The UWS GIANTS’ unbeaten start to the 2015 NEAFL season has ended at the hands of the NT Thunder in Darwin.

Another impressive best-on-ground performance by draftee Jack Steele couldn’t help his side avoid a narrow 10-point loss – 14.10 (94) to 12.12 (84).

It’s the second consecutive week the Canberra-born midfielder has been named the UWS GIANTS’ best player.

UWS GIANTS coach Brett Hand said a poor second-quarter performance was the main factor in the loss.

“We jumped out the blocks at the beginning of the match but then let ourselves down in the second term with inconsistent football,” Hand said.

“It was a tough match in hot conditions but we just struggled to get our hands on the ball at crucial times.

“To win three out of the four quarters and still lose the match is quite disappointing but it’s something we expect our players to learn from.”

Hand said PM CAPITAL GIANTS Academy product Jack Steele has again put his hand up for senior selection on the back of another dominant performance.

“Jack was impressive again with strength around the ball and ability to stand up when challenged,” he said.

“He links extremely well with our runners and isn’t afraid to put his head over the ball when needed.

“I was also pleased with Adam Kennedy’s game off half-back and Tim Mohr played well on Thunder key forward Darren Ewing."

Exciting forward Jed Lamb performed well in attack and was the only multiple goal kicker with three majors.

Matt Buntine, Zac Williams and Dylan Addison were also among the UWS GIANTS’ best players.

The UWS GIANTS will play their first match of the season at Spotless Stadium against the Sydney Swans reserves this Saturday from 12.55pm.

The UWS GIANTS defeated the Swans by 63-points when the two sides clashed just three weeks ago.

The match will be played as a curtain-raiser before the GIANTS' clash with reigning Premiers Hawthorn at 4.35pm.

NT THUNDER 14.10 (94) def UWS GIANTS 12.12 (84)

BEST: J. Steele, A. Kennedy, T. Mohr, J. Lamb, M. Buntine, Z. Williams, D. Addison

GOALS: J. Lamb 3, C. Owen-Auburn, C. Hampton, Z. Williams, H. Brill, J. Barrett, J. Steele, K. Merson, S. Reid, P. Ahern