Dustin Martin’s dad Shane enjoys Richmond win from New Zealand

DUSTIN Martin’s dad Shane says it is unbelievable that his son had helped Richmond make its first grand final in 35 years.

Dustin Martin's dad watching the preliminary final between Richmond and GWS from New Zealand.

DUSTIN Martin’s dad Shane says it is unbelievable that his son had helped Richmond make its first grand final in 35 years.

Dustin was influential in Richmond’s win kicking three goals and collecting 20 possessions.

His goals came late in the third quarter and the first goal of the final quarter.

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He also set up a goal to Jack Riewoldt in the final quarter that saw off a potential Greater Western Sydney challenge.

Shane Martin, who has been deported from Australia because of his links to the Rebels motorcycle club, watched the match in his native New Zealand.

“I can’t believe it,” he said.

“The whole pub was going off.”

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Dustin Martin's dad watching the preliminary final between Richmond and GWS from New Zealand.

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Shane has been unable to watch his son play live since he was sent to New Zealand in March 2016.

He was hopeful of being back for the grand final and the Brownlow Medal on Monday night after a High Court precedent that challenged his deportation.

But Immigration Minister Peter Dutton rushed through a law the day before the decision was handed down that stopped Shane’s right to challenge.

Dustin has previously spoken of how hard it has been since his father’s deportation.

Immediately after the game, he had a message for his father: “I want to say G’Day to dad. I wish you were here, mate. I love you. I know you’re watching.”

Dustin had two injury scares during the match but both times remained on the field.

Following the second heavy knock in the final quarter he was taken off at the 23 minute mark to preserve him for next week’s grand final.

Dustin sacrificed $2 million to stay at Richmond when he signed a seven year deal at the start of the finals series.

The Richmond midfielder is an unbackable favourite for the Brownlow and mat record the highest ever vote tally.

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