RICHMOND midfielder Dustin Martin believes the new substitute rule has added another dimension to his game after the 19-year old played a key role, not only through the midfield, but also up forward in the Tigers first win of the season.

In a best-on-ground performance, Martin finished with a career-high 33 disposals, four goals and four clearances in the thrilling nine-point victory over North Melbourne and admitted going forward had given him a new lease of life.

When he wasn't crashing packs and fighting for the contested ball in the centre, Martin was making a nuisance of himself up forward and proving a real handful for the North Melbourne defenders.

"Instead of coming off, I can go down forward for a while, have a rest and just try and play my role down there. We have a lot of midfielders who can run through that position so it is very good," he told richmondfc.com.au.

With the substitute rule meaning the Tiger hard-nut now finds himself spending longer periods on the ground, Martin is starting to reap the rewards in the forward half much to the delight of the Richmond faithful.

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick believes the new substitute role means Martin and other Tiger midfielders can spend more time on the field and have the capability to go forward with great effect.

"With the substitute rule… to bring guys like Dustin back into the game, where as previously we would've taken the inside midfielders out, is a pleasing result for guys like Dustin," he said.

"He led from the front and some of those goals that he managed to create but also kick was a terrific result for us in the end." 

Desperate for their first win for season 2011, Martin never at any stage doubted the self-belief of his young teammates, with the importance of a victory against struggling North Melbourne not lost on the 19-year old.

"One of our trademarks is our belief. We drive that pretty strongly. All the boys believe in each other and we all work hard for each other and now it's starting to pay off."

In two instances Martin showed off his true strength, muscling out more experienced and stronger opponents Scott Thompson and Michael Firrito.

Martin believes his strength and physical presence has developed from the hard work completed on the training track during the pre-season.

"It was great to have a full pre-season. When I first got drafted, I was limited to what we do so our body doesn't break down. I had a full pre-season working on my fitness and my strength and I guess it's starting to pay off."

With Martin surrounded by emerging superstars such as Trent Cotchin and Brett Deledio in the middle, and Jack Riewoldt controlling the play in the forward-half, the Richmond midfielder can't help but be excited as to what lies ahead in season 2011 and beyond.

"Trent [Cotchin] in the midfield, he is so hard, he loves the contested footy and he does it week-in, week-out," he said.

"Jack [Riewoldt] is always providing a contest up forward. He either marks it or brings it down to the ground for our small forwards. I just love playing with all the boys."