One-Eyed Richmond Forum
Football => Richmond Rant => Topic started by: one-eyed on September 07, 2019, 10:58:38 PM
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Ch 7 just said our Preliminary Final is on the Friday night, 20th September @ 7.50pm.
Pies play on the Saturday. So we get the extra half-day to prepare.
Anyway, so who do you want to play in the Prelim: Geelong or the Eagles?
Edit: Geelong it is.
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West Coast seem the more dangerous especially with nicnat back. In saying that, bring on whoever!
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West coke are 100 times more dangerous than Geelong.
If the cats can perform a miracle we will have already won the preliminary before it’s even played.
We will smash Geelong.
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Here's the dates and times for the next two weeks of finals from the AFL website.
Week 2 Toyota AFL Finals Series
First semi-final
Friday, September 13
Geelong v West Coast at the MCG, 7.50pm AEST
Second semi-final
Saturday, September 14
Brisbane v Greater Western Sydney at the Gabba, 7.25pm AEST
Week 3 Toyota AFL Finals Series
Second preliminary final
Friday, September 20
Richmond v Geelong or West Coast at the MCG, 7.50pm AEST
First preliminary final
Saturday, September 21
Collingwood v Brisbane or Greater Western Sydney at the MCG, start time TBC
(https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/FinalspathwaySF.jpg)
https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-07/who-plays-who-in-weeks-two-and-three-of-the-finals
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We will play GWS or Brisbane. Can’t see Collingwood winning.
Richmond vs GWS. (If we get passed West Coke - won’t be easy).
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Any team is dangerous and unpredictable in finals. I don’t think anyone would have thought gws would have rolled the bulldogs to that extent today. On paper west coast are more dangerous being reigning premiers but if Geelong get on top I wouldn’t take them lightly because Ablett isn’t going to play that many shockers and you can’t just let danger Selwood and Kelly rack up ball at will.
But we’re the a new outfit in the Balme era and definitely any team any where any time!!
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I reckon we will get Geelong in the Prelim
They are going to be hurting big time.
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Geelong. WCE are the most dangerous team.
Cats, Pies look crap. Lions too raw. GWS could have a shot tbh. Glad Lids won't be out there for them haha. WCE the most dangerous.
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Rather play Geelong. West Coast have a complete ream, Geelong has a few that are not quite up to it.
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Rather play Geelong. West Coast have a complete ream, Geelong has a few that are not quite up to it.
The full 500 sheets.
:lol
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Geelong no question
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Don't write off Geelong next week. Remember when they beat Sydney against the odds in 2017.
However think we'll destroy them.
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Whichever team has the most injuries and suspensions. Let's hope for a brawl with 6players a side suspended. 😧 It would be good to watch too.
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We are clear favourites.
Like last year we all know it only takes one bad game and a couple of poor selection decisions to ruin the whole season.
It’s ours to lose. Let’s hope we don’t stuff it up. :pray
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We won't choke again in a Preliminary final.
The whole season has been building to this moment.
It's redemption time.
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I reckon Westcoke will belt sooky lala's pussies, different leagues imo. We worked out the eagles nicely last time and I reckon we were doing just that, hauled em in beautifully. Finals are always a whole new level and I reckon we are gonna be a bigger handful than last time for em and its back at our digs.
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'Hands full either way': Fierce battle awaits Tigers, says Astbury
Sumeyya Ilanbey
The Age
12 Sep 2019
Richmond’s star defender David Astbury says a fierce battle awaits the Tigers next week and that they “will have their hands full” irrespective of who wins on Friday night.
West Coast and Geelong clash at the MCG this weekend, with the winner earning the right to face Richmond in the preliminary final the following week.
“They’re two quality teams and we’ll have our hands full either way,” Astbury said.
“I’m sure it’ll be a great battle. There are six teams left in the competition and there are no easy games.”
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/sport/afl/hands-full-either-way-fierce-battle-awaits-tigers-says-astbury-20190912-p52qnn.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed
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Looking like it's going to be the Cats based on the first quarter. The Eagles haven't turned up to play. Aside from a couple of good tackles here and there, there's been no pressure on Geelong so far. McGovern has cost the Eagles two goals and Darling has also dropped marks.
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Looks like cats
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It will take a major choke for Geelong to lose this. 5 goals up midway 2nd quarter with the Eagles only with 2 goals.
I'd guess the good thing is there will be no surprises if we do end up playing Geelong. This is the best they can play and they are moving the ball more quickly tonight from marks. Gives Dimma and co. a week to analyse this and break it down. Obviously, you can't give any team this much space as the Cats are getting.
Edit: Make that 4 goals up.
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Hold my beer!! Anyone's game. Is Danger injured??
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We should beat both these sides
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Back to 10 pts at HT lol.
Happy for this to be a close tiring game and end up a draw with extra time :yep.
Hold my beer!! Anyone's game. Is Danger injured??
There were rumours in the lead up that he may have hurt his ribs last week.
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You're right, Bruce. Us Tiger supporters are loving this. Close and tiring game.
Hawkins in trouble for that swinging arm to Schofield's head?
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You're right, Bruce. Us Tiger supporters are loving this. Close and tiring game.
Hawkins in trouble for that swinging arm to Schofield's head?
should, but wont, because noone else has been done for months
got up quickly
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Bring on the cats
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Does Hawkins get suspended?
Sorry, of course he won’t be.
Should Hawkins be suspended?
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Does Hawkins get suspended?
Sorry, of course he won’t be.
Should Hawkins be suspended?
Yes...1 week. Deliberate, high and medium contact = 1 week off :lol
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Off the ball like Dusty's earlier, probably should get a week but zero chance.
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Home and away game it would be a week as it was high, intentional and off the ball plus Schofield stayed down for a while. However, they don't rub out the name players in finals. It'll be classed as "insufficient force" because Schofield eventually got up and played on and Hawkins will cop a fine at the most.
As for the game, the Eagles ran out of juice after playing catch up footy. They weren't playing Collingwood in a Granny tonight. You can't give top sides 5 goals start and expect to win. We need to come out firing at the start of game next week after having the week off.
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He’ll get a week.
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He’ll get a week.
He wont. You watch ;)
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He’ll get a week.
He wont. You watch ;)
I think it’s pretty clear he gets a week....
And better still if he does, que the whinging!
I hate Chris Scott.
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With or without Hawkins should be no issue for me if we play 4 quarters.
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2nd Preliminary Final
Richmond vs Geelong
Friday, 20th September @ the M.C.G.
Start time: 7:50 pm
(https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/Finals-Pathway_1280-x-730-V1.jpg)
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Friday 90% chance of 20-40mm
Looks like it will be very wet
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Geelong copped the full force of a pro-Richmond crowd in 2017 but Dangerfield said the Cats were keen to play in front of a packed house - regardless of whether the Tigers had bigger numbers.
"I don't think it gets you off your game - you love hearing it," he said.
"There's nothing like a packed crowd. You'd prefer it to be your own supporters but you appreciate it for what it is, when it is the opposition. So you want to play in (front of) as big a crowd as possible."
Dangerfield emphasised the importance of Geelong retaining possession against the Tigers, whose game is built on manic pressure and rapid transition.
"When they generate movement from their back half, every single player moves forward and really looks to press and overlap," Dangerfield said.
"So we've got to make sure we don't turn the ball over in positions where it's impossible to defend, continue to give our forwards a good look and chop out our defenders where possible.
"They're an incredible side, they have been for a long time. They've got a great contribution of even players and then they've got some superstars in there as well."
https://wwos.nine.com.au/afl/dangerfield-undaunted-by-afl-tigers-test/cd6291eb-86fc-4058-849b-45b7be07122f
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He’ll get a week.
He wont. You watch ;)
I think it’s pretty clear he gets a week....
And better still if he does, que the whinging!
I hate Chris Scott.
Couldn't agree more.
The afl will find a way for him to play.
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Geelong copped the full force of a pro-Richmond crowd in 2017 but Dangerfield said the Cats were keen to play in front of a packed house - regardless of whether the Tigers had bigger numbers.
"I don't think it gets you off your game - you love hearing it," he said.
If they loved playing in front of big crowds then Geelong wouldn't keep sooking about playing home games in finals at the 'G.
If Chris Scott believes in giving the home/higher ranked team the maximum advantage in finals then he'll now agree to Richmond supporters having first access to tickets and filling the 'G a la GWS-Prelim-style leaving just a few hundred tickets aside for away Cats fans :wallywink.
The Big Boo will be baaaaaaaaaaack! ;D
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Tickets on sale from Monday, September 16 via Ticketek
On-sale time TBC
https://www.richmondfc.com.au/finals
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He’ll get a week.
According to commentary on vfl Hawkins offered a week.
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Yep. Hawkins has got a week.
Classed as intentional, high contact and low impact = one week.
