While an important factor in Richmond’s decisive 26-point victory over Geelong at Metricon Stadium last night was the valuable contributions made by all team members, the top-class performances of veteran Tiger stars Jack Riewoldt and Dylan Grimes, at opposite ends of the ground, were pivotal to the outcome of the blockbuster clash.

Key forward Riewoldt kicked a game-high four goals (4.0) out of the Tigers’ winning score of 7.15, while key defender Grimes, who returned to the line-up after a minor hamstring complaint, had a whopping game-high 12 intercepts.

Here’s what Richmond coach Damien Hardwick had to say about the dual premiership pair in his post-match press conference . . .

Dimma on Riewoldt

“He’s been good. His ability to just even halve contests and not get outmarked, especially tonight, I thought he was outstanding. His leap has come back . . . We’re starting to see him get back to his best form. When he jumps at the ball and uses the strengths in his game, he’s such a formidable player, and has been for a long period of time. It’s important he’s playing his best footy now.”

Dimma on Grimes

“What about his marking! Crikey! Jesaulenko there a couple of times . . .very good. He’s an incredible player, Dylan. I was speaking about him the other day, how he was a rookie pick for us . . . he was there in my first year (2010). Many people talk about Dustin Martin and Trent Cotchin, and all these guys . . . This guy is an incredible talent. Defenders often don’t get the due credit that they deserve, but he’s been a formidable football player for our footy club . . . He’s a wonderful, young man.”