RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick believes the Tigers' reputation as pressure kings was the catalyst for North Melbourne's litany of costly errors on Saturday night.

The Roos were their own worst enemy at times with ball in hand and their ill-discipline also let them down in a crucial patch in the third quarter that helped Richmond score a 35-point victory at Etihad Stadium.

"It's an interesting one, perceived pressure … I think we're the AFL No.1 in forward-half turnovers, so sometimes your reputation probably precedes you," Hardwick said.

"When you've got guys like (Daniel) Rioli, (Shai) Bolton, (Jason) Castagna and (Dan) Butler; knowing they're coming, sometimes it puts a bit of pressure on the opposition, so they probably get rid of it half a step earlier.

"So I still think good sides manage to get those turnovers. People will say they kicked it away, but I think our reputation is pretty strong in that field."

Hardwick spoke with confidence and hinted the Tigers could be on the verge of something special in the coming months after missing finals in a disappointing season last year.

Dustin Martin continues to perform at an elite level despite the constant speculation about his playing future, captain Trent Cotchin is enjoying an outstanding season and Richmond's backline is as good as any around.

Three-time All Australian Alex Rance might command most of the attention in defence, but David Astbury, who kept Jarrad Waite to one goal, and Dylan Grimes drew Hardwick's praise again.

Jack Riewoldt remains the major tall target in attack, but the Tigers' mosquito fleet of forwards – Rioli, Butler, Castagna and first-year footballer Bolton – are increasingly pivotal.

"We've got a nice complement and we do play some exciting footy," Hardwick said.

"We have a nice complement of inside players – Martin, Cotchin, (Dion) Prestia, (Josh) Caddy, these types – and some really classy outside young players that are starting to (blossom).

"We probably haven't had the leg speed (in the past), but we brought some players in (and) I thought Connor Menadue grew again tonight as well … it's exciting for us."

Prestia's off-season switch from the Gold Coast attracted much fanfare, but the hard-nosed onballer had been somewhat underwhelming entering the North clash.

The 24-year-old changed all that with 35 disposals, including 10 contested, five tackles and five clearances. Prestia has managed minor knee, calf and hamstring issues since arriving at Tigerland.

"I thought (Prestia) was huge tonight. No doubt his best game for us," Hardwick said.

"It does take some time for the players to come from other clubs to fit into your system and it's taken a bit longer than we both would have liked.

"But in fairness to Dion, he's only started training twice a week (last week) … so we're really positive he's going to have a huge impact for us in the second part of the year – his best footy is still in front of him."