Richmond Tigers triumph over Adelaide Crows

Richmond's Dustin Martin has capped his incredible AFL season by winning the Norm Smith Medal in Saturday's grand-final victory over Adelaide.

Martin has been judged best afield in the 48-point victory, and can add the award to his premiership medallion and Brownlow Medal for his efforts across the home- and-away season.

The Crows, bidding for their first championship since back-to-back titles in 1997-98, were the dominant side of the regular season and entered the match as the bookmakers' favourites.

But after starting brightly with four goals in the first quarter, they promptly crumbled under pressure, their forwards completely shut down by their opponents' superb defence.

"It's been an incredible year and I've just loved working alongside you all," Tigers captain Trent Cotchin told his team at the post-match trophy presentation.

"A massive thank you to our fans and members. You deserve this."

The Damien Hardwick-coached Tigers won their first championship since Tony Jewell's side lifted the 1980 trophy with victory over the Collingwood Magpies.

Martin had 21 contested possessions and kicked two goals in Richmond's first premiership in 37 years.

He also won the code's top honour, the Brownlow Medal, earlier this month.

His father Shane Martin was deported to New Zealand last year when Australian authorities cancelled his visa due to his criminal record and alleged links to the Rebel's motorcycle gang.

It meant he could not travel back to watch his son help Richmond win the grand final.

     

Notifications: 
Breaking News