Star Richmond defender Nick Vlastuin marked his AFL 150-game milestone against Brisbane at Metricon Stadium last Tuesday night in typical style – with composure, courage, elite interception, smart decision making and extremely efficient disposal.
It’s been that way with Vlastuin from the time he made his senior debut for the Tigers against Fremantle at Perth’s Domain Stadium in Round 5 of the 2013 season.
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Following that game, Richmond great Matthew Richardson wrote on the Club’s website:
“All Tiger eyes were on the Club’s first pick in the 2012 AFL National Draft in his debut AFL match – and he certainly didn’t disappoint.
“Vlastuin looked composed and he did the basics well, which I think is a really good sign first-up.
“Of the 11 possessions he picked up, five were contested, he applied four strong tackles, which is a trademark of his game, and he took the right options at the right times.
“He also showed fine courage going back with the flight of the ball and looked mature beyond his years out on the field of battle.”
Seven years and 149 games on, Vlastuin is one of Richmond’s most important and consistent players. And the dual premiership Tiger undoubtedly is one of the best backmen in the competition.
Vlastuin had 17 disposals, six rebound-50s, five score involvements, an equal game-high 10 intercepts, a team-high eight marks and 357 metres gained in the Tigers’ decisive Round 10 victory over the Lions.
