A five goal opening term paved the way for NT Thunder to record their eighth win for 2013, with the Gold Coasters unable to bring the scoreboard margin within reach as the Shaun Hart’s travelling NEAFL party were defeated by 47-points at TIO Stadium, Darwin on the weekend.

“We got off to a slow start, they were all over us, they kicked 5.6 at quarter-time and that was where the game was really set up,” Hart told goldcoastfc.com.au on Monday.

“From there we were 30 points down and eventually lost by 47 points, so at least for the rest of the game we can say we were capable but in terms of scoreboard they were by far the better team.”

While it’s safe to say the extreme humidity and warm testing conditions were a significant factor for Hart’s team to overcome, the former Lion champion was less lenient on his chargers – but did stop short of saying the club’s returning star players would have taken plenty away from battling in the heated Top End.

“I think it probably helps Matthew Warnock and Harley Bennell who played in warmer conditions, they were underdone a bit so it’s likely that would have helped with their physical conditions more playing in normal conditions,” said Hart.

“But ultimately it’s probably the length of the trip, the time of the game and the late night flight back was not ideal for any of our boys coming back here hoping to play senior football next week.”

Bennell, who had been missing in action since the senior team’s Round 8 clash against the Western Bulldogs at Metricon Stadium, enjoyed a steady return to the football track.

“Harley had a slow start but started to get off in patches,” said Hart.

Emerging midfielder Alex Sexton showed his capability around goals, kicking a three goals in an impressive individual display to finish as the leading goal-scorer for the Gold Coasters.

Meanwhile Kyal Horsley, Jared Brennan and Seb Tape did little to hamper their chances of earning a first team recall, with the senior trio finishing among the NEAFL SUNS best on-field performers for the contest.

FINAL RESULT
NT Thunder                             22.16. 148
GC SUNS Reserves              15.11. 101

Goal Kickers: A. Sexton 3, J. Hall 2, J. Hutchins 2, J. Brennan 2, J. Strong , S. Agita , H. Bennell , S. Jaragba , D. Van De Werken , L. Osborne
Best Players: K. Horsley, A. Sexton, J. Brennan, S. Tape, L. Osborne, J. Allen