In an imperious display that is sure to send a shiver up the rest of the finals competitors, Sydney have claimed the minor premiership in the most emphatic of ways.
» Re-live all the action with our live blog
A 70m running goal from Gary Rohan to open Sydney’s tally set the tone for the match, as the Swans continually cut through the Richmond defence time and time again.
It was a ruthless performance worthy of premiership favoritism, in which the Swans decimated the Tigers in all facets of the game to have the result wrapped up halfway through the second quarter.
Superstar Buddy Franklin made a late charge at the Coleman Medal as he booted 7.4 in what was a best on ground performance. Franklin was ably supported in the forward line by a resurgent Ben McGlynn and Gary Rohan who kicked 5 and 4 goals respectively.
But it was Franklin who shone the brightest, making Alex Rance’s 150th a game one to forget for the Tigers gun.
In a display that is sure to draw the ire of Tigers fans and the media, Richmond were listless for large portions of the game, managing only one goal in the first half.
Although the Tigers were thoroughly beaten in the disposal count, they also lost the tackle count 55-46, to a Swans team that gave them a lesson in pressure and desire.
Captain Trent Cotchin was one of the few Tigers who could hold his head up, after trying hard all day and ended the day with 23 disposals and three consolation goals in the final term.
Dustin Martin was another who toiled away for Richmond leading the Tigers with 33 disposals.
On the other side of the field it would be hard to pick a best three for the Swans with numerous players contributing for the win.
Josh P Kennedy dominated the contest with 37 disposals and added two goals to the total, while skipper Kieren Jack was solid after missing last week due to an ankle injury.
Final score
Sydney Swans 25.14.164
Richmond Tigers 7.9.51
The Roar’s AFL MVP votes
3 – Lance Franklin
2 – Josh Kennedy
1 – Tom Mitchell
Cat
Roar Guru
Recent record is no better than a few other sides. Sydney could win it, but so could a few others.
Momentbymoment
Guest
The club rebuilt in an off season and will be taking their motley group of youngsters and rookies deep into the finals. Go the bloods!!
Kishan Badrinath
Roar Guru
The Swans are peaking at the right time, should be hell of a Sydney derby in two weeks.
Swannies
Guest
Swans were simply awesome on Saturday and have made a clear statement. They will not repeat 2014 and will go all of the way. Buddy, McGlynn, Tippett and Rohan are set to explode in the finals. Hannebery and Mitchell ooze class. Timing is everything and Longmire has his team playing finals footy at the right end of the season. 2016 is the year of the Red and the White!
Jack
Guest
Border line tanking