One of the most pleasing aspects of Richmond’s 43-point victory over Carlton in the 2017 season-opener was the team’s tackle numbers.

The Tigers decisively won the tackle count on the night – 88 to 67. That was 10 more tackles than they recorded in any match throughout the 2016 season.

Richmond was ranked a distant 18^th in tackles last year – more than 100 less than 17^th placed Essendon on the tackling ladder, which was headed by Grand Finalists Sydney (No. 1) and Western Bulldogs (No.2).

More important than the tackle numbers against the Blues, however, was the fact the Tigers tackled with real intent – a fierce desire, in fact, to force turnovers.

“That’s definitely been our biggest focus all summer, and it was good to see that it came to the fore tonight with a high tackle count,” Richmond mature-age midfield recruit Josh Caddy told K-Rock post-game.

“To bring pressure is the way it is now in footy. That’s how you cause turnovers, and you get offensive opportunities and scoring opportunities off the back of that . . .

“It’s definitely something that we want to pride ourselves on this season.”

Caddy, traded to Richmond from Geelong at the end of last season, was a solid contributor in his debut with the Tigers, picking up 17 disposals, including nine contested possessions, three clearances, three rebound-50s and a goal.

“I feel like I’ve been at the Club for a long time now. Really excited to finally get out there tonight and have a run-around with the boys,” he said.

“It was great fun out there . . . a huge crowd and great to start off the year with a win.”