Richmond’s VFL coach Tim Clarke's summary:
Matt Arnot33 disposals, four clearances, four tackles
Played his second really good game in-a-row. Was used predominantly through the midfield, with a small stint at half-back. Had more than 30 possessions, was very good inside, and continues to show impressive improvement.
Reece Conca28 disposals, five tackles, three clearances
Took another key step in his comeback from long-term injury. Showed very good movement around the ball, but was a bit slow to dispose of it at times. We’re looking forward to him either playing one more game at VFL level, or making his transition into AFL ranks this week. He’s been fantastic with his attitude and effort for us.
Connor Menadue25 disposals, three clearances, five marks, one goal
Produced the best performance of his debut season with the Club. Played the majority of time at half-back, picking up 25 possessions. He helped set up our offense, and he’s really starting to feel comfortable in this role. Importantly, from a long-term perspective, he now has the ability to play through half-back, wing and half-forward. It’s been a really good opportunity for him to show his on-field flexibility.
Jason Castagna24 disposals, six marks, two tackles
Continued his comeback from a lengthy stint on the sidelines with 24 touches off the half-back line. He needed, however, to use the ball a bit better, and that will be a focus of his at training this season. But his exciting style of play, and what he brings to the team in setting us up defensively, is terrific.
David Astbury22 disposals, nine marks
Is playing some really dominant football, either in the forward line or defence. When we needed him as a backman, he limited his opponent’s influence, and also helped set us up offensively. He was able to impact up forward with a couple of strong marks and, even though he didn’t hit the scoreboard, he was still a solid contributor.
Steve Morris20 disposals, seven tackles
Was outstanding defensively. He also became involved more offensively, which was really pleasing because it has been a focus of his, over the past few weeks, to have more of an attacking impact on the game. We’re hoping, whether it be with the VFL team, or at senior level, he can maintain that focus.
Corey Ellis18 disposals, three tackles, four marks, one goal
Took a bit of time to get into the game after coming back from injury. Moved very well, and was impressive with his ball use, but he was a little disappointed with his output and how long it took for him to get going.
Nathan Gordon16 disposals, seven marks, one goal
Played the majority of the game forward, with some stints on the wing. Was very good early on, helping set up two or three shots for goal. Faded out of the game when Sandringham gained the ascendancy. We expect a better performance from him next week and beyond.
Matt Dea14 disposals, five marks
Didn’t win as much of the ball offensively, as he had been, but took several good, strong marks, which he’s been able to do over the past few weeks. The expectation we have of Matt is for him to play his role when in defence, and he did that again.
Liam McBean14 disposals, four goals
His critical contest work was much better than it had been in previous weeks. Kicked 4.3, so he was able to hit the scoreboard and have a real impact in that area. His recent consistent goalkicking form is good to see.
Reece McKenzie13 disposals, six marks
Was very good in the critical contest area, taking a couple of strong contested marks, which is really becoming a feature of his game. There is an expectation now that he does this every time he plays. We’re looking forward to him continuing his strong form.
Todd EltonEight disposals
Played only half a game in his return from injury. Performed reasonably, but we require more from him. We expect him to develop as a key defender.
Ivan SoldoTwo disposals, 11 hit-outs
Worked tirelessly for the majority of the game against two fairly good opposition ruckmen. Continues to show improvement with his ruckwork and technique. Needs to impact the game more around the ground, and that will be a focus for him over the coming weeks.
Dan ButlerOne disposal, one clearance, one tackle
Returned from a long-term injury and played only a half, in his role as a small forward. Unfortunately, it was the half where Sandringham controlled the game. He’ll get more game time this week and will have more opportunities to impact up forward.
http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-07-28/the-vfl-report-round-15
