Talented, young Richmond key forward Liam Fawcett parlayed his recent impressive form at VFL level into an eye-catching display in what was just his second AFL game, against Port Adelaide at the MCG on Saturday.

Fawcett, who made his senior debut for the Tigers against the Power early last season, finished the match with five marks, including a game-high four inside 50, two goals, and three set-shots that went out of bounds on the full in the swirling conditions.

He contested strongly over the course of the four quarters and thrived on the opportunity presented to him by the Richmond selectors following a frustrating start to his AFL career.

The 197cm, 20-year-old (he turns 21 later this month) was recruited by the Tigers with their second pick, No. 43 overall, in the 2023 AFL national draft from SANFL club Central District.

His first year at the Swinburne Centre was largely a write-off because of a serious back injury, as well as glandular fever.

Now, however, with some on-field continuity, Fawcett is growing in confidence, and he shapes as an important component of Richmond’s future. 

“’Fawey’ was terrific in his second game,” Richmond coach Adem Yze said during his post-game press conference.

“He didn’t look out of place, which was great.”