While Lindsay Thomas' set shots on goal may be maligned at times, there is no doubt his football smarts and ability to read the game is right up there with the best.

This was illustrated perfectly in the latter stages of the second quarter against Gold Coast on Saturday.

Watch the play unfold in real time by PRESSING PLAY on the video above, or on the NMFC YouTube channel by clicking here.

The play

Having just surrendered the lead to a surging Suns outfit, Andrew Swallow wins a free kick from a centre bounce and drives the ball forward towards Aaron Edwards.

Thomas begins to run to the front of the contest.
At that moment, Thomas' sole focus is to get to the feet of Edwards for any potential crumbs.
However, once he judges the flight of the ball and the position of Edwards, he realises front and centre isn't the best place to win the footy.

Thomas then makes a move that will result in an open shot on goal. Anticipating the ball will sail over the top of the outstretched arms of Edwards, he begins to move to where he knows the ball will fall and catches his opponent Seb Tape off guard.
In this shot, it's evident how early Thomas realised what was going to happen. He is already close to running past his opponent, while the other players continue on the direct path to the ball.
After the ball falls to the back of the contest, Thomas is in prime position. He gathers without breaking stride, straightens up slightly and kicks a snap shot on goal. By now the Gold Coast defenders have realised what's happened, but it's too late as the ball is already through for a goal.
Watch the play unfold in real time by PRESSING PLAY on the video above, or on the NMFC YouTube channel by clicking here.