Nick Vlastuin strengthened his status as one of the competition’s best small defenders with a superb performance for Richmond against Geelong at the MCG yesterday.

Vlastuin played a pivotal role in the Tigers’ spirited win, continually repelling the Cats’ attacking thrusts through his elite intercept ability.

He finished the match with 21 disposals, a game-high 11 intercepts, game-high 11 marks, including a game-high four intercept grabs, and 481 metres gained.

Since returning to the playing field from a severe shoulder injury in Round 17 last year, Vlastuin is averaging 17.9 disposals 7.4 marks and 4.7 rebound-50s per match (21 games all-up).

The 24-year-old veteran of 107 games with Richmond is currently ranked 14^th in intercepts per game this season.