Dual Richmond premiership star small defender Jayden Short had attended one centre bounce before last Friday night’s clash with West Coast at Optus Stadium – against Melbourne in the previous round.
Due to the absence of veteran, top-class on-baller Trent Cotchin (rested,) Short was shifted into the midfield for the match, and he duly dominated from the opening bounce in his new role.
The 2020 Jack Dyer Medallist showcased his sublime kicking skills through the midfield, delivering the ball with pinpoint precision into the Tigers’ forward line.
He racked up a game-high 31 disposals, had an equal AFL career-high nine contested possessions, nine inside-50s, five clearances, three centre clearances, three goal assists, even score involvements, four intercepts, a game-high 792 metres gained and took seven marks in Richmond’s 109-point win.
Richmond coach Damien Hardwick was thrilled with how the Short midfield move turned out.
“Andrew McQualter (Richmond assistant coach) suggested it last week,” Hardwick said in his post-match press interview.
“It’s something I think we’ll continue to explore.
“He looked really good in there, comfortable . . .
“He’s been a fantastic contributor down back, but if we can find a midfielder out of it, it’s also a big bonus.”
