While an important factor in Richmond’s decisive 26-point victory over Geelong at Metricon Stadium last night was the valuable contributions made by all team members, the top-class performances of veteran Tiger stars Jack Riewoldt and Dylan Grimes, at opposite ends of the ground, were pivotal to the outcome of the blockbuster clash.
Key forward Riewoldt kicked a game-high four goals (4.0) out of the Tigers’ winning score of 7.15, while key defender Grimes, who returned to the line-up after a minor hamstring complaint, had a whopping game-high 12 intercepts.
Here’s what Richmond coach Damien Hardwick had to say about the dual premiership pair in his post-match press conference . . .
Round 17: Hardwick post-match
Damien Hardwick addresses the media following the Round 17 win over Geelong.
Dimma on Riewoldt
“He’s been good. His ability to just even halve contests and not get outmarked, especially tonight, I thought he was outstanding. His leap has come back . . . We’re starting to see him get back to his best form. When he jumps at the ball and uses the strengths in his game, he’s such a formidable player, and has been for a long period of time. It’s important he’s playing his best footy now.”
Round 17: Jack bags four
Watch Jack Riewoldt's highlights from the Round 17 win over Geelong.
Dimma on Grimes
“What about his marking! Crikey! Jesaulenko there a couple of times . . .very good. He’s an incredible player, Dylan. I was speaking about him the other day, how he was a rookie pick for us . . . he was there in my first year (2010). Many people talk about Dustin Martin and Trent Cotchin, and all these guys . . . This guy is an incredible talent. Defenders often don’t get the due credit that they deserve, but he’s been a formidable football player for our footy club . . . He’s a wonderful, young man.”
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