THE Big River Hawks showed why they are regarded as one of the quality teams of the 2015-16 NTFL under-18 competition when they bounced back from a painful loss to topple the Southern Districts Crocs in an electric encounter on February 6.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Crocs got off to a flyer to lead the Hawks by a stunning five goals at the first break.
For the Hawks, the only highlight of the first quarter came when Lajamanu recruit Brent Tasman fended off five opponents to slot the Sherrin between the big sticks.
The Hawks lifted in the second stanza but still faced a 21-point deficit when the half-time siren sounded.
After the main break, the Big River boys came out on fire.
Kelly, Budarick and Nicholoff were impressive to watch, while Carroll oozed class off the back flank.
Nagawalli again played a great game, as did King, who played a role in some crucial passages of play either with the ball going forward, stopping an opposition attack or bringing the ball to a stoppage if required.
As the third quarter ended, the Hawks found themselves only a few points behind on the scoreboard.
The final quarter was another entertaining affair as both teams gave their all.
Some mercurial play by Hamilton off the bench set the ball up deep in the Hawks’ forward line as the boys in brown and gold lifted as a team to win by 10 points.
On Valentine’s Day, the Hawks will battle Waratahs in round 17 at Gardens Oval 2 at 12.15pm.
Result from February 6
BIG RIVER HAWKS 10.8 (68) defeated SOUTHERN DISTRICTS CROCS 9.4 (58)
Goals: Gardner 3; Tasman 2; Nicholoff, Wilson, Budarick, Kossack, Carroll 1
Best players: Budarick, Kelly, Carroll, Nicholoff, Nagawalli, King
