Proud coach Damien Hardwick has lauded Richmond’s AFL resurgence, saying they are capable of the ultimate in this finals series.
The Tigers confirmed the double chance with Sunday’s 41-point win over St Kilda at the MCG.
“I’m really proud of this group and this club overall,” Hardwick said.
“We had a really horrible year last year, but this is our fourth finals series in five years – we’re a pretty good footy club.
“We haven’t had a lot of luck along the way. I’m incredibly proud of this group of players and what they represent and how they play for our fans … they’re a pleasure to coach.”
The rub of the green is falling the Tigers’ way, with the qualifying final against Geelong to be played at the Tigers’ MCG home.
The Cats finished second and Richmond third, meaning by rights the game should be played at Simonds Stadium.
But it is the only Victorian final in week one and there is no way the AFL will forego an MCG crowd of up to 90,000 compared to Simonds Stadium’s 36,000.
This season has been a massive turnaround for the Tigers.
After three losing elimination finals, they dropped out of the top eight last year and there was intense speculation about Hardwick’s future.
There was also an unsuccessful board challenge in the off-season.
Sunday’s win was in stark contrast to Richmond’s round-16 disaster, where they lost to the Saints by 67 points.
Since that fork in the road, Richmond have only lost once – to Geelong at Simonds Stadium.
After that match, Hardwick said the home crowd undoubtedly affected the free kick count.
Now, Richmond will have the advantage of their Tiger army.
“I have been privileged to be at some wonderful clubs, but when I hear that song after the siren goes, you actually feel it on the ground,” Hardwick said.
“It’s pretty special and they’ll show up in force, they always do.
For all their success, Richmond will need all the help they can get against Geelong.
They have lost their last 13 games against the Cats and only won once in the last 21.
Hardwick said the Tigers simply had to accept that bad record and the attention it receives.
“We also know if we play our best, we’re capable of beating anyone,” he said.
Slane
Guest
You know Etihad teams have to play their finals at the MCG too, yeah? MCG tenants also have to play a home game at Etihad every year too. The only teams that get a home ground advantage for every game are the interstate teams but they have to play the Grand Final at the MCG anyways.
Neil from Warrandyte
Guest
Because Geelong aren't interstate to Melbourne. Also, perhaps it's possible that Geelong (without actually admitting to it) agrees that the final should be at the MCG to accommodate as many of their members as they can. Simmonds has a flaw- it's too small to accommodate the big matches. Would Essendon play Collingwood in a final at Ethiad if it was their home game?
Alicesprings
Guest
The atmosphere will be electric. Hopefully flying down for this one. These finals games have a way better atmosphere than the GF for mine. Close to 100k supporters of the respective clubs. Cant beat it.
Alicesprings
Guest
Its ridiculous. The game should be played at Geelong's home ground. What's the point it striving for a top 4 finish if you are not rewarded? The recent hysteria around the Geelong Richmond game remaining at Geelong was farcical enough..imagine the uproar if the final was to be played down there. At the end of the day the AFL isn't an even competition. The clubs in NSW and QLD have exclusive academies, the GF is always played in Melbourne, Collingwood has around 16 games at the MCG (their home ground), the home and away season goes for 23 rounds despite the fact there are 18 clubs etc etc.
Zed16
Guest
Geelong have earned the right to determine where this final is played as they finished above the tigers and why should they give up the advantage of their home-ground. Interstate clubs get to play at home so why should it be different for Geelong?
Mattybon
Guest
Credit where it's due indeed. This websites slowly becoming about personalities as opposed to footy facts,some really poor commentary going unquestioned. I remember people like tibor calling this mid last season and he's been proven to be bang on the money. Tigertime is now very real.
Neil from Warrandyte
Guest
Wouldn't be at all surprised if the Tigers end their 2 hoodoos- Geelong and a finals victory in the one match. Geelong this time around won't have the advantage of an umpiring bias as supporters of both sides will have equal access to be a part of what should be an amazing game. Should be an incredible atmosphere with over 90,000 screaming fans
rusty
Roar Rookie
Yeah na. Hopefully Richmond can win a final but zero chance of winning the big one.
Cat
Roar Guru
You said the same thing a few weeks ago, you couldn't beat a depleted Geelong side then, you won't now.
Swannies
Guest
Credit where it's due. Richmond are a different team this year and deserve respect. They can go all the way if they play to their potential. Melbourne will be buzzing if Tigers go all the way.
HomeGroundRippoff
Guest
I agree. Geelong should be very afraid of playing a team that has home ground advantage and a team AFL House would love to see win a flag.
truetigerfan
Guest
Carna Tigers! Eat 'em alive! Be afraid, Geelong. Be very afraid. Our time is now!