In the wake of the announcement of Richmond’s partnership with the Australian Defence Force, Tony Greenberg lists (in order) the top 10 Tiger defenders he’s seen on the field of battle . . .

1. Alex Rance: All-Australian representative for the past four years and lauded as the competition’s premier key defender. Possesses elite ability to repeatedly win the ball back for the team and launch counter attacks while, at the same time, still managing to lock down tightly on opponents.

2. Francis Bourke: Was a star wingman before being moved into defence. Subsequently established himself as one of the best defenders in the competition. Combined the ability to nullify opponents through exemplary defensive play with attacking dashes out of the backline.

3. Kevin Sheedy: A tough, uncompromising, fiercely-determined back pocket, who made life hell for the opposition’s resting rovers. Was extremely cunning and aggressive, as well as skilful with the way he went about his on-field business. Named back pocket in Richmond’s Team of the Century.

4. Merv Keane: Consistently curbed dangerous opposition forwards due to his excellent, disciplined, team-first approach to the task at hand. Also had an impressive football skills set. Was named on a half-back flank in Richmond’s Team of the Century.

5. Dick Clay: Developed into a fine full-back after a highly-successful stint as a wingman. Utilised his key football attributes of blistering pace, superb anticipation, strong marking and long kicking to the team’s full advantage at full-back.

6. Jim Jess: His robust, bold playing style was ideally suited to the centre-half back role. Was athletic, brilliant overhead, and his thumping torpedo-punt kicks continually turned defence into attack for the Tigers.

7. Robert McGhie: Rugged, fearless centre half-back. Exerted a strong physical presence on- field and also generated considerable drive for the team out of defence due to his pace and long, left-foot kicks.

8. Geoff Strang: Talented half-back, who relished taking the game on with long, clearing dashes. Had heaps of pace, was well balanced, a reliable mark and a lovely kick (particularly the drop kick).

9. Darren Gaspar: Top-class, close-checking full-back, who was a model of consistency throughout his time at Tigerland. Was proficient overhead and a superb spoiler, which made him so hard to beat in one-on-one duels with opposition key forwards.

10. Mick Malthouse: Tenacious, hard-nosed back pocket. Established himself as a valuable member of Richmond’s defence through his disciplined, no-nonsense style of play. Was a strong mark for his size and a good kick.