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Charge Laid:
Tom Hawkins, Geelong Cats, has been charged with Striking Will Schofield, West Coast Eagles, during the third quarter of the Semi Final match between the Geelong Cats and the West Coast Eagles, played at the MCG on Friday September 13.
In summary he can accept a one-match sanction with an early plea.
Based on the available evidence, the incident was assessed as Intentional Conduct with Low Impact and High Contact. The incident was classified as a one-match sanction.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-14/match-review-officers-full-statement-w2-finals-part-one
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So he now pleads guilty and cop a fine?
I am still sceptical of the afl in finding some way of Hawkins getting away with it.
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He’ll get a week.
According to commentary on vfl Hawkins offered a week.
And he’ll play. They will make it happen.
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So he now pleads guilty and cop a fine?
I am still sceptical of the afl in finding some way of Hawkins getting away with it.
No guilty pleads now. They will challenge by saying it was careless and not intentional. His only chance. May have a sneaky chance too as he didn't clench his fist although I'm not sure what his arm was doing swinging that way.....
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So he now pleads guilty and cop a fine?
I am still sceptical of the afl in finding some way of Hawkins getting away with it.
No fine
1 week
If they got to tribunal, which they will and he is found guilty it is still a week
If the Tribunal say not guilty he plays
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Geelong will challenge as it's a free hit at the tribunal.
They only have three avenues:
(i) Argue intentional down to careless. Unlikely to succeed as it was 50m off the ball but with the tribunal you never know.
(ii) Argue high contact down to body contact. Is there any other camera angles? They could try to claim Hawkins got Schofield in the 'neck' and not the head.
(iii) Argue low impact down to "insufficient force". That depends on the Eagles' medical report (?). If Schofield has no lasting effects and given he played on then Geelong could try to claim the force was insufficient to warrant a suspension.
If it was a H&A game then Hawkins would have no chance. But it's a Prelim and the AFL wants its name players playing in finals to maximise crowds and TV ratings.
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Ch 7 news just had Chris Scott saying they are going to try a lack of intent line.
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It’s one week and grateful it is not more. Every expert getting around is saying the same so he will get off :whistle
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LOL well I thought West Coke would be too classy but guess we get to belt the pussies next week. I got my tear tasting glass read for bwad scots meltdown
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It’s one week and grateful it is not more. Every expert getting around is saying the same so he will get off :whistle
Of course he'll get off..... :shh
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If Soldo and Dusty cop a week for their pissy little hits with zero impact then Hawkins has no hope
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If Soldo and Dusty cop a week for their pissy little hits with zero impact then Hawkins has no hope
Yep, this.
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He is gone, it's also 3rd striking charge this year lol, he has already got a week.
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If Soldo and Dusty cop a week for their pissy little hits with zero impact then Hawkins has no hope
Hawkins will be available to play next week. And the handbaggers + the media in general will point to Cotchins luck in 17 as their justification.
Greene did not even get a week for one of the most appalling acts I’ve seen on a football field for some years. Just to give some context to the judiciary panels’ mindset.
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What did tony Greene actually do? It can look as bad as u want but the footage never showed any eye gouging was just something someone said and which everyone ran with. All you could see was hair pulling and some forearm to the face/head. The definition of misconduct and was punished for that offence.
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We're gonna smash these "has beens ".
Not even worthy to be on the same ground as us.
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You can't hit someone 50m off the ball in the head with a swinging arm.
It's a weeks rest every day of the week but they will probably try to get it downgraded to careless rather than intentional. That my friends will be the biggest crock of sh..ite..
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Careless': There's more than one way to spin a Cat's intent
Jake Niall
The Age
15 September 2019
No Geelong player posed a greater threat to Richmond than Tom Hawkins, whose provisional one-match ban for high contact on Will Schofield shapes as the most consequential match review case in finals since Trent Cotchin escaped suspension for the bump that concussed Dylan Shiel in the 2017 preliminary final.
For Hawkins and the QC Geelong engages to put his case at the tribunal, there appears to be only one avenue for challenging the suspension.
Michael Christian's grading of high contact and low impact can't be reversed. Clearly, the only grounds for freeing Hawkins will be the question of intent, with Hawkins having to argue that his swipe at Schofield was careless conduct rather than intentional, as Christian has graded it.
So, the case will be quite narrow.
Geelong will be looking at the behind-the-goals footage, hoping that they can show Schofield impeded Hawkins and that, therefore, the forward's strike was driven by an attempt to free himself from the defender and thus a careless, not intentional blow.
While Hawkins at first contacted the Eagle in the neck, not the head, this doesn't matter because any blow above the shoulders is deemed as high.
The fundamental problem for Hawkins is that the incident took place off the ball, not in play. If the ball was thereabouts, he wouldn't be facing suspension, given that the blow wasn't forceful.
It would be a fine at worst and while the Cats would still enter the preliminary final as clear underdogs - Richmond's form and cohesion mark the 2017 premiers as superior - Hawkins is one of the only Geelong players for whom the Tigers don't have a suitable match-up.
David Astbury has been superb this season during Alex Rance's absence, but he's not well-equipped for those weight-trading one-out contests that the powerful Tomahawk won decisively against West Coast.
Geelong people were, not surprisingly, grumbling about the recent escapes of Toby Greene. Marcus Bontempelli and Nic Naitanui before Hawkins had even been given a week.
As a shrewd and practical club, they'll leave Tomahawk in the hands of their preferred QC and hope sharp lawyerly work - perhaps in concert with a biomechanist and/or video expert - can persuade the tribunal, while planning on the basis that Hawkins will be replaced.
Assuming Hawkins is out, then Chris Scott, who cops more unwarranted criticism than any other premiership coach (blamed for losses, seldom credited for victories like other coaches), will need to conjure something special to overcome Richmond.
There are several options for replacing Hawkins and re-modelling the forward line:
1. Bring back Lachie Henderson and push Harry Taylor forward.
Taylor booted four goals in the round 21 clash against the Tigers in 2017 when Hawkins was suspended, surprisingly out-pointing an off-key Rance. But that game was played at the Cattery - an alternate universe, compared with the Tigers at the MCG. Taylor, too, has slowed further and won't get much space on the lead.
2. Push Taylor forward and bring in someone else who's not (very) tall.
It's arguable that, if Mark Blicavs plays back, he can take Tom Lynch, Tom Stewart could stand Jack Riewoldt and that there's no need for an additional Geelong tall. Esava Ratugolea played probably his best game yet for the Cats on Friday night - he could be the sole legitimate tall in a mobile forward line alongside Gary Ablett, Luke Dalhaus, Gryan Miers and Quinton Narkle, with one medium-tall option.
Gary Rohan, obviously, is an option to play in attack - he can provide a target, if he's cleared fit after a knee injury against the Pies.
3. Play Patrick Dangerfield forward more, and bring in a midfielder, eg Scott Selwood or Charlie Constable.
To throw Dangerfield forward for most of the game would be audacious, in view of what the Cats would lose on the ball. Dangerfield had a low possession game and quiet first half against West Coast, but his second half was critical in the Geelong reversal of West Coast's momentum.
Dangerfield's marking is exceptional for a 189cm midfielder - some of his plucks on Friday night were redolent of Royce Hart. Dangerfield, though, would likely get manned by Richmond's premier defender Dylan Grimes, whose pace and height makes him the ideal blanket for this type of opponent.
Selwood's inclusion contains a further subplot. He could be used to tag - or at least attempt to tag - the AFL's most destructive on-field weapon, Dustin Martin.
4. Throw Jack Henry forward, pick a midfielder or flanker.
The 191cm Henry has been used forward on occasion. He can mark, but doesn't appeal as a major scoring threat. His value would the contest he would provide and his willingness to fight to keep the ball in Geelong's attacking territory, while he could occupy Grimes at times.
A content and focused Richmond, meanwhile, can sit back, hope that Hawkins stays suspended and plan for the various outcomes. The last meeting of the clubs in round 12 - when the Cats thrashed an under-strength Tiger team - will be as irrelevant as that game at Geelong in 2017.
With or without Hawkins, the Cats will need to produce an exceptional performance against an unwavering and rested Richmond. If the Hawkins' case will be decided by the question of "intent,'' they'll need far more than fierce intent on Friday.
https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/geelong-s-only-hope-for-hawkins-and-options-without-him-20190914-p52rc0.html
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I would like to know how they rate the Hawkins hit as “low impact”
Schofield went down and was more than just dazed IMO.
Low impact should be if a player rubs his head and basically gets straight back up and plays on- Schofield was clearly more hurt than that and was not impressed with it as you can see from the footage after the game when Hawkins apologised.
To be honest I don’t care either way if Hawkins plays as we need 2 more wins and i would prefer to beat those whinges with no excuses... but the fact is he hit Schofield and deserves a week.
