Jackson earns high Tigers praiseRoger Vaughan
WWOS
19:32 AEST Sun Apr 14 2013Most focus was rightly on captain Trent Cotchin, Dustin Martin and Brett Deledio after Richmond's thumping AFL win over the Western Bulldogs.
But fellow Tigers midfielder Daniel Jackson has earnt the highest plaudits from coach Damien Hardwick, saying he has been one of the first players to be picked in the team.
"He's been fantastic - I personally think he's been our best player of the first three weeks," Hardwick said.
"Week-in, week-out he does a job.
"He's hard, he's tough. He's everything we want a player in our jumper to be.
"What he does is consistently give us that effort that is required to win games."
Jackson's 20 disposals on Sunday were well below the prolific numbers that Cotchin, Martin and Deledio racked up.
But his statistics also featured 10 contested possessions, five clearances and a team-high six tackles.
Jackson said it was a great day out, particularly given he has bad memories of previous matches against the 'Dogs at Etihad Stadium.
"I've had a couple of tough days and nights here against the Bulldogs early on in my career," he said.
"I remember they certainly made us pay, so it actually feels good to get a little bit back in that regard."
Saturday's MCG blockbuster against Collingwood will be a major test for the improving Tigers.
Jackson said one key to that game will be staying level-headed about their strong start to the season.
"In regards to next week's game, it will be about the same principles - and the week after that and the week after that," Jackson said.
"It's just sticking to what makes us a good side and not getting ahead of ourselves.
"We have a very level-headed group.
"There are no egos in there - everyone wants to play together and win together and that will be our focus."
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