Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has defended star midfielder Brett Deledio, following criticism arising from his performance against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium last Saturday.

Deledio, who had played a pivotal role in Richmond’s four successive wins leading into the game, was held to just 16 disposals by young North lockdown midfielder Taylor Hine, as the Tigers fell to a 62-point defeat.

Hardwick, however, put Deledio’s display in perspective at his post-match press conference . . .

“Sometimes, players are going to get sat on,” Hardwick said.

“The reality is your good players, some days, aren’t going to have great games.

“You should still be able to win footy games.”