Round 5 of the 2024/25 TIO NTFL kicks off with a top-of-the-table clash between PINT and Palmerston. The Queenants have set the standard in recent seasons, while Palmerston has emerged as the competition’s big surprise packet.
Both teams are undefeated, promising an electrifying contest. The Magpies dominated last weekend, securing a 115-point win over Wanderers, with Marika Carlton, Taylah Easton, and Taelah Smith each notching four goals. Erica Rowe and Ella Ward were also instrumental in the victory.
PINT’s got the job done against Southern Districts as captain Reni Hicks continued building form and Queenants champion Jasmyn Hewett contributed a pair of goals up forward.
An exciting showdown is set for Saturday at Gardens Oval, where the undefeated Nightcliff Tigers will take on the improving Tiwi Bombers.
Coming off a bye, the Tigers are three wins from three games and are looking strong. Cassie McWilliam and Charlotte D’Ambrosio were outstanding two weeks ago, combining for six goals in a 41-point victory over Waratah. Gabrielle Deller has also impressed this season, while Maddy Rasmussen and Georgia Johnston are in strong form.
Tiwi, fresh from a win over the Darwin Buffettes, will aim to carry that momentum. Maria Rioli and Freda Puruntatameri were stars in last week’s game, while Arthurina Moreen and Jamie Lee Puautjimi each contributed two goals. The Bombers’ SANFLW recruits have added plenty of skill and experience to the team and VFLW star Courtney Ugle is another massive addition.
St Marys will get an opportunity to have a confidence boosting win when they face Wanderers tomorrow at TIO Stadium.
An inaccurate Saints got the job done against Waratah last week but there is still plenty of room for improvement for last season’s grand finalists. Billie Byers, Nakeesha Miniter and Paula Pavic were excellent in their team’s 12-point win over the Warriors.
On Sunday at Cazalys Arena, Darwin Buffaloes will be aiming for their first win of the season against Southern Districts. Coming off a 30-point defeat to Tiwi, the Buffettes are in need of a victory to keep any finals hopes alive.
The Crocs are also looking to bounce back, following a 27-point loss last week. Strong performances from Krystal Russell, Alessia Smythe, and Maddi Shaw were encouraging, and they’ll be keen to help lift their team back to winning form.