VFL R2: Richmond vs Sandringham @ Moorabbin Oval, Sat. Mar 29

[WilliamPowell]

Gray huge last quarter.

But according to some he shouldn't be on the list 

[one-eyed]

Tigers down Sandringham with goal after the siren in comeback victory

By Zakariya El-Houli
Richmond Media
29 March 2025

Trailing by 23 points at three-quarter-time, Richmond VFL stormed home to defeat Sandringham by six points with a goal after the siren kicked by Joel Garner on Saturday afternoon at RSEA Park, 11.8 (74) to 11.14 (80).

With just two points separating the two sides at half time, the Zebras added six goals in the third quarter to establish a commanding lead heading into the final term.

Lachlan Wilson (24 disposals, five marks, eight tackles and four clearances) hit the scoreboard within the first minute of the final term to provide a spark for his side.

Three more Tiger majors followed in the quarter, including the all-important match-winning goal kicked by Joel Garner, the side’s stand-in skipper as the strong-finishing Tigers overcame a 23-point three-quarter-time deficit to record their second consecutive win.

Livewire forward Mohammad Yassine kicked two goals in the opening term, and Jasper Alger was potent, also converting two majors on Saturday afternoon.

Continuing on his strong early-season form was Kane McAuliffe.

He notched up 25 disposals, three marks, eight tackles and eight clearances.

Also strong in the midfield was Massimo Raso once again with 24 disposals, three marks and eight clearances.

Mutaz El Nour (19 disposals, two marks and three tackles), Tom McCarthy (23 disposals, five marks and two tackles) and Nicholas Collier (17 disposals, on embark and two tackles) were strong in the defensive half for the Tigers, while Tom McKenzie was strong on debut, collecting 19 disposals and four clearances.

Also exceptional in defence was Campbell Gray (12 disposals, three marks and four tackles).

“Two weeks in a row now he’s come back and he’s risen to the occasion,” coach Jake Batchelor said of Gray post-match.

“We needed someone to stand up and be the man in the backline along with Joel (Garner) and his ability to come forward in a fearless manner was so strong, so really pleased with him.”

Richmond VFL will look ahead to their Round 3 clash with Brisbane at the Swinburne Centre on Saturday, April 5 from 11:05am.

Sandringham 4.0 5.4 11.8 11.8 (74)

Richmond       3.3 5.6 7.9 11.14 (80)

Goals: Yassine (2), Alger (2), Sims, Garner, Wilson, Moimoi, Rioli, Ryan, Gray

Best: McAuliffe, Wilson, Raso, Garner, McCarthy, Gray, El Nour

https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/1742868/tigers-down-sandringham-with-goal-after-the-siren-in-comeback-victory

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https://www.richmondfc.com.au/video/1742453/vfl-round-2-match-highlights


https://www.richmondfc.com.au/video/1742520/vfl-round-2-post-match

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VFL Report: Round 2

Richmond VFL coach Jake Batchelor provides a summary of how the Tigers’ players performed in last Saturday’s Round 2 win over Sandringham at RSEA Park.

Kane McAuliffe (28 disposals, three marks, seven tackles)

“Had a huge game despite only playing three quarters due to his role as carryover emergency for the AFL side. Strong around the contest with clean hands and physicality. Showed growth in his defensive awareness and stayed really active. Great performance overall.”


Campbell Gray (13 disposals, three marks, five tackles, one goal)

“Had a significantly better start compared to last week, but it was his last quarter that stood out. He played with instinct, confidence, and without fear of mistakes — showing signs of the impactful player he can become.”


Jonty Faull (13 disposals, four marks, ome tackle)

“A real presence ahead of the ball — rarely outmarked, fights hard, and scraps for every contest. Had some great moments stepping through pressure and lowering the eyes. Exciting potential.”


Jasper Alger (12 disposals, three marks, two goals)

“Improved from last week in terms of system. Found good spots and is clearly learning and applying feedback in his role as a high half forward.”


Jacob Koschitzke (nine disposals, three tackles, one mark)

“Played a really strong game. His system behind the ball was solid, and he had a standout one-on-one win against Liam Henry late in the game — a crucial contest that helped preserve momentum.”


Thomas Sims (seven disposals, three marks, six tackles, eight hit-outs, one goal)

“Competed strongly in the air and may not have been out marked all game. Brought the ball to ground consistently and capped it off with a nice goal. Improving steadily each week.”


Samson Ryan (seven disposals, four marks, 15 hit-outs, three clearances, one goal)

“Didn’t fill the stat sheet but played a key role, especially in the last quarter where he took over ruck duties. His presence and competitiveness had a big influence on the game.”


Maurice Rioli Jr (seven disposals, three marks, one tackle, one goal)

“Showed his trademark power, speed, and explosiveness — a level above. Capped his performance with a goal and demonstrated strong defensive intent throughout.”


Mate Colina (five disposals, five tackles, 11 hit-outs)

“Faced a tough matchup against a top-tier ruck in Harry Boyd and gave away a few frees. Technique adjustments needed, but effort was never in question. Good learning opportunity.”


Liam Fawcett (one disposal, one mark)

“Unfortunately suffered a concussion and a broken nose in the first five minutes. No further impact on the game.”

https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/1746771/vfl-report-round-2