Although champion key backman Alex Rance is not part of the Richmond line-up these days, while recovering from a serious knee injury, he continues to exert a significant influence on his teammates.
Dependable defender Dylan Grimes revealed as much during an interview with Channel Seven following the Tigers’ victory over Sydney at Marvel Stadium last Saturday night.
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Grimes had been given the unenviable task of curbing Lance Franklin, and he did a good job despite the Swans’ superstar spearhead finishing with four goals.
“‘Rancey’ was always the deepest player for us and that’s fallen on me a little bit more recently,” Grimes said.
“But I’ve been able to learn so much from Rancey.
“I think we’ve played a hundred games together or so . . .
“He’s been a terrific learning curve, and he continues to be like a real mentor for me even though he’s not on the field.”
Grimes also paid tribute to talented, veteran teammate Shane Edwards, who has made a superb transition into Richmond’s back half.
“He’s just so creative, particularly with his use of his hands,” Grimes said.
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“Down back, when the heat’s on, it’s a really challenging offensive game down there, and ‘Shedda’s’ just such an artist with the ball.
“And he’s a real calming influence on us back six, for sure.”
