The ability for talented Tiger Shane Edwards, to take his game to another level, has been a further key factor in Richmond’s form reversal over the past few weeks.
Edwards, who is on the verge of reaching league football’s 150-game milestone (he’s currently on 148 games), has been in the best form of his eight-year career with the Tigers throughout the team’s six-match winning streak.
He has averaged 20 disposals, 11 contested possessions and 5.5 clearances per game during this time, and has also kicked seven goals in his role as a small forward rotating through the midfield.
The 25-year-old played a major role in Richmond’s stirring victory over Essendon at the MCG last Friday night, picking up 19 disposals, including 11 contested possessions, and booting two crucial goals in the last quarter.
“’Shedda’ has been fantastic,” said the Tigers’ captain Trent Cotchin.
“It’s probably been one of his most consistent years this year, seeing him coming through the midfield now and showing exactly what he can do.
“When he has the footy in his hands and he steps . . . he’s got one of the best steps in the AFL, I would have thought.
“To see him playing with confidence is fantastic.
“I thought his last quarter (against Essendon), when he stood up, was nothing short of outstanding.”