Richmond VFL and development coach Craig McRae analyses the impressive rise of Kane Lambert from rookie list to key member of the Tigers’ line-up in this week’s ‘Coaches’ Corner’.

Capitalising on hard work

“He’s not someone that’s ever been gifted with anything . . . he’s had to earn everything. He’s maybe playing with a bit of a chip on his shoulder, realising that every game’s important to him, and is making the most of his opportunities.”

True professional

“I think he’d have to be in the top one or two most professional players we have. He comes back after the off-season, or after a break, and he’s in ripping condition. He works really hard to improve in everything he does. He’s probably the first to get on the track and the last to leave . . . I think a lot of the young players can learn a lot off him.”

Main on-field attributes

“If you go and watch him play, he covers the ground more than most. His ability to get from contest to contest and his crumbing is elite . . . He complements our midfield really well.” 

On-field role in ‘07

“He’s had games where he’s played midfield. But he’s also been playing that forward role, where he gets up high and then gets back. So, it’s been a bit of both . . . He’s a great role player, great character, and a guy that the players love playing with.”

Areas of improvement for him

“I think just maybe his decision-making, at times, and finishing inside 50 and around goals with those shots on the run.”

Solid performance v Geelong last Saturday

“I thought, early, he was one of our best players with his ability to find space. He was up in the midfield and working his way back. Geelong’s defence is really hard to break through, but his work-rate and contest-to-contest ability is his greatest strength.”