After eight AFL matches riddled with nine consecutive behinds, no one could blame Timmy Sumner for celebrating the way he did after finally kicking his first major. 

Starting as the substitute against Melbourne in the side’s Round 20 match at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night, the lively forward provided a strong target in the second half.

Providing explosive pace and strong defensive pressure, Sumner finished with six disposals, three marks and importantly, two goals.

The former South Australian junior didn’t have to wait long before making an immediate impact, Sumner’s first goal coming only moments after the half-time break.

Taking the strong overhead grab in front of goals, Sumner quickly played on to record his first AFL major – and talking to goldcoastfc.com.au after the 13-point victory, it was evident the goal would be one of his most treasured career moments. 

“It was just a really good feeling,” Sumner said.

“I sort of expected Jarrod (Harbrow) to go back and kick the goal and it just feel short, as soon as I saw my opponent I felt confident enough to boot it through.”

A pump of the fists and a scream of joy echoed around the Southern end of the Stadium.

“My celebration was a mixture of excitement and joy coming through – I didn’t think on the spot.”

Sumner said seeing his Gold Coast team mates run over to congratulate him was a certain highlight.

“It was such a great feeling and just to get all the boys up and about was great.”

“I came on with plenty of energy and I just wanted to keep the boys up til the final siren.”

Through hard work and rapid improvement through the NEAFL Sumner has gone on to play a handful of AFL matches in 2013 – and says he has reached a comfort level in the top grade.

“I am feeling a lot more comfortable playing AFL football,” he said.

“I still have areas I need to work on over the last couple of the games, but I’m looking forward to putting in another pre-season and getting better and stronger next year.”