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Thought I'd save everyone a trip to the Aged website
Vlastuin returns, Martin makes statement in intra-club clash; Pies to stick to one captain
Triple-premiership defender Nick Vlastuin may have overcome a rib injury, but he faced as tough a pre-season challenge as possible when matched up on Dustin Martin during Richmond’s intra-club match on Monday.www.theage.com.au
Triple-premiership defender Nick Vlastuin may have overcome a rib injury, but he faced as tough a pre-season challenge as possible when matched up on Dustin Martin during Richmond’s intra-club match on Monday.
Vlastuin had spent time away from contact training, having fractured a rib at training earlier this month, but he recovered quickly and his run and carry were on show in a spirited clash of more than an hour at Punt Rd where senior AFL umpires took charge.
While co-captain Dylan Grimes had bulk minutes on Martin, Vlastuin had spells on a man who has been in mint condition through the summer. Martin dispelled any fears his interest in the game – and the Tigers – had waned. There were suggestions last year Martin was considering a shift to Sydney, and linking with the Swans.
Martin finished with two goals on Monday, his first coming after a strong pack mark in front of Vlastuin, and his second from a clever snap in front of goal. He missed a set shot for a third he typically would have converted.
Vlastuin and Martin, the latter the only man to claim three Norm Smith Medals, will be central figures in the Tigers’ bid to return to premiership contention, having been beaten in the opening week of the finals last year.
The Tigers have privately been delighted with Martin this pre-season, for he has barely missed a session, and appears set to again be a consistent threat. While acknowledging that at 31 he may no longer be the dominant midfield threat he once was, the Tigers believe he can create havoc forward of centre and inside attacking 50, particularly when left one-out with his opponent.
Jack Dyer medallist Tom Lynch is on the mend from plantar fasciitis surgery in December and did not take to the field.
“He’s really building up his running and within the next few weeks. He’ll be back into training and be in good shape,” Tigers assistant coach Andrew McQualter said.
