To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Tigers’ 1973 premiership, Richmond Media is transporting Yellow and Black barrackers back in time throughout 2023 to follow the Punt Road path to that fabulous flag triumph. We delve into The Age archives today for a report from the newspaper’s then chief football writer, Percy Beames, on Richmond’s pre-season practice match against Melbourne.

Richmond mastered Melbourne with so much ease in a tough game on Saturday that there is little doubt it will again be a force this season.

The Demons could not cope with the ruck strength, marking power and play-on style of the Tigers.

It took Melbourne until late in the second quarter to score its first goal.

Richmond’s Francis Bourke is set for another great year. He was unbeatable on a half-back flank.

Barry Richardson has also hit form early.

Giant Brian Roberts was a power in the ruck, where he hit out well and took many marks.

Melbourne has worries, but it showed spirit in fighting back strongly after being so far behind early in the game.

One bright spot was form of John Tilbrook, at full-back. He kept Ricky McLean down to three goals, kicked in well and made many clearing dashes.

Carl Ditterich came under notice early for ruck work and marking, but faded as the game progressed.

Match details

Richmond         6.4       11.8     15.10    18.11 (119)

Melbourne       0.3       5.6       7.10     12.15 (87)

Goals – Richmond: Richardson 6, McLean 3, Hart 2, Dean 2, Walsh, Clay Fowler, Balme, Bartlett.

Goals – Melbourne: Parke 3, Hardeman 2, Keenan, Ditterich, Collins, Alves, Fitzsimmons, Brewer, Callery.

Best – Richmond: Bourke (best on ground), Richardson, Roberts, Clay, Green, Bartlett, Hart, Walsh.

Best – Melbourne: Tilbrook, Hardeman, Alves, Parke, Keenan, Biffin, Davis, Fitzsimmons.