Fighting Fury

Result: Port Adelaide 20.12.132 defeated Richmond 11.9.75

What a disappointment. After working so hard to make the finals, Richmond were blown away by Port Adelaide in the first 10 minutes of the game and never recovered, suffering a heavy defeat and being eliminated from the finals. The team was never in it with the midfield completely dominated by Port Adelaide. The Power ran, harder, faster and were just completely the better team. Missed tackles didn't help Richmond who just dodn't seem to have it in them on the day.

The attention now turns to the off-season, with several players already delisted and the trade period only a month away. Richmond will no doubt be looking to recruit more talent to the list in an attempt to win their first final since 2001 in 2015. Can't wait!

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Found a fair bit of ball but lacked the usual potency.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin Well held by Cornes.

3 (-) Brett Deledio Not a horrible game, but did his best work in the second half once the game was over.

4 (-) Alex Rance  Did pretty well against Schulz considering the amount of supply.

5 (-) Brandon Ellis Shocker of a game to finish a wonderful season.

6 (+1) Anthony Miles One of the few who fought against the tide early in the game.

7 (-1) Jack Riewoldt Kicked a couple of junk time goals but can hardly be blamed for the loss.

8 (-) Ivan Maric Not a good game from the ruckman.

9 (-) Troy Chaplin Not good against his old club.

10 (-) Shane Edwards Disappointing end to a promising season.

11 (-) Bachar Houli Found a bit early but seemed to rush a bit with the ball.

12 (-) Nick Vlastuin Barely sighted.

13 (-) Nathan Foley Not very effective with the ball.

14 (+1) Reece Conca Did a bit, but not enough.

15 (-1) Ricky Petterd Sub. No impact.

16 (-) Chris Newman Had little impact.

17 (+2) Nathan Gordon One of the few players who had a bit of an impact in the game. Kicked a couple of goals.

18 (-1) Benjamin Griffiths Struggled to get into the game but had a lack of supply.

19 (-1) Dylan Grimes Not noticed.

20 (-) Shaun Grigg Another midfielder who had a poor day.

21 (+1) Steven Morris Injured all year and it showed.

22 (-1) Daniel Jackson Surprise retirement.

23 (-) Tyrone Vickery Did not play.

24 (-) Jake Batchelor 1 touch not enough.

25 (-) Sam Lloyd Did not play.

26 (-) Matthew Dea Did not play.

27 (-) Matthew McDonough Did not play.

28 (-) Ben Lennon Did not play.

29 (-) Liam McBean Did not play.

30 (-) Matthew Arnot Did not play.

31 (-) Brad Helbig Delisted.

32 (-) Brett O’Hanlon Delisted.

33 (-) Aaron Edwards Delisted.

34 (-) Matt Thomas Injured.

35 (-) Shaun Hampson Did not play.

36 (-) David Astbury Did not play.

37 (-) Orren Stephenson Delisted.

38 (-) Todd Elton Did not play.

39 (-) Ben Darrou Delisted.

40 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh Did not play.

41 (-) Chris Knights Injured.

42 (-) Todd Banfield Delisted.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams Delisted.

Result: Sydney 9.11.65 defeated by Richmond 10.8.68

Unbelievable! Pulsating! Fantastic! You ripper! What a win. The Tigers have done the impossible and made the finals after beating the minor premiers. Deledio, Rance, Maric, Miles, Cotchin, Dusty… the whole team was superb. They played with heart, they played with courage and their reward is a trip to Adelaide to face Port Power.

The team should be full of confidence and that should hold us in great stead. Power are a very dangerous side and they seem to have their confidence back too, but if Richmond plays the same type of finals football that it has in the past couple of months then there is no reason the team couldn't pull off another win this season. I'm looking forward to this match and I'm looking forward to hearing the 10K + Richmond supporters screaming their hearts out at Adelaide oval! Go Tigers!

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Would have dropped to number 2 in this list until his match winning goal. Just stands up when he is needed most.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin Wasn't the most prominent player but worked hard all night to get the team over the line.

3 (+1) Brett Deledio Another close to BOG performance in a must win game sees Lids move into the top 3.

4 (+1) Alex Rance  Won the game for Richmond, was an absolute collosus in the last quarter.

5 (-2) Brandon Ellis Unlucky to drop two places, but the two above him were matchwinners. Has not put a foot wrong.

6 (-) Jack Riewoldt Started the game with a bang and continued to contribute as the game progressed.

7 (-) Anthony Miles Another fantastic in and under performance. Have a feeling finals footy will be right down his alley.

8 (-) Ivan Maric Dominant ruckman on the ground.

9 (+1) Troy Chaplin Had another good game in defense and was one of the keys in Richmond being able to hold on.

10 (-1) Shane Edwards Missed a crucial goal that he should have kicked in the last quarter, turning his game from good to ok.

11 (-) Bachar Houli Was shut down by Sydney as they recognised the influence he can have from half back.

12 (+1) Nick Vlastuin Not finding a heap of it but is doing all the little things well.

13 (+1) Nathan Foley What a great story that this guy will be playing in his first final. Has really found some form late in the year.

14 (-2) Ricky Petterd Sadly a bit of a shocking 3rd quarter from Petterd saw him subbed out of the game. Has some existing brownie points though.

15 (-) Reece Conca Came on as the sub and actually found quite a bit of it. Will be hoping to have an impact in finals.

16 (-) Chris Newman Just keeps on keeping on. Not dominating but is performing his role.

17 (+3) Benjamin Griffiths Doesn't get a heap of it but is making a habit of taking big marks in crucial moments. Has earned his place in the finals team, keeping Vickery out.

18 (-1) Dylan Grimes Back to his defensive ways this week.

19 (-) Nathan Gordon The impact he has with his running should not be underestimated, particular when defending. Not as prominent as other matches but still gets involved in goals.

20 (+3) Shaun Grigg Had a really good game, has really improved his inside work.

21 (-3) Daniel Jackson Named in the extended squad this week.

22 (-) Steven Morris Was good defensively but really needs to work on that kicking.

23 (-2) Tyrone Vickery Did not play.

24 (-) Jake Batchelor Continued on from last week by getting involved in a few offensive chains while continuing to defend well. Very cool under pressure in the dying stages.

25 (-) Sam Lloyd Named in the extended squad this week.

26 (+3) Matthew Dea Named in the extended squad this week.

27 (-1) Matthew McDonough Did not play.

28 (-) Ben Lennon Did not play.

29 (+1) Liam McBean Did not play.

30 (+1) Matthew Arnot Did not play.

31 (+1) Brad Helbig Did not play.

32 (+1) Brett O’Hanlon Did not play.

33 (+1) Aaron Edwards Did not play.

34 (-7) Matt Thomas Injured.

35 (-) Shaun Hampson Did not play.

36 (+4) David Astbury Did not play.

37 (-1) Orren Stephenson Did not play.

38 (-1) Todd Elton Did not play.

39 (-) Ben Darrou Did not play.

40 (+1) Kamdyn McIntosh Did not play.

41 (-3) Chris Knights Injured.

42 (-) Todd Banfield Did not play.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams Did not play.

Result: Richmond 15.8.98 defeated St Kilda 10.12.72

One more win. One more win. One more win. Remarkably, that's all it will take for the Tigers to play finals football in 2014. The game against St Kilda was nothing special; the team got the job done and cruised to the finish line. Jack kicked 6, Miles clearance work was second to none while Deledio continues to shine. Now it's onto Sydney in a must win clash. No easy task that's for sure with Richmond needing to be their absolute best to even stand a chance. No matter the result though, you can't complain about the Tiger ride the last 2 months.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Injured/Rested.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin Quiet game from Cotch.

3 (-) Brandon Ellis  First game in a long time where Ellis failed to have much of an impact.

4 (+1) Brett Deledio Probably another BOG performance from Deledio.

5 (-1) Alex Rance  Played well but Nick Riewoldt still managed 20+ disposals and 2 goals.

6 (-) Jack Riewoldt Six goals in a return to form for Jack. Loves playing the Saints.

7 (+1) Anthony Miles Double digit clearances again for the midfielder.

8 (-1) Ivan Maric Beat Longer around the ground but broke even in the actual ruck contest.

9 (-) Shane Edwards Failed to kick a goal but found a bit of the ball.

10 (-) Troy Chaplin Most disposals he has had all year. One of the many Richmond defenders to dominate possession.

11 (-) Bachar Houli Dominated early and didn't let up.

