The brute strength displayed by dynamic Richmond midfielder Dustin Martin against Fremantle, in the wild conditions at Domain Stadium last Saturday night, was a major highlight of the Round 9 clash.

Martin’s ability to continually wrench the ball from his opponents’ grasp, fend them off in trademark ‘Don’t argue’ style, and then propel the Tigers deep into attack, was as pivotal as it was powerful.

He thrived in the wet, windy, stormy weather, finishing with 30 disposals (nearly half of them contested) and an equal game-high six inside-50s.

The significant influence he exerted on the contest went a long way towards assisting Richmond to secure a convincing 38-point win.

It was the continuation of a highly-impressive month of football from Martin.  Since having just 18 touches against Melbourne in Round 5, he’s picked up 31 disposals in Round 6 v Port Adelaide, 28 in Round 7 v Hawthorn, 28 in Round 8 v Sydney, and now 30 in Round 9 v Fremantle.

Martin’s bold, robust efforts have draw high praise from the Tigers’ captain Trent Cotchin.

“For someone who actually doesn’t test that well in the gym, he’s a beast . . . he’s so strong,” Cotchin said on Channel Nine’s ‘Sunday Footy Show’. 

“I was talking to Anthony Miles after the game (against Fremantle) and he said, “I just wish I had the same strength as Dusty because I’d get out of so much trouble”. 

“He’s been fantastic the last month, and throughout this season, and hopefully he can continue that great form. 

“I think his contested numbers have really risen the last few weeks as well.”