A stronger defensive mindset shapes as a key factor in Richmond taking the next step in season 2014, according to respected Tiger veteran Chris Newman.

The former Richmond captain rates defensive reaction as one of the most crucial aspects of AFL football today.

“You see across the competition now that defensive reaction stuff, which is vitally important, due to the speed of the game,” Newman said on SEN’s ‘Morning Glory’ program.

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“The defensive efforts are something that stand up in finals football as well . . .

“It’s a challenge for everyone.  Sometimes you do get caught ball watching, you forget about your opponent, and he’s out the back.

“If you’re off that second, your opponent can get 10 metres on you, and it’s game over.

“So, it’s an important facet of the game now, right across the board.

“The midfield and the forward line are almost the most important defensive lines in the team.”

Newman also revealed that he will play in tomorrow's practice match against Essendon at the ME Bank Centre’s Punt Road Oval, only three weeks after suffering what initially looked like a serious knee injury, in Richmond’s first pre-season match against Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on February.

 “[I’m] a little bit ahead of schedule, which is great,” he said.

“I’ve been feeling really good for about a week and a half, so I’m really looking forward to the challenge.”