Liam Ryan: West Coast Eagles forward produces Goal of the Year contender against Richmond
Liam Ryan won the 2019 Mark of the Year with his heroics at the western end of Optus Stadium.
Six years later, he’s a chance to snare Goal of the Year honours after a superb effort at the venue’s eastern end.
Ryan looked to spark West Coast as the bottom-placed side attempted to reel in a half-time deficit against Richmond, producing some magic in the early stages of the third term to delight the home crowd.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Running onto a pass in the forward pocket that had been overcooked by Bailey Williams, Ryan grabbed the ball and flung a boot to it in the nick of time before crossing the boundary - and under severe pressure from Ben Miller.
The snap bounced cruelly for Tigers defender Tylar Young, sailing over his head and through the major opening on the most acute angle.
WATCH THE GOAL IN THE PLAYER ABOVE
Ryan celebrated with his arms in the air while lying on his back, before turning to the crowd in Optus Stadium’s south-east corner to implore them to join in.
Having won the Mark of the Year prize for a hanger on Max Gawn’s shoulders, Ryan can become the first-ever Eagle to win the Mark-Goal double at any point in their career.
Harley Reid snared last season’s Goal of the Year prize for a fine running effort against Melbourne.
