ANGUS Litherland’s first AFL goal could not have come at a better time for Hawthorn against Sydney Swans on Saturday night.
The Hawks had jumped out of the blocks, kicking the first seven goals of the game, before a Lance Franklin-inspired Swans’ outfit replied with four goals of their own, closing the margin to just 18 points nearing half-time.
Enter Litherland – a late inclusion for Bradley Hill – who made his way forward in the dying moments of the second quarter, before marking and converting a set shot from just inside 50 in the 32nd minute of the second quarter.
It was a crucial momentum shift – and when Cyril Rioli added another goal right on the half-time siren, the Hawks’ lead had been restored to 30 points.
“I was pretty happy with the kick,” Litherland said.
“My goal-kicking at training hasn’t been ideal lately, but I guess I kicked it when it mattered.
“I was surprisingly confident – I went through my routine, which I’ve worked on a little bit with Adam Yze, David Rath and Damian Carroll."
“(The routine) took a bit longer than we practiced, but I hit it pretty sweetly.”
From Litherland’s goal onwards, the Hawks kicked 15 goals to the Swans’ three to run out 89-point victors.
He said it was pleasing for the Hawks to create that momentum shift.
“We wanted to play our way and our style and for the majority of the night we managed to do that,” Litherland said.
“When they got it on their terms, we managed to wrestle back the momentum and limit their scoring.”
The 22-year-old pressed his claims for more senior opportunities with a strong defensive performance in just his fourth AFL game this season.
However Litherland is simply focused on continually improving his game each week.
“I’m just happy to get a game and play my role,” he said.
“As Clarko says, squads win premierships.
“For guys like myself and other guys in my position, just on the fringe of the side, (it’s about) playing well and being consistent at Box Hill – and Box Hill are winning which is good – so when we do get the call-up, whenever it comes, we’re ready to go.”
“I’m still on the improve which is important, and I’m just taking each week as it comes… I had a bit of a scratchy start to the year, but I’m building a bit of momentum now.”
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