Champion forward Josh Kennedy had kicked four or more goals in a game 66 times before last night’s bag against Richmond.

But rarely has he been more influential than he was against the Tigers.

The focal point of the club’s attacking football since establishing himself in the team in 2009, has kicked 662 goals for the Eagles in his 249 games and was a decisive factor across four quarters of this engrossing battle.

Not only did he kick four goals – including the match-winner in the last minute – but he also was involved in some important passages of play through the midfield, linking up through handball and setting up scoring opportunities for teammates.

The forward colossus also took five marks inside the attacking arcs and was a constant threat to the Richmond defence.