Defender Chris Newman says Richmond is not underestimating the capabilities of North Melbourne ahead of this weekend’s clash at Etihad Stadium.

Newman, 31, said the Kangaroos’ record of five wins and eight losses is not an accurate reflection of their ability as a team.

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“They’ve got some players that can really break the line and they can control the footy really well, and they’ve got a lot of dangerous forwards,” Newman said on Richmond’s ‘Talking Tigers’ podcast on Wednesday.

The former skipper said the North’s strong defence meant that Richmond would need to best at their best to get the result.

“We’re going to have our work cut out for us…we still think we can play better, so if we can raise our standards, we’ll be right in the game,” he said.

Richmond will be looking to secure their fifth straight win, but will be without ruckman Ivan Maric, who will miss a second consecutive match with a groin strain.