Richmond will be looking to atone for its last meeting against Essendon, when the two sides meet at the MCG this Friday night.

The Tigers were thrashed by 50 points in the Dreamtime at the ‘G match in Round 11.

“Last time we played Essendon was a disappointing game – probably one of our worst games for the year,” experienced defender Troy Chaplin said.

“Within the first five or 10 minutes, it was nearly all over – they were four or five goals to nothing.

“We made some uncharacteristic errors that night.  We’re a better side now, we think.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge for us.”

Richmond will be gunning for a sixth straight win on Friday night, with growing confidence following a solid period of form in the past two months.

After slumping to a 3-10 record, the Tigers have lifted themselves to 12th on the league ladder after 19 rounds.

“Our biggest focus is on Essendon on Friday night.  It’s going to be a huge game and, hopefully, our supporters get out and support us, and get to the game,” Chaplin said.

“We’re trying to push up the ladder, and they’re obviously vying for that top eight spot, so it should be a great game.

“We’re celebrating 100 years of the sash with a commemorative guernsey, and it’s extremely important to us.

“We’re two rivals, or enemies, that have had a history of great games in the past, and that’s what we’re hoping for on Friday night.

“Hopefully, we can get a big crowd there.  We’re on the biggest stage, Friday night footy.  What better way to play.”