Libby Graham

After 61 AFLW games, hard-nosed defender Libby Graham slotted her first career goal from an exceptional passage of play, running down the wing and kicking it from 40 metres out on Saturday night.

Known for her defensive pressure and intercept marking, the 29-year-old found herself in Richmond’s forward 50 where she finished off a brilliant goal to register her first major. 

“I was in a bit of disbelief,” Graham admitted.

00:54

AFLW Round 9: Graham delivers memorable first AFLW goal

Libby Graham lands this brilliant running finish to celebrate her first goal at AFLW level

“I was out there on the wing, and as I was running, I thought that I wouldn’t make the distance, but I just kind of went for it.

“As soon as I was inside-50, I thought, 'I’m never here, so I’ll just go for it’, and on an occasion like this, it means a lot to me.

“Pride Round is a really important round for me and a lot of people in the Club and the team, so [to kick a goal] on a really special occasion felt quite special.”

02:30

'Not consistent enough across the four quarters' - Graham

Libby Graham caught up with Richmond Media following the Tigers' loss to Adelaide.

Graham is in her sixth season at the Swinburne Centre and is enjoying playing some of her best football of her career, averaging a career-high 13.7 disposals and 4.8 intercepts. 

Coach Jarrad Donders acknowledged Graham’s stellar season, highlighting how crucial she is to the team.

"Libbs has had a terrific season once again. She's super consistent," Donders said.

"To see her run off half-back, find her way forward, and slot a goal from a tight angle was really pleasing for her and [will be] a great highlight that should be looked back on."

Despite Richmond’s 32-point loss on Saturday night, Donders is hopeful his side can bounce back against the Dees on Friday night and continue guiding the Tigers in the right direction. 

03:42

AFLW Round 9: Donders post-match

Jarrad Donders speaks to media following the Round 9 loss to Adelaide.

"I'm never doubtful of their effort - they'll continue to fight to the end - [but] there are passages throughout the quarters where we let ourselves down," Donders said.

“We are on a journey over the next three to five years with what we are trying to create here at Richmond, and the learnings that come from that are really important for our players.

“As they continue to progress through a tougher run home in the back end of the season, we don’t look at that as a negative we look at it as a challenge.

“We play seven of the top eight sides in the back end of the season, and for us that’s the challenge that we look forward to every week, playing against the best.”

Richmond takes on Melbourne at IKON Park this Friday night from 7:15pm. Get tickets HERE.