As Richmond looks to bounce back from its Round 2 defeat to Port Adelaide, Rhyan Mansell takes positives from an “energetic” forward line, with three Tigers kicking their first AFL goals. 

Despite a 72-point loss to Port Adelaide over the weekend, the 24-year-old said the side can take key lessons out of a competitive second half. 

“The first half was pretty disappointing,” Mansell said. 

“We were all pretty flat with that, but we have reviewed it and moved on. 

“There were lots of positives in the second half that we can take into this week against St Kilda, so we are excited to hit the track and get stuck into it.” 

Stoppage structure and the ability to play in front of the ball will be a focus for the side, as they prepare for St Kilda this Saturday at Marvel Stadium. 

“I think just getting our stoppage structure right (is our Round 3 plan). It obviously hurt us earlier on in the game,” Mansell said. 

“Not just in the stoppage, but ahead of the ball as well.

“Obviously we are a very inexperienced forward line, but we will learn from it and get better.” 

The 55-gamer had a big impact at half-forward, finishing the game with 16 disposals, six tackles and three scoring shots. 

After an impressive individual effort, Mansell declared his efforts were inspired by veteran teammate Nathan Broad,  who notched up game 150 in Adelaide.

“I just wanted to be a good teammate in Broady’s 150th,” he said. 

“That was a focus for me going into the game, being a great teammate like he is. 

“That is what I strive for.”

The Tigers recorded 50 insides 50’s for the match, but Mansell wants to capitalise on those opportunities when the ball is delivered forward. 

“We got a lot of opportunity, but we probably blazed away a little bit and played into Port’s hands,” he said. 

“We will look to improve on that this week and get better entries."

At the conclusion of the game, the side had seven different goal scorers out of the nine majors kicked.

Amongst the seven-goal scorers, Liam Fawcett, Harry Armstrong and Jacob Blight kicked their first AFL goals. 

“It definitely brings the energy to the group,” Mansell said. 

“It’s going to be a little bit inconsistent during the year, but the more games we play together, the better it’s going to get.” 

Key forward Tom Lynch will also be available for selection this week after serving his one-match ban for rough conduct against Carlton's Tom De Koning in Round 1. 

Mansell believes the experience of Lynch will help steady the ship for the young goal kickers.

“Obviously, you saw in Round 1 against Carlton how big Lynch is for us,” he said. 

“He helps us smalls bring the ball to ground. He is just a huge presence and a great leader.

“I’m pumped to be able to play with him again this week.”