Young Richmond ruckman Ivan Soldo took another significant step in his development at the game’s highest level with a strong performance against Brisbane last Sunday.
The 23-year-old former basketballer, in just his 19th game of AFL football all-up (11th this season), played a key role in the Tigers’ 27-point win.
FINALS Visit the 2019 Finals Hub for all the details on Richmond's qualifying final against Brisbane
He had a career-high 14 disposals, career-high six score involvements, career-high three inside-50s, career-high eight one-percenters, five clearances, 29 hit-outs and took a career-high five marks.
At one stage, he even had the confidence to embark on a run with the ball and took a bounce.
Star Richmond defender Dylan Grimes sang Soldo’s praises in a post-match interview with 3AW.
“We’re just really seeing him start to give us little signs of what he can do in the future.
“What we love about him is his contest work.
SUPERSTORE Gear up for Finals with the Tigerland Superstore and show your support this September
“He gets his hands to a lot of the footy as well, which certainly helps out of the ruck taps. I know our midfielders are really enjoying playing with him, and as are we as backs . . .
"I love what he brings, absolutely.”