Despite solid performances from experienced pair Ivan Maric and Ricky Petterd, the Tigers wasted opportunities early and faded away late.
Maric, in his second game since returning from an ankle injury, started slowly but had an impact both in the ruck and up forward. He had 41 hit outs and moved well around the ground to finish with 19 disposals, 7 inside 50s and 2 goals – one of which came after a strong pack mark and the other on the run.
“I got better as the game went on,” Maric said. “I’m feeling really good, really confident, really fit so it’s just about producing four consistent quarters.”
Ricky Petterd delivered another impressive performance as a utility. He played a consistent game in both defence and attack and collected a team-high 26 disposals with 8 inside 50s.
The Tigers controlled the play early and dominated possession but, in a game dogged by wayward conversion, went into quarter time at 0.8.
Brett O’Hanlon started well and found a lot of the ball. He finished with 19 disposals, disposed of it well and constantly provided a link between defence and attack.
Werribee took control in the second term and built a lead. The Tigers first goal was set up by Arnot, who won the ball by diving on it, bumping an opponent, throwing off a tackler and putting it inside 50. Arnot had 17 disposals, 9 clearances and kicked a goal.
Anthony Miles, who finished with 19 disposals (12 contested) and 8 clearances, also lifted but the Tigers struggled to reduce to the margin.
Two goals from Aaron Edwards saw the Tigers fight back in a rollercoaster third term that involved frequent momentum swings. Nick Wynne (20 disposals), Brad Helbig (15) and Luke Conca (14) worked hard but turnovers and counter-attacks hurt the Tigers.
In what was a tough day for defenders, the Richmond struggled to contain the home side late and Werribee finished strongly to win comfortably.
RICHMOND: 0.8 1.11 6.16 8.17. (65)
WERRIBEE: 1.3 4.10 10.12 16.14 (110)
Goals: Maric 2, Edwards 2, Arnot, Banfield, Gleeson, Young
Best: Maric, Petterd, Miles, Arnot, O’Hanlon