12 (-) Ricky Petterd Racked up 14 marks as he roamed around the ground.

13 (+1) Nick Vlastuin A massive amount of clearances for the kid as he played more midfield.

14 (-1) Nathan Foley

Solid output from Foley again.

15 (+1) Reece Conca Returned from suspension and did some nice work in the packs.

16 (+1) Chris Newman Highest disposal count for the year…. And he was subbed off!

17 (+1) Dylan Grimes Another defender to record his highest disposal count for the year. Looked much more like the pre-injury Grimes with his attack off the backline.

18 (-3) Daniel Jackson Played VFL, struggled a little and is suspended for 1 week.

19 (+1) Nathan Gordon Not a great game from Gordon, despite the hanger.

20 (+1) Benjamin Griffiths Led well and took some good marks but just needs to find it more.

21 (-2) Tyrone Vickery Named as an emergency this week now his suspension has ended.

22 (-) Steven Morris Performed well across the backline.

23 (+1) Shaun Grigg Not as prominent as he can be but is doing a lot more inside work these days.

24 (-1) Jake Batchelor Defender. Record possessions. Cashed in with a goal.

25 (+1) Sam Lloyd Another great performance in the VFL has him on the cusp of senior selection.

26 (+1) Matthew McDonough Another consistent VFL performance.

27 (-2) Matt Thomas Has not returned to the team since his injury.

28 (+1) Ben Lennon Came on as the sub and had little impact with the game already sealed.

29 (-1) Matthew Dea His consistent VFL performances see him named as an emergency again.

30 (-) Liam McBean Kicked 2 goals to fall just short of being the VFL league leading goalkicker.

31 (-) Matthew Arnot Not finding the ball as much as in past games.

32 (-) Brad Helbig 8 tackles shows his appetite for the contest.

33 (-) Brett O’Hanlon Fairly quiet day in the VFL for Brett.

34 (+1) Aaron Edwards Usual solid performance from Edwards in the VFL.

35 (+1) Shaun Hampson Took several marks and rucked well in the VFL.

36 (+1) Orren Stephenson Not as dominant as usual but still more than handy.

37 (+1) Todd Elton Probably his best game as a key defender. Defended well, marked well and found the ball.

38 (-4) Chris Knights Injured.

39 (-) Ben Darrou This guy is just continues to perform at this level without shining.

40 (+2) David Astbury Probably the highlight of the game was seeing Astbury out there again. Got through unscathed.

41 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh Has come back well after a long injury layoff.

42 (-2) Todd Banfield Quiet game.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams Kicked a couple of goals.

Result: Adelaide 9.15.69 defeated by Richmond 10.19.79

Keep on dreaming Tiger fans! 7 in a row and all of a sudden the unthinkable is just that little bit closer. In a massive turnaround from previous seasons, the most pleasing aspect of the most recent two wins has been the ability of the team to fight back and halt the opposition's momentum after giving up a decent sized lead. In past year's Richmond would have lost this game but now there appears to be a certain steely resolve about this group. Dustin Martin again kicked the match sealing goal, but it really was a great team effort in the last quarter to turn things around. Gordon worked hard all night resulting in a clutch couple of goals while Edwards chimed in with several crucial possession. Miles, Ellis and Cotchin were all over the ground but perhaps the best player for the night was Brett Deledio. Lids has been on fore recently and is seemingly taking a liking to his new forward/midfield role.

This week sees the team face St Kilda in another must win. It looks like an easy win on paper, but no match is ever won on paper. The Tigers must come to the game with the same mindset that has won it seven games in a row or otherwise risk throwing this game away. A win this week and a loss to either Essendon or Adelaide could see Richmond in the eight!

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Just seems to pop up in the forward line when we need him most. Another match sealing goal.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin

Inspirational in the last quarter to get the team over the line.

3 (-) Brandon Ellis 

Could be a smoky for the Jack Dyer medal with the form he has displayed.

 4 (-) Alex Rance 

Quelled a very dangerous opponent in Taylor Walker and provided drive out of defence.

 5 (-) Brett Deledio

Probably the BOG with a stellar 4 quarter performance. Becoming a dangerous forward/mid.

6 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Kept quiet again but is still doing his role.

7 (-) Ivan Maric

Beaten by Jacobs but still had an influence on the contest.

8 (-) Anthony Miles

Another good display from Miles, particularly in the 2nd half.

9 (-) Shane Edwards

Stiff not to be higher in the rankings after another great game. Just seems to influence the game at critical stages.

10 (-) Troy Chaplin

One of his best games for the year, highlighted by his diving mark in defence late in the game.

11 (-) Bachar Houli

Only 15 dipsosals, but the disposals were generally very effective.

12 (+3) Ricky Petterd

Influencing games more and more in the last month. Still has a wobbly old punt but is as hard as they come.

13 (+1) Nathan Foley

Another solid game from Foley in what has been a gradual build of form this season.

14 (+2) Nick Vlastuin

A glimpse into the future for Vlasuin with the youngster shining with larger stints in the midfield.

15 (-3) Daniel Jackson

Returned from injury in the VFL and was probably a bit rusty.

16 (-3) Reece Conca

Suspended but could return this week.

17 (+1) Chris Newman

Probably his last year but can still be relied on to make the right decision when he has the ball.

18 (+1) Dylan Grimes

Actually found a bit more of the ball this week and used it well.

19 (-2) Tyrone Vickery

Suspended.

20 (+3) Nathan Gordon

Two weeks in a row now where he has kicked a clutch goal. Elite runner who is running his opponent into the ground.

21 (+1) Benjamin Griffiths

A quiet night overall but was huge in the last minute of play, twice working hard to be involved in the defensive end.

22 (+2) Steven Morris

A return to form in the best game for the year for Morris. Kept Betts quiet and found a bit of it himself.

23 (-3) Jake Batchelor

Subbed out of the game but is still doing the job defensively.

24 (+4) Shaun Grigg

Working back to some form after returning from injury.

25 (-4) Matt Thomas

Injured.

26 (-1) Sam Lloyd

Continues to kick goals at VFL level.

27 (-1) Matthew McDonough

Didn't play at any level.

28 (+1) Matthew Dea

Finding plenty of it in VFL.

29 (+1) Ben Lennon

Returned to the seniors as the sub. Fumbled his first few touched but provided the beautiful pass to Martin for the match sealing goal.

30 (-3) Liam McBean

Kicked a couple at VFL.

31 (+1) Matthew Arnot

Finished the VFL game strongly but quiet early.

32 (+2) Brad Helbig

Continues to churn out consistent performances at VFL.

33 (-) Brett O’Hanlon

A fairly quiet VFL game from O'Hanlon.

34 (-3) Chris Knights

Unfortunately injured his hamstring in the VFL.

35 (-) Aaron Edwards

Continues to perform at VFL level.

36 (-) Shaun Hampson

Doing well in the ruck at VFL level.

37 (-) Orren Stephenson

You know the drill with Orren at VFL level. Dominant ruckman.

38 (-) Todd Elton

Defending well in the VFL.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Another good defensive game.

40 (-) Todd Banfield

Form has been pretty solid in the VFL for the last few weeks.

41 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Slowly getting some touch back after a long injury lay off.

42 (-) David Astbury

Returns to VFL this week.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Solid VFL game.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: Richmond 14.11.95 defeated Essendon 11.11.77

The dream stays alive with the sixth win in a row for the mighty Tigers. In what was the team's best performance for the year, Richmond grabbed the lead in the second quarter and fought out a hard earned win against their more fancied opponents. The best thing about the win was the Tigers' ability to respond to several challenges from the opposition. Ellis, Miles and Edwards again led the way while the performance of Griffiths made many take notice.

The equation remains simple for Richmond, they just have to keep on winning to make the finals. This week they travel to face fellow finals contenders in Adelaide in what should be a cracker of a battle. If Richmond can play with the same intent and commitment that they did against Essendon then there is no reason the dream can't last another week longer.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

When he is getting the ball he has been incredibly damaging. He's been getting it quite a bit too.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin

Just doing his thing with other players now pulling their weight.

3 (+1) Brandon Ellis

Just keeps running.

4 (-1) Alex Rance

Carlisle got a hold of him early but Rance fought back well.

5 (+1) Brett Deledio

A real solid patch of footy from Deledio. Playing more time up forward and having a real impact.

6 (-1) Jack Riewoldt

Not kicking a lot of goals but is doing all the little things in the forwardline.

