Mark Ricciuto says Richmond's inability to stop the rot raises questions about leadership FOX SPORTS
July 12, 2011 Former Adelaide Crows champion and AFL Hall of Fame inductee Mark Ricciuto believes Richmond's second-half capitulation to Essendon exposed the Tigers' lack of on-field leadership.
Ricciuto, a guest panellist on Fox Sports' On The Couch program on Monday night, said questions had to be asked about the Tigers after they coughed up 10 consecutive goals to Essendon on the back of a 103-point drubbing at the hands of Carlton the previous weekend.
"They've been disappointing for a few weeks now," the eight-time All-Australian said.
"You do stop trying when you get beaten by 100 points, (because) Carlton are not a 100-point better side than Richmond. So they've got some issues in leadership.
Do the Tigers lack leadership? And is Brett Deledio the man who must stand up for the Tigers, or is he unfairly maligned? Have your say by leaving a comment below.
"I would've thought they might have rebounded even better on the weekend, but their second half just dropped right away."
Regular panellist Mike Sheahan went further by identifying Richmond's dual best-and-fairest winner, Brett Deledio, as a high-profile offender.
"He spectates too much," Sheahan said.
"He's the second-most experienced player in that team (behind skipper Chris Newman) and almost the most talented. He's got to impose himself more."
Brownlow medallist Gerard Healy, however, was reluctant to criticise Deledio, saying the gifted utility is unfairly maligned and rarely given credit for his good performances.
http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-premiership/hall-of-famer-mark-ricciuto-says-richmonds-inability-to-stop-the-rot-raises-questions-about-leadership/story-e6frf3e3-1226093090654