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Second preliminary final: Richmond v Geelong
Peter Ryan
The Age
15 September 2019
Richmond will start overwhelming favourites to bounce back from last season’s shock preliminary final loss against Collingwood and defeat Geelong on Friday night at the MCG if Tom Hawkins is unable to have his one-match suspension reduced to a fine on appeal.
Hawkins’ absence could well remove the Tigers’ biggest weakness, which is coping with the game’s best power forwards without champion defender Alex Rance who has been missing since round one with a knee injury.
The Cats opened Richmond up during a brilliant patch of football in round 12 when Geelong was at their best and the Tigers were battling to keep their head above water as injuries decimated their line up in the first half of the season.
But since that result the Tigers have won 10 games in succession following the bye, finishing third and charging into premiership favouritism after they defeated the Brisbane Lions in last week’s qualifying final.
Geelong have been inconsistent after the bye but they showed in their semi-final win over West Coast they are capable of matching it with the best despite many pundits writing them off after their disappointing effort against Collingwood.
HISTORY LESSON
Richmond broke a 13-game losing streak against the Cats when they defeated Geelong in the 2017 qualifying final and proceeded to win two tight clashes in 2018 before the Cats thrashed the Tigers at the MCG in round 12 this season by 67 points.
The Tigers were without Jack Riewoldt, David Astbury, Brandon Ellis, Shai Bolton, Nathan Broad, Toby Nankervis, Jayden Short and Kane Lambert in round 12 while the Cats will have Sam Menegola and Quinton Narkle replacing Mitch Duncan and Jordan Clark from that game.
Hawkins kicked four goals in round 12 matched up on Ryan Garthwaite as the Cats resisted an early onslaught from the Tigers kicking seven goals in the second quarter after being held goalless in the first quarter.
X-FACTOR
No surprises in the Tigers’ X-factor with key forward Tom Lynch in much better form than he was when the two teams met in round 12. The former Gold Coast skipper crossed to Richmond for this moment, playing in front of 90,000 people in a big final under lights at the MCG and the game arrives with the 26-year-old in good form having kicked 30 goals in the past 11 games.
The Cats have used Mark Blicavs in defence, in the ruck and on the wing in the past three games remaining unafraid to defy popular opinion to use them where they think he can help the team best. Who knows what they have up their sleeve against Richmond but Blicavs – who remains an outstanding defender – is a wildcard that will test the Tigers planning.
TACTICS
It starts at the centre bounce with the territory battle critical to the result. Richmond are ranked third in the AFL for inside 50 differentials and have Dustin Martin, Trent Cotchin, Shane Edwards and Dion Prestia ready to take on Patrick Dangerfield, Joel Selwood, Tim Kelly and Cam Guthrie at ground level.
Whichever team gains ascendancy in that area will be able to get their turnover game going with the two teams the best in the competition at creating scores from turnovers and locking the opposition in their back half.
Geelong hunted the ball against West Coast and were much braver when they moved it, instinctive decisions allowing them to recover from mistakes more effectively and the constant movement ensuring numbers ran to support.
The Tigers just push the ball forward in any manner to create a scoring chance and will force the Cats midfielders to work back with their ability to steady when challenged critical.
In the end attitude will be more important than any tactical initiative as Geelong showed in the first two rounds of the finals with their pressure much higher against the Eagles and their willingness to take the game on obvious.
Reducing champion goalkicking midfielder Dustin Martin when he goes forward will be critical but the Cats’ Jed Bews and Jake Kolodjashnij are both capable opponents.
PREDICTION
Geelong will start well again and test Richmond’s defence which was a little leaky early in both round 22 and the qualifying final.
However, the one-match ban of Hawkins increases the degree of difficulty for Geelong not only removing a major avenue for goal but taking Richmond’s main problem away.
They can now play David Astbury on Esava Ratugolea and Dylan Grimes on anyone without having to ask themselves whether they need additional defensive back up.
That tips the scales in the Tigers favour with their experience in the past two preliminary finals likely to hold them in good stead as they seek passage through to the grand final.
If, however, Hawkins is cleared then the equation changes.
Richmond by 17 points
https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/second-preliminary-final-richmond-v-geelong-20190914-p52rc6.html
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Meanwhile, Trent Cotchin has empathy for Tom Hawkins after the Geelong forward received a one-match suspension for striking West Coast defender Will Schofield in Friday's semi-final.
"Yeah I do (have empathy for Hawkins). I mean, the reality is you want everyone playing - whether it's injury, suspension - we want all of our best players playing the game or everyone given an opportunity," Cotchin said.
"But it is what it is."
Cotchin faced a nervous wait in 2017 after a bump on GWS's Dylan Shiel in the preliminary final but was found to have no case to answer for the contact, leaving him free to play in that year's decider.
He said waiting for a review of his incident hadn't played on his mind as the Tigers prepared for the Grand Final - which they won - as he focused on the team rather than his own fate.
"It didn't (play on my mind) really," he said.
"I think I was more so celebrating in the fact that we had made it through to our first grand final in a long time and I was just excited about the opportunity for our club, not so much myself.
"And I think that held me in pretty good stead with my thinking and how I prepared that week anyway."
Source: AFL website (https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-15/no-2018-demons-for-tigers-as-they-focus-on-little-moments)
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Jane Bunn on Ch 7 news tonight said up to 10mm of rain hits Friday evening into Saturday morning.
Friday 20 September
Summary
Min 16
Max 21
Showers increasing.
Possible rainfall: 4 to 10 mm
Chance of any rain: 80%
Melbourne area
Cloudy. High (80%) chance of showers, most likely later in the day. Winds northerly 30 to 45 km/h turning westerly 15 to 20 km/h later in the day.
http://www.bom.gov.au/vic/forecasts/melbourne.shtml
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McGuane: How Cats can fill Hawkins void
Mick McGuane
Herald Sun
16 September 2019
If Tom Hawkins fails in his bid to avoid suspension for this week’s preliminary final against Richmond, how can the Cats replace him?
The Geelong spearhead has long been the focal point of his side’s attack and his absence will put the pressure on Esava Ratugolea to be the No. 1 man up forward.
But Collingwood great Mick McGuane says the return of Gary Rohan and ability of Harry Taylor to pinch hit in attack can cover for Hawkins’ absence.
While he’s tipping the Tigers, McGuane has identified the pair as crucial if Geelong stands any hope of an upset.
HOW THEY PLAY
In many ways, these two teams are just about complete opposites.
Richmond loves chaos. It’s all about a surge mentality, keeping the ball in motion and moving it forward by any means possible.
The Tigers’ ball movement and ability to hurt teams off turnover is a strength and they are not afraid to use the corridor.
Geelong is all about contest and controlling the tempo of the game, through careful ball movement around the boundary as they bring the ball out of their back half.
The Cats are the hardest team to score against from turnovers this year as a result.
But Richmond ranks No. 1 in that stat since the bye, also boasting strong defensive foundations.
RICHMOND
THE KEY
Keep the ball moving. Slow ball movement is only going to suit Geelong’s back six and let them get set. It’s all about surge and metres gained through forward handball and forward kicks for the Tigers. Since the bye, the Tigers have averaged 63 points a game from turnovers, ranked No. 1 in the competition, on the back of winning an average of 76 intercept possessions. Turnover is where they do their most damage and why playing fast is a priority.
THE CHALLENGE
If the long-range weather forecast is right, the challenge will be defensive 50 ground ball hunt for the Tigers. A predicted wet night will suit the Cats, who are the best ground ball team in the competition and boast strong ground-level players forward in Gary Ablett, Luke Dahlhaus, Tom Atkins and Gryan Miers. We know Richmond has strong intercept marks in Nick Vlastuin and Dylan Grimes, but if the ball gets to ground level the Cats could do some damage.
THE THEME
Serve it up to the Cats in the contest. Geelong has been the No. 1 contested ball team in the competition all season and won count against the Eagles by 23 on Friday night. While Richmond tends to step up this area of its game in finals, it hasn’t been a strength across the season but needs to be here.
IF I WAS RICHMOND …
I’d be sending Dylan Grimes to Patrick Dangerfield when he spends time forward, which might happen a lot more without Tom Hawkins in the Cats’ attack.
David Astbury goes to Esava Ratugolea and then I’d give Nick Vlastuin, Nathan Broad and Bachar Houli scope to roll off their opponents and lead the Tigers’ intercept game.
Around stoppage, Jack Graham has to go to Tim Kelly in a run-with role.
Kelly is not generally the first possession winner for the Cats, but he often kickstarts their offence with the first handball or kick out of congestion.
Graham needs to be accountable and ensure he is not a bee to a honey pot around the ball.
GEELONG
THE KEY
It’s all about the contest for the Cats. They were strong in the air and at ground level against West Coast last week and it showed on the scoreboard. In its qualifying final against Brisbane, Richmond lost contested ball in the first quarter by 14 before getting itself back into the game with improvement in that area. To give themselves the best chance, the Cats must dominate contested ball throughout the match.
