Yze backs Balta after defender's crucial role in winBy AAP
20 April 2025ADEM Yze has lauded Noah Balta's influential contribution in his controversial return as Richmond ended Gold Coast's unbeaten start to the season in a tense 11-point upset.
The surprise 12.8 (80) to 9.15 (69) result followed a week of fierce scrutiny over Richmond's handling of Balta's recall.
After serving a four-match ban, Balta made his first appearance of the season just three days before he will be sentenced for assault.
The premiership defender held opponent Ben King to one goal in a strong performance, despite the intense spotlight and the possibility of jail time hanging over his head.
"It's not only highlighting the talent of Noah but it highlights the effort and the training that he's done over the last three months," Yze said.
"He's done a mountain of work, extras, supporting our younger players ... not only to get himself right to play, but he's been trying to win back the respect of his footy club.
"He knows he let the club down, he knows he did something wrong, but he's been dealing with that every day.
"Noah's performance today was outstanding and it's a credit to him. We're really proud of him."
Jeers for Balta by some in the relatively small crowd of 18,423 fans were regularly drowned out by cheers from Richmond supporters.
And the Tigers' faithful had plenty to celebrate as their rebuilding side sprung one of the biggest shocks of the season so far.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/1302922/coaches-richmond-tigers-v-gold-coast-suns
