With Richmond’s season over, attention now turns to the 2011 Jack Dyer Medal, which will be held at the Crown Palladium on Tuesday, September 13. Tony Greenberg provides a concise summary (in alphabetical order) of the leading contenders in this year’s Tiger Best and Fairest race . . .
TRENT COTCHIN
Played all 22 games for the first time in his four-year AFL career and was inspirational with his creative midfield work. Second in total disposals at the Club, with 530, at an average of just over 24 per game. Had 20 disposals or more 17 times, with a career-best 38 v Geelong at Etihad Stadium in Round 18. No. 1 at Tigerland for clearances (135) and inside-50 entries (108). Also managed to kick 18 goals for the season.
BRETT DELEDIO
The dual Jack Dyer Medallist maintained the fine level of consistency that, basically, has been his trademark since his debut league season in 2005. Was ranked No. 1 at the Club in the total disposals category for the third year in-a-row, with a career-high 563, at an average of 25.5 per game in his 22 appearances. He had 20 disposals or more on 18 occasions. Also, the No. 1 Tiger for rebound-50s (82) and No. 4 for inside-50s (85).
BACHAR HOULI
Had a significant impact in his debut season at Richmond. His long, clearing dashes out of defence, and spearing left-foot kicks, helped set up many scoring opportunities for the team. Played all 22 games and was ranked No. 4 among the Tigers’ playing group for total disposals, with 478, at an average of 21.73 per game. Had 20 disposals or more 13 times. Led the Club for total marks (127) and was No. 4 for rebound-50s (68).
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DUSTIN MARTIN
Combined powerful midfield work with potency in attack, to have a major impact in just his second season of AFL football. Third in total disposals at the Club, with 486, at an average of 22.09 per game. Had 20 disposals or more on 15 occasions. Ranked No. 2 Tiger for inside-50s (93), No. 2 for goal assists (20), No. 3 for goals (33), and No. 4 for clearances (82).
ROBIN NAHAS
Reaped the benefits of a big pre-season, producing his best season of league football, in his third year at the game’s highest level. No. 7 at Tigerland for total disposals, with 421, at an average of 19.14 per game (compared to 12.50 in 2010) in his 22 appearances. Had 20 disposals or more nine times. Finished fourth on Richmond’s goalkicking list, with 29 goals, and was No. 3 for tackles (94).
ALEX RANCE
Had a breakout season of AFL football. Missed three matches - all due to an early-season suspension, and mixed strong defensive play with attacking run in his role at full-back. Was ranked No. 8 at the Club for total disposals, with 345, at an average of 18.16 per game (compared to 12.10 in 2010). Had 20 disposals or more on eight occasions. No. 2 Tiger for marks (113) and equal No. 2 for rebound-50s (78).
JACK RIEWOLDT
Last year’s Jack Dyer Medal winner and Coleman Medallist wasn’t quite as prominent on the goal front in 2011, but still manage to score 62 in his 22 games, to win Richmond’s leading goalkicker award and finish equal second on the competition’s goalkicking table. Tiger coach Damien Hardwick was particularly pleased that Riewoldt’s goal assists were well up on last season. He was ranked No. 1 in this category at the Club, with 21, and was No. 4 for marks (102).
TY VICKERY
Another young Tiger, who enjoyed a breakout season in 2011. The 200cm forward/ruckman proved a major handful for opposing defences with his height, marking prowess and all-round footy ‘smarts’. In 22 games, he kicked 36 goals, to finish second on the Club’s goalkicking list behind Riewoldt. He was ranked the No. 5 Tiger for total marks (95) and No. 2 for hit-outs (156).
