Thomson Dow should go into the off-season with his confidence and self-belief levels significantly enhanced following a top-class display for Richmond in the Round 24 match against Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval last Sunday.
The creative 21-year-old inside midfielder, in just his fourth appearance at senior level for the season, and his 17th overall, was one of the Tigers’ best players, with an AFL career-high 27 disposals, 13 contested possessions, four inside-50s, an equal team-high six clearances, a game-high five centre clearances, five score involvements, seven intercepts and 176 metres gained.
His ability to consistently win the ball at the coalface and distribute it to teammates, against such quality opposition on the day, prompted plenty of praise post-match from interim Richmond coach Andrew McQualter.
“I thought that was Thomson’s best game probably he’s played at our footy club,” McQualter said.
“Port’s midfield are so dynamic and I thought Thomson really matched them in that space.
“He’s done it pretty hard over the last three or four years, Thomson. Hasn’t been able to crack many games.
“But he’s certainly put himself up in the spotlight the last month or so.”
