Northern Knights have waited until the dying minutes to seal victory in the TAC Cup for a second successive week.
Two weeks ago the Knights led for much of the day and had to hold on against Bendigo Pioneers. They conceded the lead late before regaining the lead with three minutes to go.
On Saturday, the Knights trailed all day coming from 15 points behind to defeat Dandenong Stingrays 10.9 (69)-9.13 (67).
Knights coach Justin Wenke said they could have quite easily lost both games.
“Both games were in the balance at three-quarter time,” he said.
“This week was a little bit different – we were behind until the last minute.
“Ollie Wilson had a chase down tackle to save a goal late and won a free kick to help seal the goal.
“We’ve found a way to win both games which could have gone either way.”
Jamison Shea kicked four goals for the Knights in a best-on-ground performance. Jack Petruccelle and Ollie Wilson were also prominent.
Ruckman Joel Grace had one of his better games against the Stingrays.
Wenke said the Knights were starting to build confidence that they can win close games, something that eluded them last season.
The Knights have four wins from the first six rounds. They won four games in total last season.
Wenke said one of the most pleasing things was that most of of those their playing list had played at least one game in the first part of the season.
“It puts us in a good position to strike later in the season,” he said. “We’ve played about 45 boys in the six games, playing majority of the list.
“We’ve had 10 first-gamers the last three weeks. Everyone will play a role during the year.
“It’s about trying to get the right mix.”
Wenke said there had been a number of stand-out players for the side so far. Ten players remain in the mix for the Vic Metro under-18 team.
“Our top-end talent is really good,” he said. “Nick Coffield has been a stand-out the last three weeks. He’s gone from defence into the midfield and forward.
“Jack Petruccelle continues to amaze with highlights and his ability to jump and mark the ball.
“Jamison Shea has been really good and Mitch Andrews, a top-age defender, has been really good with his run and carry.”
The Knights face another challenge this week, travelling to Geelong to take on the undefeated Geelong Falcons.
Wenke said he expected a few changes this, with some of the private school boys available and the possibility of giving a few more debutants a chance.
Meanwhile, Maddy Guerin took out the inaugural Northern Knights girls best and fairest award.
Guerin won the award by two votes from Britney Gutknecht and Nell Morris-Dalton.
