Star Richmond defender Dylan Grimes is unfazed by the fact that the Tigers will go into Friday night’s preliminary final against Collingwood having played only one game in the month leading up to the blockbuster clash, while the Magpies are coming off two finals appearances in the past two weeks.

“There’s a train of thought for both sides I guess, but we feel that we’re going to be fresh going into the game and well rested,” Grimes said.

“We’ve had a couple of byes recently, so it’s not like it’s something we haven’t done before or prepared for.

“So we’re confident with our preparation and really looking forward to the challenge, for sure . . .

“You could probably argue that Collingwood are maintaining momentum, they’re full of confidence and the short break’s probably going to suit that side of the game.

“And then there’s a train of thought saying that we’ll be well rested and ready for them on Friday night . . .

“It’s a similar structure that we’ve done a few times throughout the year and that seems to have worked for us well.

“So we’re not changing too much this week . . . keeping it relatively normal.

“Everyone’s relishing the break a little bit as well. This time of year there’s a lot of sore bodies around . . . it’s been a good opportunity just to freshen up.

“But I think with finals footy, both teams are going to come out and have a red-hot crack, and both teams are going to bring a game style that’s going to be exciting to watch. “

Grimes is well aware of what Collingwood will bring to the big September stage on Friday night.

“They’re full of confidence and they’re playing some excellent footy. They’ve got great players as well, so it’s going to be a huge challenge for us,” he said.

“They’ve got players that can compete so well in the air, and they’ve got players like (Jordan) De Goey, who’s good in the air and on the ground . . .

“It’s going to be a huge game and a huge opportunity for both clubs to play their best footy and put their hand up for a Grand Final appearance.”

Grimes paid tribute to coach Damien Hardwick for his capacity to keep the players’ minds solely on the task at hand.

“One thing that ‘Dimma’ has been amazing at for us, over our whole journey, really, is keeping the focus on us and what we can control,” he said.

“Throughout the week, we’ve been really solidly focused on our process and our preparation.

“That’s held us in good stead in previous times and I’m sure it will this time as well . . .

“We’re not thinking about anything beyond this training session today and then the game coming up on the weekend.”