Hard-running, rebounding defender Bachar Houli has played a key role in Richmond’s winning run over the past couple of months.
Houli averages 22 disposals per game this season and is ranked fourth in the competition for total rebound-50s, with 80.
The 27-year-old recently reached the 100-game milestone at Tigerland (he’s now played 103 games), following a four-season career with Essendon, where he made just 26 senior appearances.
“He uses the ball really well and he’s one of our best runners at the Club as well. So he’s always in position to receive the ball,” Richmond assistant coach Brendon Lade said on this week’s edition of ‘The Spotlight’.
“His contested possession has really picked up this year, he’s more consistent in that area. But this is the big one . . . I think he’s second at the Club behind ‘Dusty’ (Dustin Martin) for metres gained.
“Getting that metres gained every game is really good for us.”
Houli’s growing ability to combine tighter defence with his customary attacking flair off the half-backline, has further enhanced his value to the Tigers’ team.
“That’s something he’s improved in his game, doing both those things a lot better than he has in the past.
“Bachar would be the first to admit he’s defending really well first, and then he’s playing offense second.”
