Shai Bolton capped off his tremendous transition into Richmond’s midfield this season by winning the 2020 Yiooken Award for being best-on-ground in last night’s Dreamtime in Darwin victory over Essendon at Tio Stadium.
The 21-year-old silky-skilled speedster had 29 disposals, with 12 contested possessions, seven inside-50s, five clearances, four intercepts, six score involvements, 544 metres gained, took five marks and kicked a goal in a superb display.
Richmond coach Damien Hardwick was glowing in his praise of Bolton post-match.
“He was terrific,” Hardwick said.
“He’s worked incredibly hard over a long period of time with his coaches to work his way to the middle of the ground, and we’re starting to reap the benefits of that.
“He’s only going to get better and better as well . . .
“The way he plays the game, he’s incredible to watch.
“His ability to move in and out of traffic.
“And I think there’s no coincidence he was wearing the family’s jumper and celebrating Indigenous Round.
“He’s incredibly proud and he put in a fantastic performance tonight.”
Bolton, who, together with his family, helped design the Tigers’ 2020 Dreamtime guernsey, told Channel Seven during a post-match interview how much last night’s game meant to him.
“I just wanted to play a good game, especially in this jersey that me and my family made back home. I just wanted to play today for them, make them proud,” Bolton said.
Bolton also revealed some of the key reasons behind his significant improvement this season.
“Finally getting an opportunity in the midfield with all the boys that have come out through injury, I just took my opportunity.
“Last year I played maybe three games there and now I feel a bit more comfortable in there . . .
“I just learn every day off Kane Lambert, Dusty, ‘Cotch’ and just getting better.”
