A timely win has ensured Northern Thunder remains in the Victorian Rugby League first division top four.
With several players battling injuries, the Thunder entered the match undermanned but were able to do enough to beat Doveton Steelers 25-24.
Thunder president Carlos Patelesio said before the game the side had endured a bad run of injuries in recent weeks.
The club’s seconds side had a bye on the weekend, which ended up being a blessing and meant some players didn’t have to play two games on the same day.
Both sides are sitting in their top four after 10 rounds and Patelesio is hopeful they’ll be staying there.
In the seconds’ most recent game, they knocked off ladder leaders Werribee Bears.
“At the moment, we have quite a young first side and our second side is going really well,” Patelesio said.
The Thunder is seeing this year as a rebuilding effort for the club and hope it will set the Thunder up for the next few years.
“Things weren’t going to well and I stepped in and took over as president,” Patelesio said.
“This year is a bit of a stepping stone and we’re looking at long term goals.
“There are a lot of kids playing rugby in the north and we want them coming and staying with us for their careers.
“In the past they’ve started here and then gone elsewhere.”
Patelesio said part of the next step would be trying to get better facilities.
