It’s been only seven weeks since Richmond defeated Essendon by 38 points in the annual ‘Dreamtime’ game, but the Tigers are planning for a bolder, better Bombers’ combination, when the two teams meet again at the MCG this Saturday afternoon.

“They’ve been really competitive over the last four-week block,” Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said at his weekly Punt Road press conference earlier today.

“Their style of game has changed a bit . . . they’re different from the Round 10 game that we played against them last time.

“Their contested ball’s improved, their ball movement’s a lot quicker.  They probably controlled the ball through uncontested marks last time we played. 

“They’ve started to come together as a side and are playing a style of game that suits them . . . a good, consistent brand of footy . . .

“They’re dangerous up forward.  They’ve got a lot of speed up there. 

“Young ‘Tipu’ went up there last week and showed some signs, and (Orazio) Fantasia’s had a great block of games . . . Joe Daniher is not necessarily the No. 1 target inside 50 now . . .

“It’s going to be a good contest for our boys.”