Damien Hardwick wants Richmond's win to set the scene Rod Nicholson
From: Herald Sun
August 15, 2011 RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick hopes the upset win against finals aspirant Sydney will be a catalyst similar to one that propelled Hawthorn to premiership glory in 2008.
Hardwick, who was assistant to Alastair Clarkson at the Hawks before taking over the Tigers last season, said Richmond had endured a year that mirrored Hawthorn's in 2006.
"It happens with a young group. We did well early this season (four wins and a draw in the opening nine matches), but a young group needs to iron out inconsistency to become a top side," Hardwick said, indicating that was the situation at Hawthorn two years before its ultimate glory.
Yesterday's 43-point win was the tonic Hardwick and Tiger fans had been waiting for since they last tasted victory, in Round 13 against the Brisbane Lions.
"The win-loss column is easy (for critics) to look at, but we look at other things. We have had the most games played by players under 23 and that will take us a long way to where we want to go," Hardwick said.
"For the playing group, (this win) was a reward for effort.
"The guys haven't lowered their expectations or training standards. The win is good for their self-belief.
"We still make some horrendous blues, but that happens with a developing young side. Losses to the Gold Coast and Port Adelaide in games we expected to win was disappointing, but I think that is much to do with inconsistency of a young group learning the game."
Hardwick cited Dustin Martin, playing only his 40th game yesterday, as a classic example.
"He is reflective of the blues and the inconsistency. He missed a couple of chest marks and made some blues, but he never gave up trying," he said of 20-year-old Martin, who finished the match with 17 disposals, two goals and three behinds.
"Our intensity was back today. It is hard to sustain for a long period, but the defensive pressure and tackling was as good as it has been all year."
The coach was pleased the players were dogged and tenacious and that they showed flair when victory was up for grabs.
Hardwick paid special tribute to Alex Rance, who was greatly responsible for curbing the brilliance of Adam Goodes.
"A lot of people had doubts, including me, but to see the way the guy competed against a Brownlow medallist was exceptional. He will be a long-term player for us," he said.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/damien-hardwick-wants-richmonds-win-to-set-the-scene/story-e6frf9jf-1226114856579
