Richmond ‘ball-magnet’ midfielder Anthony Miles has been rewarded for his impressive efforts during the second half of the 2014 season with a new, two-year contract.
Miles, who was selected by Richmond at pick 27 overall in the AFL’s rookie draft late last year, after being delisted by Greater Western Sydney, where he’d spent two seasons, has been a revelation in the Tigers’ line-up since being elevated to the senior playing list.
He is averaging 24.3 disposals, 11 contested possessions, 6.6 clearances and 4.6 tackles in his 10 games, and has played a significant role in Richmond’s resurgence.
The 22-year-old is ranked eighth in the entire competition for clearances per game, and only Tiger captain Trent Cotchin has averaged more contested possessions per game at the Club (11.2 to 11).
It’s in those crucial areas, where Miles has provided Richmond’s midfield with a major boost, so it’s no wonder the Tigers were so keen to turn his one-year rookie deal into something more substantial.
Miles, understandably, was delighted to have his stay at Tigerland extended by at least two more years.
“To come off the rookie list this year and play a few games lately, and to be offered a two-year extension, it’s a dream come true, really,” Miles told Richmond great Matthew Richardson in a ‘Roar Vision’ exclusive interview.
“I was hopeful (of being re-signed), but I did think I’d have to wait until the end of the year.
“Even at the start of the year, I was just hoping to be a rookie for another year . . . to extend my rookie contract.
“So, to be offered a two-year deal, is awesome.”
Miles was in dominant form at VFL level early this season, but had to wait until Jake King was placed on the Club’s long-term injury list, before being promoted to the primary list. And, it took another couple of weeks after that for Miles to make his senior debut with the Tigers (Round 12 v North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium).
“The fact that I didn’t play in the first few rounds wasn’t that frustrating . . . I spent my time in the VFL and it probably better equipped me for when I did play my AFL games,” he said.
“Looking back now, it was probably a good apprenticeship in the VFL.”
The key to Miles’ success is the fact he works so hard and is uncomplicated with the way he goes about his football.
“I suppose I’m not as blessed as a lot of other blokes with a whole lot of pace and fantastic skills. But I just try and do the basics well, and let the other boys do the rest,” he said.
“It’s a bit clichéd, but I’m just happy to play my role.
“To be 7-3 in those games that I’ve played – seven in-a-row – has been awesome. And, to be able to have an impact on that, has been awesome as well.”
