Jacob Blight’s new-found, on-field versatility was one of the major positives for Richmond out of the Round 2 loss to Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.

The 23-year-old, powerfully-built key defender, in his fifth game of AFL football for the Tigers, was shifted forward during the match and also provided the team with some ruck relief.

He handled the change with aplomb, showcasing his elite marking ability in attack, kicking a goal, having a couple of other shots, and also competing strongly in the ruck at stages.

Richmond coach Adem Yze was impressed with how Blight adapted to the switch of roles.

“It sort of forced our hand with (Jack) Lukosius out of the (Port Adelaide) team through injury ...  we were a little bit tall in our back end. So, we had that thought that we might have to do it,” Yze said in his post-game press conference.

“Blighty’s just an amazing athlete. He’s got a massive tank, he’s obviously a big boy.

“He did what he could around stoppage and then used his strengths around the ground – that’s his engine and big frame.

“It was his mindset and attitude to go and do that for his teammates, and he did it really well.”

“So, we might have found something with Blighty, which will be handy throughout the year.”

Blight, for his part, thoroughly enjoyed the change.

“It was a way to add a string to the bow,” Blight told Richmond Media in a post-match interview.

I thought I was doing alright in the backline, but as long as it’s an AFL jumper, and I can play for Richmond, I’ll play anywhere.

“It was good fun . . . I wish I’d kicked a little bit straighter, it would have been a pretty nice day.

“As long as it’s an AFL Richmond game, I’ll be happy . . .

“I’ll be out there, I’ll be competing 110 percent. So, as long as I can play, then I’m ready to go, anywhere.”