We continue our special series at richmondfc.com.au, where we ask Tiger fans to select the best player to have worn each of the most significant guernsey numbers in the Club’s history. To assist in your quest, we have profiled those players who have racked up a minimum of 50 games in the number. The game totals and years listed relate to those played while wearing the specific number, not total Richmond career numbers. Today, it’s the turn of No. 22.
No. 22
Leo Merrett – 170 games, 1940-1949
Highly-skilled, speedy wingman, who starred for Richmond throughout the 1940s. Was a key member of the Tigers’ 1943 premiership side and also played in the losing 1942 and 1944 Grand Finals. Won the Club’s Best and Fairest award in 1942 and 1944, and was runner-up in 1945 and 1946. Also represented Victoria on four occasions.
Barry Rowlings – 152 games, 1979-1986
Joined Richmond at 28 years of age following a successful four-season career at Hawthorn, which included the Hawks’ 1976 premiership win. Shrugged off a serious knee injury to go on and become a wonderfully consistent contributor for the Tigers in a ruck-roving role. Was quick, had great stamina, won plenty of ball, and his spearing left-foot kicks provided numerous opportunities for his Tiger teammates. Won the Jack Dyer Medal in his first season with the Club, was second in 1982 and third in 1984. Captained Richmond for two seasons and was a pivotal player in the Tigers’ 1980 premiership triumph.
Clarrie Hall – 150 games, 1912-1922, 1924
Was small and lightly-built, but became a star rover with the Tigers. A highly-skilled player with enormous courage, who thrived on burrowing into packs. An extremely consistent performer over a long period of time. Was an important member of Richmond’s back-to-back premiership sides of 1920-1921. Won the Tigers’ leading goalkicker award in 1914 and 1915 and captained the Club in 1918.
Dan Guinane – 102 games, 1934-1943
Solidly-built, skilful defender with good pace. Was Richmond’s best player in the 1935 preliminary final loss to Collingwood and the 1937 first semi-final defeat at the hands of the Magpies. The father of the Tigers’ 1967 premiership player Paddy Guinane.
Nathan Bower – 73 games, 1992-1998
Lightly-built, lightning quick wingman. Also spent some time across half-back. Enjoyed his best season of league football in 1995, when Richmond made a return to finals action after a 13-year absence. Produced many fine performances that season, including beating West Coast star Peter Matera. Was never the same player at league level after seriously injuring his knee late in the 1996 season.
Robert Lamb – 58 games, 1973-1978
Clever goalsneak half-forward, who didn’t need many opportunities to cause damage to the opposition. Won Richmond’s Best First Year Player award in 1973 and was a member of the Tigers’ reserve-grade premiership side that year. Topped the Club’s goalkicking list in 1976 with 38 goals.
Stan Morcom – 58 games, 1952-1958
Made his senior league debut with Richmond at just 16 years of age and became a valuable, versatile performer for the Tigers. Was used in the key defensive posts, at centre half-forward and in the centre. Played in the Richmond reserves premiership teams of 1954 and 1955.
Trent Nichols – 56 games, 1988-1991
Talented, left-foot small man, who had two stints at Tigerland. Played as a rover, wingman and small forward. Won plenty of ball, used it efficiently, and had excellent pace. Finished runner-up in Richmond’s Best and Fairest award in 1990.
Mike Perry – 53 games, 1965-1969
Rugged, red-headed centre half-back. Loved to back his judgment and dash downfield to turn defence into attack for Richmond. Was a key member of the Tigers’ drought-breaking 1967 premiership side and his impressive form that season also saw him gain selection in the Victorian State team. Missed the Club’s 1969 premiership due to suspension.
