Richmond’s First-Year Player Shows Promise
Sam Cumming, a first-year player for Richmond, has successfully returned from a shoulder injury without any setbacks. He participated in his first game with the VFL side against St Kilda on Sunday, finishing with eight disposals, six tackles, and two clearances. Cumming played under a carefully managed minutes schedule, which allowed him to contribute effectively to the team.
Although his statistics were modest, Cumming made a noticeable impact on the game. He displayed a polished style when he had possession of the ball and maintained a clean presence in contests. His stoppage skills were particularly impressive, as he demonstrated a strong understanding of the game by reading the ball well off the ruck’s hands. This helped Richmond gain an advantage in the middle of the ground and showed his commitment in the defensive phase of play.
Despite these positive signs, there is a league-wide VFL bye next week, which means that the Tigers will not have a match until after their own bye. However, they do have an exhibition match against an AFL Academy side composed of the country’s top junior talent. For Cumming to be considered for AFL selection, he will likely need to play a full VFL game.
Cumming suffered a subluxation of his right shoulder during pre-season, and the Tigers decided against surgery. Instead, they are hoping he can continue playing through the injury for the remainder of the season.
“Sam Cumming only played limited game time, but his attitude all day was awesome. At halftime, your speaking to the boys and looking at him, it gives me a boost as a coach because he’s such a good bloke,” said VFL coach Jack Madgen, speaking to Richmond Media.
Ollie Hayes-Brown Shines in Ruck Battle
Ollie Hayes-Brown’s performance was a positive sign for the selection committee. The untried tall forward dominated the ruck battle against Isaac Keeler, finishing with 19 hitouts, 22 disposals, and 11 clearances. He consistently won the ball out of the ruck and sent it forward effectively.
“He was awesome today, he won that ruck battle and was really damaging,” Madgen said.
With Samson Ryan facing a suspension for his strike on Jordon Sweet, Hayes-Brown is now in the running for selection in the Gather Round.
Tom Burton Continues Strong Start
Tom Burton has continued his strong start to life as an AFL footballer. He kicked three goals and had 15 disposals. He spent some time in his preferred midfield position while adjusting to his new role as a connecting forward.
Sam Toner Leads the Charge
Sam Toner was the standout performer of the day. The VFL-listed forward kicked 6.3 and took eight marks, particularly excelling in the third quarter when his side pulled away.
Toner has been on recruiters’ radars for the past 18 months and has been working to find consistency since debuting at VFL level last year. His six-goal performance follows up on three goals in Round 1, showing signs of improvement.
“He was super potent in front of the footy and played a great game,” Madgen said about Toner.
