Nothing but positives at Punt Road
28 April 2006 Herald Sun
Michael Horan
RICHMOND must capitalise on its interstate win against the Brisbane Lions by backing up with victory over Carlton at the MCG tonight, according to captain Kane Johnson.
The Tigers sparkled in a short, sharp workout at Punt Rd yesterday and while Johnson dislocated a finger in a handball drill, he soon returned to the fray after the injury was taped.
Johnson said that following Richmond's 115-point thrashing by the Western Bulldogs in Round 1, the players had made a concerted effort to turn around their fortunes.
"The boys have been on the improve in the past four weeks," he said.
"Our first round was very disappointing, but the attitude of the boys to get back on track has been sensational.
"It's been starting on the track and hopefully it will continue with a really positive performance against Carlton.
"It's just important we win, otherwise it'll make Brisbane nearly void. It's important we get the job done and then we can look forward to the rest of the season."
Johnson's game has changed this season, with coach Terry Wallace wanting him to tag some of the Tigers' big-name opponents.
"I've gone back to where I started, doing run-with roles on the best players, so hopefully that can continue and I can shut them down a little bit," he said.
If that holds true tonight, Johnson is a hot candidate to stand Carlton midfielder Nick Stevens.
Richmond returns to the MCG for the first time since Round 16 last year.
"It's very exciting. We've had a walk on the surface, it's a bit flatter than it used to be, but it looks like a good, fast track. I think the boys will enjoy it," Johnson said.
There was no sign of struggling star Nathan Brown yesterday, but Johnson said it wouldn't be too long before the gifted left-footer returned.
"Basically, he just needs a couple of weeks to get back on track, get rid of a bit of inflammation that might be around the bone or whatever it is," he said.
"I'm sure he'll be back in a few weeks and playing for us for the rest of the year."
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