Tigers youngster Sam Banks’ AFL debut was a memorable one.
In wet conditions on a cold wintery night at the MCG, the Richmond overcame a quiet first half to run over the top of Sydney in a thrilling fourth term as Andrew McQualter’s side kept its finals hopes alive.
Picked up by the Tigers with the 29th in the 2021 National Draft out of Tasmania, Banks had to bide his time to play his first AFL game, but it was well worth the wait.
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“I’m absolutely stoked. When ‘Mini’ (McQualter) called me into his office on Monday and gave me the news, I was wrapped,” Banks told foxfooty.com.au from the jubilant Richmond rooms post-match.
“To come away with the result was unbelievable. It’s huge for the season.
“I had about 40 people come over from Tassie – family friends – for them to make the effort was unreal, and to get the result in front of them was even better.”
Banks’ debut wasn’t just extra special for him, but for Tigers champion Jack Riewoldt too in playing alongside a fellow Tasmanian and Clarence product.
“Tonight was a really special moment … playing footy with young Sam Banks, who’s from the same local club as me,” Riewoldt told Fox Footy after the win.
“His dad actually played with my old man and my uncles at the Clarence footy club. To run out with another Clarence boy tonight was a really special occasion.”
Banks finished with 13 disposals and has some bright moments, with none more than important than a huge defensive effort in the third quarter when he charged back at goal and stopped Buddy Franklin from kicking a certain goal from point-blank range.
The 20-year old’s coach took notice.
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“It was a big moment for ‘Banksy,” McQualters told reporters post-match.
“We were under the pump at that time. It’s funny, those types of moments, we talk about them a lot. They really bring an energy to your team when you’re able to save a goal like that.
“I thought ‘Banksy’ stood up in his moment.”
While Banks’ first senior hit-out ended on such a high note, fellow Tigers debutant Jacob Bauer’s night didn’t go as planned.
Bauer was subbed out of the contest in the opening minutes after hurting his hamstring with just his second kick in a grim start to the 21-year old’s AFL career as he was consoled by Richmond co-captain Jack Grimes in sad scenes.
“It was hard to see. ‘Baus’ and I have played a lot of footy together since he got to the club,” Banks added.
“To debut with him was a great moment, but for him to do that is obviously unfortunate.
“He’ll keep his head up, he’s a good character and he’ll be back stronger, that’s for sure.”
