from today's Herald-Sun....Dustin Martin told the Herald Sun before the national draft that he was "born to play AFL". Four months on it would appear he was right.
Round 1 is like a red rag to Richmond's bull-at-a-gate midfielder, who, barring any mishap, will face Carlton on March 25.
Martin had 26 disposals, five marks and five tackles in the NAB Cup first-round loss to Hawthorn and was solid against Geelong in Yea the next week.
"He's certainly put himself in contention," Tigers football manager Ross Monaghan said.
"We're a couple of weeks away, but we couldn't be more pleased with how he has presented himself. He's certainly put himself in line for Round 1 and done everything right at this stage."
Ben Nason (No. 71), who survived a knee scare against the Hawks, and former basketballer Matt Dea (No. 44) shape as the Tigers' Round 1 smokies after promising pre-seasons.
"Nason couldn't be considered last week but he's another one who has done everything right . . . and he's given himself a chance to play early in the year," Monaghan said.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/smells-like-teen-spirit/story-e6frf9jf-1225837573380