Richmond captain Trent Cotchin’s late goal in the resounding 2017 qualifying final victory over Geelong at the MCG has been voted as the Tigers’ best of the year by Yellow and Black barrackers.
With just over five minutes to go before the final, and Richmond 39 points in front, Cotchin produced a piece of football brilliance that encapsulated his inspirational efforts throughout the match.
After gun Tiger defender Nick Vlastuin had sent a high kick inside the team’s forward-50 area, and star key forward Jack Riewoldt had contested the mark, Cotchin charged through the pack like an express train, exquisitely picked up the ball, spun superbly out of an attempted tackle, and then, on his non-preferred left foot, steered through a stunning six-pointer.
“What a pick-up from Cotchin, left foot snap, the goal of the game!” Channel Seven commentator Brian Taylor exclaimed.
“Cotchin . . . look at them (teammates) get around him. What about that!”
It was sheer genius from the inspirational Tigers skipper.
Watch Roar Vision’s 2017 goals of the year package
The final top 10:
10. Jack Riewoldt, Round 22 v Fremantle
9. Dan Butler, Round 7 v Western Bulldogs
8. Jayden Short, Round 15 v Port Adelaide
7. Jack Riewoldt, Round 4 v Brisbane
6. Dustin Martin, Round 23 v St Kilda
5. Dan Butler, Round 15 v Port Adelaide
4. Dustin Martin, Grand Final v Adelaide
3. Josh Caddy, Round 1 v Carlton
2. Daniel Rioli, Round 3 v West Coast
1. Trent Cotchin, Qualifying Final v Geelong