His mantra from the day he joined the club through the 2005 National Draft has been consistent. He defines his role with coaching staff during the week and then goes out and does it to the best of his ability.

This week his role was to match up on dangerous North Melbourne forward Nick Larkey. In the absence of key pillars Jeremy McGovern (concussion) and Tom Barrass (back) Hurn’s challenge was to nullify the Roos major goal source.

Although he conceded 11cm to North’s primary forward target the Eagles veteran conceded little else and gave a masterclass of body work against a much taller opponent. As well as using his well-honed football intellect to put himself in best position to cut the ball off at the pass.

He finished with 21 possessions, distributed at 100 percent efficiency, and took five mark and to complete a near flawless display as he held Larkey to two goals.

Hurn’s video cuts from this game should be compulsory viewing for the club’s developing defenders.