The helmet worn for the first time by Richmond captain Trent Cotchin in last Saturday night’s clash with Fremantle at Domain Stadium was no fashion statement, but it was clearly effective.

It provided sufficient protection for Cotchin to enter the field of battle for the Tigers after missing the previous two games with a fractured cheekbone that he sustained in the opening minutes of the Round 6 match against Port Adelaide at the MCG.

The star midfielder subsequently threw himself into the fray in characteristic manner.

He was a driving force in Richmond’s decisive 38-point win in the wild wet and windy weather conditions, finishing with a career-high 39 disposals, including 18 contested possessions, 10 clearances, five inside-50s, three goal assists, plus seven tackles.

“I wasn’t too rapt about wearing the helmet going in,” Cotchin said in a post-match interview on Channel Seven.

“I suppose there’s a little bit of an edginess about coming back and fitting into the side. 

“But I was glad I took the extra week and gave myself every chance to recover to an extent. 

“I don’t think it’s at 100 percent, but that’s why I’ve got the trusty old helmet on.”

Cotchin agreed the conditions suited his in-and-under playing style through the midfield, and he was pleased to see so many of his teammates adapt so well to them on the night.

“It’s a simple game when it’s a little bit wet,” he said.

“Obviously the ball skids on a lot . . . it’s pretty predictable. 

“As long as you’re clean, you give yourself an opportunity to win the footy. 

“I thought a lot of our guys stood up in critical moments in the game, especially the likes of Nick Vlastuin down back. 

“I loved seeing his game.” 

⬆️ Round 9: Cotch snares career high - Trent Cotchin racks up 39 possessions in his return from injury ⬆️