Unlike the clogged motorway it’s named after, the F3 derby rarely fails to deliver. It could have been the battle of the wooden spooners, but we’ll be lucky if there’s a more exciting, passionate or attacking derby this season.
NEWCASTLE JETS
Jack Duncan - 6
Despite the Mariners creating a lot of opportunities, he wasn’t required to do anything spectacular. Neither impressive or worrying, but remained strong from crosses.
Daniel Georgievski - 8
Set the tempo early on with some fiery tackles and stand-offs with Mariners players, particularly Asdrubal. Could have conceded a penalty, but was a key part of the Jet’s victory.
Nigel Boogard - 7
Missed one of the chances of the season to give the Jets a 2-1 lead, but luckily it didn’t matter, and he was predictably strong at the other end of the pitch.
Nikolai Topor – Stanley – 8
Topor’s still got it. Great passing range complimented an authoritative presence at the back that the Jets thoroughly missed last season. He showed he’ll be key to their campaign.
Ivan Vujica - 7
A workhorse down the flanks, Vujica provided some much needed defensive cover with Newcastle’s wingers pushing so far forward.
He was tested at times early in the match, but recovered well and put in a strong performance.
Steven Ugarkovic - 8
A really impressive performance from the young midfielder. He mopped up Mariner’s attacks, looked really sharp at intercepting passes and constantly pushed forward.
Finished an unsung hero behind the Jets forward line.
Ronald Vargas - 7
Early on, appeared as if his mind was still somewhere on a beach in Caracas, but curled in an absolute beauty for Andrew Nabbout to set up Roy O’Donovan’s second goal and never looked back.
Withdrawn early, but the marquee showed some very promising signs for the Novocastrians.
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