THE CHALLENGE
The selection table. What does Chris Scott do in the absence of Tom Hawkins? Hawkins has played every game this year and kicked 56.32 which is a huge chunk of Geelong’s score. His absence leaves Esava Ratugolea as No. 1 forward. He was super against the Eagles as the second-fiddle, but will draw a lot more focus without Hawkins by his side. He must make a contest and at least get the ball to ground.
THE THEME
Continue to play the Cats way. The Tigers want ping-pong chaos. Geelong can’t afford to let that happen. Geelong games this year average the fourth-fewest turnovers and it’s because of their control by foot through a boundary line, slow-kicking game from the backline which protects turnovers. The Cats have to ensure they retain that style to keep the game on their terms.
IF I WAS GEELONG ….
First thing is first — selection.
If Gary Rohan’s fit, he comes in for Hawkins. A forward for a forward, albeit different types of players. Start Rohan out of the goalsquare.
I’d also be entertaining the selection of Jordan Clark, if he’s fit, given the opposition and his ability to play on the Richmond small forwards.
Tom Stewart must go to Dustin Martin when the Tigers’ star spends time forward.
Joel Selwood must again be in the thick of the action around the ball as he was on Friday.
And I’d swing Harry Taylor forward as various stages during the game, but not permanently.
Esava Ratugolea is going to need some support at some stage without Tom Hawkins.
PREDICTION: Richmond by 20
MATCH ODDS (TAB)
Richmond $1.40
Geelong $3.00
FLAG ODDS
Richmond $2.30
Geelong $5.00
INJURIES
RICHMOND
Sydney Stack (ankle) indefinite
Jack Higgins (brain bleed) season
Alex Rance (knee) season
GEELONG
Gary Rohan (knee) test
Jordan Clark (elbow) test
Mitch Duncan (knee) 1 week
Tom Hawkins (suspension) 1 week
Jordan Cunico (ankle) season
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/geelong/mick-mcguane-preliminary-final-preview-richmond-v-geelong-how-can-cats-cover-for-suspended-tom-hawkins/news-story/774a4d33689815032dde0660a8f2a2b4
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95,000 expected according to the MCG website.
https://www.mcg.org.au/whats-on/events-calendar/2019/september/richmond-v-geelong-cats
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8 changes since we last played Geelong.
WHO DIDN'T PLAY IN ROUND 12?
Richmond
- Jack Riewoldt
- David Astbury
- Toby Nankervis
- Jayden Short
- Kane Lambert
- Nathan Broad
- Brandon Ellis
- Shai Bolton
Geelong
- Jed Bews
- Quinton Narkle
- Sam Menegola
That’s a key chunk of the Tigers’ current backline — that faced Brisbane just over a week ago — along with three-time Coleman medallist Riewoldt and premiership ruckman Nankervis.
Former Essendon and St Kilda great Brendon Goddard said Geelong wouldn’t be taking too much notice of their previous meeting against the Tigers.
“I don’t think the Cats are that naive that they’ll say ‘We’ll be taking a fair bit of confidence from that’ because they the Tigers) were a totally different team,” Goddard told Channel 7.
“And Richmond have been the best team in the competition, hands down, over the last eight weeks.”
Asked of that game against Richmond after his side’s semi-final win, Scott acknowledged his squad would face a new-look Richmond but he wasn’t completely discounting the match.
“The last time you played a team’s relevant,” Scott said.
“Tonight it was round 5 (that we last played West Coast) ... yeah they (Richmond) had a few players out (when we played them last time).
“I think they’re playing better than they were. It’d be easy enough for them to convince people of that, but it doesn’t mean nothing.”
While the Tigers have welcomed back some big names the Cats, on the flip side, will be without supreme ball user Mitch Duncan and almost certainly Tom Hawkins when the teams meet this week.
Hawkins was vital in round 12, having the better of young Tiger Ryan Garthwaite on his way to four goals.
Geelong’s barnstorming first half of the home and away season culminated in that 67-point demolition of the Tigers, with the Cats’ yoyo-ing since their bye as they’ve followed a strict lose-win pattern in their past 12 matches.
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/richmond-to-field-far-stronger-lineup-against-geelong-than-earlyseason-mcg-meeting/news-story/b3f975fb98b82801a17ae5922335f459
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God I hope we knock the cats out and send Chris Scott sulking into the press conference
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God I hope we knock the cats out and send Chris Scott sulking into the press conference
Me too....
My dislike for that wanker isn’t healthy but I cannot help it.
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Hawkins out! :clapping
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The AFL website is tipping us to win by around 3 goals.
Preliminary final preview: Richmond v Geelong
AFL.com.au
Sarah Black
Sep 16, 2019
Where and when: MCG, Friday September 20, 7.50pm
What it means for Richmond: A win will add another chapter to the extraordinary story of the Tigers' 2019 season. They dropped as low as ninth mid-year, have had four on-field captains, and suffered injuries to a raft of big-name players.
What it means for Geelong: A chance to get the preliminary final monkey off the back. The Cats have lost their past three opportunities to get into the Grand Final, in 2017, 2016 and 2013.
The stat: Richmond was without eight of its current best 22 the last time these sides met in round 12, resulting in a 67-point loss for the Tigers. David Astbury, Shai Bolton, Nathan Broad, Brandon Ellis, Kane Lambert, Toby Nankervis and Jack Riewoldt all missed the clash.
The match-up: Dustin Martin v Patrick Dangerfield
While the two are unlikely to go head-to-head, the dynamic superstars will go a long way to influencing their teams' fortunes, capable of dominating in the middle or out of the goalsquare. 'Danger' is ranked fifth in the AFL Player Ratings, while 'Dusty' is seventh.
It's a big week for: Gary Ablett
Could a loss signal the end of Ablett's storied career? The Little Master struggled to get into last week's semi-final win, finishing with 14 touches and zero goals, his third-lowest tally for the year. But you can never write off an Ablett in September.
Big call: Dan Rioli has a habit of hitting his straps during finals and will kick three goals.
Prediction: Tigers by 17 points.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-16/preliminary-final-preview-richmond-v-geelong
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Mitch Duncan has been ruled out for the Cats. Gary Rohan expected to come in for Hawkins.
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl-daily-rolling-footy-news-for-tuesday-september-17/live-coverage/f8f63e15c3d2d554b9e154abb143d61a
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Can the Cats beat Richmond without Tom Hawkins?
Niall Seewang, Jake Michaels and Matt Walsh
ESPN
17 September 2019
NS: It obviously makes it a lot tougher but recent history suggests the Cats should have a glimmer of hope without their main attacking focal point. Remarkably, Geelong have won seven out of their past eight games without Hawkins including wins over Collingwood (twice) and Richmond in the past three years. That should give Chris Scott's team some confidence that all is not lost. Their best chance will be to turn Friday night's contest into a low-scoring scrap, considering they boast the stingiest defence in the league this year.
JM: Of course the can, but I really don't think they will. Since the mid-season bye, Richmond is averaging 99.4 points per game and while Geelong's defence is the best in the competition, they just aren't restricting the Tigers to less than 75 points on Friday night at the MCG. I just don't see how the Cats can kick 12 or 13 goals to win without a guy who has won the last eight consecutive Geelong leading goalkicker awards.
MW: They're going to find it tough. As Jake says, the Tigers have been scoring with ease in recent weeks, and the Cats simply don't have the firepower to go with them. Geelong will need to somehow keep the Tigers to no more than 10 or 11 goals to be in with a sniff, and with Hawkins -- arguably one of the comp's most accurate key forwards -- missing, it's hard to see where 12 or 13 goals are going to come from.
https://www.espn.com/afl/story/_/id/27628500/afl-round-table-where-luke-hodge-go-2001-re-draft
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Lachie Henderson is likely to replace Tom Hawkins on Friday night against Richmond Tigers at MCG.
https://twitter.com/TheRealBozza1
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The same lachie Henderson we always embarrass at the G?
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Why versatile Cat should get run-with role on red-hot Tiger
By SEN
19 Sep 2019
Terry Wallace believes Geelong should consider using utility Mark Blicavs in a run-with role on Richmond superstar Dustin Martin.
Blicavs, 28, has played in a variety of positions throughout his 157-game career, but has excelled in a key defensive post in 2019, winning selection in the initial 40-man All-Australian squad.
A tactical reshuffle saw the dual best and fairest winner deployed on a wing in the Cats’ semi-final win over West Coast, underlying his flexibility and elite endurance.
With Martin looming large, Wallace thinks Blicavs has the tools to quell the Brownlow Medallist that could sway the midfield battle in Geelong’s favour.
“I would love to see him (Blicavs) take on Dustin Martin,” he told SEN Afternoons.
