The raw numbers alone were not an indication of how talented, young Richmond utility player Corey Ellis fared in yesterday’s clash with Greater Western Sydney at the MCG.

Ellis, who was a late call-up to the Tigers’ senior line-up following the withdrawal of tenacious midfielder Anthony Miles because of a minor knee injury sustained at training last Friday, finished the match with just nine disposals, including six contested possessions, three inside-50s and three tackles.

But it was Ellis’ efforts late in the contest, in the wet conditions, which caught the eye.

When the going got tough, he showed the composure and class that made him Richmond’s No. 1 pick in the 2014 AFL National Draft.

“I thought he grew into the game, which was great,” Tigers coach Damien Hardwick said.

“He’s just so clean with the ball. Every time he gets it, good things happen.

“I was pleased for him . . .

“He’s been toiling away a little bit at VFL level, and whatever he does looks a class above.

“We’ve just got to continue to get the ball in his hands because every time he gets it, good things happen.

“So I hope he takes enormous confidence out of that.

“I’ve got real strong belief that he could be a player for us, and I think our fans caught a glimpse of that today.”