A week off did Jack Riewoldt the world of good.
The veteran Richmond star key forward, who was rested for the Round 4 match against Western Bulldogs, produced a vintage performance in last night’s clash with Sydney at the Adelaide Oval.
He took a game-high four contested marks, an equal game-high three of them inside 50 and booted a team-high four goals in the Tigers’ 44-point loss.
And that was after at one stage looking like he’d gone 12 rounds with world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, blood streaming from a cut to his head after copping an accidental knock.
Richmond coach Damien Hardwick acknowledged Riewoldt’s bravery in his post-match press conference.
“He’s a warrior, Jack,” Hardwick said.
“He’s had multiple breaks and all these sorts of things and just continues to play. Has a couple of operations every year. But it’s what’s made him one of our game’s greatest players.”
Hardwick also commended Riewoldt for his form on the night.
“He looked dangerous inside 50,” he said.
“We didn’t have a lot of great looks tonight, but he’s the guy that stood up.
“That is the benefit (of being rested) . . . he can come back fresher.
“I thought he was pretty good tonight.”
Riewoldt has now kicked 764 goals from his 330 games for the Tigers, with nine in four appearances this season.
