Simon Hunt targeting a shock when Bees travel to Bristol

Dec 4 2009 by Brian Dick, Birmingham Mail

THE tries have slowed from a torrent to a trickle but one for Simon Hunt against Bristol on Sunday would be sweeter than any other.

The former England Sevens wing will be part of the Bees side that travels to Memorial Stadium looking to record a first victory in 15 matches.

Although that seems unlikely given the clubs’ contrasting ambitions this season, it does not change Hunt’s personal interest in doing well.

As well as playing for the Sharmans Cross outfit, the 28-year-old is also employed in Bristol’s community coaching scheme so this weekend’s match will see gamekeeper turn poacher.

“There has been a bit of banter in the office,” Hunt says. “I also played for them and was one of the ‘Thanks for getting us promoted now clear off’ crew.

“I’m over it now but, yes, it would be nice to score against them!”

Hunt’s involvement with Paul Hull’s promotion-chasing squad is negligible, although he does know enough to predict this weekend’s encounter could be as mentally difficult for the hosts as it will be physically for the visitors.

“Whatever people say about being professional and focusing on every game the same, it is hard when you are a team at the top playing one at the bottom.

“It will be hard for them to be as motivated as us.”

That seemed the case when the sides met earlier in the season and although Bees were beaten, a last-minute try by Ronnie McLean secured a bonus point in a 40-36 thriller.

Bristol played without pattern and conviction that day and Hunt is hoping to spring another surprise.

For that to happen Bees could do with second rows Simon Pitfield and Stuart Ault recovering from knocks picked up in last Saturday’s British & Irish Cup loss to Cardiff.

But back row Jack Preece is still not ready to return.