Riley Collier-Dawkins embraced the added responsibility created by the absence of most of Richmond’s main midfielders in last night’s clash with Greater Western Sydney at Marvel Stadium.

The 20-year-old, playing just his third AFL game, was a valuable contributor in the Tigers’ stirring four-point win.

He had 18 disposals, four clearances, with a team-high three centre clearances, an equal team-high seven tackles, 405 metres gained and booted two crucial goals.

“It was pretty special . . . probably the best win I’ve been a part of. It was just awesome,” Collier-Dawkins told ABC Grandstand AFL.

Just before the half-time siren, Collier-Dawkins kicked his first goal in AFL football – a clever left-foot snap after receiving a handpass from teammate Jake Aarts and eluding a GWS opponent.

“I was actually planning on giving a checkside and then had to swing on to the left (foot) . . . It was a dream come true for me . . . just amazing,” he said.

Collier-Dawkins, who was Richmond’s first pick (No. 20 overall) in the 2018 national draft, didn’t make his AFL debut until the recent Round 7 match against the Western Bulldogs, but he believes that lengthy wait has been a blessing in disguise.

“Over the course of the two years I didn’t play (at AFL level), I played most of the pre-season games, and I’ve been pretty close a few times as well,” he said.

“I guess just training with the likes of Dustin (Martin) and Trent (Cotchin) for those two years held me in pretty good stead for my first game.

“I feel like I’ve certainly developed into an AFL player . . . I think I could have played AFL earlier, but I think it’s just making sure you can come in and impact rather than just play.

“I certainly feel like I’ve learnt and grown over that time tremendously.”