7 (-) Ivan Maric

One of the key reasons Richmond were able to halt Essendon's momentum and turn the tide.

8 (-) Anthony Miles

A massive first term set the tone for the team.

9 (+1) Shane Edwards

Another good game from Edwards in what has been his best year.

10 (-1) Troy Chaplin

Played third man up well when allowed to do so.

11 (-) Bachar Houli

Using his run and carry to great effect out of the backline.

12 (-) Daniel Jackson

Injured. Returns to VFL team this week.

13 (-) Reece Conca

Suspended.

14 (+1) Nathan Foley

Providing a bit of spark with his run.

15 (+2) Ricky Petterd

Another good game from Petterd highlighted by two crunching tackles.

16 (-) Nick Vlastuin

Came on as a sub and played well.

17 (-3) Tyrone Vickery

Suspended.

18 (-) Chris Newman

Damaging with his kicking and providing great leadership down back.

19 (-) Dylan Grimes

Defence first as per usual from Grimes.

20 (+1) Jake Batchelor

Like Grimes, offense is an afterthought for Batchelor at this point. There is nothing wrong with that.

21 (-1) Matt Thomas

A disappointing game from Thomas in his 100th. Failed to have much of an impact and was subbed out. Dropped for this week.

22 (+6) Benjamin Griffiths

Lead up to the wings and took some huge contested grabs. Was a reliable target all night.

23 (+1) Nathan Gordon

Ran hard and kicked two high pressure, crucial goals for the team.

24 (-2) Steven Morris

Still strugging.

25 (-2) Sam Lloyd

Best on ground in the VFL.

26 (-) Matthew McDonough

Another solid effort in the VFL sees him on the cusp of selection.

27 (+2) Liam McBean

5 goals for the key forward sees him lead the VFL goalkicking table.

28 (+4) Shaun Grigg

Returned to the AFL team and was solid.

29 (-4) Matthew Dea

Continues to perform well at VFL.

30 (-3) Ben Lennon

Another solid game in the VFL sees him earn a call up to the AFL team this week.

31 (+2) Chris Knights

Looking really good in the VFL and could earn a late AFL game.

32 (-2) Matthew Arnot

Like all VFL players, performed well in the thrashing.

33 (-2) Brett O’Hanlon

Played across half back and did well for the VFL team.

34 (-) Brad Helbig

Found plenty of it in the middle for the VFL Tigers.

35 (+1) Aaron Edwards

A dominant key forward performance without the bag of goals.

36 (-1) Shaun Hampson

Plenty of VFL hitouts and kicked a couple of goals.

37 (-) Orren Stephenson

Usual good performance from Stephenson.

38 (-) Todd Elton

Continues to develop as key defender.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Usual solid defence from Darrou.

40 (-) Todd Banfield

Plenty of disposals from the small forward in his best VFL game for the year.

41 (+2) Kamdyn McIntosh

Played ok across half back for the VFL team.

42 (-1) David Astbury

Injured.

43 (-1) Cadeyn Williams

Did ok on the wing in the VFL.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: Richmond 13.11.89 defeated Greater Western Sydney 8.14.62

Richmond won their fifth game in a row in a scrappy affair with GWS. Nothing about the game was pretty but in the end Richmond managed to snare the four points to keep the finals dream mathematically alive. The best thing about the result was that few of the superstars had a standout game and instead, it was the likes of Edwards, Ellis and Petterd who stepped up when the game was on the line.

This week the team takes on Essendon in a Friday night blockbuster. Win and the dream is still alove. Lose and it's time to start looking forward to the draft. Let's see just how long we can keep this dream going!

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Well held by Bugg but still managed to get himself involved at times.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin

It's great to see Richmond win games even when the captain doesn't dominate.

3 (-) Alex Rance

Continues to be a consistent performer down back.

4 (+1) Brandon Ellis

Just keeps finding the ball.

5 (-1) Jack Riewoldt

Quiet game but still worked hard up forward.

6 (-) Brett Deledio

Another great game from Lids. His best month of footy this season.

7 (-) Ivan Maric

Getting better every week.

8 (-) Anthony Miles

First quiet game for the year but performed a defensive role on Ward.

9 (-) Troy Chaplin

Looking a lot more comfortable lately.

10 (+2) Shane Edwards

Another close to BOG performance. Continues to impact games.

11 (-1) Bachar Houli

Has had a solid month of footy now.

12 (-1) Daniel Jackson

Injured.

13 (+1) Reece Conca

Started pretty well but his brain fade will cost him two weeks.

14 (-1) Tyrone Vickery

Suspended.

15 (-) Nathan Foley

Finding the ball a lot more consistently lately.

16 (-) Nick Vlastuin

Not standing out but is getting the job done.

17 (+2) Ricky Petterd

Broke the game apart with his two goals up forward.

18 (-) Chris Newman

Doesn't find the ball as much as he used to but still uses it well.

19 (-2) Dylan Grimes

Defended well as per usual.

20 (+2) Matt Thomas

Battled hard and bullocked his way to 20 diposals.

21 (-) Jake Batchelor

Not getting much of the ball, but defending very well.

22 (-2) Steven Morris

Named to return this week.

23 (+1) Sam Lloyd

Another quiet game sees him dropped to the VFL.

24 (+4) Nathan Gordon

Came on as the sub and found a fair bit of it in his time.

25 (-2) Matthew Dea

Looks to be above the VFL level.

26 (-1) Matthew McDonough

Kicked a few goals as a forward as he continues to push for Afl selection.

27 (-1) Ben Lennon

Named as an emergency this week.

28 (+3) Benjamin Griffiths

Kicked a nice goal and took a couple of nice grabs in his return to the AFL team.

29 (+1) Liam McBean

Dominant key forward for the VFL team. Could debut late in the season.

30 (-3) Matthew Arnot

Rebounded from his recent poor VFL performances with a good outing.

31 (-2) Brett O’Hanlon

Continues to find a bit of the ball but could do more at VFL.

32 (+3) Shaun Grigg

2nd dominant game in a row for Grigg in the VFL sees him return to the AFL team this week.

33 (+1) Chris Knights

His return from injury is progressing nicely.

34 (-1) Brad Helbig

Didn't get enough of it in the VFL.

35 (-3) Shaun Hampson

Didn't play.

36 (-) Aaron Edwards

Consistent performances in the VFL sees him named as an emergency in the AFL team this week.

37 (-) Orren Stephenson

Dominated as the sole VFL ruckman for the VFL team.

38 (-) Todd Elton

Continues to progress as a key defender.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Typical Darrou performance.

40 (-) Todd Banfield

Not finding the ball nearly enough.

41 (-) David Astbury

Injured.

42 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Only 9 disposals in the VFL.

43 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Returned from injury at last.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: West Coast 6.6.42 defeated by Richmond 8.11.59

Four in a row for Richmond! In wet conditions the Tigers took down the Eagles at their own home ground. Most impressively, the team had control of the game for the entire four quarter. The likes of Miles and Thomas relished the wet conditions but all in all it really was a great all team effort.

Riewoldt was again very selfless in his game whil down back Chaplin looks to finally be getting back to his 2013 form. Alongside Rance, the two now seem to have everything under control in defence.

The team looks to be growing in confidence every week and with a game against GWS coming up, Richmond could well have their best ever winning streak under the coaching of Hardwick.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Found the ball a lot but also wasted a lot of disposals.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin

Quiet game by his standards.

3 (-) Alex Rance

Will be up there in the B&F despite his injuries.

4 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Another selfless game from Jack in conditions that didn't suit.

5 (-) Brandon Ellis

Continues to rack up the pill.

6 (-) Brett Deledio

Two games in a row now where Deledio has had a big influence. Underrated wet weather player.

7 (-) Ivan Maric

Went up against some quality rucks and did well.

8 (-) Anthony Miles

Could be leading the B&F voting if he played every game.

9 (+1) Troy Chaplin

Starting to find some of that 2013 form now.

10 (+1) Bachar Houli

Richmond play better when Houli plays well. No coincidence his best stretch has been in the last month.

11 (-2) Daniel Jackson

Injured.

12 (-) Shane Edwards

Continues to do a lot of the little things that count.

13 (-) Tyrone Vickery

Influential in the first half before his big hit. Suspended for 4 weeks.

14 (-) Reece Conca

Continues to work hard in the clinches.

15 (+2) Nathan Foley

One of the best Tigers in the wet. Put together a really good game.

