I should have rested in round 1: Deledio

Richmond vice-captain Brett Deledio concedes he was wrong to play round one of the AFL season.

Deledio has been dealing with a persistent calf issue this year and missed four games after taking part in the Tigers’ win over Carlton at the MCG on April 2.

The 28-year-old has since played back-to-back matches and is confident he is over the injury.

However, Deledio admitted on Monday he should have stayed on the sidelines instead of tackling the Blues.

“I am still happy I did play because I felt I played my part to help the boys win (that game),” Deledio said.

“But if I had have known I was going to miss another four weeks after that, well if I had my time again I probably would’ve missed.

“In hindsight (it was a mistake).”

Deledio booted two goals in the Tigers’ five-point win over Collingwood on Sunday and is starting to feel confident in his body.

“We’re over a bit of a hump now and we can start looking at getting a bit more training under my belt,” he said.

“The calf feels really good.”

Deledio’s next challenge will be Port Adelaide, who thumped the Tigers by 57 points in an elimination final last year.

“It is at the back of your mind because we were embarrassed with how we performed over there, especially on the big stage,” Deledio said.

“But it’s a new year and another game against quality opposition, who are coming off a loss.

“It’s a great challenge and we always love travelling away together.”

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