Such is the impression mature-age recruit Kane Lambert has made in just a few senior appearances with Richmond, he was given the monumental task of tagging champion Hawthorn midfielder Sam Mitchell at stages during last Friday night’s MCG encounter.

Lambert, playing his seventh game, handled the challenge in trademark style – low-key, but with a steely resolve.

The 23-year-old had 17 disposals, including a team-high eight score involvements, took five marks, applied three tackles and kicked a vital goal.

GALLERY: Richmond Training - August 4, 2015

“We were really happy that he limited Sam’s effectiveness,” Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said on 3AW.   

“The majority of the time he did the job at stoppage and a little bit off the ball . . .

 “I think he (Mitchell) had a lot of handballs, as compared to kicking. 

“Sam Mitchell, for mine, is one of the barometers of Hawthorn. 

“If you can limit his influence you can help yourself win the game, and I thought young Lambert did a great job. 

“He missed six or seven drafts and he’s come in and provided a really good impact for us thus far.”

Lambert’s midfield teammate, Anthony Miles, also sang his praises following last Friday night’s win against Hawthorn.

“He’s a similar player to Nathan Foley, I reckon, and we’ve probably missed that this year,” Miles said on SEN. 

“He cracks in and he’s got a bit of speed on the outside and that bit of spark. 

“In terms of his opportunity, I think he missed something like six or seven drafts. 

“It’s a great story and he’s certainly taken that at the moment and, like everyone at the Club, I’m rapt for him. 

“He’s going really well.”