We continue our 2017 pre-season special series, reliving Richmond’s build-up to the glorious, drought-breaking 1967 premiership triumph.  From the archives of ‘The Age’ newspaper, we present an article published exactly 50 years ago today (March 13, 1967) about the Tigers’ first intra-club practice match in the ’67 pre-season.

“Richmond seems certain to make Pat Guinane the permanent centre half-forward this season following his outstanding form in yesterday’s practice match.

Guinane, used mainly as a forward pocket last year, was at centre half-forward in the Tigers’ opening practice match, and was the best player.

His high marking was outstanding and his ground play good.

Another switch this season could be the selection of half-forward Dick Clay as a regular wingman.

Clay was played on the wing in the final two games last season and was a great success there yesterday.

Eric Moore performed well in the centre, although he was opposed to Phil Rhoden, a top-class amateur player from the University Blues.

With regulars Bill Barrot, Peter Hogan, Ross Warner, Neil Busse, Kevin Smith and Roger Dean not available yesterday, selectors frequently switched players.

Fred Swift kicked five goals at full-forward, John Ronaldson rucked well, Frank Dimattina was prominent as a rover, Owen Madigan and Michael Bowden played well in defence, and under-19 captain last year, 6ft 5in John McKenzie, was a sound follower.”