventually going down by 24 points. Liam Hunt collected 27 disposals to go with his two goals to be named best for Northern. Zac Ballard was a tireless worker all day for the Knights through the midfield gathering 20 possessions and laying an enormous 17 tackles, he was ably supported by Sam Switkowski & Jade Gresham. Darcy Macpherson and Jayden Short were both also solid contributors throughout the game.
This Saturday 2nd August the Northern Knights host the Northern Territory at Preston City Oval, starting at 11:00am. The Knights will be looking to regain some form, with the return of some players from Private School Commitments they should be able to field a stronger team and hopefully get back onto the winners list.
Last Modified on 29/07/2014 11:50
