In the fourth of a special 12-part series on richmondfc.com.au, where we set about building the perfect Tiger, our focus turns to quickest players at Tigerland over the past half-century. Choose from these five speedsters . . .
Kevin Bartlett, 403 games for Richmond, 1965-83.
Bartlett’s blistering pace was a key factor behind the enormous success he enjoyed throughout his mighty league career with Richmond. His ability to ‘burn’ off opponents, and break the lines with lightning speed, gave the Tigers a huge boost. He also possessed the stamina to run at top speed for the full four quarters of a match, which made him even more difficult for the opposition to counter.
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Dick Clay, 213 games for Richmond, 1966-76.
Clay arrived at Richmond as a gun forward, turned into a star wingman, and finished his league career as one of the competition’s best full-backs. Speed was a major asset for him throughout. It enabled Clay to generate considerable drive for the Tigers off a wing, through his run-and-carry. Then, at full-back, he had the closing speed to spoil his forward opponents, as well as run off, turning defence into attack.
Graeme Bond, 115 games for Richmond, 1967-73 and 1975-77.
Bond was nicknamed ‘Racehorse’ by Richmond fans during his playing days with the Tigers, which gives you a pretty fair indication of how quick he was. Apart from having a career at Tigerland that he can be well proud of, the pinnacle being a member of the Club’s 1969 premiership side, Bond also had success as a professional runner, winning the Leongatha, Dandenong and Maryborough Gifts.
Michael Mitchell, 81 games for Richmond, 1987-91.
Mitchell’s incredible seven-bounce goal against Sydney at the SCG in 1990???, which years later was named Richmond’s Goal of the Century, highlighted the electrifying pace that he possessed. His lightning-fast, attacking runs thrilled Yellow and Black barrackers during an otherwise fairly bleak period for the Tigers. And, he also used his elite speed to chase down opponents.
Brett Deledio, 214 games for Richmond, 2005-14.
When it comes to sustained speed over the past decade at Tigerland, you can’t go past Deledio. The dual Jack Dyer Medallist has provided the Richmond side with plenty of drive through his elite, line-breaking ability. Deledio’s dazzling dashes downfield are a key component of his football weaponry, and help make him such a valuable member of the Tigers’ line-up.
THE PERFECT TIGER SO FAR:
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