Richmond tall forward Ty Vickery's performance in Sunday's win against Collingwood at the MCG could ignite his career, according to teammate Troy Chaplin.
Vickery booted three important goals in the pulsating five-point triumph – including a nerveless set shot late in the last quarter, when he took full responsibility to kick the goal.
“I think yesterday was one of those breakout games that we've been looking for,” Chaplin told SEN.
“We thought he was absolutely exceptional down forward. He kicked straight and rewarded the hard work from down back and through the midfield, when we were able to turn the footy over.
“He wasn't always marking the ball, but he gave us a contest.
“We thought he was brilliant for us and it's really pleasing for him, because he has copped a fair bit of criticism throughout the year and past years as well.”
Vickery has struggled to break into Richmond’s side ahead of emerging big man Ben Griffiths, with last Sunday's match only his second appearance at senior level this season.
The Tigers’ star spearhead Jack Riewoldt concurred with Chaplin’s thoughts on Vickery.
“Ty cops a fair bit of scrutiny from outside of our four walls. Even our own fans seem to ride Ty a little bit, definitely unfairly,” Riewoldt told ‘Roar Vision’ post-game.
“Key-position players, especially those 198-200cm blokes, take time and they need confidence as well.
“So, instilling confidence in him has been our main goal.
“He really took his moments today, when he needed to kick goals.
“You really need to capitalise on those momentum swings, and he certainly did that for us.”
