Rebounding is the cornerstone of Richmond defender Bachar Houli’s game.
Houli has become renowned during his time at Tigerland for turning defence into attack through his impressive run-and-carry playing style.
In last Friday night’s blockbuster clash with Hawthorn at the MCG, Houli’s rebounding approach took on an added dimension.
He was looking to bounce back from the bitter disappointment of the previous Saturday against Fremantle at the ‘G’, when his kick-in down the middle of the ground, with just over a minute remaining in the match, was turned over and resulted in the winning goal for the Dockers.
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And, rebound, Houli most certainly did. He made a valuable contribution to Richmond’s bold victory over the Hawks, finishing with 23 disposals, including a team-high eight rebound-50s, five intercept possessions, a game-high 10 marks, along with a crucial set-shot goal late in the third quarter.
During a post-match interview on SEN, Houli revealed he had handled the disappointment and subsequent criticism that he received from outside the Club, following the Fremantle loss, in a positive manner.
“I thought to myself, if I’m going to detour from people, that’s not the best thing to do,” Houli said on SEN.
“The first thing I did was face the media the following morning.
“That wasn’t intentional, but I had to go to the Club to see the physios and the media was there.
“I thought, this is a great opportunity to face and I guess man-up and take control, or take blame for that incident.
“I’m 27 years old . . . I’m not 21 years old anymore, I can handle it.
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“The most important thing is the support I’ve had from my teammates and from family. It’s just been second to none . . .
“It’s the game. I guess you live and die by every decision you make.
“I’ve learnt my lesson moving forward . . .”
Richmond coach Damien Hardwick paid tribute to the way Houli goes about his football and life, in general . . .
“He’s such a selfless person, Bachar,” Hardwick said on 3AW.
“He gives an enormous amount, not only to our footy club, but also to his community.
“We’re very fortunate to have him.
“Footy clubs are special places and you get some wonderful people walk through your doors.
“He’s certainly one of those.”
Richmond captain Trent Cotchin concurred with Hardwick’s sentiments about Houli . . .
“The character of the man, the way he stood up to a little bit of the criticism after last week’s game, and then to have his moment, live in that moment, and put it (his set-shot) straight through the middle – I don’t think there was a better kick all night – it was fantastic,” Cotchin said on the ABC.
“It was great to see the guys get around him, knowing how much last week was a disappointment for him. And, it was great to see him back it up with a great performance . . .”
