Talented Richmond key defender Noah Balta was back to his best in last Saturday’s match against Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.
Balta showcased his elite athleticism and intercept ability in the Tigers’ 32-point win, finishing the match with 13 disposals, an equal game-high 10 marks, including an equal game-high four contested grabs, game-high 11 intercepts, six rebound-50s, seven score involvements and 479 metres gained.
Most impressively, Balta took nine intercept marks, which was only one away from the AFL record of 10, held by six players – Tom Stewart, Steven May, Aliir Aliir, Liam Jones, Daniel Talia and Jade Rawlings.
The 23-year-old attacked each contest with gusto and repeatedly turned defence into attack for the Tigers.
That performance was a clear reminder of just how good Balta’s best is.
When he’s on song, his value to the Richmond line-up is immense.