“He’s taken on (Scott) Pendlebury in the past. He hasn’t got a definitive role that they absolutely desperately need him for.
“He can be a backup ruckman, he can be backup as a defender, they didn’t need him there for the last few weeks. The wing role was ok; wasn’t a dominate role … to me he can go with Martin.
“He can take him as a backman, he can take him through the middle of the ground, he’s got a tank where Martin is not going to get rid of him from that area.
“It allows you to have (Patrick) Dangerfield, (Joel) Selwood, (Tim) Kelly and (Cam) Guthrie all up your sleeve. If it actually works - if you can take out their best, you might be able to get control of the middle of the ground completely.”
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2019/09/19/why-versatile-cat-should-get-run-with-role-on-red-hot-tiger/
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Wallace also said Geelong to win need to:
(i) target us in the first quarter and catch Richmond before they get their sea legs given they have played only one game in 25 days.
(ii) Dominate the clearances.
If Richmond sticks with Geelong for the first 45 mins like what happened in the 2017 QF then Richmond will win.
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Why a Tigers-Pies grand final is not necessarily a certainty
Wayne Carey
The Age
19 Sep 2019
Since the pre-finals bye was introduced, the sample size on any advantage is obviously small. In 2016, both teams who had a week off before the preliminary final lost.
In 2017 that was reversed, while last year West Coast made the grand final after the week off before meeting Collingwood, who hadn't had the same luxury.
That makes it three-all so far. It'll be really interesting to see how that unfolds over a longer period.
For Geelong, riding the momentum of last week's victory and backing up seven days later could be crucial given the troubles they've often had in first quarters.
Catch Richmond a tad sluggish early on and they can get going and get their confidence up, much like they did in their semi-final against the Eagles.
Of course, starting well doesn't always mean winning. Last year's grand final is a case in point. But for the most part, an early lead in finals is incredibly hard to overturn.
Tom Hawkins will certainly leave a big hole in the Cats' forward-line, and while there's no doubt they are clearly a better team with him in it, I can't help but think there might be a silver lining to his absence.
The Tigers are incredibly well-drilled in defence. We know how well the likes of Dylan Grimes, David Astbury and Nick Vlastuin can read the play and intercept the footy.
In the past they would have always planned around Hawkins and supporting whoever happened to be playing on him.
But without Hawkins there could be a level of unpredictability about the Cats if they make the right decisions and use the ball well.
That decision-making is the key.
They've still got the talent, whether it be Esava Ratugolea, Harry Taylor heading forward or Patrick Dangerfield spending more time one-out inside 50.
While Hawkins would have commanded a fair amount of the supply simply by his presence, he would have in turn been more predictable to the Tigers. Now that predictability is gone.
It's also worth noting, last week, albeit with Hawkins, the Cats played smart enough footy to keep Jeremy McGovern to just one intercept mark. They also exposed Tom Barrass.
The big question is, can they reproduce that more daring play when they're faced with the Tigers' trademark forward pressure?
It looms as a fascinating battle.
https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/why-a-tigers-pies-grand-final-is-not-necessarily-a-certainty-20190919-p52szi.html
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It appears from the latest forecast it will remain fine on Friday night.
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Good night for 2 big key forwards
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Cats brace for fast-starting Tigers
Steve Larkin
AAP
September 20, 2019
GEELONG is bracing to withstand a Richmond firestorm in the opening quarter of tonight’s preliminary final at the MCG.
The Tigers are the best performed starters in the competition, winning 16 first quarters in their 23 games this season, while the Cats have been vulnerable in opening terms in finals in past year.
“They’re a very fast-starting team,” Geelong swingman Mark Blicavs said yesterday.
“They get out after it and this year against us they started really well that first quarter and the previous defeats we have had against them last year, the same again.
“They’ll be up for it. They will be fresh and ready to go.
“And it’s how we adjust and adapt to their pressure and try and bring our own.”
https://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/sport/afl/afl-finals-2019-geelong-cats-brace-for-faststarting-richmond-tigers/news-story/e84b3b7bb0f8431a64efad621b1c7b54
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Burning questions: Richmond v Geelong preliminary final
Jon Pierik
The Age
20 September 2019
There are no bigger names than Dustin Martin and Patrick Dangerfield but could Tom Hawkins' absence derail Geelong's hopes? Jon Pierik poses the key questions.
How will the Cats handle not having Tom Hawkins?
This shapes as one of the most intriguing questions of the night. Hawkins has missed just six of Geelong's past 110 games - four of those because of suspension. He has also played in 22 of the Cats' past 23 finals and leads the club in goal-kicking this year (56). The star forward had a quiet night against Collingwood in week one of the finals but was instrumental in the 20-point win over the West Coast Eagles, booting four goals.
Coach Chris Scott may have vowed after the loss to the Magpies that the Cats wouldn't change their style but they played on 19.4 per cent of the time against the Eagles - compared to 10.8 per cent a week earlier. They also lifted in terms of scores per inside 50 and goals per inside 50 where Hawkins played a key role. That the Cats played on more meant there were more long kicks inside 50 and that's where they will now need Esava Ratugolea to have an impact. He has only 15 goals in 19 matches but his role in bringing the ball to ground will be important, allowing Gary Ablett (33 goals), Gryan Miers (26) and Luke Dahlhaus (14) to swoop. Patrick Dangerfield (26), who could go to full-forward, and Tim Kelly (21) will also need to have an effect. Defender Harry Taylor is another option to send forward.
Where does Mark Blicavs line up?
The athletic Cat has made a name for himself in defence but has been used in two largely unfamiliar roles through the finals. Scott was widely criticised for using Blicavs in the ruck against Brodie Grundy in week one where he had little to no impact, but Blicavs rebounded against the Eagles in a new role on the wing. He spent 96 per cent of game time there against the Eagles, having been used there for only four minutes through the rest of the season.
With no Hawkins, is Blicavs used as a marking option inside attacking 50, or does he remain on a wing pushing back into defence in a bid to stymie the Tigers' rebound from half-back? Or does he have a key role in defence, perhaps going to another athletic forward in Tom Lynch? Wherever he is, Blicavs needs to have an influence.
Will the crowd be a factor?
Potentially. Dangerfield made it clear after losing to Richmond in the 2017 qualifying final that facing the Tigers at the MCG was like being on the road interstate. The Tigers faithful are a potent force these days. They again head to the colosseum where their side is 33-3 in the past two-and-a-half years, sniffing another flag. It was a poor turnout by Cats supporters two years ago. They must show up this time. But there is more to this contest than supporter issues. The Cats stormed to a 67-point win when the teams last met, in round 12, the Tigers managing only five goals at a time when injuries had began to hit. To put that result in perspective, the Tigers had seven changes from that side come their win over Brisbane in week one of the finals. Richmond had prevailed in their three previous contests against the Cats, enjoying an average of +10.7 advantage in inside 50s, +11.3 in tackles, +3.3 in contested marks and +8 in intercept marks.
How will the Cats handle Dusty?
Dustin Martin was at his brilliant best against the Lions at the Gabba, booting a career-high six goals from only 14 touches. It may have been a season-low in terms of disposals but it's what you do when you have the ball that counts. He will spend time up forward against the Cats but the champion onballer will be expected to get busy in the midfield where his ability to create opportunities in the forward half ranks among the league's best. Expect tagger Cam Guthrie to go to Martin, having performed well on him before. Guthrie missed the week-one loss to Collingwood because of injury but his presence was significant against the Eagles, limiting the impact of Dom Sheed while enjoying more than 30 touches of his own for the first time in three years.
What's on the line for Dangerfield?
Plenty, for a man who will be 30 early in the 2020 season. The Cats need a fast start and to do that you would think Dangerfield will have to be busy. The champion midfielder has a 0-3 record in preliminary finals, having lost in 2012 as a Crow and in 2016 and 2017 at Geelong. He doesn't expect to be tagged but should he get going he could force the Tigers' hand - a tactic they don't like adopting.
Prediction?
Richmond by 11 points
https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/burning-questions-richmond-v-geelong-preliminary-final-20190918-p52seu.html
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Stats back Cats over Tigers
Andrew Faulkner
The Australian
September 20, 2019
Richmond will run out for their preliminary final against Geelong exactly 100 days since they last tasted defeat.
Not since June 13, in round 13, when they were beaten by the Crows at Adelaide Oval, have Richmond been on the wrong end of the scoreline.
After 10 wins in a row the Tigers are strongly favoured to beat Geelong and advance to their second grand final in three years.
But making a case for the Cats at the MCG is as simple as one, two, three.
One, the Cats beat the Tigers by 67 points in their most recent meeting, in Round 12.
Two, while they’ve come back to the pack since the bye, the Cats have been the best side in the competition for much of the year.
And three, Geelong’s key numbers are better than Richmond’s.