16 (-1) Nick Vlastuin

Generally made good decisions when he had the ball.

17 (-1) Dylan Grimes

Looked slow early on before playing solidly once the rain came.

18 (+1) Chris Newman

Rebounded well from half back.

19 (-1) Ricky Petterd

Injured.

20 (-) Steven Morris

Bounced back fairly well from his dismal showing against Port but is now injured.

21 (-) Jake Batchelor

Very quiet game and got beaten by Darling on a few occasions.

22 (+2) Matt Thomas

The conditions were made for Thomas. He didn't disappoint.

23 (-1) Matthew Dea

Quiet day in the VFL.

24 (+1) Sam Lloyd

Conditions didn't suit the small forward and was subbed in the third quarter.

25 (-2) Matthew McDonough

Kicked a couple of goals as a forward in the VFL.

26 (+2) Ben Lennon

One of the best VFL tigers.

27 (-1) Matthew Arnot

Has had a few quiet games in a row at VFL level and will be looking to do more over the coming weeks.

28 (+3) Nathan Gordon

Returned to the AFL team where he came on as a sub. Did Ok in the time he got.

29 (-2) Brett O’Hanlon

Continues to do OK at VFL level.

30 (-) Liam McBean

Kicked two goals but wasn't a particularly great game from McBean. Chance to replace Vickery.

31 (+3) Benjamin Griffiths

Fighting with McBean to replace Vickery. Had the better VFL game this week.

32 (-3) Shaun Hampson

Lots of hitouts for Hampson and took a couple of grabs up forward.

33 (-) Brad Helbig

Defensively very good again.

34 (+2) Chris Knights

Quieter game from Knights this week despite the increased work load.

35 (+2) Shaun Grigg

Best VFL tiger on the day. Worked hard and found plenty of the ball.

36 (-4) Aaron Edwards

Doing his thing at VFL but it is hard to see him getting an AFL game anytime soon.

37 (-2) Orren Stephenson

Played as a key forward and did OK.

38 (-) Todd Elton

Working well as a key defender.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Not his greatest game unfortunately.

40 (-) Todd Banfield

Quiet but continues to lead the way with forward pressure.

41 (-) David Astbury

LTI.

42 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Didn't get involved enough.

43 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Injured.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: Richmond 19.12.126 defeated Port Adelaide 16.10.106

Finally, the Tigers of 2013 returned! Richmond linked up well all over the ground and refused Port Adelaide their usual run, resulting in the most impressive win of the season by far. Up forward, led by Riewoldt the defensive work was first rate while in the middle there was a real even contribution from all players involved. For once, the team did not need to rely on the superstars to get the job done, with the likes of Miles, Petterd and Ellis getting the job done through the middle. Rance was superb again down back and along with Houli and Chaplin, all played their best games for the year.

The VFL team had their best win of the season too, with the team coming from behind to knock off Geelong on their own turf. Gordon and McDonough found plenty of the ball to lead the charge but perhaps the most promising story was the return of Chris Knights.

After a week off due to the bye, the Tigers now take on West Coast at Subiaco, a test that should determine just how far the team has come over the last few weeks. Like Richmond, West Coast have been struggling a bit this year but have the cattle to form the nucleus of a very good side. The match should definitely provide a barometer for both sides to gauge where they are at.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Not as prolific as some other matches, but still contributed.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin Started slowly before finishing the game stong.

3 (-) Alex Rance Pushing for a spot in the top 2 after another great defensive performance on an in form forward.

4 (-) Jack Riewoldt Bis best game for the year, including the 11 goal haul against GWS. Defensive work was top class.

5 (-) Brandon Ellis Continues to rack up the disposals.

6 (-) Brett Deledio Probably Brett's most damaging game for the year. Finally looks to be overcoming his injuries.

7 (-) Ivan Maric Battled manfully against a quality opponent. 40 hitouts is a great return.

8 (+3) Anthony Miles The same as always for Miles. Clearance machine.

9 (-1) Daniel Jackson Quiet and now will miss a couple due to another injury.

10 (-) Troy Chaplin Best game for the year topped off with a couple of goals. His role of manning up the loose defender in Westhoff was crucial.

11 (+1) Bachar Houli The kind of performance we had been expecting from Houli. One of the more influential players on the ground.

12 (-3) Shane Edwards Couldn't quite back up last week's effort but was still a solid contributor.

13 (+1) Tyrone Vickery Kicked a couple of goals and generally worked well next to Riewoldt and as the relieving ruck.

14 (-1) Reece Conca No one can question his courage. Knocked out cold after a collision with Lobbe.

15 (-) Nick Vlastuin Didn't find a lot of it but performed his role.

16 (-) Dylan Grimes Worked well with Rance in defence.

17 (-) Nathan Foley Found a bit of the ball when given the oppurtunity but didn't have a huge impact.

18 (+2) Ricky Petterd Harassed and chased all day to notch up 9 tackles in a fine performance. Unfortunately injured now.

19 (-) Chris Newman Not finding much of the ball but his leadership is valuable.

20 (-2) Steven Morris The one Tiger to have a really down day. Injuries perhaps slowing him down?

21 (+1) Jake Batchelor Solid game in the AFL. Got the job done. 

22 (-1) Matthew Dea Solid VFL performance.

23 (+5) Matthew McDonough Played midfield in the VFL where he was a major contributor to the win.

24 (-1) Matt Thomas Emergency for the AFL team.

25 (+7) Sam Lloyd Recalled to the AFL team where he had a big impact up forward. It was his marking prowess as a small man that perhaps impressed most. Kicked 3 goals.

26 (-1) Matthew Arnot 9 disposals in the VFL was not enough.

27 (-) Brett O'Hanlon Contributed in the VFL win but wasn’t quite as impressive as others.

28 (-2) Ben Lennon Left the VFL contest in the 2nd quarter due to injury.

29 (-5) Shaun Hampson Got hitouts in the VFL but not a whole lot of disposals.

30 (+1) Liam McBean Starting to find some real form with a bag of four goals in the VFL.

31 (+3) Nathan Gordon One of the best in the VFL win, using his run to notch up 27 disposals.

32 (-3) Aaron Edwards Another good VFL performance but it is hard to see a spot for him in the AFL team.

33 (-) Brad Helbig Another strong showing from Helbig in the VFL.

34 (-4) Benjamin Griffiths Only 1 VFL goal in a disappointing outing.

35 (+1) Orren Stephenson Usual good performance from Orren in the VFL.

36 (+5) Chris Knights Returned from injury via the VFL where he was very impressive. Will be looking for more gametime this week.

37 (-2) Shaun Grigg Injured but may return via VFL this week.

38 (-1) Todd Elton Playing as a key defender.

39 (-1) Ben Darrou Continues to be a consistent VFL defender.

40 (-1) Todd Banfield Starting to find form at VFL level.

41 (-1) David Astbury LTI.

42 (-) Cadeyn Williams Kicked a goal but didn't find a heap of it in the VFL.

43 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh Injured.

Result: Richmond 12.7.79 defeated Brisbane 7.12.54

Another ugly win for the Tigers and for the first time all season the team has strung together two wins in a row. Vickery was a solid option up forward kicking four goals while the usual suspects in Cotchin, Martin and Ellis all found plenty of the ball. Alex Rance was brilliant in defence but Shane Edwards however was perhaps the best player on the ground, using his smarts to find plenty of the ball and impact the scoreboard as well.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Continues to find plenty of the ball.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin Has taken his game up a notch the last couple of weeks.

3 (-) Alex Rance Absolutely smashed his opponent again.

4 (-) Jack Riewoldt A couple more goals to his name and worked well with Vickery.

5 (-) Brandon Ellis Finding some real consistency.

6 (-) Brett Deledio A solid game from Brett.

7 (+1) Ivan Maric Bounced back from his disappointing game last week.

8 (-1) Daniel Jackson Back into the team and performed well.

9 (+3) Shane Edwards Possibly his best game for the year. Best on ground performance.

10 (-1) Troy Chaplin Worked well in defence.

11 (+2) Anthony Miles Has nearly broken into the top 10 after a string of strong performances.

12 (-2) Bachar Houli Needed to find the ball a bit more.

13 (-2) Reece Conca Starting games well but it is obvious that he isn't quite up to the same fitness after an interrupted season.

14 (+3) Tyrone Vickery Four goals is a very good return from the key forward. Grew in confidence as the game went on.

15 (-1) Nick Vlastuin Injured.

