Dependable defender Dylan Grimes set the tone for an undermanned Richmond side in last night’s clash match against at the MCG with his fierce attack on the football from the outset.

Grimes continued his strong form throughout the contest, finishing with 13 disposals, six marks, four rebound-50s, eight intercepts and a game-high 16 one-percenters in the Tigers’ eight-point win.

The performance further highlighted Grimes’ importance within Richmond’s line-up.

“He’s an incredible player, Dylan . . . He’s probably under-rated outside of our four walls, but inside he’s highly valued,” Richmond coach Damien Hardwick declared in his post-game press conference.

“I can’t remember where he finished in our Best and Fairest last year, but it was quite high. Undoubtedly, he’ll finish up there again this year.

“The ability for him to close space, win one-on-ones, just to get a hand in when the opposition look like they’re going to mark it, is so important the way we play.

“For a player that had a significant injury history early in his career, he’s gone on to become a great player for the Richmond Footy Club.”

Grimes, in typically modest, low-key style, played down his impact across the Tigers’ backline.

“I very much like flying under the radar . . . just playing under Dave (Astbury) and Alex (Rance) and playing my role for the team, because every little bit counts,” Grimes told K Rock radio.

“I’m really enjoying the little piece that I bring each week and enjoying playing footy out there at the moment.

“We’ve got a great group of players and I think the most exciting part about it is we all just love spending time together and what we do.

“It’s very good being out there.”