Talented, young Richmond swingman Noah Balta has been rewarded for the major impact that he had in the team’s spirited win against Greater Western Sydney at the MCG last Sunday with nine votes in the 2022 AFL Coaches’ Association’s Champion Player of the Year Round 2 voting.

Balta, playing as key forward, flawlessly filled the void created by the absence of injured Tiger veteran star Jack Riewoldt.

He was a powerful presence in attack for the Tigers right throughout the match, taking six marks, including a game-high three contested grabs and finishing off his work with a game-high and AFL career-high four goals.

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick spoke glowingly of Balta’s performance during his post-game press conference.

"I thought he looked really strong in the contest," Hardwick said.

"It was a really positive step forward for him.

"We needed him down back last week (v Carlton in Round 1). But then, even when he swung forward, he kicked a couple of goals.

"So, it’s good to have that up our sleeve . . ."

The full voting details for the Round 2 Richmond v Greater Western Sydney match are:

9 – Noah Balta (Richmond)

7 – Shai Bolton (Richmond)

6 – Jayden Short (Richmond)

3 – Trent Cotchin (Richmond)

2 – Tom Green (Greater Western Sydney)

2 – Marlion Pickett (Richmond)

1 – Nathan Broad (Richmond)