AFL site's end of season report: Richmond gets a "C"

[one-eyed]

End of season report: Richmond
By Mic Cullen
Mon 30 August, 2010

What went right
The new gameplan made the gamestyle more predictable for everyone helped a lot. It took a while for the players to get their heads around it, but when they did, the Tigers looked good going both ways. Kudos to Damien Hardwick and the new coaching staff.

Daniel Connors - tough love in action. He came back from his two-month ban a changed man, having sworn off the drink, and had a ripping second half of the season.

The Tigers used an amazing 42 players this year - every senior-listed player bar Jordan McMahon, and five rookies. Stability and using fewer players is an indicator of top teams - this is an indicator of a young list being assessed.

What went wrong
After a month, the Tigers were last, with no wins and a percentage under 50 and after seven weeks only one defeat was by less than eight goals.

Daniel Connors - a drunken rampage at the team hotel in Sydney after the round three loss to the Swans saw Connors get punched in the head by Ben Cousins to shut him down, and then slapped with an eight-week ban by the club. Low point of the season, even if good did come out of it.

Troy Simmonds was a great servant of the club, but shouldn't have played on, even though it was to protect the young ruckmen. His knee wasn't up to it, and that was made worse by rolling an ankle in the pre-season.

Most valuable player
Winning the Coleman Medal in a bottom-four side is a tremendous feat, but it has been the improvement in Jack Riewoldt's work rate, maturity and leadership that is the most pleasing thing.

Coach's award for one-percenters
Chris Newman had his best year as a player and has blossomed as captain and leader of the backline. He is much loved by the coaching staff for his ability to consistently do the hard things, and do them well.

Needs a big pre-season
Richard Tambling had injury problems, which saw his season ended early with surgery to both hips, but again delivered an underwhelming season. He played 13 games for an average of 12 disposals and should be doing far more after six years in the system.

Trading places
There are not too many highly sought after players on Richmond's list and the absolute cream is locked up, given the re-signing of Riewoldt and Dustin Martin in round 22. Luke McGuane and Will Thursfield could be Gold Coast targets and Robin Nahas could be looked at while Alex Rance was a trade target last year.

Overall grade: C

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