16 (-1) Dylan Grimes Didn't get much of the ball but defended well.

17 (+1) Nathan Foley An OK game from the midfielder.

18 (-2) Steven Morris Suspended for the game against Brisbane.

19 (-) Chris Newman An average return for the former captain. Doing OK but it may be his last season.

20 (+1) Ricky Petterd Found a lot of the ball but had a few clangers.

21 (-1) Matthew Dea Finding confidence after several weeks being in the team now.

22 (+1) Jake Batchelor Played well in probably his best game for the year.

23 (+1) Matt Thomas Late withdrawal.

24 (-2) Shaun Hampson Solid game in the VFL.

25 (+2) Matthew Arnot Played as a small forward/midfielder in the AFL and struggled to find much of the ball.

26 (-1) Ben Lennon Another solid outing at VFL.

27 (+3) Brett O'Hanlon Came on as the sub in his first game for the year. Did OK.

28 (-2) Matthew McDonough Very good VFL performance.

29 (-1) Aaron Edwards Had an impact in the VFL forwardline.

30 (-1) Benjamin Griffiths Only 8 disposals and a goal at VFL level.

31 (+5) Liam McBean 5 goals in a dominant VFL performance sees him a chance to be selected for AFL.

32 (-) Sam Lloyd Has had a couple of really good weeks in a row at VFL now.

33 (-2) Brad Helbig Has to be pushing for AFL selection after consistent VFL performances.

34 (-) Nathan Gordon OK VFL game.

35 (-2) Shaun Grigg Injured.

36 (-1) Orren Stephenson Usual VFL outing by Stephenson.

37 (-) Todd Elton Played as a key defender at VFL.

38 (+1) Ben Darrou Consistently does well at VFL level.

39 (+1) Todd Banfield 13 tackles in the VFL is an amazing effort.

40 (-2) David Astbury LTI.

41 (-) Chris Knights Could make his return via VFL this week.

42 (-) Cadeyn Williams Didn't play.

43 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh Injured.

Result: St Kilda 11.7.73 defeated by Richmond 18.9.117

Richmond finally got back on the winners list after comfortably accounting for cellar dwellers St Kilda. The game was ugly at times and class was severely lacking, but in the end Richmond got the job done. Miles was again a leader in the contested situation but the star was Trent Cotchin who dominated and finished the game with over 30 disposals and 5 goals. This week, the Tigers look to make it two in a row for the first time this year when they meet Brisbane at home. It should be a win, but attitude and effort like always will be one of the major deciding factors on who takes home the win.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Continues to perform well. Clear leader in B&F at this stage.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin Bounced back to top form against St Kilda. Dominated the match.

3 (+1) Alex Rance Playing well and hasn't been truly beaten for a while now.

4 (-1) Jack Riewoldt Continues to set up plenty of goals and kick a couple himself.

5 (-) Brandon Ellis Racking up the possessions. One of his best games for the year against St Kilda.

6 (+1) Brett Deledio A return to form somewhat against St Kilda but has to keep it going now.

7 (-1) Daniel Jackson Injured but named to return this week.

8 (+2) Ivan Maric Probably beaten by Longer which is very disappointing, but other than that his form has been building for a few weeks now.

9 (-1) Troy Chaplin Despite the win, Chaplin still seems to be struggling a little.

10 (-1) Bachar Houli Not as prolific as previous weeks.

11 (+1) Reece Conca Wasted it a couple of times but is beginning to find the ball consistently.

12 (-1) Shane Edwards 20 disposals and one goal was a solid return for Edwards.

13 (+1) Anthony Miles Continues to lead the way in contested situations.

14 (-1) Nick Vlastuin Looked pretty good in his stints up forward. Injured this week though.

15 (+1) Dylan Grimes Was a lot more offensive with his play against St Kilda which resulted in one of his better games for the year.

16 (-1) Steven Morris Played well but is out suspended this week.

17 (+1) Tyrone Vickery Kicked a couple of goals in a promising return from suspension.

18 (+4) Nathan Foley

Quietly getting the job done for the last month.

19 (+8) Chris Newman Looked sharp up forward where he kicked a couple of early goals.

20 (-1) Matthew Dea Subbed out in the 2nd half again.

21 (+3) Ricky Petterd Didn't have much of an impact.

22 (-5) Shaun Hampson Played in the VFL where he was showed up by fellow Tiger Orren Stephenson.

23 (+2) Jake Batchelor Didn't find much of the ball but was fairly solid defensively.

24 (-3) Matt Thomas Found the ball a bit but had a handful of clangers.

25 (-5) Ben Lennon Dropped to the VFL where he was one of the better players.

26 (-3) Matthew McDonough Played VFL where he was OK but not great.

27 (+1) Matthew Arnot Found plenty of it in the VFL.

28 (+1) Aaron Edwards Didn't play.

29 (-3) Benjamin Griffiths Injured.

30 (+2) Brett O'Hanlon Consistent form at VFL sees him selected to play in the AFL this week.

31 (-) Brad Helbig Didn't play.

32 (+1) Sam Lloyd Kicked 2 goals and found a bit of the ball in the VFL.

33 (-3) Shaun Grigg Injured.

34 (-) Nathan Gordon Not finding enough of the ball in the VFL.

35 (-) Orren Stephenson The most dominant Richmond VFL ruckman, even with Hampson playing.

36 (+1) Liam McBean Played well as a leading key forward.

37 (-1) Todd Elton Hardly touched it as a key forward.

38 (-) David Astbury LTI but slated to make a possible comeback late in the year.

39 (-) Ben Darrou Usual VFL performance.

40 (-) Todd Banfield Working hard as a VFL small forward.

41 (-) Chris Knights Injured.

42 (-) Cadeyn Williams An OK VFL performance.

43 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh Injured.

Result: Richmond 7.9.51 defeated by Sydney 9.8.62

What a dour game. Richmond had the majority of the ball and harassed Sydney but just couldn't make any progress when the ball went forward. The Swans team was clearly down on their usual output as well, resulting in a low scoring struggle with rolling packs and little excitement. For the second week in a row it's hard to fault Richmond's effort, but that polish just isn't there any more.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

Playing some really good footy, even though he does seem to waste a few kicks every now and then.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin

Started the game on fire before fading in the last quarter. Not as damaging with the ball as in the past.

3 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Kicked a couple of early goals.

4 (+2) Alex Rance

Played very well on Franklin despite the key forward kicking four goals.

5 (-1) Brandon Ellis

Racked up a lot of the ball but didn’t do a lot with it.

6 (-1) Daniel Jackson

Injured.

7 (-) Brett Deledio

Provided a bit of run but generally quiet.

8 (+1) Troy Chaplin

Working into a bit of form.

9 (+2) Bachar Houli

Starting to play some consistently good football again. The team looks a lot better when he gets a lot of the ball.

10 (+3) Ivan Maric

Looking in really good knick and is influencing the contest all over the ground.

11 (-3) Shane Edwards

Continues to chase and harass but needs to find the ball himself.

12 (-2) Reece Conca

Returned from injury and started k but seemed to run out of gas.

13 (-1) Nick Vlastuin

Worked hard across the ground but will be looking to find more of the ball in the midfield.

14 (+5) Anthony Miles

Three from three for Miles with another good outing.

15 (-1) Steven Morris

Looked a bit better this week.

16 (-1) Dylan Grimes

Defensively ok.

17 (-1) Shaun Hampson

In trouble of losing his spot now that Vickery's suspension is over.

18 (-1) Tyrone Vickery

Back from suspension this week.

19 (+1) Matthew Dea

Subbed after showing a bit early. Gave up on a chase midway through the third quarter which may have resulted in the substitution.

20 (-2) Ben Lennon

Dropped to VFL where he was one of the better Richmond players.

21 (-) Matt Thomas

Came on as the sub and had a crack.

22 (-) Nathan Foley

Not as great as last week.

23 (-) Matthew McDonough

Looking pretty solid in the VFL.

24 (+1) Ricky Petterd

Didn't find much of the ball unlike usual.

25 (+1) Jake Batchelor

Did ok without standing out.

26 (-2) Benjamin Griffiths

Injured.

27 (-) Chris Newman

Injured.

28 (+1) Matthew Arnot

Best player for Richmond in the VFL team.

29 (+1) Aaron Edwards

Took a great mark and kicked a goal but that was about it in his return to AFL.

30 (-2) Shaun Grigg

Injured.

