Richmond coach Adem Yze will seriously contemplate sending superstar veteran Dustin Martin to West Coast's rising star Harley Reid.
Create a free account to read this article
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The wounded Tigers will travel to Optus Stadium on Sunday for a clash the winless Eagles will set themselves up to win after an honourable defeat to premiership contenders Sydney last week.
Central to West Coast's improved effort was Reid, who put in the best game of his young career.
The comparisons between the Reid and Martin are obvious.
Last year's No.1 draft pick Reid made fending off tackles his trademark throughout an outstanding junior career, drawing early parallels with Martin.
"They've got a quality midfield, Tim Kelly, Elliot Yeo and and obviously Harley," Yze said.
"I'm looking forward to that midfield battle, not just a one v one.
"If you do see Dusty leaning on him, that would be pretty exciting for the AFL.
"I think he (Reid) modelled his game on Dusty, so I might put that as the first match-up, just go and stand next to him and give him a bit of a hug.
"But that's exciting, that's what we want in the game.
"He's (Reid) obviously a terrific kid and a great player, he's in some really good form so we've got to be mindful of him."
West Coast defender Tom Barrass is sure Reid won't be taking a backward step if matched up with Martin.
"Knowing Harley, he'll try to put one (fend-off) on him," Barrass said this week.
"That's what I like most about him, he's trying to wrestle the ruckman at the ball-ups, he's trying to go after the big boys and that's just in his nature.
"I reckon if he sees Dusty he'll probably try to give him one and he'll happily accept one too in the nature of the game."
Richmond's midfield depth will be tested further after reigning Jack Dyer medallist Tim Taranto suffered a broken wrist at training on Friday, sidelining him for an "extended period".
Australian Associated Press
