Richmond coach Damien Hardwick is fully aware the Tigers’ unbeaten record against Greater Western Sydney (five wins from five meetings) will amount to nothing, when the two teams face off at Canberra’s Manuka Oval on Saturday afternoon.

The Giants currently sit second on the league ladder, having won 12 of their 17 games played, and are highly rated for the exciting brand of football they play.

“They’re an incredible side, the way they play,” Hardwick said.

“They’re a side that’s matured.  They’ve come together over two to three years and started to formulate a game plan that can be really strong. 

“Their contested ball and stoppage numbers are very, very good.  So we’ve put a lot of work into that area . . .

“If we don’t put any pressure on, they’re going to be able to run, which is one of their strengths.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge, there’s no doubt about that.

“We’ve got to come with a willingness to play, and it’s generally based on defence and effort. 

“If we get those two things, we’ll be in with a shot.”