A shift to the forward line proved to be a good move for youngster Darcy Parish against the Tigers on Saturday night.

Parish was moved forward on several occasions throughout the night and demonstrated an ability to hit the scoreboard, finishing with two important goals.

It seemed to be a smart move by the Coaches with Parish able to use his natural ability to read the play and find space, get crumbs and – most importantly, kick goals.

The territory is somewhat new for Parish, who spent the majority of his time playing in the midfield in the juniors.

However, like many of his other teammates who are being trialled in different positions, Parish is enjoying the challenge and ability to add more depth to his game.

“I loved that sort of involvement and experience up forward, it’s something different,” said Parish 

“It was great to play up forward and learn some new things off (Hayden Skipworth) and the boys up there, so I really enjoyed it.

“There’s a lot of sacrificed running without the footy and opening up space for the other boys , just high intensity efforts. It’s pretty full on.

“It’s always nice to get on the scoreboard and lift the crowd up a bit, so we’ll see what happens.”

Aside from his two goals, Parish was also handy around the ball collecting 25 disposals (including six contested possessions), seven marks and two inside 50s.

The 2015 draftee was one of a handful of younger Bombers who impressed on the night, with Orazio Fantasia also kicking two goals, while – at the other end of the ground, Patrick Ambrose played an important role on nullifying the impact of star Richmond forward, Jack Riewoldt.

However, it was once again Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (or Walla as he is more affectionately known) who once again stole the show. 

The crowd favourite took another important step forward, showcasing his famous run and carry, pressure and deadly accuracy on a number of occasions.

Parish spoke fondly of Walla, agreeing that the Bombers had found something special in the man from the Tiwi Islands.

“Walla is amazing,” said Parish

“Every time he gets the ball the crowd just lifts. They love him and he just does some exciting things.

“It’s great to watch on the field and I’m glad he’s on our team, that’s for sure.”