Tim Taranto was a standout for Richmond in revered teammate Dustin Martin’s 300-game milestone against Hawthorn at the MCG last Saturday.
The star midfielder finished with an equal game-high 33 disposals, game-high 15 contested possessions, six marks, one goal, equal team-high seven score involvements, a game-high eight clearances, equal team-high five rebound-50s, three intercepts, five tackles and 285 metres gained in the Tigers’ 48-point loss.
He was the only Richmond player to feature in the AFL Coaches Association’s Champion Player award voting for the Round 14 clash with the Hawks, receiving three votes.
In two games back from a broken wrist that sidelined him for two months, Taranto is averaging 29.5 disposals, 14.5 contested possessions, 5.0 marks, 3.5 inside-50s, 7.0 clearances, 2.5 rebound-50s, 2.5 intercepts, 6.0 score involvements, 6.5 tackles and 351.5 metres gained per match.
Richmond coach Adem Yze paid tribute to Taranto during his post-game press conference on Saturday.
“He’s a terrific talent and a leader of our footy club and we missed him dearly. His last two games he’s come in and it’s no secret the fact we’ve looked better with him in the team,” Yze said.
