World Footy News

The St Mary’s dynasty added more silverware to an overcrowded cabinet tonight when they won the NTFL (Northern Territory Football League) 2013/14 premiership against Wanderers at TIO Stadium in Darwin. The weather threw up a temperature in the mid-thirties and almost 100% humidity, creating tough conditions for a grand-final.

Going into the match as raging hot favourites after an undefeated season, many felt that another Saint’s premiership might have been a foregone conclusion, and on face value that is probably true. But that does not adequately recognise how well Wanderers played. Over four tight quarters, the Eagles simply never gave up. Every time St Mary’s looked like breaking away, Wanderers found something to bring themselves into the game.

Picture Courtesy NT News.

The win sees St Mary’s re-write the history books winning their 30th premiership in their 61 years in the competition, and rapidly closing on the Port Adelaide Magpies record of the most successful club in major state competitions with 36 premierships.

Justin Van Unen kicked four goals for the Saints, whilst former North Melbourne player Eddie Sansbury kicked three for Wanderers.  Saints player, Kane Leerson, won the Chaney Medal for best afield in the grand final, whilst Saint’s and NTFL legend, Jarred Ilett, announced his retirement after the match.

Despite the Wanderers team’s determination to spoil the Saint’s party, the premiership win was a fitting result for St Mary’s after going undefeated throughout the entire season, including home and away games and finals.

Quarter by Quarter scores:

Quarter Time: St Mary’s 4 2 26 Wanderers 2 1 13
Half Time: St Mary’s 6 9 45 Wanderers 3 5 23
Three Quarter: St Mary’s 8 10 58 Wanderers 6 6 42
Final Score: St Mary’s 11 11 77 d Wanderers 8 8 56