- Clayton Oliver made an impressive comeback
- He landed hard after accidentally entering a tunnel
- Oliver’s future has been a big topic of conversation lately
Melbourne star Clayton Oliver scored a spectacular strike before being left in a world of hurt during an action-packed return to playing duties.
Richmond and Melbourne faced off in a seven-period AFL match simulation battle at Casey Fields on Sunday, with the first four terms being the main clash.
The Tigers came out on top in the main match with 23 points, but the focus quickly shifted to the remaining three periods when Oliver was sent packing among a team of fringe AFL players and VFL top-ups.
Oliver’s future has been a major topic of discussion over the past nine months following repeated questions about his lack of professionalism and accusations of bad behavior off the field.
The 26-year-old, who only returned to the club three weeks ago after a period of personal leave, was a class above Sunday’s fifth-period opener, firing the first handball and finding the ball with ease.
Clayton Oliver worried the club doctor after landing hard on his back
Oliver provided an early highlight when he pulled his left boot out of the pocket.
But he caused a huge scare through the Demons’ side in the sixth period when he landed on his back and side on the turf after accidentally going into a tunnel.
Oliver was clearly in pain as medical staff attended to him on the pitch, but he was able to walk away without assistance before returning to the ground four minutes later.
The star midfielder continued to pose a threat as the Demons almost took victory, with the Tigers enduring some nerve-wracking moments before holding on for a 21.21 (147) to 22.13 (145) win over the seven periods.
The midfielder’s promising return would have been encouraging for Melbourne, who are desperate for a fit and happy Oliver this year.
The first four quarters were a turbulent affair and saw some huge momentum swings.
Melbourne scored the first five goals of the match, before Richmond responded with 10 consecutive majors.
The Demons scored five straight goals during part of the third period, but Richmond lifted with the match on the line, finishing on top 18.9 (117) to 14.10 (94) by the end of the fourth period. .
Oliver captured a spectacular photo during an action-packed return to the playing field
The bull’s promising return to midfield would have been encouraging for Melbourne
There were many positive signs for Richmond under new coach Adam Yze.
Noah Balta, a key defender who will play in attack this season, finished with three goals, while Shai Bolton scored four.
Tigers ruck recruit Sam Naismith put in a strong performance against Max Gawn in the absence of Toby Nankervis.
For Melbourne, Kysaiah Pickett was lively during his spells in midfield, and Christian Petracca scored two goals in the opening period.
Both sides were missing a large number of their best players.
The Tigers were without the likes of Dustin Martin, Tim Taranto, Dylan Grimes, Nankervis, Dion Prestia, Tom Lynch and Liam Baker, while Melbourne were missing the likes of Angus Brayshaw, Tom McDonald, Charlie Spargo, Ben Brown, Lachie Hunter and Harrison Petty. .