Tigers set to unveil their secret weapon
12:31:21 PM Tue 14 February, 2006
Tony Greenberg
richmondfc.com.au
Richmond captain Kane Johnson believes Patrick Bowden could be the ‘X-factor’ that helps the Tigers take the next step in 2006.
“Patrick’s been sensational so far,” Johnson said.
“He hasn’t said much, which is good from a bloke that’s just comes into the Club, but he’s starting to get his voice going now.
“He’s impressed everyone with everything he’s done on the track and I reckon, used properly, he could be something of a surprise weapon for us this year.
“I think he could be a really good tall half-forward type of player that roams up the ground, opens up our forward line, and is capable of kicking about 30 goals for the season.”
Johnson regards the younger brother of Richmond’s back-to-back Jack Dyer Medallist Joel, as a good foil for veteran superstar forward Matthew Richardson.
“He’s very fit and he’s already proven he can kick goals and play well at the level, so I can see him taking some pressure off ‘Richo’,” Johnson said.
“With blokes like him, who have come across from another league club, you’ve got to get the most out of them in their first year with you, because they’ve really got something to prove at their new club.
“I’m certainly looking forward to Patrick having a very good year first-up with us . . .”
Bowden, 24, 191cm and 89kg, was traded by the Western Bulldogs to Richmond in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick at the end of last season.
He has played 50 games and kicked 55 goals since making his senior league debut in 2001.
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