Before the finals began, The Australian assessed the eight contenders according to their kicking efficiency, contested possessions and tackles rankings.
Geelong were No 1, Richmond were No 8. The teams numbered five through seven have since been eliminated from the flag race.
The Giants are No 3 and Collingwood are No 4.
History says the side that wins all three stat lines wins their final.
And Geelong are the only side that have won all three categories in a game so far this finals series, against West Coast last week.
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/afl/tigers-have-momentum-in-their-favour-but-stats-suggest-cats/news-story/195fcb932ecfd915e1717d8a7e066bd4
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Need to start of well out of the blocks we were to sluggish against lions.Solid 4qtr effort needed.Bring the pressure and tackling all over the park and use our speed and run and carry breake the game open as cats will look to slow it down.Got to be better in clearances and contested footy.
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People still have not worked out Richmond does not operate on Stats well none except the final score.
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Barrett in his 'Sliding Doors' column:
Richmond
IF ... you go back to this night last year ...
THEN ... you'll remember a big American destroyed the Tigers in a prelim final. The memories of that unexpected loss still burn deep for everyone associated with Richmond. Tigers couldn't bomb again, could they?
Geelong
IF ... the 2019 finals series has been lacklustre to this point ...
THEN ... thankfully Chris Scott has livened things up in media space. Have enjoyed his offerings, particularly the mind games this week targeting the vulnerability of the Tigers. But he now needs his players to back him up, something they didn't do in week one of the finals.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-20/sliding-doors-preliminary-finals
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Wish there was an ignore button for any posts quoting this tosser
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Not the nicest thing to say about a mod, Chucky. Your mum spanked you for less as a child.
Gee I'm keen for tonight boys.
Prediction = Short, BEllis & Soldo to play blinders........:shh
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No late changes. Teams as selected.
Soldo starting as first ruck.
FINAL INTERCHANGES
Richmond: Toby Nankervis, Shai Bolton, Jack Graham, Liam Baker
Geelong: Zach Tuohy, Brandan Parfitt, Quinton Narkle, Gryan Miers
https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-20/final-teams-richmond-v-geelong
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Need our mids to have strong games. Hard in the contest and at the footy from the start, Tiges :gotigers.
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The upper tier where BT was looks all yellow and black.
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Just really nervous. Lets hope its a great night.
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Rayzor is umpiring tonight :help.
15. Matthew Nicholls
18. Ray Chamberlain
25. Shaun Ryan
https://aflua.com.au/wp-content/uploads/PRELIMINARY-FINAL-2019.pdf
Be nice if we finally see the sound of affirmation work in our favour.
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Soldo, Dusty, Prestia & Edwards in the middle.
Cotch starting forward.
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Ah George.
1 - 0
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So you can now not face the ball and hold grimes?
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Great kick Rioli and mark by Dusty. Goal! :gotigers
Rich 1.1-7
Geel 1.0-6
Good steadier.
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Graham out of the middle and Lynch reads it better than Taylor. Goal! :gotigers
Rich 2.1-13
Geel 1.0-6
Dusty off with a limp?
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Great tap by Nank to Prestia out of the middle. Lynch kicks his 2nd :gotigers.
Rich 3.1-19
Geel 1.0-6
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Prestia finds Caddy 45 out. MIsses.
20 - 7
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Broad nails Parfitt :clapping.
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Short 3 bounces and kicks long where Lynch marks well again 55 out. Kick falls short and rushed.
21 - 7
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Can't allow those easy front and square goals to them :banghead.
21 - 13
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Graham has done his shoulder :(.
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Too loose on defensive transition.
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Chris Scott winning the coaching battle so far. Loose players for cats everywhere.
Long kicking does not work against geelong
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One down with Graham injured. This aint gonna be easy.
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Dumb dumb handball :banghead.
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Our defending is terrible so far. Reactive and ballwatching.
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This ain’t looking good.
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Narkle and Myers are destroying us
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Nankervis a liability
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Quarter time
Richmond 3.3-21
Geelong 4.3-27
Goals: Lynch 2, Martin.
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Loving the throws
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Nank no good. Can't go back with Rat, can't mark it up the ground etc.
Lot of nerves out there.
What happened to Graham?
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Nankervis a liability
He's leaping way too early and taking himself out of the ruck contest. Gifting Geelong more numbers to clear the ball. Nank's got to use his body against Stanley. He's not athletic like Chol.
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Straight onto the umps love ya work owl
Something is not right. Dustin..
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Dusty hammy?
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Dusty hammy?
I’ve heard this too. Can anyone confirm?
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What happened to Graham?
Dislocated his left shoulder reaching in to tackle. It's been put back in and strapped up. He's walking around like he wants to come back on. Another question if he can.
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Dont think we can win without Dusty.
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Time to deliver Dimma.
Dusty definitely injured
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Dusty hammy?
I’ve heard this too. Can anyone confirm?
He was off for the last 8 minutes. But when he came off he looked more to be complaining about the rotations.
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Dusty hammy?
Source?
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Need to switch on big time.
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when in doubt, the umps are to blame. Hope we get our poo together, can't believe Graham popped his shoulder and Dusty is proppy...Dusty can't go mid if he is carrying a niggle in his leg, he is gonna have to go forward..
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Dusty to FF. Graham to F pocket.
Hope for the best. Season finito tho
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Dusty hammy?
Source?
Family chat. Cousins at the game reckon they can see it from where they're sitting
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Our forward entries are too predictable. Going to Lynch every time. Geelong in the last half of that quarter were double teaming him. No smalls front and square at the fall of the ball either. Allowing Geelong to rebound with ease.
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MMM saying corkie
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Dusty has a corky.
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Our tackling has been terrible. So many mistackles :banghead.
21 - 33
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Man they gotta really stuffing want this or it is gonna slip away
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Henderson holding Grimes again on the goal line ::).
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Big trouble here.Season on the line.
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The difference in this game is the pressure and tackling as well as the decision making. Ours is woeful while they are nailing theirs.
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we're in trouble here
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Can we have someone front and square defensive side of the contest :banghead.
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BOlton misses.
22 - 36
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LOL Ablett. Cotch wins it to Ellis who kicks long to Dusty.
Misses :P.
Two gettable ones missed :banghead.
23 - 36
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Not working hard enough panicking leaders need to lift.Forward and midfield need to lift.
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we just look asleep
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Pathetic! No Pressure and manning up whatsoever and then we allow a goal over the back :banghead.
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Cotchin hobbling now...wtf
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Our small forwards are passengers tonight.
Cotch limping now.
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stuffing dejavu
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Add our forward entries are just blind kicks. Lots of dumb lazy stuff out there.
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We are choking big time
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We're stuffed. Cotch and Dusty can't move, Graham can't lift his arm
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one more hospital pass or kicking into the man I am gonna rip my stuffing hair out
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We have a serious lack of talent, courage, smarts! Thanks George on queue!
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What is wrong with us tonight? 3 Tigers top pick from Dusty and he hits the Geelong defender.
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Panic merchants out there settle and calm.
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Nice pass Houli to George. Needs to kick this but it could go anywhere. Gets it. Goal! :gotigers
Rich 4.5-29
Geel 6.7-43
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No pressure, someone get on no. 32 for God sake
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Rayzor the clown gifts Dangerfield a goal right on half-time :banghead.
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Umpires are a joke
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Weve been garbage. Nothing to do with umpires.
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Half-time
Richmond 3.3 4.5-29
Geelong 4.3 7.8-50
Goals: Lynch 2, Martin, Castagna.
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Razor Ray does it again .... :thumbsdown :thumbsdown :thumbsdown
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nice 50 metre penalty
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I'm looking squarely at you Jack Reiwoldt.
You need to grow a pair and get involved
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In a marking contest of 5 - if a free is given for a push and no one is specified as the recipient....how the stuff is it a 50m penalty if a player gives the ball to one of the players in the contest that thought they were pushed?
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Jack R has been putrid tonight.
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Weve been garbage. Nothing to do with umpires.
We have Ramps but seriously Razor Ray should not be umpiring finals >:(. No one had a clue what the free was or who to. Cotch thought it was Houli's free but clueless Rayzor has no game sense and penalises us with a 50 :banghead.
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Ray - free kick
Everyone - who for?
Random player - gives it to Houli
Ray - 50 metres
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Need a miracle I reckon from here. Geelong will have to crap the bed from here to lose.
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Was the biggest stuffing dive ever for starters. poo way to wrap up a year losing to this prick, be just our luck though lol
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pee week reset work hard to many passengers out there let's keep it simple.
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Are half our players injured coming into this game? We look slow, soft and disinterested.
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Jack R has been putrid tonight.
Jack has been that half-second slow.
So has Nank.
Baker being exposed in defence against the bigger Geelong bodies.
