Rebounding Richmond backman Bachar Houli is excited at the prospect of receiving some valuable assistance in turning defence into attack for the team throughout season 2016.
Over the past few seasons, Houli has shouldered much of the responsibility for this due to his elite run-and-carry ability.
Now, however, the talented left-footer is set to be backed up by the likes of experienced Carlton recruit Chris Yarran, a revitalised Reece Conca (who has been successfully trialled as a half-back during the pre-season), and promising second-year Tiger Jason Castagna.
Houli was particularly impressed with what he saw from Castagna in last Friday’s opening-round NAB Challenge match against Fremantle in Mandurah.
“I look after Jason, being his mentor,” Houli told ‘Roar Vision’.
“He only played half a game, but he really showed some dash from half-back . . . He gets another opportunity this week (v Hawthorn at Beaconsfield on Saturday) as well.
“‘Yaz’ (Chris Yarran) can obviously provide a lot of run . . . And, Reece Conca has had a bit of time off footy (through injuries), but it’s great to have him down back to add to our offense as well as defence.
“He has had a really solid pre-season and his body’s in great nick . . .
“I really look forward in terms of support from those boys.”
