A brave and determined Tigers side, bolstered by the return of Chris Knights, mounted a second-half comeback to record a team lifting four-point win over Geelong at Simonds Stadium on Saturday night.
Four goals from in-form forward Liam McBean and a terrific performance by Matt McDonough helped the Tigers reverse a poor first half, which saw them trail by 26 points at one stage.
“The boys played really good footy,” VFL coach Tim Clarke said post-game. “To come down to Geelong and to play such a good side and to start slowly, get ourselves going in the third and hang on in the last was a terrific result.”
Chris Knights was a leading figure for the Tigers and worked hard for 20 disposals (10 contested) and six clearances in his first match in 13 weeks due to a knee injury.
“He was benched in the last but he was terrific in the first three quarters and won the ball inside. He really got us going,” Clarke said.
Matt McDonough had 22 disposals, 11 tackles, seven clearances and kicked a goal in another standout performance built on his impressive run and carry. McBean continued his good form, marking strongly and getting himself in dangerous positions.
Richmond struggled early as Geelong’s fast breaks allowed them to find loose men up forward but the Tigers fired late in the third quarter, piling on five-straight goals to gain momentum and take control of the game.
Aaron Edwards collected 23 disposals, booted two goals, provided a safe pair of hands and showed his willingness to get up the ground by taking a mark at full back.
Despite a quiet first half, Brad Helbig played an important role in defence. He remained composed, won the ball in crucial moments and constantly relieved pressure with reliable disposal.
Nathan Gordon (27 disposals) also came alive in the second half, skipper Ross Young and Nathan Batsanis again found a lot of the ball while Todd Banfield worked hard for his two goals.
The ball was locked in the Cats’ half during the final minutes but desperate defending and a crucial Matt Dea mark saw the Tigers hold on a for a memorable win.
RICHMOND 14 4.6 10.8 13.12 (90)
GEELONG 4.1 8.2 11.6 13.8 (86)
Goals: McBean 4, A. Edwards 2, Banfield 2, Gordon, Young, McDonough, Griffiths, Williams
Best: McDonough, McBean, Young, Helbig, A. Edwards, Knights