Our small forwards - Rioli, Bolton & George have been in no man's land. Not at the fall of the ball and then miles off their man gifting Geelong simple switches of the play to out-flank us.
So many passengers out there. We're lucky to be 'only' 21 points down. The game should be over on the scoreboard given all the inside 50s Geelong has had.
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Ramps they started tiring, you could see it, Razor will get em over the line though.
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Ray - free kick
Everyone - who for?
Random player - gives it to Houli
Ray - 50 metres
razor obviously thought he needed more tv time
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Yep we've been crap tonight but were only two goals down until that stupid 50. That was unnecessary and really killed us.
I'm not sure if we'll come back from here
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Jack R has been putrid tonight.
Jack has been that half-second slow.
So has Nank.
Baker being exposed in defence against the bigger Geelong bodies.
Our small forwards - Rioli, Bolton & George have been in no man's land. Not at the fall of the ball and then miles off their man gifting Geelong simple switches of the play to out-flank us.
So many passengers out there. We're lucky to be 'only' 21 points down. The game should be over on the scoreboard given all the inside 50s Geelong has had.
i don’t think Baker has been too bad. Where are our forwards.
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Ray - free kick
Everyone - who for?
Random player - gives it to Houli
Ray - 50 metres
razor obviously thought he needed more tv time
:lol
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Yep Baker has had a tough gig down back but his endeavor and some of his play has been fantastic
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Baker has been good. Big balls and playing like a more mature player tonight.
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Jack Graham, dislocated shoulder , has three times as many possessions as Jack Riewoldt.
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Balmey said
Graham will try to play on but it isn't ideal.
Dusty was "fine ....... because no one said anything to me (Balmey)".
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We are always slow off the mark after a rest...I reckon we do better playing through. I reckon we will grind em down but we better put our foot down early
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Dusty copped a knee on knee knock I saw the replay, he will be ok just woulda hurt. It was when that big dopey defender jumped into him when he marked and goaled
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It all starts in the middle. Our rucks need to not jump early, our mids need to just get the ball forward and our small forwards and half-forwards need to play in front.
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Cotch nails Stanley in the tackle to start the 3rd. Prestia then hits up Lynch on the lead who takes a strong mark. Goal! :gotigers
Perfect start.
Rich 5.5-35
Geel 7.8-50
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What was the difference with Jack there to Dangerfield? >:(
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Great contested pack mark by Lynch. Misses.
36 - 50
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Short long. Jack leaps against two Cats. Goes over the back to Dusty who stayed down and goals! :gotigers
Rich 6.6-42
Geel 7.8-50
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Nice throw Danger ::).
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That's not 15.
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Stop kicking it OOTF! :banghead
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Rushed point to us.
43 - 50
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Great mark George. Goal! :gotigers
Rich 7.7-49
Geel 7.8-50
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Prestia crosses and Lynch gets the free (takes the mark anyway). Goal! :gotigers
His 4th!
In front! :gobdrop
Rich 8.7-55
Geel 7.8-50
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Another soft free to Geelong in front of the sticks. Little diver is Meyers ::).
Broad concussed :P.
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Lambert dumped after disposal and no free ::).
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How is that not 50? Geelong player ran through the mark ::).
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Prestia goal :gotigers
Rich 9.7-61
Geel 7.9-51
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That was too easy. Right before 3/4 time too :banghead.
3/4 time
Richmond 3.3 4.5 9.7-61
Geelong 4.3 7.8 8.8-57
Goals: Lynch 4, Castagna 2, Martin 2, Prestia.
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That was too easy. Right before 3/4 time too :banghead.
3/4 time
Richmond 3.3 4.5 9.7-61
Geelong 4.3 7.8 8.8-57
Goals: Lynch 4, Castagna 2, Martin 2, Prestia.
Clear block by Rat vs Astbury not paid!
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we seem to always cough up a heart stopping junk time goal. If we play like that again, we will bury these bastards though.
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How is that not 50? Geelong player ran through the mark ::).
That was remarkable
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Well the 3rd quarter is called the premiership quarter. We lifted our workrate and intensity and dominated general play. Lynch showing why we got him. Now we've got to keep it up.
ps. Let's hope the umps take off the blue & white hoops.
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30 minutes to save our season. Common Tigers.
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How is that not 50? Geelong player ran through the mark ::).
That was remarkable
Can someone also explain the non-Lambert mark on the wing? :huh
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30 minutes to save our season. Common Tigers.
How much do we want it? The 3rd said we want it bad but it now comes down delivering in the last.
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Selwood throws the ball 30m ::).
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Sheds roves and lovely pass to Lambert who runs in and goals! :gotigers
Rich 10.7-67
Geel 8.9-57
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Dusty's snap misses.
68 - 57
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Two ordinary kicks in defence miss the target (Ellis switch and Short's clearance). Gives geelong a goal :banghead.
68 -63
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It’s about time someone spoon fed the princess!
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Nice pass by Caddy and Jack finally marks one. Tentative kick and misses :scream.
69 - 64
Rategolea off injured.
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err how the hell was that not a tackle on abblett you corrupt son of a bitch
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Caddy long and Lynch marks. Goal! :gotigers
5 to Lynch.
Rich 11.9-75
Geel 9.10-64
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err how the hell was that not a tackle on abblett you corrupt son of a bitch
Umps trying to keep them it.
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Houli is having a blinder.
Rioli to Short who kicks to the pocket and Jack marks. Looked a goal but it hits the post.
76 - 64
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AHHHHHHH. Graham misses an open goal.
77 - 65
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Prestia .... goalllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll! :gotigers
Rich 12.11-83
Geel 9.11-65
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Great run down tackle Jack :clapping.
Misses.
84 - 65
3:30 to go.
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Let’s just hope Riewoldt doesn’t have 2 stinkers in a row!
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We're home! :clapping
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George misses.
85 - 66
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Off to the Granny Tiger boys and girls :gotigers.
You bloody beauty! :clapping
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HAHAH Where is Dangerfields smartarse remarks to Dusty now ? HAHAHA!!
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Did Cotch shut down Dangerflog after halftime?
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Soldo................:shh
Go Tiges
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Gonna pop the cork on a bottle of Chardonfraude au Scott Tears and have a glass
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Did Cotch shut down Dangerflog after halftime?
He sure did Timmy, He sure did!
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I thought we were gone. Its just a great win. Jack graham playing injured Lynch brilliant just a bloody proud performance. A Richmond performance.
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Gutsy as hell. One of the best wins ever. Picked ourselves off the canvas and said never say die :clapping.
Kept Geelong to just 16 pts in the second half. Brilliant effort after half-time.
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Someone let me know when Chris Scott's presser starts.
I'll grab some lotion and get ready...
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Assange, I hope you enjoy it. Your boy had a crack tonight!
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Ellis played a good game dare I say lol
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Someone let me know when Chris Scott's presser starts.
I'll grab some lotion and get ready...
:cheers :bow :lol
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Ellis did well and those who wanted Houli and Soldo out have no idea.
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Final Score
Richmond 3.3 4.5 9.7 12.13-85
Geelong 4.3 7.8 8.9 9.12-66
Goals: Lynch 5, Castagna 2, Martin 2, Prestia 2, Riewoldt.
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I'm pretty proud of our boys right now .... :clapping
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We’re going to the grannnnnyyyyyyyy :cheers
Awesome second half comeback.
Onto the VFL on Sunday!
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Clangerflog the Prelim Choker Eternal - will never win a flag. :shh
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Match highlights: https://www.richmondfc.com.au/video/2019-09-20/highlights-preliminary-final
Team Song: https://www.richmondfc.com.au/video/2019-09-20/team-song-richmond
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Since half time, Richmond has won the inside 50 count 32 to 18. The Tigers have outscored Geelong 6.5.41 to 2.0.12 from intercept possessions over the time period also.
After dominating forward 50 ground ball 16 to three in the first half, the Cats have been beaten five to two in this area after half time.
Team stats:
Disposals: 311 - 366 ( contested: 125 - 145 )
Efficiency%: 76 - 76
Turnovers: 66 - 70
Intercepts: 70 - 66
Marks: 82 - 93 ( contested marks: 15 - 15; marks F50: 18 - 7 )
Clearances: 29 - 35 ( centre: 10 - 10; stoppages: 19 - 25 )
Inside 50s: 56 - 51
Tackles: 61 - 51 ( tackles F50: 9 - 13 )
Hitouts: 34 - 32 ( Soldo 23, Nank 11 )
One%ers: 58 - 38
Frees: 18 - 18
Individual possies:
Houli 32 + 11 marks + 9 R50s + 5 In50s + 7 1%ers
Prestia 28 + 13 contested poss + 7 clearances + 2 goals
Dusty 22
Lynch 19 + 10 marks + 6 F50 marks + 4 contested marks + 5 goals
Lambert 18
Sheds 18
Ellis 18
Baker 18
Cotch 14
Floss 14
Short 13
Caddy 13
Astbury 13
George 12
Bolton 10
Soldo 10
Grimes 9
Rioli 9
Graham 7
Jack 6
Nank 5
Broad 3
https://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/2019/26/rich-v-geel#/team-stats
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Clangerflog the Prelim Choker Eternal - will never win a flag. :shh
Gutted by a third preliminary final defeat in four years, Geelong superstar Patrick Dangerfield doesn’t feel like the Cats have stepped any closer to an elusive AFL premiership.
https://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/patrick-dangerfield-left-devastated-cats-vow-to-fight-to-keep-tim-kelly/news-story/5ff99c58a8d64fbb800b4c7aeb8609bf
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Ellis did well and those who wanted Houli and Soldo out have no idea.
