Shai Bolton walked away with a prestigious award — but not before a cheeky sledge for teammate Jack Riewoldt, who just missed out.
Shai Bolton’s incredible mark against Geelong was something special — but was it the best grab of the season?
The Richmond star was awarded Mark of the Year at Sunday night’s Brownlow Medal ceremony for his specky against the Cats in May, leaving some questioning if Tigers teammate Jack Riewoldt was robbed.
Bolton used Geelong defender Mark Blicavs as a stepladder to climb high in the goalsquare — making for some spectacular photos.
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But some footy fans thought Riewoldt was unlucky to miss out on the gong for his courageous mark against Adelaide in Round 11. Running back with the flight of the ball, the Richmond forward leapt into a pack without any concern for his own wellbeing, twisted around and held on.
It was as skilful as it was brave and some believed he should have collected Mark of the Year instead of Bolton.
Victorian politician Martin Pakula tweeted: “Jack Riewoldt very stiff.”
AFL journalist Tom Browne wrote: Congratulations to Bolton on mark of the year. I absolutely loved Jack Riewoldt running back with courage, very, very stiff.”
Sports commentator Zane Bojack added: “I don’t get it. O’Briens was more spectacular & Riewoldt’s was more courageous. Why Shai Bolton’s grab?”
Footy reporter Jon Ralph was also in the Riewoldt corner, saying he had “never seen anything like” the veteran’s mark.
When he arrived on stage to accept his award, Bolton was asked if he had anything to say to Riewoldt. “Maybe next time mate,” he joked.
Hawthorn forward Tim O’Brien’s stellar grab against GWS at the MCG in Round 15 was also in the mix for the award.
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