The ruck battle between Richmond’s Ivan Maric and North Melbourne’s Todd Goldstein shapes as a pivotal factor in Sunday’s big elimination final encounter at the MCG.

Maric is a vital member of the Tigers’ line-up due to his warrior-like attitude, while Goldstein has enjoyed the best season of his league career this year and is right in contention for All-Australian honors.

“It’s going to be a big challenge for Ivan . . . They had a reasonable match-up when they played last time in Tassie (Hobart’s Blundstone Arena in Round 6),” Richmond veteran Chris Newman said on 3AW.

“There’s no doubt Ivan loves to challenge himself against the best, and Goldstein’s certainly one of the best, if not the best, ruckmen in the competition. 

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“He’s had a fantastic year, he’s a fantastic player, gives them a lot of offensive spread as well, and works extremely hard for a big man. 

“So he (Maric) is going to have his work cut out for him, that’s for sure.

“But if there’s one thing that Ivan thrives on it is that challenge and that hard work. 

“He’s one of the leaders of our football club and we look forward to the physicality that he’ll bring himself.”

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick agreed with Newman’s sentiments about the importance of Sunday’s ruck duel.

“It’s going to be crucial, there’s no doubt about that,” Hardwick said.

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“Last time (in Hobart), although we did lose the game, we were pretty happy with Ivan’s game versus Goldstein on that occasion.

“Goldstein’s an incredible player, incredible athlete, and he’s done a staggering amount of centre-bounce work over the course of the year.

“But we’ve got extreme faith in Ivan to do the job.”