Tigers looking for reverse
AAP/The Australian
August 04, 2007
HAVING opened the door for Geelong's stunning string of 12 wins, Richmond now wants to slam it shut.
But the Tigers will face a team today offering the shortest odds in AFL history and seem to be chasing a forlorn hope.
The last time Richmond and Geelong met, at Telstra Dome in round six, the Cats won 35.12(222) to 9.11(65).
Today's game offers an even gloomier prospect for the Tigers as it will be at the Cats' home ground of Skilled Stadium, where they have reigned this year.
Richmond's only hope of avoiding another demolition will be the weather -- rain, wind and a slow track will restrict the scoring opportunities.
But Tigers coach Terry Wallace said the side will battle on as well as it can with what he calls his young developing list with their lack of experience and strength.
"I think every time you go out you want to put your best foot forward. We put our worst foot forward against the Cats the last time around," Wallace said.
"I think that was probably the start of what has now become a fabulous run for them as a team. It probably opened the door for them but we want to go down and see how we go against a side that's playing in such great form.
"To play the best side at this stage of the year is probably good for us because I think young players can learn more."
But he said the side was resolved not to suffer a repeat thrashing.
"We don't want to get belted, that's not what we're about," Wallace said.
Bookmakers have predicted an avalanche however, offering $1.02 for Geelong and $11 for a Richmond win.
"They're the shortest-priced favourite who have ever gone around," Wallace said.
Geelong has been boosted by the inclusion of former captain Steven King, who will line up for the first time since round six.
After three games in the reserves due to an injury, King will bolster the Cats' big man stocks.
Cats defender Matthew Scarlett said the side planned to prepare for Richmond as if it were playing a league pacesetter.
"We're going to treat it like we're playing the West Coast Eagles this week," Scarlett said on Geelong's website.
"We're going to go out there and do what we plan to do, and stick to the plan again and worry about us, and us only.
"We're just going to do what we want to do, and the rest will take care of itself."
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,22185325-5012432,00.html
