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As we are in the middle of the NTFL 2014-15 Christmas break, I thought it would be a good time to reflect on some of the stars of the competition this year.
I have come up with a list of the Top Ten best footballers from this season.
1. Cameron Ilett, 29, St Marys
It is absolutely baffling how this bloke has not had a chance with an AFL club. Thought as by many as one of the better players outside of the AFL, Ilett is enjoying arguably a career-best season at St Marys.
The NT Thunder captain is almost the complete footballer, with the perfect blend of skill and hardness at the ball. He has achieved almost every accolade in the Northern Territory and perhaps this year he could add a Nichols Medal to the list.
A clear choice for the best player in the NTFL.
2. Alwyn Davey, 30, Palmerston
Respected by all in the Top End, Alwyn Davey has been terrific for his beloved Palmerston Magpies since returning from a 100-game AFL career with Essendon.
The man known as ‘Froggy’ has the rare ability to be equally as damaging whether up forward or through the midfield.
After playing for so long at the top level, players of his ilk could be excused for taking it easy in the NTFL. But his competitiveness and on-field leadership for the young Magpies brigade is a testament to his strong character.
3. Jarrod Stokes, 20, Darwin
Perhaps the quickest player in the NTFL, very few can break the lines as well as this Buffaloes speedster.
Stokes was always a talented junior, but after a stint with SANFL club North Adelaide, the 20-year-old has taken his football up a couple of notches.
His run-and-carry ability is second to none and there is no doubt he is one of the main reasons for the Buffaloes’ improvement.
4. Gibson Turner, 21, Nightcliff
The goal-kicking ace has bucket loads of talent and could easily find himself back on an AFL list if things fall his way.
The former Richmond rookie has played for a couple of NTFL clubs but looks right at home in a Tigers jumper. Although best suited to the forward line, Turner has the ability to run through the midfield or half back if needed.
A great acquisition for Nightcliff and he forms a special partnership with Desmond Nandy and Baydon Ngalkin.
5. Darren Ewing, 27, St Marys
The prolific goal kicker is not built like a traditional full-forward. But what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with his uncanny football smarts and timing.
Perhaps the best forward in the NEAFL over the past half a dozen years, Ewing regularly kicks bags of goals and is also not afraid to pass to a teammate in a better position.
But his most impressive trait might just be the work he puts in defensively when he does not have the ball in his hands.
6. Will Farrer, 24, Southern Districts
One of the more unorthodox footballers in the competition, the high-flying Will Farrer is playing probably his best season with the Crocs.
He leads the competition for goals at the half way mark of the season and is also comfortable playing as a key defender. Farrer has a vertical leap that needs to be seen to be believed and he uses it to great effect when on the lead.
7. Matt Campbell, 27, Buffaloes
Campbell is another that needs no introduction to footy followers in the Northern Territory. The former North Melbourne player has been excellent for the Buffaloes this season.
He has the attributes that can break a game apart and at his best he is a genuine match-winner. But Campbell’s experience at higher levels of footy allows him to also play a mentoring role for the young Buffaloes.
8. Leroy Jetta, 26, Palmerston
The former Essendon player has been arguably the recruit of the season so far in the NTFL. Jetta left his presence felt early with a couple of spectacular moments in a best on ground performance in his debut game for the Magpies.
His thumping kick makes him dangerous at all areas of the ground and he possesses a terrific overhead mark.
9. Ross Tungatalum, 24, Tiwi Bombers
It is hard to believe that the human highlight reel is still only 24 years of age. ‘Rocco’ has been dominating the NTFL for years now and on his day he is the most exciting player in the competition.
The former St Kilda rookie has blistering speed and silky-smooth skills and is always a damaging player for the Bombers.
10. Thomas Motlop, 27, Wanderers
Motlop started the season in exciting fashion and comfortably lead the competition’s leading goals up until recently. But during Wanderers’ mid-season form slump coach Andrew Hodges moved him to the backline to provide experience for the young Eagles defence.
He has provided leadership and consistency in that role and his versatility puts him on the list.
Get Jackson Clarke on Twitter @jclark182
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