RHYAN Grant is man who has forged his reputation in football as a hard working defender, but on Sunday it was his goal for Sydney FC which had people talking.
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The Bathurst District Football graduate netted a superb side-footed volley in the 77th minute to help Sydney FC to its first home win of the A-League season, downing Wellington Phoenix 2-1.
Grant's team-mates rushed to congratulate him after he knocked Brandon O'Neill's free kick into the net, the ball looping over the head of Wellington goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic.
"It was a good finish," Sydney FC coach Steve Corica said of the effort.
"I am pleased, another set piece goal which was good, it's important as well ... It helps out with the attack obviously, when we need it as well."
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It was Grant's first goal for Sydney FC since netting from the penalty spot in last season's A-League grand final against Perth and the eighth time in his career he has found the mark in the national competition.
After playing in the Socceroos' 7-1 World Cup qualifier win over Chinese Taipei five days earlier, Grant returned for his first match of the new season with the sky blues.
It was an effort which earned him a spot in the A-League team of the week.
"His maiden appearance of the season was characterised by his energetic play up and down the right flank, and with the game locked at 1-all ... Grant broke the deadlock with a superb, match-winning finish," a-league.com wrote of his selection.
His stunner added to O'Neill's 16th minute strike.
