South Hobart face a David and Goliath battle up against Sydney United 58 in the NPL Grand Final but winger Chris Hunt says he can’t wait for the opportunity.
South Hobart face a David and Goliath battle up against Sydney United 58 in the National Premier Leagues (NPL) Grand Final but winger Chris Hunt says he can-t wait for the opportunity.
Hunt crossed from Northern Rangers in the off-season prior to the launch of the Victory League, after having an excellent 2012 in the north, a season that saw him finish runner up in the George Dale medal.
He backed up his form in 2013, with a super season at South Hobart, scoring 13 goals along with countless assists, becoming a focal point as his side dominated the inaugural Victory League season.
The workhorse winger was highly fancied for the Mitsubishi Motors Best and Fairest and finished fourth in the standings, his stellar season also earned him selection for Tasmania, which saw him play against A-League giants Melbourne Victory last month.
The 23 year old said he never thought he would have the chance to play in a national final.
“The NPL Finals Series is such an exciting concept because in Tassie we rarely get a chance to test ourselves against mainland teams and fight for national glory.”
South Hobart outclassed Campbelltown City in their NPL Semi-Final, beating the South Australians 3-1; Hunt put away a goal in the memorable win.
“I think it was one of our best performances as a team for the year, all the boys applied themselves and were at them for 90 minutes.”
Hunt delayed a trip to the Philippines to ensure he would be here for the NPL Final.
“I had an overseas holiday planned for this weekend but to be honest it was a no brainer, you don-t play in a national final every week.
“I had faith in the boys that we could progress beyond the semi-finals so I had the phone on standby ready to change my flights,” said Hunt.
South Hobart face a stern test in the inaugural NPL Grand Final, tackling one of the most high profile clubs outside the A-League in Sydney United 58 FC, a team that has seen more than 60 international players.
Despite United-s reputation, Hunt said his side isn-t scared and that there is a real buzz around the club.
“I don-t think anyone is frightened at the prospect, I think everyone understands the opportunity we have and are genuinely excited about it.
“We don-t know exactly what to expect from them (Sydney United 58 FC) but we know they will be quality so we just need to tick our boxes and worry about our game,” said Hunt.
In what could be his final game for the club Hunt is looking to end his tenure at South Hobart with a bang.
“I have loved every minute at South, we have a great bunch of boys and if my last game in the red and blue was a national championship, I couldn’t think of a better way to cap off a great year.”
Hunt is plan to move interstate for study at season-s end.
