Talented Tiger shines at VFL level, Zebras and Suns fight out a draw

Richmond’s Sam Banks put forward the best performance of his professional career to help the VFL Tigers down Port Melbourne in Round 17.

Banks, who was a part of Richmond’s 2021 draft haul and taken with pick 29, dominated on Friday night to continue what has been a terrific 48 hours for the footy club.

The 21-year-old played off half-back line and picked up 37 disposals – 34 of which were kicks – nine marks, 10 inside 50s, four clearances and a goal in a clear best-afield display.

“He was pretty clean tonight, used the ball beautifully, helped provide that rebound off half-back for us and he was a real reason as to why we were able to get the ball in our front half so often,” VFL coach Steve Morris told Richmond Media post-game.

Banks had never had more than 27 disposals in a VFL game, highlighting his career game in Friday’s 13.10 (88) to 4.15 (39) win. He's contracted to Richmond until 2025 and has played 12 games of AFL football.

Last week’s AFL debutant Kaleb Smith also impressed with 22 disposals, nine contested possessions and seven marks, while Steely Green had 15 touches and a goal.

Turning to Saturday, North Melbourne edged out Coburg 9.12 (66) to 9.6 (60). Charlie Lazzaro impressed with seven clearances from 33 touches, while fellow Roos midfielder Hugh Greenwood had 12 from 27.

Tyler Sellers, a 2024 pre-season supplemental selection, booted three goals to keep his impressive VFL form from earlier this year going.

Sandringham and Gold Coast also played out a draw at RSEA Park as a precursor to the Saints and Suns doing battle on Saturday night.

The 82 apiece draw was a result of Sandringham booting the last four goals of the game, with Cooper Sharman and Hugo Garcia kicking two apiece.

Suns midfielders Rory Atkins (42 touches, 14 marks) and James Tsitas (42 touches, seven clearances, one goal) were dominant, while Saints Zak Jones (29 possessions) and Brad Crouch (27 touches, six tackles) were prolific.