DAMIEN Hardwick and Leon Cameron think Trent Cotchin will be cleared by the Match Review Panel and lead Richmond into next week's Grand Final, with the rival coaches both describing the Tigers skipper as "a ball player".
Cotchin is almost certain to attract the attention of the MRP for his bump on Dylan Shiel during the first quarter of Saturday's preliminary final at the MCG.
Cotchin bumped Shiel 10 minutes into the opening term as the Giant was bending down to gather the ball. The Richmond captain was also contesting the ball, but went low and caught Shiel on the chin with his shoulder.
Shiel played out the remainder of the first quarter, but suffered a delayed concussion at the first break and was ruled out of the game midway through the second quarter.
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Cotchin's situation is complicated by the fact he has already incurred two fines for low-level striking offences this season, which means that even if he escapes with a fine for the Shiel bump he will be ruled out of the Grand Final against Adelaide.
The Richmond skipper was fined $1000 for striking Fremantle midfielder Lachie Neale in round eight, and then $1500 for striking St Kilda’s Jack Lonie in round 16.
Asked after Saturday's game whether he thought Cotchin would be free to play against the Crows, Hardwick said: "I think so, at the end of the day (he's) a ball player."
Hardwick was reluctant to discuss the incident further, saying he hadn't seen a replay and had "no idea" whether Shiel's concussion would complicate matters for Cotchin.
The Tigers coach did say, however, Cotchin faced a nervous wait before the MRP released its findings on Monday.
"(It's) tough for any player I suppose, but the fact of the matter is he hasn't been reported," Hardwick said.
"Was there a free kick? I'm not even too sure, I've got no idea (there wasn't). I can't comment on it, so you can keep asking questions."
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Cameron saw a replay of Cotchin's bump during the game and was confident the MRP would clear him.
"I only had a quick look at it for a split second just before quarter-time, but I think both of them were going for the footy," Cameron said.
"He's a ball player, Cotchin, and he's had a terrific year, so I wouldn't think there'll be anything in it."
After starring in Richmond's 51-point qualifying final win over Geelong, Cotchin was again outstanding against the Giants, leading the Tigers in possessions (26, 17 of them contested), clearances (seven) and tackles (nine).
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Hardwick felt his skipper was best on ground.
"He's an incredible player, he's taken his game to a new level. (I'm) just so glad to have him, the way that he leads our club."
