Tigers focus on defencesen.com.au
7-3-2013Defence wins premierships is a much used adage in football, and Richmond has shored up its defence this year in a hope to make its first finals series since 2001.
Tigers midfielder Brett Deledio told SEN that the recruitment of key defender Troy Chaplin, and further integration of assistant coach Ross Smith will boost their defence this year.
“The recruiting of Ross Smith from Hawthorn, he has brought a really defensive mind-set to the group, with (Troy Chaplin) coming on board, and having Bachar Houli giving us some run down there releases Chris Newman up onto the wing, to lose the shackles I suppose,” Deledio said.
“That’s what we concentrate on everyday pretty much, our defence, because, we know, offensively we’ve got some pretty good players.”
Rookie listed recruited, ex-Demon Ricky Pettard has impressed playing across half back in the NAB Cup, further adding to the Tigers depth.
Deledio said the whole club was impressed with the attitude of recent draftee Nick Vlaustin.
“I was talking to Brendan Lade about him the other day, and he said he is the first young kid he has seen come in and never flinch at any contest. He is just unwavering in his approach and attack on the footy.
“He has impressed (with) his just head down, bum-up kind of attitude. (He) hasn’t spoken too much, just gone about his business,” he said.
Deledio said in and under midfielder Nathan Foley is hoping for a Round 2 or 3 return, after suffering calf and achilles troubles.
“He has been still in rehab getting strength back into his calf and achilles. So he hasn’t done anything training with us as of yet, but (he is) hoping to join us not too far away.”
Speedy midfielder Shane Edwards is set for a big year, having improved his strength and running ability in the preseason.
“We’ve always had a strong belief in (Edwards) since he’s been at the club, just some of the things that he does with his vision, and his ability to turn the opposition inside-out,” Deledio said. “He’s got a bit more confidence in his body, and his running ability and his strength over the footy. So we’re hopeful of a big year for Shane.”
Richmond take on Hawthorn in Launceston in Round 3 of the NAB Cup on Saturday afternoon.
http://www.sen.com.au/display-article/Tigers-focus-on-defence/55983
