Richmond coach Adem Yze may be compelled to manage Dustin Martin’s playtime more cautiously in the latter part of the season following Martin’s back spasms during the 61-point defeat to Carlton. Martin contributed to the Tigers’ second-quarter surge at the MCG on Sunday but experienced a back issue early in the third quarter, leading to his substitution from the game.
Martin, 33, recorded only seven disposals in the 20.11 (131) to 10.10 (70) loss, marking the lowest count in his 301-game career.
“He just seized up,” Yze remarked. “He tried to go back out there for one more rotation and he was just battling, so it was just pointless. I’m not sure if he’s ever been subbed before but against a quality team like Carlton you need 18 fit guys out there. So for him to put his hand up and say his back’s a bit too sore is a credit to him.”
Considering the upcoming fixtures, Yze had already planned to rest Martin following the mid-season break, especially with the short breaks leading up to interstate games against Fremantle and Port Adelaide. Martin will rest for a day before returning to Punt Road on Tuesday for further evaluation before the game against Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Saturday night.
“If he bounces out of the game OK, there’s no reason why he can’t play against Freo. We’ve just got to have those discussions and think about it more than anything,” Yze stated.
Martin, who had previously dealt with calf issues this season, encountered this latest back problem unexpectedly. “He probably copped a knee out there, which he wouldn’t have known,” Yze added.
Despite the challenges, Yze praised mid-season draftee Jacob Blight for his performance against Carlton, where he managed to limit the impact of star forward Harry McKay. “Blighty held up his own as one of the best in the competition and he will be better for it,” Yze said.
Richmond has utilized 41 players this season, the most in the league, due to numerous injuries, including key players. There is hope that premiership midfielder Dion Prestia (calf) might return against Fremantle, although Tom Lynch (hamstring) remains doubtful.
