Shaun Grigg - On the riseBy Paul Daffey
afl.com.au
Sun 13 May, 2012IT WAS appropriate that Richmond wingman Shaun Grigg should kick the goal that broke the Sydney Swans' challenge in their round-seven match at the MCG.
The 24-year-old former Blue has set up many Richmond goals with his dashes from midfield during the early part of the season.
On Saturday he was on the end of a few, booting three vital goals to steer the Tigers towards victory.
The Swans had the momentum after scoring four goals to one in the third quarter.
Richmond led by 14 points at three-quarter time but the Swans seemed a real chance to steamroll over the Tigers.
But Grigg deflated the Swans' plans by kicking a running goal from the 50-metre arc in the opening minutes of the last quarter.
His steadying goal put his team on the path to its 29-point victory.
Grigg had 26 disposals, took seven marks and kicked three goals against the Swans.
His performance was in keeping with many of his games since crossing from Carlton before the 2011 season.
This season he's averaged 27 disposals a game, just less than seven marks and just under a goal.
It is the best season average of his career.
He is building on his 2011 form, where he grew into a smart ball user known for his dash across the midfield.
Grigg ranks 12th in the AFL for average disposals in 2012, the highest ranking Tiger.
His drive inside 50 is also a key. He sits 13th in the AFL for inside 50s, equal with Trent Cotchin and behind only Nathan Foley at the club.
Grigg's best performance was against Melbourne in round three when he had 37 disposals, 12 marks and kicked a goal.
Against Collingwood in round two he had 30 disposals and took eight marks.
The Tigers now enter a tough period in which they play Essendon, Hawthorn and St Kilda in the next three rounds.
They'll need players like Grigg to be in form if they're to take it up to their fellow challengers.
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