This
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The Dusty tactic Richmond don't want you to know
By Melanie Dinjaski
wwos.Nine.com.au
22 September 2019
Richmond's second half fightback to defeat Geelong in their AFL Preliminary Final was no accident.
Even if Bachar Houli and coach Damien Hardwick are keen to keep their cards close to their chest, there was a 'critical' adjustment which proved decisive.
On the Sunday AFL Footy Show on Nine, Houli was keeping mum on the key change identified by Bombers legend Matthew Lloyd, which helped Richmond defeat the Cats 85-66 on Friday night.
The Tigers booked their second grand final appearance in three years with the win, but it didn't look like they were headed to the AFL decider at halftime. Trailing Geelong 50-29, Hardwick accidentally let slip post-game that there was a strategic move he made that turned their fortunes around.
"The guys at halftime, we didn't look like it. I thought Geelong were all over us playing a terrific brand of footy. We made a couple of changes that worked," Hardwick told media.
"I shouldn't have said that should I?"
Hardwick had let a clue out, and Lloyd believes it involved Dustin Martin.
"I reckon Dusty Martin wasn't going great and the midfield was pretty poor," Lloyd said on the Sunday Footy Show.
"Where is Dusty? He charged forward as Dusty likes to do but when you're down on the scoreboard you can't do that.
"That is putting a lot of pressure on the backs."
Lloyd said there were obvious signs that Martin wasn't at his best. Having suffered a leg issue in a modest performance - by his standards - that included two goals and 22 possessions, in the midfield he was getting beat.
"Is this the intensity of a midfielder that needs to get his team back in the game? I'd say no," Lloyd said, reviewing the footage.
"Not good enough - it's a final."
But Lloyd showed how that changed form the very first bounce of the third quarter with Shane Edwards in and Martin moved out.
"They went from 19 inside 50s at halftime, to 19 in the third quarter alone, so that's the move I reckon he made and was critical at halftime," Lloyd explained.
Houli was put under the pump by the panel when asked if the Martin change was indeed what Hardwick had instructed at halftime to inspire the comeback, but the Tigers defender wasn't about to give any of their team's gameplan away.
Especially before they appear in the 2019 AFL grand final.
"I'm a very honest person and I actually would not have a clue. I just get told to stop as many goals as possible," Houli said.
Martin's match fitness for the grand final is sure to be a hot topic in the coming week, but Richmond would be buoyed by the efforts of their defence, led by Houli with 32 touches, which stood up against Geelong.
"To be 21 points down in a prelim final where you're not playing particularly well and for the guys to respond, it's where your leaders stand up and I thought our guys did a wonderful job of getting the game back looking like a Richmond game," Hardwick said post-game.
"It was a pleasing result against a very, very good football side."
https://wwos.nine.com.au/afl/richmond-tigers-tactics-against-geelong-cats-dustin-martin-bachar-houli/b3d96e41-a82c-44cc-aa6a-622db69ee7f2
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I really wonder about Geelong.
Kelly will go home.
Ablett is getting bloody old.
Dangerfield and Selwood will be another year older.
They just seem to have cosmetic makeovers each year. Half their team seem to be ordinary role players from other clubs.
They have a coach who is too cute by half. If he didn't hate us before he certainly does now.
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Long may we reign, long may they suck #noflag4dangerflog... :shh
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How do we combat the tag on Martin he needs support and there tall firwards
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Reckon Martin will play mainly forward and De Boer will go to Prestia or Edwards... or possibly Cotchin.. :shh
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Think the key is cut the supply from the midfield for there forwards and win that battle.De Boer will get Martin we need to help him out and isolate De Boer one on one in the goal square.
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Coaches votes (Hardwick & C.Scott)
RICHMOND v GEELONG
9 Tom Lynch (RICH)
8 Tim Kelly (GEEL)
6 Dion Prestia (RICH)
5 Bachar Houli (RICH)
1 Jake Kolodjashnij (GEEL)
1 Joel Selwood (GEEL)
Gary Ayres Award leaderboard
13 Tim Taranto
11 Joel Selwood
10 Jamie Cripps
10 Toby Greene
10 Jeremy Howe
10 Stefan Martin
9 Shane Edwards
9 Nick Haynes
9 Tom Lynch
9 Dustin Martin
9 Luke Shuey
9 Zac Williams
8 Tim Kelly
8 Dion Prestia
7 Patrick Dangerfield
7 Jacob Hopper
6 Tom Hawkins
5 Bachar Houli
5 Jake Kolodjashnij
5 Scott Pendlebury
Bolded players are still in the hunt to win the award
https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-23/aflca-gary-ayres-award-young-giant-takes-lead-in-wide-open-race
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You just know Chris Scott gave kelly 5 votes...
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Great week for poor old Paddy, loses another prelim, trolls Kane Cornes and gets burnt...
https://twitter.com/kanecornes/status/1176660531790221314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
:shh
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On one hand Dangerfield has a Brownlow and Cornes wasn’t exactly BOG but I guess premierships>brownlow
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Great week for poor old Paddy, loses another prelim, trolls Kane Cornes and gets burnt...
https://twitter.com/kanecornes/status/1176660531790221314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
:shh
GOLD
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LISTEN: Will he ever get over THAT prelim loss?
By Damian Barrett
afl.com.au
12 March 2020
IN Chris Scott's world, a missed opportunity is a lost opportunity.
Which is why he's still having difficulty in dealing with Geelong's 21-point half-time lead in last year's preliminary final against eventual premier Richmond.
In this excerpt from the In the Game podcast, Geelong coach Chris Scott tells Damian Barrett why he's 'not a big believer that you can make amends for lost opportunity'
Post that match, Scott said the loss would "take a long time to get over".
In an interview held late last month for In The Game with Damian Barrett, Scott said:
"I'm starting to lean towards (you) never (get over it). I'm not a big believer that you can make amends for lost opportunity. I mean, we won a premiership in 2011, but if we're playing in prelim finals through that period and just haven't been quite good enough.
"And, if we were good enough this year it wouldn't make up for last year. I mean, the reality is we were three-and-a-half goals up against the best team in the comp at half-time in a prelim final and couldn't get the job done.
"So I don't think it drives, well it certainly doesn't drive me anymore, and I suspect that doesn't really drive our players anymore as well."
In his nine seasons as Cats coach, Scott has only once missed the finals (2015), yet even that year produced 11 wins.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/381605/listen-will-he-ever-get-over-that-prelim-loss-
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Will find it much harder to get over when they don't make the finals this year. I know they are only practice games so far but there were some red flags evident so could be a difficult
year for them, not that I really care. :snidegrin
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I never used to hate Geelong but I do know because of Chris Scott.
Flog!
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They tried to go out and blitz us in the first us of the Prelim which is why (along with Danger's huge swan dive ::) ) they were 21 pts up at half-time. They couldn't keep that up in the second half and we reeled them in before 3/4 time. We actually should have won by more than 19 pts as we missed a few shots in the last qtr. Jack didn't have his kicking boots on that night. He made up for it in the Granny.
Playing home games at their narrower Kardinia Park inflates their H/A season record. So they finish higher on the ladder than they would if they were MCG co-tenants like us. Once they get onto the wide expanses of the MCG in finals they get exposed for their lack of speed and spread on the outside.
The 2007-2011 Geelong team was dominant on all grounds because they were a great side. Chris Scott was lucky to inherit their final year as genuine contenders. The Geelong team since is a 5th-8th side at best. That's shown up by Scott's finals record. It's going to get worse this year with no Tim Kelly and an ageing Dangerfield, Selwood and Ablett a further year older. No wonder they are one of the sides favoured to drop out of the Eight.
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From Cotch's book:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GFdQ48yawAA9hxd?format=jpg&name=large)
https://twitter.com/LeTigre_12/status/1753959525668069496
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I loathe Geelong
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They are a special breed at Geelong , up there with Collingwood and Carlton these days
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Led by the biggest flog of all, Chris Scott - Sleepy Hollow’s very own tribute to Peter Dingle