Dashing, young, left-foot defender Derek Eggmolesse-Smith made an impressive AFL debut with Richmond in yesterday’s 92-point victory over Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium.
The 21-year-old from NSW club Wentworth, who was the first player drafted under the Tigers’ Next Academy program, had 19 disposals, four rebound-50s and three tackles.
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He showcased his speed, silky skills, composure and good decision-making right throughout the match and subsequently earned praise from Richmond coach Damien Hardwick.
“We were really impressed with what he did today. He's a good ball user, wins his own ball really well and sees the game really well,” Hardwick said.
“He's got a little way to go, had a couple of errors, but we're really pleased with what he put out there today and he'll certainly grow from that.”
Eggmolesse-Smith was the Tigers’ sixth AFL debutant this season, joining Noah Balta, Sydney Stack, Jack Ross, Callum Coleman-Jones and Patrick Naish.
