On debut for the team he barracked for growing up, Taylor Hunt played a pivotal role in Richmond running Carlton ragged in the AFL’s 2015 season-opener at the MCG last night (Thursday).

Hunt, who joined Richmond late last year as a delisted free agent, following a 63-game career in five seasons at Geelong, was one of the most prominent performers in the Tigers’ 27-point win.

Catch up with all the news, videos and stats from the Round 1 win, at Richmond’s game-day hub

He provided Richmond’s midfield with a significant boost through his hard running and ball-winning ability, finishing with the most disposals of any player in the match. 

“His running ability is outstanding.  We knew he had that, and it’s something we needed as a team.  That’s obviously why we went and chased him,” Richmond assistant coach Mark ‘Wilbur’ Williams said on the first edition of the Club’s post-game podcast ‘The Richmond Review’. 

“He hasn’t been a big possession-getter over his footy career so far, but he’s made a few little adjustments to his game in regards to where he runs and how he sets up around the contest now.   I think he’s a lot more visible with his positioning.  It was great to see him have a 27-possession game . . .

“One thing he did fantastically well tonight was he really set up our ball use and our use of numbers. 

“His short possession kicks and handballs brought others into the play . . . it got our transitioning up and going. 

“He led from the front.  His tenacity in regards to his contested possession was outstanding and it was great to see him get the reward he deserved after a really big pre-season.”