We continue our special holiday season series at richmondfc.com.au, asking 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, we turn our attention to No. 18.
No. 18
Merv Keane – 152 games, 1977-1984
Exceedingly reliable performer for Richmond, initially as a defender and later in an on-ball role. Consistently curbed dangerous opposition players due to his exemplary disciplined approach to the task at hand, which ensured he always put the team ahead of any personal accolades. Also possessed an impressive football skills set. Was a fine mark, good kick and had excellent poise. A key member of three premiership sides with the Tigers – in 1973, 1974 and 1980. Named on a half-back flank in Richmond’s Team of the Century, and is a Club Hall of Fame inductee.
Tom O’Halloran – 142 games, 1925-1934
The New Zealand born ruckman/centre half-forward earned a reputation as the best mark of his era. Took many spectacular grabs through his ability to soar high above packs. Was fearless in his quest for the ball, whether at aerial or ground level. Won the Club’s Best and Fairest in his debut season of league football. Went on to play in the 1932 and 1934 premierships with the Tigers, as well as the losing Grand Final sides of 1927, 1928, 1929, 1931 and 1933. Was inducted into Richmond’s Hall of Fame in 2013.
Alex Rance – 130 games, 2009-2015
Selected by Richmond with its second pick (No. 18 overall) in the 2007 AFL National Draft, he’s now regarded as the competition’s premier key defender. Has an elite ability to repeatedly win the ball back for the Tigers and launch counter attacks while, at the same time, still managing to lock down tightly on opponents. Gained All-Australian selection for the second successive season in 2015, named at full-back. Also won the Jack Dyer Medal last year, becoming the first key defender to do so since Darren Gaspar in 2001. Is a player pivotal to Richmond’s prospects over the next few seasons.
Jack Crane – 102 games, 1937-1942
Kicked five goals from full-forward in an excellent league debut performance for Essendon, but subsequently joined Richmond, where he established himself as a fine full-back. Was a strong mark and a long kick. Played 68 consecutive games at the start of his league career with the Tigers and was a member of their 1940 Grand Final side.
Tommy Hafey – 67 games, 1953-1958
The greatest coach in Richmond’s history was a solid back pocket during his playing career with the Club. Spent nearly a quarter of his senior games with the Tigers as a reserve, but always gave it his all when wearing the Yellow and Black. Was a member of the Club’s reserve-grade premiership side in 1954.
David Rodan – 65 games, 2002-2006
Stocky, small forward/midfielder of Fijian descent, who gained cult status throughout his time with the Tigers because of the exciting, energetic way he played the game. Had an abundance of pace, was a fierce tackler, and clever around goals. Received an AFL Rising Star nomination in his debut league season at Richmond.
Ted Keggin – 59 games, 1912-1917
Big forward, who was a strong mark and a thumping kick. Won Richmond’s leading goalkicker award in 1912.
Peter Loughran – 50 games, 1959-1963
Back pocket with plenty of pace. Also was a professional sprinter.
