A concerted team-effort has led Richmond’s VFL squad to a dominant 82-point win over North Ballarat at the ME Bank Centre on Saturday afternoon.
The Tigers' twin tall targets Liam McBean (five goals) and Ty Vickery (three) were the beneficiaries of an impressive offensive performance, which improved the team's record to 2-2 after four rounds.
The Tigers got away to a quick start with a goal to Vickery in the opening minute, setting the pace for the day, with players from all areas rushing to join the goal-kicking list.
VFL coach Tim Clarke said he was thrilled to see his players finally performing at such a high standard.
“We’ve seen signs in the last couple of weeks of the type of footy we would like to play, and that we know we can play,” he said.
Richmond youngster Connor Menadue in action against North Ballarat. Photo: Matt Johnson
“The boys were much better offensively today. It’s something we have been working on.
“We’ve been giving up far too many turnovers through the middle of the ground but today the boys used the ball better. And they also competed better.
“The forwards were met down the line and were able to win more contests. So it was a really pleasing performance from them.”
Clarke also applauded the game of rookie Jason Castagna, who continues to improve every week.
“He provides our team with so much run and excitement. He’s playing some really good football at the moment off half-back. We just love when the ball is in his hands,” he said.
“He’s still working on his composure with the footy to be able to make better options. But he’s going to be a really good footballer for us, we just need to continue working on the areas of his game that are going to make him a competitive, AFL half-back.”
Shaun Hampson dominated the ruck contest and gave his midfielders first use. He collected 41 of Richmond’s 49 hitouts,
Matt Arnot lead the charge around the ball, gathering 24 disposals, five clearances and five tackles. Matt McDonough and Andrew McQualter were equally impressive around the ball, with 22 and 19 disposals respectively.
Matt Thomas dominated early, with nine touches to quarter time, but sustained a leg injury early in the second quarter and played no further part.
Connor Menadue, Nick Wynne and Reece McKenzie were also impressive up forward, kicking two goals each.
The Tigers face Collingwood’s VFL squad this Sunday afternoon, at the ME Bank Centre, in Round 5.
FINAL SCORES
RICH 5.4 9.9 14.9 19.15.129
NB 3.2 4.4 5.7 6.11.47
GOALS:
McBean 5, Vickery 3, McKenzie 2, Menadue 2, Wynne 2, McDonough, Contin, McGough, Gleeson, Hampson
BEST:
McBean, Vickery, Arnot, Menadue, Castagna, McQualter
