In the lead-up to last Friday night’s clash with Hawthorn, Richmond coach Damien Hardwick and assistant coach Brendon Lade spoke about the importance of talented midfielder Reece Conca’s return to the senior side for his first game of the season following a series of injury setbacks.
Conca proved to be a valuable contributor in his comeback match, finishing with 16 disposals, including nine contested possessions, along with five tackles, and providing some good run through the midfield in the Tigers’ 18-point win.
WATCH: The highlights of Richmond’s Round 18 win over Hawthorn
“It was great to just get through the game and I look forward to next week,” Conca told ‘Roar Vision’.
“I ran as hard as I could and played my role. I was probably a little bit worried (about running the game out) leading into the game, but I’ve done some really good work.
“I more or less did a mini pre-season over the last eight weeks and I’m probably in the best nick I’ve been in for a while.
“It was probably just the last five-10 minutes (where he struggled fitness-wise) . . . I couldn’t quite get to the bench late and it probably hurt me. But it was good to get through and we’ll just build on that.”
Conca believes his lengthy stint on the sidelines this year could prove a blessing in disguise in the final weeks of the season.
WATCH: Damien Hardwick’s post-game press conference after Round 18
“Obviously, I’m not rapt that I’ve missed the whole year. But I’ve come in at a good time. We’re winning and I’m a little bit fresher than everyone else,” Conca said.
“I just want to provide a bit of zip and just play my role for the last few weeks and then, hopefully, leading into finals.”
Reece Conca and Dylan Grimes celebrate the Round 18 win over Hawthorn.