31 (-) Brad Helbig

Continues to push his case at VFL.

32 (-) Brett O'Hanlon

A bit of a down game but still right in the selection frame.

33 (-) Sam Lloyd

Returned to some form in the VFL.

34 (+1) Nathan Gordon

Started in the VFL well before fading.

35 (+2) Orren Stephenson

A usual dominant performance at VFL from the ruckman.

36 (-) Todd Elton

No goals but seems to be going ok.

37 (-1) Liam McBean

Four disposals in a dirty day.

38 (-4) David Astbury

LTI.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Usual output from Darrou. Solid.

40 (-) Todd Banfield

A bucketload of tackles but not much out.

41 (-) Chris Knights

LTI.

42 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Continues to show something as run-with player.

43 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Injured.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: Richmond 12.13.85 def by Fremantle 16.9.105

A much better four quarter effort from the team this week as the Tigers took it right to the much more fancied opponent in Fremantle. Richmond fought and scrapped their way into the contest on several occasions during the match but in the end the team was lacking that little bit of class. Slip ups at crucial times also cost the team dearly and no doubt the club will be looking to eliminate these simple errors from their game.

Anthony Miles was again a standout for the team, once again proving he is a clearance machine and a contested ball magnet. There are several players under pressure to retain their positions in the team though, with one ruckman under particular pressure to hold his place in the team.

1 (-) Dustin Martin

A bit wasteful but found the ball a bit.

2 (-) Trent Cotchin

Handy without being superb. 8 tackles shows the workrate of the captain.

3 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Had opportunities but was wasteful in front of goal.

4 (+1) Brandon Ellis

Found a lot of the ball late but was quieter earlier in the day.

5 (-1) Daniel Jackson

Injured.

6 (+1) Alex Rance

Very handy game from the key back. Repelled well and had a lot of the ball.

7 (-1) Brett Deledio

Need him to lift a cog or two.

8 (+1) Shane Edwards

Didn't kick a goal but was lively around the ground. Needs a little bit more consistency from quarter to quarter.

9 (+1) Troy Chaplin

One of the better games of the year for Chaplin, could he be returning to the form of last year?

10 (-2) Reece Conca

Injured but should be back to play.

11 (+1) Bachar Houli

Two weeks in a row of good form by Houli. The team looks a lot better when he is up and about.

12 (-1) Nick Vlastuin

A down game from Vlastuin but will be looking to bounce back.

13 (+3) Ivan Maric

Great to have the flying mullet back. Still working into form but the lift he gives the team is obvious.

14 (-1) Steven Morris

Not the same Morris as last year. Clearly struggling with that shoulder.

15 (-) Dylan Grimes

Quiet game from Grimes. Needs to get more involved.

16 (-2) Shaun Hampson

Not finding the ball nearly enough since the return of Maric.

17 (-) Tyrone Vickery

Suspended.

18 (+1) Ben Lennon

Came on as the sub and had an impact.

19 (+3) Anthony Miles

2nd game in a row at AFL and Miles impressed yet again. The question has to be asked why he wasn't playing earlier.

20 (+3) Matthew Dea

Nothing flashy but gets the job done across half back.

21 (-) Matt Thomas

Suspended but back this week.

22 (+2) Nathan Foley

Starting to see the Foley of old. Foley's best game in a while.

23 (-5) Matthew McDonough

Played a defensive role in the VFL and did well.

24 (-4) Benjamin Griffiths

Quiet during VFL game and now injured.

25 (+1) Ricky Petterd

Found the ball and seems more comfortable in the senior team.

26 (+7) Jake Batchelor

Doing ok in the backline but could find a little more of the ball. Perhaps fighting with Grimes for the last defender spot.

27 (+2) Chris Newman

First game back and one of his best for the season.

28 (-3) Shaun Grigg

Injured.

29 (+1) Matthew Arnot

Great game at VFL and is probably next in line.

30 (+5) Aaron Edwards

Lead well and marked strongly but failed to impact the scoreboard.

31 (-) Brad Helbig

Pushing for selection after another good game at VFL.

32 (-) Brett O'Hanlon

Like Helbig, consistent performances at VFL have him in the selection mix.

33 (-5) Sam Lloyd

Most likely behind Helbig and O'Hanlon, but played one of his better VFL games for the year.

34 (-7) David Astbury

LTI.

35 (-1) Nathan Gordon

Returned to some form at VFL.

36 (+1) Todd Elton

Didn't find much of the ball at VFL.

37 (-1) Orren Stephenson

Didn't play at any level.

38 (-) Liam McBean

Kicked three goals but not much else in the VFL.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Played OK after quarter time.

40 (+2) Todd Banfield

Quiet again and seems to be struggling.

41 (-1) Chris Knights

Injured.

42 (+1) Cadeyn Williams

One of his best VFL games for the year. Kicked 2 goals and found the ball.

43 (-2) KamdynMcIntosh

Injured.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: North Melbourne 17.14.116 def Richmond 13.10.88

A game of two halves. Richmond came out of the blocks fired up, tackled hard and completely harassed the opponents into submission. In the second half though the effort completely evaporated and when the game was up for grabs, no Richmond player stood up and carried the team forward. Result; another big loss.

Vlastuin and Miles both looked comfortable in the middle for the Tigers in what was a forgettable night otherwise.

1 (+1) Dustin Martin

Takes top spot after being the best Tiger yet again, albeit with only one great half.

2 (-1) Trent Cotchin

Drops a spot, playing OK but not great.

3 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Junk time goals are perhaps inflating his stats a little but Jack is the least of Richmond's problems.

4 (-) Daniel Jackson

Injured.

5 (-) Brandon Ellis

One of the better Tigers out there.

6 (-) Brett Deledio

Barely sighted for the match.

7 (-) Alex Rance

Did ok but like the rest of the team struggled when the momentum swung against Richmond.

8 (-) Reece Conca

Injured.

9 (+1) Shane Edwards

Eight tackles shows a good work rate and was one of the few who didn't completely disappear.

10 (-1) Troy Chaplin

Completely towelled up by Petrie in the second half after a very good first half. Seemed to panic a lot when the high ball came in.

11 (+3) Nick Vlastuin

Was brilliant in the first half when playing in the middle. Should see more game time there as a result.

12 (-1) Bachar Houli

One of the better Richmond players with 30 disposals.

13 (-) Steven Morris

Struggling this year but no one else on the list can fill his role.

14 (-2) Shaun Hampson

Dropped for this match but earns a reprieve due to Vickery's suspension.

15 (-) Dylan Grimes

Injured but returns this week.

16 (+4) Ivan Maric

Looking better again and should be back to his best soon.

17 (-) Tyrone Vickery

Fired up early but faded with little supply in the second half. Suspended.

18 (+1) Matthew McDonough

Looked to have cemented a place in the team with his neat foot skills and composure across half back but has bee dropped for this week.

19 (-1) Ben Lennon

Came on as the sub when the game was already gone.

20 (-4) Benjamin Griffiths

Not having anywhere near the impact he had at the beginning of the season and as a result has been dropped.

21 (-) Matt Thomas

One of the best Tigers on the night but will miss a week due to suspension.

22 (+4) Anthony Miles

One of the real bright lights for the night. Finally got the chance to debut for the club and fought hard against the tide to rack up 19 diposals, with more than half contested.

23 (+2) Matthew Dea

Looking more comfortable in the team with every passing week. Not standing out, but not playing badly either.

24 (-) Nathan Foley

Played the full game this week and provided a little drive. Still a fringe player.

25 (-) Shaun Grigg

Injured.

26 (+2) Ricky Petterd

Returned to the team and was far from disgraced.

27 (-4) David Astbury

LTI.

28 (-1) Sam Lloyd

Bye.

29 (-) Chris Newman

Injured but returns this week.

30 (-) Matthew Arnot

Bye.

31 (+2) Brad Helbig

Emergency for the week, getting closer to a game this year.

32 (+2) Brett O'Hanlon

Emergency for the week, getting closer to a game this year.

33 (+4) Jake Batchelor

Returned to the team and was OK for the majority of the contest.

34 (-3) Nathan Gordon

Bye.

35 (-3) Aaron Edwards

Bye. Returns to the senior lineup this week.

36 (-1) Orren Stephenson

Bye.

37 (-1) Todd Elton

Bye.

38 (-) Liam McBean

Injured.

39 (-) Ben Darrou

Bye.

40 (-) Chris Knights

Injured.

41 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Bye.

