Dependable Richmond small defender Nick Vlastuin played a pivotal role in the Tigers’ stirring victory over Greater Western Sydney at the MCG yesterday.

Vlastuin, in his second game back at senior league level since suffering a severe shoulder injury during the Round 7 clash with the Western Bulldogs, thrived in the wet conditions, constantly repelling the Giants’ attacking thrusts.

The 23-year-old had 21 disposals, with nine contested possessions, a game-high eight rebound-50s, and took a game-high 11 marks.

“He’s such an important player for us. He’s very cool under pressure . . . really calm when he’s over the ball,” Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said in his post-match press conference.

“His first week back, last week, he was a little bit rusty. But today, I think, he’ll take enormous confidence out of, and so will we.

“I just love the way he goes about it, as do his teammates. I know our backs were happy to have him back.”

Vlastuin spent the pre-season training as a midfielder, and was used in the ‘engine-room’ early this season, but has now seamlessly slotted back into his customary defensive role.

“We did try him in the midfield, and we loved some things he did in there, but he looks naturally at home down back I think, at the moment,” Hardwick said.

“But I’m certain he’ll be knocking down my door at some stage to get another go in there . . .”