Reigning premiers Richmond fall to third straight loss despite locals among best players

Local products Shai Bolton and Liam Baker were shining lights for Richmond in yet another tough loss for the reigning premiers last Thursday night.

The Tigers fell to their third straight loss of the season in their clash against Gold Coast, however Bolton and Baker were named among their best players.

The 10-point loss left the Tigers’ quest for a third straight premiership in tatters as they slipped out of the top eight.

Katanning-born Bolton gathered 19 disposals and kicked one goal to go with three clearances and five inside-50s playing through the midfield and forward line.

He is averaging more than 20 possessions a game this season, along with four clearances and 61/2 score involvements.

Pingaring junior Baker was also a strong contributor for the Tigers in the 10.7 (67) to 10.17 (77) loss.

Baker racked up 18 touches and laid three tackles while also sending the ball inside 50 twice to be named alongside Bolton among the best.

However, the small feisty defender was charged with misconduct against the Suns’ Jeremy Sharp during the third quarter.

Baker can accept a $1000 fine with an early guilty plea.