The Tigers have been defeated 2.2 (14) to 9.3 (57) by Collingwood in Round 3 of the VFLW on Sunday afternoon at the Swinburne Centre.

While the conditions were wet, Richmond’s spirit did not dampen, and the Tigers fought hard against the experienced Collingwood outfit.

The opening stages of the game proved to be an evenly matched affair. Both teams were sitting on seven points by the conclusion of the first term after a well-executed snap by Justine Hocking levelled the score.

But Collingwood adapted quickly when the effects of the slippery conditions set in. The Magpies broke away in the second quarter as they piled on four consecutive goals within the first 10 minutes.

Richmond gained back their momentum and were successful in locking in the ball when it resided in their forward 50m.

But, despite Louise Stephenson and Kate Dempsey’s efforts in driving the ball into Richmond’s forward pocket, the Tigers were unable to hit the scoreboard again during the first half.

Richmond were dominant in the third term and were rewarded for their efforts when Ella Ross soccered the ball through the big sticks to claim their second goal of the match.

But Collingwood’s accuracy was ruthless. They nailed nine out of their 12 shots at goal and widened the final margin to 43 points.

Coach Tom Hunter said he was proud of the girls’ ability to learn lessons and identify opportunities for growth.

“We haven’t had much practice in the wet, but we’ll certainly take a few growth areas and points out of that and apply them to next week,” he said.

“When the ball went forward, we were able to hold it in our forward line really well and set up behind our attack. We’ll keep looking to get the ball going our way and allow our defenders to set up.”

It was another classy performance by defender Jacqui Graham who gathered 29 touches including 15 kicks.

Utility Louise Bieniara was another standout. She performed well in the ruck while also laying nine tackles.

Coach Hunter said Bieniara is instrumental for the Tigers all over the ground.

“She’s a little bit of a Miss Fix-It. She plays in the ruck when we need her, she can play down back when we need her, she just always give us effort and I’m really proud of how she goes about her footy,” Hunter said.

Former Collingwood AFLW player Lauren Tesoriero amassed 16 touches and nine handballs as she played her debut home and away game for Richmond.

Coach Hunter said Tesoriero brings invaluable proficiency to the side.   

“Anytime you get players who have had AFLW experience back into the side it strengthens you up a little bit. What Lauren brings is obviously that experience, but she helps other girls around her.”

Round 4 will see the Tigers come up against Williamstown at 2pm Sunday May 27 at Williamstown Football Ground.