With Geelong threatening in the final term of Friday night’s big clash at Metricon Stadium, having kicked three unanswered goals, predictably, it was Richmond captain Trent Cotchin who stepped up to help stem the tide.

As he has done so many times throughout his captaincy tenure, Cotchin threw himself into the fray, gained some valuable touches and, ultimately, steered the Tigers out of danger and back on to the victory path.

Also, as per usual in recent years, Cotchin’s match statistics last night – 15 disposals, three clearances, four intercepts, three score involvements, three tackles, three one-percenters and 258 metres gained – don’t do justice to the considerable influence he exerted on the contest

Dual premiership Tiger Kane Lambert echoed the overwhelming sentiments of those of the Yellow and Black faithful with his thoughts on Cotchin’s overall on-field leadership and impact.

“There’s nothing more inspirational than seeing our skipper put his head over the ball,” Lambert said on SEN.

“You go back a number of years and critical moments in games, and big games, it’s him who gets the ball going our way . . .

“Dimma’s been saying that he’s a battering ram and he really sets the tone for us, defensively, but his calm approach on the offense, he’s just a brilliant player to be with and play with.”