Luke Trainor seized the moment in Richmond’s Round 9 encounter with Adelaide at the MCG.
The talented, tall Tiger defender, a late call-up to the team as a replacement for Sam Grlj, who was being managed, produced an impressive performance.
In his first senior appearance since the Gather Round match against Greater Western Sydney at South Australia’s Barossa Park, Trainor had 18 disposals, with an equal team-high and AFL career-high 10 marks, three inside-50s, four intercepts and 200 metres gained.
Trainor, who was Richmond’s fifth pick (No. 21 overall) in the 2024 AFL national draft, had a promising debut season last year, playing 21 games and earning a Rising Star nomination.
He’s had a patchy start to this season, left out of the Tigers’ senior side for the opening two rounds, then recalled and playing three games, before being omitted following that clash with the Giants.
Pleasingly, however, Trainor firmly grasped the opportunity he received against the Crows, showcasing his athleticism, aerial ability, composure and efficient disposal.
