It was vintage Shane Edwards at Metricon Stadium last night.

The veteran star playmaker played a pivotal role for Richmond in its semi-final victory over St Kilda.

He finished the match with 21 disposals, five clearances, two centre clearances, two goals, two goal assists, seven score involvements and 237 metres gained.

Edwards showcased his silky skills right throughout the contest and constantly set teammates up with customary creative play.

“It’s his third game (back) now, so the rust is starting to disappear,” Tigers coach Damien Hardwick said at his post-match press conference.

“His ability to be clean and put others in space, that’s the mark of him as a great player.

“I still maintain the very best players make those around them better, and that’s what Shane does.

“He’s so important to how we play . . . distributes the ball really well and he puts us in good scoring opportunities.

“He’s one of those guys that, you look at our connection inside 50, we haven’t had for the vast majority of the year. Him, and Dion (Prestia), is another one. Two guys that are really clean and polished across the arcs.

“So, we bring those guys in, and there’s no doubt we’re better for it.”