Jack wins it for the Tigers2:21
AFL: Richmond have come from behind to beat Melbourne in a thriller at the MCG. The Demons lead at every change, but thanks to six goals from Jack Riewoldt, the Tigers continued their best start to a season, since 1995.
AFL Richmond vs. Melbourne (MCG) Damien Hardwick after the win (N) Picture: Wayne Ludbey
RICHMOND does not want to engage top-of-the-ladder Adelaide in a shootout when the AFL’s No.1 attack meets the league’s stingiest defence on Sunday.
Tigers coach Damien Hardwick has been thrilled with his backline’s ability to “stem the flow” at stages this season, including during Melbourne’s first-quarter dominance on Anzac Eve.
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The Crows are averaging a staggering 133 points per game and while Richmond is one of five teams also averaging three figures, it wants a “dour” affair when the undefeated clubs face off.
Adelaide has slotted 47 goals in the past fortnight and also led the AFL for scoring in 2016.
“We wouldn’t be hoping for a shootout. We’ve got to stop them to win,” Hardwick said today.
The Crows are the AFL’s No.1 club for offensive ball movement and Hardwick said denying halfback dashers Rory Laird, Brodie Smith and midfield jets Rory Atkins and Rory Sloane space was crucial.
Crow Rory Sloane has been in dominant form. Picture: Tom HuntleySource:News Corp Australia
“If you allow them to play with speed they’ll hurt you. So we’ve got to slow them down,” Hardwick said.
The Tigers are 5-0 for the first time since 1995 while the Crows have been crunched into premiership favouritism, along with GWS.
Richmond poured over vision of Andy Otten this morning and believed Daniel Talia trained this week and could play.
The All-Australian defender hurt his hamstring last week and the Crows would probably turn to Kyle Hartigan to stop superstar Jack Riewoldt if Talia does not come up.
“Defensively we’ve got to be on our game, because that’s where it’ll be won or lost,” Hardwick said.
“It’s going to be a groundball battle. I think we’re AFL No.1 and they’re No.2.”
Damien Hardwick celebrates his side’s win over Melbourne with star forward Jack Riewoldt. Picture: Getty ImagesSource:Getty Images
Hardwick said Brownlow Medal fancy Dustin Martin “warmed” into last week’s win after barely training due to groin soreness, but had recovered well.
But ruckman Shaun Hampson has suffered a setback with his back injury and has been sent offsite to add pilates to his rehabilitation program.
Hardwick praised Toby Nankervis’s impact around the ground as the physical ruckman firms as the best recruit of the season.
The Tigers wanted Nankervis, 22, in the 2013 draft and were armed with pick 50, but Sydney swooped at No.33.
Toby Nankervis has been an instant success in yellow and black. Picture: Michael KleinSource:News Corp Australia
But they traded pick 46 for him last year, beating premier Western Bulldogs to his signature.
“His ability to compete around the ground, it’s like having another midfielder in there,” Hardwick said.
“He’s just one of those players that competes really hard.”
Hardwick confirmed concussion victim Ben Griffiths’ season was in doubt after suffering a knock in the VFL on Saturday.
“He’ll have some testing done. We’re still very confident with Ben will be available to play at some stage this year,” Hardwick said.
“We’ll give him an extended break just to make sure that we tick all the boxes with that.
“When that is, that’s up to Ben and the doctor to decide. We’ve just got to support Ben and make sure his welfare is first and foremost.”
Daniel Rioli (centre) with teammates Reece Conca and David Astbury. Picture: Getty ImagesSource:Getty Images
Hardwick liked Daniel Rioli’s ability to lift teammates after the emerging star helped trigger Richmond’s stirring comeback win against the Dees.
“He’s finding his way. His impact on the game like his cousin (Cyril) in a way, probably only needs 12 touches to have a significant impact.
“He’s got a propensity to make players around him better, just through his touch.”
Rioli, 20, is in coming months expected to re-sign until 2020.
Originally published as Tigers to put slows on high-scoring Crows
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