Season Review: RichmondThe Tigers etched their name into the history books in 2020 🏆
BY BENJAMIN MILLARD -
zerohanger.com
JANUARY 10, 2021Damien Hardwick’s side had a poor start to the season after the restart, and many were questioning whether they had it in them to go for back-to-back premierships.
However, as great teams do, they find a way to win. After having to go the long, hard way to the Grand Final, the Tigers won their thirteenth premiership and made it three flags in four attempts.
This Richmond side has now put themselves in rare air and are unquestionably one of the greatest sides of the modern era, creating a dynasty.
1. BEST WIN
Grand Final vs Geelong: 2020’s decider was a hard fought contest hosted at the Gabba, and Richmond had their backs against the wall at half-time, with Nick Vlastuin ruled out after a first quarter clash and the team down by 15 points.
But a Dustin Martin led comeback was too much for the Cats to handle in the second half, as the Tigers kicked nine goals to two to win by 31 and cement their status amongst the greats.
2. WORST LOSS
Round 3 vs Hawthorn: Coming off a draw in the restart round against the Pies, the Tigers were expected to easily beat Alastair Clarkson’s Hawthorn who were coming off a thrashing at the hands of the Cats.
However this was anything but the case, with the Hawks outplaying and dominating the Tigers to run out 32 point winners, keeping the reigning premiers to just 5 goals for the night.
3. MVP
Jayden Short: The defender had an absolutely stellar season for the Tigers, with his quarterback style distribution of the ball pivotal for Richmond’s game-style.
The 24-year-old is first in the league for metres gained, fourth in rebound 50’s and fifth in effective disposals. He will undoubtedly be a huge part of the Tigers brand of football going forward.
4. MOST IMPROVED
Noah Balta: Damien Hardwick has compared this man to ex-Tiger Alex Rance, and the comparison was validated this season.
The 21-year-old was instrumental down back, with his height, speed and overhead marking being pertinent to the Tigers thirteenth flag.
The scariest part is that he is still in his youth, and will only get better and better with each game.
5. NEEDS TO LIFT
Daniel Rioli: After a stellar 2017, Rioli hasn’t been anywhere near the heights that he reached in the drought-breaking premiership year.
The 23-year-old has been frustrating to watch at times, but the good thing for him is that he has the coach’s faith still, but he cannot rest on his laurels.
The exciting forward will need a big pre-season to have a full tilt at the 2021 season and recapture his magic.
6. INS AND OUTSIn Future third round (Gold Coast)
Pick 17 (St. Kilda)
Future second round (St. Kilda)
OutJack Higgins (St. Kilda)
Oleg Markov (Gold Coast)
Pick 21 (St. Kilda)
Future fourth round (St. Kilda)
7. 2021 CRYSTAL BALLAfter an incredibly successful previous four years, the Tigers will be expecting big things again next season. Their list is not ageing at all, barring perhaps Jack Riewoldt and a couple of senior players, so they have the potential to keep the good times rolling in for the foreseeable future.
However, there are 17 other teams vying for the flag, and anything can happen in football, so again they will have to keep their heads down, trust their system and press on. Anything other than a premiership would be disappointing for the Tiger faithful.
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