Malthouse: The Tigers’ tricks don’t work any moreBlaming injuries is underselling the problems that Richmond faces in their bid to build a dynasty writes Mick Malthouse.
HeraldSun
25 July 2021...
As much as Richmond had some partner issues in the hubs last year, it still won the premiership, so it is already better prepared for what’s to come in the next five weeks.
Sunday’s grudge match is a reminder to Geelong that they lost to the Tigers in trying circumstances.
As games get shuffled around the country to avoid quarantine and potential Covid exposure, I am surprised Geelong wasn’t afforded a home game at Kardinia Park, with the issue of a crowd removed from the equation.
Playing at the MCG is another advantage for the Tigers.
But the Cats are facing a Richmond team on its knees.
While it was a huge victory over the Brisbane Lions last week, it was costly with injuries to Dustin Martin and Kamdyn McIntosh.
The Tigers have struggled to produce a high-intensity game consistently in the past two months, with just one win from their last five games.
Intensity does go hand-in-hand with hunger. With three premierships from the last four years Richmond is being hunted by every side and that can wear down even the best.
Plus its game style has been worked out. With many players running forward of the ball it leaves a void behind the play. If the ball is eventually turned over, the Tigers have become too easy to score against.
But injuries have played a part in Richmond’s form. It’s backline hasn’t been intact for most of the season, and without consistency it is highly vulnerable to being beaten.
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