Cubs give Tigers hope
12 August 2007 Sunday Herald Sun
Jon Ralph
TIGERS captain Kane Johnson says Richmond may have found up to half a dozen kids to shore up its short-term future.
The Tigers snapped a nine-game losing streak on Friday against Collingwood and, despite a calamitous season, is only two premiership points behind 15th-placed Melbourne.
The club's rampaging win over finals contender and arch-rival Collingwood was part of a pact by the players to finish the season with momentum.
But even if the club cannot add to its wins tally - they play West Coast at Subiaco next week - Johnson believes there are valuable building blocks for the future from the eager kids who continue to be given chances in the side.
Nathan Foley (27 possessions, nine clearances), Brett Deledio (five goals), Will Thursfield, Luke McGuane, Daniel Jackson and Jake King all showed excellent signs against the Pies.
"There is no doubt about that," Johnson said. "Everyone knows about Nathan. He has had a sensational year. He would have to be (All-Australian). He would have to be up there.
"When you finish on the bottom it's going to be a little bit tough, but hopefully they give him a look in and hopefully he gets there.
"Deledio went forward and I think we have found a player down there. (Richard) Tambling is starting to develop in the midfield and give us a bit.
"McGuane was also sensational down back. Once we get all those players going, it starts to lift.
"Thursfield is another one. I just reckon he's got to take the main forward, whoever that is. He is good enough to do that. He went to Travis Cloke, who has been good all year, and I thought he did a really good job."
Johnson said the Richmond playing group had been determined not to crumble, despite the shocking season and constant criticism from fans and media.
"The best thing about this group this year is that even though we have copped heaps from all corners, we have made a pact to stay firm," he said.
"We want to make sure we come out on top and stick it up a few people because they have really given it to us."
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