Rising Richmond star small forward Daniel Rioli’s superb, inspirational chase-down tackle on Essendon speedster Adam Saad, in the hectic, closing moments of last Friday night’s clash at the MCG, again showed why he’s become a highly-valued member of the Tigers’ line-up.

That was Rioli’s seventh tackle for the match – the most by any player on the ground – to go with his 17 disposals, six marks and five score involvements.

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick acknowledged Rioli’s intense forward pressure in his post-match press conference.

“It was good, wasn’t it, to ice the game. That’s why we love him in the side,” Hardwick said.

“He does that consistently. He probably had a couple of opportunities where he just missed them (tackles) tonight.

“It’s been evident in his game for a long period of time, and that’s why he’s such an important player for us.”