TV: Fox Footy
Sportingbet says: Richmond $1.22 Melbourne $4.30
Why watch?
Saturday afternoon footy at the MCG! There are not too many things better than that. Sure the two teams contesting aren't the best going around, but that could mean it will be a closely-fought match. Melbourne are rarely blown away and Richmond simply must win.
Match notes
- Melbourne are ranked 16th for average disposals
- Both teams struggle to score with Richmond averaging 12 goals per game and Melbourne just 8.5
- James Frawley and Dean Terlich both face fitness tests
- Ben Lennon is looming as a strong chance to make his debut
Key Injuries
Richmond
Jake King (toe) – 8-10 weeks
Chris Knights (knee) – test
Ivan Maric (ankle) – test
Chris Newman (calf) – 3-5 weeks
Melbourne
James Frawley (toe) - test
Jesse Hogan (back) – indefinite
Jake Spencer (ankle) – 2 weeks
Dean Terlich (concussion) - test
Jack Trengove (foot) - season
Quote of the week?
"This is an extremely sad day in Richmond's history, to have lost a giant of the club in Tommy Hafey," said Richmond CEO Brendon Gale. "Tommy means so much to the Richmond Football Club. He has had an enormous influence on so many people connected with the Club. "His coaching achievements at Tigerland are legendary, and he was a constant source of inspiration to the Yellow and Black."
Last five games
Richmond
L 2 Western Bulldogs
L 38 Collingwood
W 43 Brisbane Lions
L 66 Hawthorn
L 5 Geelong
Melbourne
W 23 Carlton
L 8 Gold Coast
L 31 Sydney
W 3 Adelaide
L 16 Western Bulldogs
Fantasy factoid
Richmond players have struggled for consistency this season, but Daniel Jackson continues to post big scores week win week out. He is usually always good for 25+ touches and is averaging over five tackles a game.
Cold hard fact
Richmond have beaten Melbourne the past four times they have played.
Final word
Melbourne have made great strides under Paul Roos, but it's hard to see them winning this one. The Demons will give it their all and always fight until the end, but Richmond should have too much firepower for them. The Tigers looked great for a half against Geelong last week and if they carry that form into this week they will get the job done. Don't be surprised if Jack Riewoldt kicks a big bag either.
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