42 (-) Todd Banfield

Bye.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Bye.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Bye.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: Essendon 15.14.104 def Richmond 7.12.54

Another week, another disappointing display from the Tigers. After smashing GWS the week beforeit was thought by many that the confidence may have grown within the group and the team would have a real chance of beating the Bombers. The effort that was dished up however was quite simply terrible. Most fans can live with skill errors and the like when the team is working and playing hard, but when the team puts in the kind of lacklustre performance that it did against Essendon then things get real frustrating.

The effort is likely to see many changes this week, which could and probably should see the long awaited inclusion of tough nut Anthony Miles. The match against the Roos will be a difficult one, with North Melbourne always being a strong team at Etihad Stadium. A lot of things will probably need to go right to get the win, but the first step is putting in some hard work and effort. From there, anything could happen.

1 (-) Trent Cotchin

Not the same sustained brilliance as earlier in the season.

2 (-) Dustin Martin

Finding some real consistency. A few more games like this could see him take the number 1 spot.

3 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Kicked three goals late when the game was over.

4 (-) Daniel Jackson

Looked to have the same injury as last week but carried on.

5 (+1) Brandon Ellis

That's a few good games in a row from Ellis. Starting to find more of the ball.

6 (-1) Brett Deledio

A bit of a down game from Lids, needs to impact the game more as one of the senior players.

7 (-) Alex Rance

Not one of his finer performances.

8 (-) Reece Conca

Still tackling but not finding the ball nearly as much as he needs to.

9 (-) Troy Chaplin

Like Rance, seemed to struggle under the constant pressure.

10 (+2) Shane Edwards

Not a bad performance is a losing side.

11 (-) Bachar Houli

Found a bit of the ball but the run and carry is gone.

12 (-2) Shaun Hampson

Subbed off at half time and in danger of losing his spot now that Maric is back.

13 (+1) Steven Morris

Continued in the small defensive forward role but not having much impact on games.

14 (-1) Nick Vlastuin

Should be back this week.

15 (+2) Dylan Grimes

Just going along, probably needs to do more.

16 (-1) Benjamin Griffiths

Barely sighted and could lose his position in the team.

17 (-1) Tyrone Vickery

Dropped to VFL where he put in a solid performance.

18 (+2) Ben Lennon

One of the few positives over the last couple of weeks.

19 (-) Matthew McDonough

Not as much influence as in other games but looks safe in the side for now.

20 (+5) Ivan Maric

The return of the Mullet was one of the few positives. Out performed Hampson and could have the ruck role to himself now.

21 (+2) Matt Thomas

Tough as ever and 7 tackles reflects his attitude to the game.

22 (-) Shaun Grigg

Playing more defensive but we have missed his link up play.

23 (-5) David Astbury

LTI.

24 (-) Nathan Foley

Continually the sub. Needs a full game at either VFL of AFL level.

25 (+3) Matthew Dea

Doing ok since returning to the team.

26 (-) Anthony Miles

Surely this is the week he gets selected.

27 (-6) Sam Lloyd

4 disposals and 1 goal at VFL level is not enough.

28 (+2) Ricky Petterd

Continues to shine for the VFL team.

29 (-2) Chris Newman

Injured.

30 (+1) Matthew Arnot

Best game for the year at VFL.

31 (-2) Nathan Gordon

Didn't play at any level.

32 (-) Aaron Edwards

Continues to present and kick goals for the VFL team.

33 (-) Brad Helbig

Finding some real consistency across half back for the VFL team.

34 (-) Brett O'Hanlon

Like Helbig, consistent performances could see him in the selection frame for an AFL game.

35 (-) Orren Stephenson

Continues to dominate the ruck at VFL.

36 (-) Todd Elton

Injured at half time of the VFL game but managed one goal.

37 (+1) Jake Batchelor

Not finding as much ball as in past VFL games.

38 (-1) Liam McBean

Injured.

39 (+1) Ben Darrou

Solid defensively again before getting injured at half time.

40 (-1) Chris Knights

Injured.

41 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Didn't play after half time due to an injury.

42 (-) Todd Banfield

4 disposals is not enough at VFL, or any level for that matter.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Utilised as a tagger to great effect.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: GWS 5.11.41 def by Richmond 24.10.154

The team had a massive win against GWS this week and in a dominant performance there were plenty of good players with Jack Riewoldt and Dustin Martin leading the way. You would have to think that the team's confidence should have grown from that performance and hopefully this confidence can be carried over into the game against Essendon.

Thanks to the poor start to the season, every game is almost a must win for Richmond and this one is no exception. Essendon is in a similar position to the Tigers which makes this a gettable game and if the boys can get an early lead the confidence should only grow. A win here and maybe, just maybe the season can be salvaged.

1 (-) Trent Cotchin

Started slowly but worked his way into things.

2 (-) Dustin Martin

Two games in a row now where he has been one of the best players.

3 (+1) Jack Riewoldt

11 goals! What a performance from Jack after the week he had leading into it.

4 (-1) Daniel Jackson

Injured early.

5 (-) Brett Deledio

Starting to find some form.

6 (-) Brandon Ellis

One of his best games for the year. Has to back it up now.

7 (+1) Alex Rance

The team looks a heck of a lot better when Rance is in the team and playing well.

8 (-1) Reece Conca

Finding the ball and continues to lead the way in tackles.

9 (-) Troy Chaplin

Best game for the year by far but has to do it against quality opposition.

10 (+1) Shaun Hampson

Beat a quality opponent in Shane Mumford.

11 (+1) Bachar Houli

Provided plenty of drive from half back.

12 (+1) Shane Edwards

Continues to provide creativity and pressure but still needs to find the ball a little more.

13 (-3) Nick Vlastuin

Injured.

14 (+1) Steven Morris

Looked pretty good as a defensive forward, Completely quelled Heath Shaw.

15 (+1) Benjamin Griffiths

Still doing fairly well, next step is to find the ball more, which means getting to more contests.

16 (+2) Tyrone Vickery

Solid outing as a key forward and a ruck.

17 (+2) Dylan Grimes

Jeremy Cameron was no match and with Astbury out he should keep his spot in the team for a while.

18 (-4) David Astbury

Injured.

19 (+1) Matthew McDonough

Looks like a composed player and is setting well into the team.

20 (+1) Ben Lennon

Two games and two impressive performances.

21 (-4) Sam Lloyd

Dropped but was first emergency and flew to Sydney with the team.

22 (+1) Shaun Grigg

Four tackles is a nice return for a player who is finding more of the contested ball.

23 (+5) Matt Thomas

Returned to the team and was one of the best, using his big body to full affect against the younger opponents.

24 (+2) Nathan Foley

Came on as the sub early and looked very good. Provided a vintage Nathan Foley highlight with a breakaway from the centre square running goal.

25 (+5) Ivan Maric

Could be the big return to the lineup this week after dominating at VFL.

26 (-1) Anthony Miles

Can't be far off debuting now that he has been promoted. Another solid performance at VFL.

27 (-3) Chris Newman

Injured.

28 (+5) Matthew Dea

Played well across half back.

29 (-7) Nathan Gordon

Struggled in the VFL. Needs to find some form.

30 (-3) Ricky Petterd

Continues to shine at VFL in a midfield role.

31 (-2) Matthew Arnot

Has the talent, but needs consistency. One good quarter at VFL is not enough.

32 (-1) Aaron Edwards

Probably too good for VFL, but still a few ahead of him in the pecking order.

33 (-1) Brad Helbig

Good defensive game and has found consistency at a half back.

34 (+1) Brett O''Hanlon

Continues to push for AFL selection after another solid performance.

35 (-1) Orren Stephenson

Injured during the VFL game and didn't have his usual dominance.

36 (-) Todd Elton

Injured during the VFL game.

37 (-) Liam McBean

Injured.

38 (-) Jake Batchelor

Injured.

39 (-) Chris Knights

Injured.

40 (-) Ben Darrou

Beaten by his opponent for one of the few times this year.

41 (+1) Kamdyn Mcntosh

Played mainly across half back.

42 (-1) Todd Banfield

7 tackles shows the pressure he can apply.

43 (-) Cadeyn Williams

Only 6 disposals for the match.

44 (-) Jake King

Result: Richmond 9.20.74 def by Melbourne 14.7.91

In honour of Richmond's horror performance against Mebourne I am putting as little detail and effort as possible in this weeks'rankings. The fact I missed most of the coverage of this game may (What a blessing!) be a reason for this as well. So without further ado: Richmond performance vs Melbourne - horrible.

