On Saturday 9th May the Northern Knights travelled to Eureka Stadium to take on the North Ballarat Rebels in Round 6 of the TAC Cup. In windy conditions both teams struggled early to gain any early momentum, eventually the home side was able to get forward and break away with a couple of late goals. The Rebels continued that advantage into the second quarter and scored three more quick goals before the Knights answered with one of their own through Bailey Jordan. North Ballarat’s midfield which contained 3 AFL Academy members remained on top and allowed them to score a further four goals to the Knights one prior to half time giving them a 47 point lead at the main break. In the third quarter Northern began to fight back in general play with Brayden Fiorini, James El Moussalli & Jade Gresham gathering plenty of the ball, however the more efficient North Ballarat team was still able to outscore the Knights and extend their lead out to 68 points by the final change. The Knights made a number of positional changes in the final term as they were reduced to just 2 fit players on the bench. Unfortunately even with increased resolve from Northern the Rebels were still too strong and ran out the game as 75 point winners.
James El Moussalli was judged best a field for the Knights, with Jade Gresham and Brayden Fiorini again named in the best. Small Forward Michael Ercolano showed great character to play out the match under duress and finish with two goals, while Tyrone Leonardis and Kieran Malone also gathered a number of possessions.
This Saturday the Northern Knights return to Preston City Oval to face interstate team Tasmania. The boys will keen to bounce back after their most disappointing showing of the season and will keen to keep their strong record at home in tact.
Last Modified on 12/05/2015 12:38