NT Thunder has snapped a three-game losing streak with a 37-point victory against Gold Coast at TIO Stadium on Saturday night.
NT Thunder were too strong in the second half against an inexperienced Gold Coast team, kicking 10 goals to three on their way to a 17.13 (115) to 11.12 (78) win.
Gold Coast started the game well, taking a two-goal lead into the first break thanks to strong quarters from AFL veteran Michael Barlow, and Kade Kolodjashnij racking up 19 disposals between them.
NT Thunder were unable to get on top in the second quarter despite narrowing the margin to 11 points, as the Gold Coast academy players showcased their skills.
Brodie Foster (20 disposals and two goals) and Kwaby Boakye (15 disposals) were particularly impressive.
First year SUNS player Wil Powell was also dynamite in the second quarter with three goals.
The return of NT Thunder ruck Ryan Smith gave Jack Monigatti some respite, allowing him to flourish. The duo combined superbly to win the hit outs 54-17 against SUNS Academy player Matt Conroy – the first time NT Thunder have won the hit-out count in season 2018.
Gold Coast narrowed the margin to a single kick seven minutes into the final stanza via an Eddie Sansbury goal.
But NT Thunder couldn’t afford to lose a fourth consecutive game, and it was Darren Ewing who rose the occasion. The NEAFL goal kicking champion booted three final quarter goals, making it five for the night, to ensure a third win for the season for NT Thunder to square their win-loss ledger 3-3.
Abe Ankers was brilliant in the middle throughout the match racking up 30 disposals, 10 inside 50s and two goals.
Next week, NT Thunder travel to Sydney to take on the red-hot undefeated Sydney University outfit, in a game that will test their finals credentials.
Gold Coast have a bye next week in preparation for a local derby clash against Southport in Round 9.
NT Thunder v Gold Coast SUNS at TIO Stadium
NT THUNDER 2.2 7.3 12.8 17.13 (115)
GOLD COAST 4.3 8.8 9.9 11.12 (78)
GOALS – NT Thunder D Ewing 5 A Sambono 3 A Ankers 2 M Campbell C Ilett P Heenan C Williams R Smith D Munkara S Talbot.
Gold Coast: W Powell 3 B Foster 2 E Sansbury 2 F Greenwool M Barlow H Arnold J Gore.
BEST – NT Thunder: R Tambling J Anderson D Ewing S Smith S Talbot.
Gold Coast: K Kolodjashnij M Barlow W Powell K Boakye C Nutting J Dawson.
