For the third time this season, NT Thunder will play a Grand Final rematch against rivals in the Aspley Hornets under lights TIO Stadium. Locked in a three-way battle for second spot on the NEAFL ladder, both Thunder and the Hornets will fight to secure second in Saturday night’s blockbuster match.
Thuner has already defeated the Hornets by 43 points in Round 3 and 45 points in Round 11 this year.
With only five minor rounds remaining in the home and away season before finals kick off, the contest to hold down second place and score a home preliminary final heats up.
Last week a steadying win came for Thunder when they defeated the Redland Bombers at Tidbold Park by 12-points. An in-form Aspley will look for three-in-a-row as they come off the back of two wins against Redland and the Southport Sharks.
NT Thunder will celebrate their heritage by wearing a historic 1966-style guernsey, while veteran Cameron Ilett will celebrate his 150th game for the club.
Head Coach Xavier Clarke said it is an important week for the team, on and off the field, for a number of reasons.
“This week we celebrate our heritage, wearing a special-designed guernsey in commemoration of every player to have worn the jumper to represent the Territory over the years,” Clarke said.
“Our players are really excited and proud to wear the jumper, particularly at home in front of some NT football legends.”
Key ins for Thunder include the exciting “Lajamanu Lighting Bolt”, Liam Patrick as he makes the round trip from Central Australia.
A speedy Jack Shannahan returns to the side after missing last week’s game against Redland and the nimble Tim Eldridge is welcomed back into the squad as well.
Looking ahead to the match, Clarke welcomes the challenge for second.
“I think it’s is fantastic. We could end up anywhere between second and fifth. What it does for us is we have to fight for everything at this time of the year,” he said.
“We’ve got to really put the magnifying glass on how we’re playing and what are the challenges and the dangers.
“It’s going to be really important for us, this next month of footy, and with the ladder positioning pressure on, I think it’s a great thing to have in the back end of the year,” Clarke said.
NT THUNDER vs ASPLEY HORNETS
6:30pm TIO Stadium
Saturday 23 July 2016