Hunt On The Rise | Thebigtip

NRL convert Karmichael Hunt notched up his maiden goal last night for the Gold Coast Suns, and it was no ordinary goal. Hunt marked the ball on the run, instantly played on and went forward to kick the goal from 55m out, raising all fans to their feet and drawing all Suns players around Hunt. Not only was it great for the Suns to see Hunt kick his first goal, but it was good to see more promising signs from the ex-Brisbane Bronco player.

The Suns were talked up as no chance against the undefeated Geelong Cats, but came out firing and lead the game at quarter time and half time. Sadly, the Suns could not go on with the lead and went on to lose by 11 goals in a game where the result does not tell the full story. The day started badly for Hunt who, in the first minutes of the game, came running into the centre and awkwardly collided with Geelong ruckman Nathan Vardy. Hunt could be in trouble with the MRP, but the fact that Vardy returned to the game will help Hunt's cause.

After a sour start, Karmichael's day got much better and he went on to play one of his best games for the Suns since coming over from Rugby League. Hunt may have only finished the game with 12 possessions, but in the context of the position he plays and his limited experience in AFL, this was a mighty effort. Hunt was allowed to run a lot more than he has been able to in the past and used this to his advantage by picking up ten uncontested possessions and three inside 50's.

The Suns will be hoping that they do not lose Hunt for next week's clash against an improved West Coast who today lost to the reigning premiers by 52-points. Below you can see Karmichael Hunt's first AFL goal which will be remembered for a very long time. Many years into the future, you will be able to look back and think 'I was around for that goal.'

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvmDxkaiPfo