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Gold Coast coach David Lake has labelled young forward Kalinda Howarth the AFLW version of ex-AFL excitement machine Steve Johnson.
Gold Coast coach David Lake believes he's got the AFLW equivalent of former AFL excitement machine Steve Johnson in young forward Kalinda Howarth.
The 21-year-old kicked three goals, including a fourth-quarter leveller, as the Suns claimed a 28-all draw with Queensland rivals Brisbane at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.
Howarth booted two in two minutes in the second-quarter after Brisbane had jumped to a three-goal lead.
Her second goal was particularly eye-catching, picking up a loose ball before delivering a pinpoint right-foot snap on the run.
Her coolness under pressure in the final quarter was also on display when she nailed a crucial set shot from the pocket to level the scores.
After the disappointment of being cut by the Lions having failed to play for them in 2018, Lake was thrilled to see Howarth shine against her former team.
"There's a really clear message for her in what application does and when you have a bit of a crack," Lake said.
"She's a star. She's the Stevie J of women's footy in my view and now she's going to deliver on it. Great start for her."