Sportal unlike others in the media reckon it'll be a close game....
WE THINK:
After losing in heartbreaking fashion last weekend, Sydney need to beat Richmond if they are to keep their finals aspirations on track. The Swans simply cannot afford to drop this one, even at the MCG, a ground the Tigers play their best football at.
Richmond's season has spiralled out of control and morale is as low as it has been at Punt Road in 2011. At one stage, they were on the cusp of the eight, but this run of losses shows exactly how far they remain from being a bonafide finals contender.
Sydney have been just that in seven of the past eight seasons and should build on that fine record, provided they win this one. Central to getting a win here will be the contribution of skipper Adam Goodes and rising young big man Sam Reid. Reid looks a player in the making and is likely to get either Alex Rance or Luke McGuane as his match-up, something that should suit John Longmire's men.
Richmond's best chance of causing an upset will rest on the shoulders of Jack Riewoldt, who found some form against the Eagles, and is vying for a second successive Coleman Medal.
Sydney never win by big margins, so look for this to be a tight one.
Swans by 11 points.Full preview at: http://www.sportal.com.au/afl-news-display/preview-richmond-v-sydney-133374