1 (-) Trent Cotchin

Passable.

2 (+1) Dustin Martin

One of the better players.

3 (+1) Daniel Jackson

Consistent.

4 (-2) Jack Riewoldt

Disappointing.

5 (-) Brett Deledio

Still finding touch.

6 (-) Brandon Ellis

Not enough influence.

7 (-) Reece Conca

Inconsistent.

8 (+4) Alex Rance

More important with no Astbury.

9 (-1) Troy Chaplin

What's gone wrong?

10 (-1) Nick Vlastuin

Injured during game.

11 (-) Shaun Hampson

Subbed off.

12 (+1) Bachar Houli

Not providing the same drive.

13 (+2) Shane Edwards

Handy.

14 (-4) David Astbury

Shining light now gone.

15 (-1) Steven Morris

Not the same player.

16 (-) Benjamin Griffiths

Wasteful.

17 (+1) Sam Lloyd

OK.

18 (-1) Tyrone Vickery

Little influence.

19 (+1) Dylan Grimes

Astbury gone, importance increased.

20 (+3) Matthew McDonough

Showing signs.

21 (+7) Ben Lennon

Good debut after coming on as sub.

22 (-3) Nathan Gordon

No influence at VFL.

23 (-2) Shaun Grigg

Struggling, wasteful.

24 (-2) Chris Newman

Injured.

25 (+2) Anthony Miles

Promoted at last.

26 (+4) Nathan Foley

Fringe player.

27 (-2) Ricky Petterd

Dominating VFL.

28 (-4) Matt Thomas

Solid at VFL.

29 (-3) Matthew Arnot

Quiet in VFL.

30 (+1) Ivan Maric

Fit at last.

31 (-2) Aaron Edwards

Good at VFL.

32 (+1) Brad Helbig

Consitently doing well at VFL.

33 (+7) Matthew Dea

Looking real good since returning.

34 (-2) Orren Stephenson

Not as dominant as usual.

35 (-1) Brett O'Hanlon

Doing pretty well.

36 (-) Todd Elton

Smokey recall to seniors? Probably not based on form.

37 (-2) Liam McBean

Injured during VFL game.

38 (-1) Jake Batchelor

Injured during VFL match.

39 (-1) Chris Knights

Injured.

40 (+1) Ben Darrou

Great again as VFL full back.

41 (-2) Todd Banfield

Not bad at VFL.

42 (-) Kamdyn McIntosh

Not playing.

43 (+1) Cadeyn Williams

Little impact at VFL.

44 (-1) Jake King

Result: Geelong 11.15.81 def Richmond 12.4.76

Richmond were defeated but at last showed some sort of resembelance to the team that nearly made top 4 in 2013. In what was clearly Richmond's best game for the season the team gave away an early lead before taking the game right up to one of the best teams in the competition. The run and drive was finally back and the return of both Rance and Deledio was certainly noticeable. The most encouraging sign though was the performance of the second tier players the likes of Conca and Ellis who put in one of their best performances for the year.

In even more encouraging news the VFL team blew away the Geelong team with Ben Griffiths dominating up forward and Miles once again killing it in the middle.

This week the senior team take on Melbourne in what simply is a must win. A loss would pretty much put an end to any finals aspirations the club may have. If the team takes in the Geelong form though then this match should not pose too much of a problem.

1 (-) Trent Cotchin

Tagged but still managed to have some sort of impact.

2 (-) Jack Riewoldt

Starting to find some real form. Kicked two goals and had a real presence around the ground.

3 (-) Dustin Martin

One of Martin's better games so far, found the ball 28 times and used the ball very well.

4 (-) Daniel Jackson

Continues to be one of the best Richmond players since returning from injury.

5 (-) Brett Deledio

First game back and it was noticeable how much drive he gives the midfield. Looked rusty early but was back to his usual standard later in the game.

6 (-) Brandon Ellis

Another fairly good game from Ellis, beginning to find the ball like he did in 2013.

7 (+1) Reece Conca

Perhaps Conca's best game for the club. Worked hard, provided pressure on the opposition and run all over the ground. Was great inside with 10 tackles a real testament to his game. After working back from injury earlier in the year he seems to be back to his best.

8 (-1) Troy Chaplin

Still not reaching the height of 2013 but looked a lot more comfortable with Rance back in the team.

9 (+1) Nick Vlastuin

Still playing fairly solid football without having a stand out performance yet in 2014.

10 (+1) David Astbury

Continues to stand the best key forwards in the game and more often than not beats them. Easily the breakout player of 2014.

11 (-2) Shaun Hampson

Still dominating the hitouts but perhaps needs to influence the contest around the ground more.

12 (+1) Alex Rance

First game back from injury and was simply superb. With Astbury holding down fullback Rance was able to run off his man and provide rebound from defensive 50.

13 (+2) Bachar Houli

Starting to regain some of his previous form. Adds a lot to the team when on song by linking up and rebounding the ball well from defensive 50.

14 (-) Steven Morris

Not having quite the impact of his debut season but is still an important key in locking down the opposition's best small forward.

15 (+1) Shane Edwards

Came on as the sub and had an immediate impact, kicking two goals in the process.

16 (-4) Benjamin Griffiths

Unlucky to be dropped from the AFL team but handled the demotion very well. Cleaned up at VFL level and kicked 4 goals in the third quarter alone. Can't keep him out for long if he keeps it up.

17 (+3) Tyrone Vickery

Returned to the AFL team and had an impact both up forward and around the ground. Should hold his place in the team.

18 (+1) Sam Lloyd

Returned possibly his best performance in his short career by kicking three goals straight.

19 (-2) Nathan Gordon

After a couple of very solid weeks, Gordon struggled to find the ball against Geelong and was subbed out at half time.

20 (-2) Dylan Grimes

Dropped to VFL level where he put in a solid performance in a dominant win.

21 (+4) Shaun Grigg

Along with Houli, looks the best when the team is up and going. 5 tackles for the match show that he is not purely an outside runner either, although he does perform that role very well.

22 (-) Chris Newman

Possibly his best game for the year providing rebound from defence before injury struck late in the game. Likely to miss several weeks as a result.

23 (+3) Matthew McDonough

Looked good again and is showing real signs of being a very handy player.

24 (-3) Matt Thomas

Emergency for the VFL team and didn't play at any level.

25 (-1) Ricky Petterd

Dropped to the VFL where he put in a great display through the midfield, particularly in the first half when the game was hot.

26 (-3) Matthew Arnot

Played across half forward for the VFL team and kicked a goal.

27 (-) Anthony Miles

Yeah, you know the drill by now. Dominated again in the VFL.

28 (-) Ben Lennon

Could be the replacement for Chris Newman after putting another good performance across half back and in the forward line. Seems a classy player with 19 disposals at over 80% efficiency.

29 (+5) Aaron Edwards

Returned to the senior team a played a solid role as the lead up forward.

30 (-1) Nathan Foley

30 disposals, 8 clearances and 7 tackles suggest that Foley is finding some touch. Disposal efficiency was a bit poor however.

31 (-1) Ivan Maric

Should return from injury this week via the VFL.

32 (-) Orren Stephenson

Another dominant performance at VFL level with 61 hitouts for the match.

33 (-2) Brad Helbig

Starting to add consistency to his game at VFL level where he has been playing across half back.

34 (-1) Brett O'Hanlon

Like Helbig, O'Hanlon is starting to find consistency at VFL level. Perhaps the most promising sign of his performance was the 9 tackles.

35 (-) Liam McBean

Provided a target up forward for the VFL team and kicked two goals for the day.

36 (+1) Todd Elton

Playing well as both a key forward and key back for the VFL team. Promising signs.

37 (+1) Jake Batchelor

Intercepting well across half back but not finding the ball as often as in the past.

38 (-2) Chris Knights

Still injured but could be returning shortly.

39 (-) Todd Banfield

Provided pressure up forward but needs to find the ball more if he wants to press for AFL selection. 

40 (+3) Matthew Dea

Returned to VFL action after a long injury lay off and was great in the 3 quarters he played.

41 (-1) Ben Darrou

Continues to shut down the opposition's key forward in the VFL and could be a smoky to earn a promotion to the senior list.

42 (-1) Kamdyn McIntosh

Provided run and used the ball well. Building into a solid season.

43 (-1) Jake King

Long term injury.

44 (-) Cadeyn Williams