The Liam Baker Appreciation Society is growing by the day.
Richmond coaches, players and supporters alike are totally embracing the brave, skilful small defender from Lake Grace in Western Australia.
Baker, who was a valuable member of the Tigers’ premiership side last year, in just his 22nd game of AFL football, has gone to a higher level this season.
He again was one of Richmond’s best in last Friday night’s win against Geelong at Metricon Stadium, finishing the match with 17 disposals, four intercepts, three rebound-50s and three marks.
The impact he had throughout the contest for the Tigers, however, extended beyond those numbers, as he continually put his body on the line in trademark inspirational, courageous style.
Richmond vice-captain Jack Riewoldt encapsulated the thoughts of many Yellow and Black barrackers with his comments about Baker during a post-game interview on Channel Seven.
“My favourite player is Liam Baker,” Riewoldt said.
“I love him just because I watch him run back in front of ‘Tomahawk’ (Tom Hawkins) . . . that’s why we love him as a teammate.”
