Tenacious Tiger small forward Rhyan Mansell took another impressive step in his development at the game’s highest level with a first-rate performance against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval last Saturday night.
Mansell was Richmond’s best forward throughout the match, kicking a team-high and AFL career-high three goals among his 12 disposals, along with seven marks, four inside-50s, six score involvements and 296 metres gained.
The 24-year-old is now averaging more than one goal per game this season – 17 goals in 16 games – and is second on the Tigers’ goalkicking list.
He also is ranked fifth in the competition for tackles inside 50.
“It’s just about going out there and playing my role, to be honest,” Mansell told Richmond Media in a post-match interview.
“It’s good to get on the end of a few, but if I’m out there doing the right patterns for the boys, and being helpful, playing my role, I’m happy with that.”
Mansell’s third goal against the Power, in the third quarter, was a particular highlight – a superb, long, rolling goal from near the boundary line.
“It was a bit of a weird one,” he said.
“It got over the back and I just got it and saw a bit of space, so thought I’d try and dribble one along the ground.
“Soon as I kicked it, it looked pretty good. I thought it was going to go in.
“I wasn’t sure if Seth (Campbell) was going to touch it, but I’m happy it went through.”
