Richmond president Peggy O’Neal is adamant that unity, sound decision-making and staying the course, hold the key to the Tigers turning around their on-field fortunes.

Speaking to guests at last Saturday’s president’s function, O’Neal acknowledged Richmond’s on-field plight was unacceptable, but said the entire club is pulling in the same direction to rectify the situation.

“It’s obvious that our on-field performance, to this stage of the season, has been unacceptable,” O’Neal said.

“Our fans are clearly frustrated, and rightly so.

“We’re exploring every avenue for improvement, and we’re in it for the long haul.

“We will remain honest with each other and not assume that things will just get better.

“We will challenge and support each other, because we believe we have the right people in positions of responsibility at this football club.

“We won’t be swayed by emotion or outside opinion.  Instead, we’ll be measured and make decisions that are in the long-term best interests of our members and supporters.

“Most importantly, we don’t intend to wave the white flag and just say that it’s all too hard.

“We will stay strong and remain committed to pursuing excellence and embracing the tough truth about how hard it is to succeed in this highly competitive environment.

“There will be outside detractors and distractions, and there will be opinions proffered, but we must believe in ourselves and the course we’ve set.

“The opinions and criticisms that count are the ones that want the Club to succeed.”