Bling

In the 2004 draft there was a young Northern Territorian by the name of Richard Tambling, he was a pacy, exciting, goal kicking footballer. He was widely tipped to go top 5 in the draft. It seemed to be accepted that Hawthorn would take him with pick no 2.

The Hawks surprised everyone by using that prized pick on Victorian Centre Half Back Jarryd Roughead. The Bulldogs picked up highly regarded South Australian midfielder Ryan Griffen with no 3 and the Tigers gleefully pounced on Tambling at 4.

The young speedsters practice match form had supporters salivating, especially a marvelous run and goal against Collingwood that showcased his amazing skills and lightning pace. However a broken toe sustained in a practice match delayed the start to his home and away season.

His first few matches were played for Coburg in the VFL, then he was played in the seniors. He seemed to struggle to pick up the tempo of the game and just when that was clicking for him he injured his hamstring and went back on the injured list. Again the comeback was via Coburg and he was starting to put together some meaningful games when the season ended.

There were rumours during the off season that he was homesick and didn't like the weather in Melbourne or the way he was being played and might try to go back home. When he and his girlfriend moved back to Darwin for the birth of their first child; Tyler, the rumblings increased. Bling, as the supporters had christened him, put paid to that by completing a strong pre season.

He started the season in the seniors, was dropped for a game and then put back in. He has not looked back since. His games have been getting better and better, he is starting to find the goals and the look of joy on his face when he kicks one is wonderful to behold.

The game against the Swans was dreadful, but Bling played well and was amongst Richmond's best, his pace and creativity made his Sydney opponents look both slow and foolish. The highlight was getting loose in space to take a Dean Polo pass and then run hard into the goals and boot it through from long range.

For some time I have been saying that one day this kid will completely blow a game to bits, it will happen and after yesterday I'm confident it will be sooner rather than later.

Chris