Richmond excitement machine Shai Bolton has provided an insight into the importance of the 2022 Dreamtime at the ‘G occasion from a personal perspective.

The blockbuster annual event returned to the MCG last night after being held in Darwin and Perth during the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A crowd of 70,226 saw the Tigers record a 32-point victory over the Bombers, Bolton again a key contributor with 16 disposals, two goals, seven score involvements and 397 metres gained in his forward/midfield role.

“Finally, to have it back in Melbourne, was good. Have all the family and friends there in the stands. It was just exciting to play back at the MCG with the Tiger Army,” Bolton told Richmond Media in a post-match interview.

“It was a big build-up for all of us Indigenous players. It’s pretty important for all of us to play and we had four players playing tonight. Special to get the win as well . . . it was just a great win by the boys.

“It’s very exciting for all of us Indigenous players, and to kick a couple of goals was also a blessing for me . . .  I’m excited that my family was there to see those two goals as well.”

Bolton also provided an insight into the Richmond’s team’s involvement in the inspiring pre-game ‘war dance’, which has captured the imagination of the AFL world.

“We’d been practising for two weeks. We just wanted to go out there and celebrate the round. We all do it together as one. It was exciting,” Bolton said.

Bolton’s teammate Nathan Broad spoke post-game to Fox Footy about the significance of the war dance and the special Dreamtime guernsey designed by Marlion Pickett and his partner Jessica.

“It was amazing . . .  a special moment,” Broad said.

“We have a massive Indigenous contingency here at Richmond and we’re very proud of that. And we have the KGI Institute upstairs, too. So, we’re a very proud Indigenous footy club and to do that . . . very honoured and very proud to be a part of it.

“I’m not too sure whose idea it was, but once the boys said it, of course we all jumped in. We thought it was an amazing idea. And Marlion’s jersey, too, which was just amazing to wear tonight.

“The way Marlion handled himself (following his one-game suspension by the MRO), you wouldn’t have known (his disappointment). He was straight on the front foot and wanted to get this dance underway.

“He was just amazing all week and we really wanted to dig deep for Marlion today because, obviously, he couldn’t be out there (playing).”