Liam Baker has become Richmond’s Mr Fixit.
The dual premiership Tiger again showcased his troubleshooting qualities in last Saturday’s win against North Melbourne at the MCG.
With Richmond being picked apart throughout the first half by the Kangaroos’ chip kicks and uncontested marks, Baker was shifted from a wing to the half-forward line by coach Damien Hardwick in a bid to cut them off at the source.
That move worked a charm with Baker helping negate North’s game plan and making a significant contribution to the Tigers’ terrific turnaround in the second half.
He finished the match with 26 disposals, three inside-50s, seven marks, two goals, two goal assists, nine score involvements, four intercepts, five one-percenters and 279 metres gained.
Baker, who arrived at Richmond from WAFL club Subiaco as a small forward, developed into a fine small defender with the Tigers.
That was the role he had in Richmond’s 2019 and 2020 premiership teams, before being used to plug several holes in the line-up throughout this year.
He is averaging 20.6 disposals, 3.8 marks, 4.9 intercepts and 261.1 metres gained in the 2021 season.
