The Richmond VFL side remained undefeated with a win over Brisbane last Saturday. Here's how coach Jake Batchelor assessed the performance of each player.
Samson Ryan (23 disposals, nine marks, 16 hit-outs, six clearances, one goal)
“Competed really strongly in the ruck against Henry Smith. Gave away a few free kicks, which took a bit of the shine off his performance, but he was solid in the air, got forward well, and followed up strongly around the ground.”
Tom McCarthy (23 disposals, five marks, seven tackles)
“Played across half back all game and kept creating run and drive. His seven tackles and efforts at ground level in the defensive half really stood out. His work rate is noticeable right now.”
Mutaz El Nour (21 disposals, four marks, four tackles)
“He showed great stability in the backline, both in the air and on the ground. It’s great to see his growth as the games go on.”
Nick Collier (21 disposals, four marks, five tackles)
“Another step up at half back. He’s continuing to really find that balance between dropping back in support and pushing forward to contribute to our attack. He’s a good ball-user and makes great decisions.”
Austin Johnson (20 disposals, one mark, one tackle)
“Also lined up at halfback. His run and carry is so important to us, and he's making really sound decisions both with the ball and defensively.”
Tom McKenzie (20 disposals, three marks, six tackles, one goal)
“In his second game for us, he brought real aggression. His contested game is strong at the moment. There are a few defensive choices to keep refining, but he makes our midfield group look powerful.”
Hugo Ralphsmith (19 disposals, two marks, five tackles)
“Hugo ran his backside off up and down the wing all day — huge work rate. He showed leadership and played with controlled aggression in the contest when it was needed. Great to have him back out there.”
Lachlan Wilson (19 disposals, four marks, 11 tackles, three clearances)
“Arguably one of our most important contributors. Collected 10 contested possessions, a couple of clearances, and 11 tackles. Always puts his head over the footy, and that’s what we love about him.”
Jacob Koschitzke (18 disposals, eight marks)
“Played a really effective system-based game. Beat a quality opponent in Darcy Gardiner across four quarters and had nine intercept possessions. He’s getting to the right spots and putting his hand up for AFL selection.”
Thomas Sims (17 disposals, five marks, six tackles, 10 hit-outs, one goal)
“He’s getting better every week. Took on some ruck time and clunked three contested marks in big packs, which was really impressive. Also showed great defensive chasing efforts, which are rare for key talls.”
Nick Guiney (16 disposals, five marks)
“Another strong outing. Led the team in intercept possessions, and was composed with the ball. He positions himself well and really understands team defence which makes him a valuable system player.”
Campbell Gray (14 disposals, four marks, two tackles)
“Produced his first full four-quarter performance this season. Showed his aerial skills, and his work at ground level, especially his one-two efforts, were strong. He’s continuing to put his hand up for AFL selection.”
Liam George (14 disposals, five tackles, three clearances)
“Started on the wing for three quarters and brought a real defensive mindset. Shifted inside in the last quarter and laid some crucial tackles. Nice positional variety from ‘Georgie’.”
Sam Toner (14 disposals, four marks)
“Played forward again, and is still working on finding the right balance between offensive and defensive running, and when to stay involved around the contest. When he does, he's a dangerous player and continues to improve.”
Harry Scott (12 disposals, four marks, three tackles)
“Now into his fourth or fifth week on the wing and becoming very dependable. Strong GPS numbers and showing good flexibility between inside and outside roles.”
Oliver Hayes-Brown (12 disposals, 18 hit-outs, three clearances)
“Has been showing rapid improvement lately. His ruck craft is developing well. Had 100% efficiency on his 11 handballs. He finds targets, moves through tackles well, and adds a unique look to our midfield group.”
Massimo Raso (11 disposals, three marks, three tackles, three goals)
“Started like a rocket, kicking three early goals. Still working on balancing contest involvement versus staying engaged around the ball as a mid-forward, but we love what he brings to the group.”
Phil Moimoi (11 disposals, three marks, one tackle)
“Improved his team play, staying out of the contest when needed and focusing on defensive support. Phil is an exciting talent who brings great aerial presence and physicality.”
Jasper Alger (10 disposals, three marks, one goal)
“Didn’t quite cash in on the scoreboard but was throwing himself at everything. Needs to tweak when to go aerial versus staying at ground level, but there’s a real weapon in him we want to keep encouraging.”
Josh Smillie (10 disposals, three tackles)
“Great to see him out there. Played around a half and got through well. Gave away a free early on through sheer intent, just lacked technique, but threw his body around fearlessly. He’s a big boy and didn’t hold back. He’ll be better for the hit-out and I'm looking forward to him getting more minutes this week.”
Jonty Faull (nine disposals, three marks, two goals)
“Never seen a key forward initiate contact as consistently as he does. Earned a free for it and constantly brings the ball to ground. He’s a great teammate.”
Mohammed Yassine (seven disposals, three marks, two goals)
“As a high half-forward, Moey brings great energy and speed. Got on the end of a brilliant team goal. Still refining his stoppage structure and finding that attack versus defence balance, but we’re loving what he’s shown so far.”
Maurice Rioli (two disposals, one tackle, one goal)
“The stats might not jump out, but he played a half as our AFL carry-over emergency and did his job well. Applied pressure, chased hard after turnovers, and is setting the tone for defensive effort and intent. No doubt, the scoreboard impact will come for Maurice.”
