Key Essendon defender Michael Hurley has given an A-grade rating to star Richmond forward Jack Riewoldt.
Hurley, regarded as one of the best big backmen in the competition, had the job on Riewoldt in last Saturday night’s ‘Dreamtime at the ‘G’ clash.
Although Riewoldt kicked only one goal in Richmond’s 13-point win, he again was a valuable contributor for the Tigers, picking up 12 disposals, including six inside-50s and taking eight marks, with four of them being in the forward-50 area.
“Jack Riewoldt just knows where the goals are, knows the (running) patterns, and knows how to move,” Hurley said on Fox Footy.
“He’s a fantastic forward . . . he’s so crafty.
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“Like you think you might have him in the right spot, and he’ll get in behind you and hit up on the lead. Or, if you’re too far in front, he’ll sit on your head and take a ‘specky’.
“I found him really difficult.
“His athleticism is fantastic. The way he moves . . . he was getting right up the ground and taking me on long, searching leads.
“So, he’s definitely a tough one (opponent).”
Richmond spearhead Jack Riewoldt shakes hands with opponent Michael Hurley of Essedon, after the 2015 Dreamtime at the 'G game.
