The Cazalys NT Under 18 Boys Talent Academy has wrapped up its 2025 Coates Talent League campaign with a spirited three-game series, featuring a Melbourne Road trip and a long-awaited return to home turf at TIO Stadium. While the results didn’t go their way, the campaign was marked by growth, promise, and glimpses of individual brilliance that bode well for the future of Territory football.
The Territorians opened their campaign against the Calder Cannons in brisk conditions at Highgate Recreation Reserve. NT held their own early in a tightly contested first quarter, moving the ball with pace and precision but struggling to convert their efforts into scoreboard pressure. A goal to the Cannons on the quarter-time siren stung, with NT trailing by nine points at the main break.
The Cannons took control in the second term, capitalising on NT's errors under pressure to extend their lead to 31 points by halftime. However, the Territory side showed real resolve in the third quarter, creating six scoring shots and threatening to turn the tide. Inaccuracy proved costly, with the NT unable to close the gap despite their momentum.
Ultimately, the Cannons ran out 51-point winners, but there were plenty of positives for NT. Likely draft prospect Taj Murray delivered a standout performance, while Taj Stanley worked tirelessly around the contest and kicked truly. Adrian Scott with 21 disposals and a goal, Clay Shadforth’s 12 disposals and goal, and Ben Barnard’s 20 disposals, were credited among the best for the NT.
The second outing against the Murray Bushrangers marked a step forward. NT burst out of the blocks with two unanswered goals in the first quarter, controlling the early tempo. A few missed chances left the door ajar, and the Bushrangers took full advantage in the second term, piling on six goals to one to swing the momentum.
The Territorians struggled to regain their footing in the second half, adding just one goal and four behinds as the Bushrangers pulled away to a 48-point win. Despite the result, signs of progress were evident. Taj Murray once again impressed, solidifying his growing draft credentials, while Jack Hewett and Clay Shadforth continued to showcase their class. Ethan Bush had terrific match recording 20 disposals, as Clay continued his red-hot form with 20 disposals and a goal, and Malakai Le Rossignol with 16 disposals.
The campaign concluded with a homecoming at TIO Stadium - NT’s first Coates Talent League game on home soil since 2022 - in a high-octane clash against the Western Jets. The Territory side started brightly, with early goals to Alijah Davey, Joel Munnich, and Adrian Scott giving NT a five-point edge at quarter time.
The Jets responded strongly in the second quarter, booting five goals to one to take control. But the Territorians weren't done. Four unanswered goals early in the third quarter, including a pair from Isaac Herold and Adrian Scott, swung the momentum back NT’s way. Waylon Davey made a major impact as the hosts threatened a comeback.
However, a late surge from the Jets - including a run of seven consecutive goals - sealed a 32-point win despite late resistance from Clay Shadforth. Adrian Scott starred with three goals and a standout all-around performance, while Davey also finished with three majors. Kalen Russell was impressive with 17 disposals, Hau-Tze Rock finished with 16 disposals, but was heavily involved with scoring chances with Ryan Bonham and Calvin Peris-Chong both recording 14 disposals each.
Taj Stanley topped stats list averaging a remarkable 21 disposals, and 5 tackles per game. Clay Shadforth also had a terrific campaign with an average of 17 disposals, also finding himself with four goals posing as a serious forward threat.
NT Talent Head Coach, Dales Eames, praised his sides development.
“Our Under 18 Male program has taken significant strides over the past 12 months.
Despite the challenges of limited time training together, the boys showed real growth -cutting 23 goals off our losing margins across the first two games in Melbourne compared to last year. That’s a testament to their effort and resilience.
We were especially excited to return home and play in front of a local crowd at TIO Stadium. Facing the Western Jets - who beat us by 149 points in 2024 - we led at three-quarter time and pushed them all the way. Although the result didn’t go our way, the improvement was undeniable.
I couldn’t be prouder of this group. Their commitment, growth, and pride in the jumper were on full display. They’ve been an absolute privilege to coach.”