Forwards coach Craig McRae spoke to Matthew Richardson about the Round 5 win over Melbourne in this week's edition of Coaches Corner, presented by Hostplus.
Richmond showcasing its trademark pressure
"Our brand, our DNA, is to turn up when the ball hits the ground and to put pressure on. Melbourne are very good at that part of their game and we went in thinking we had to match them at least in that part and then try to expose them elsewhere. Just (Richmond's) energy to get the ball back, I know watching the forwards from my end, was the best they’d put pressure on all year, which was really pleasing."
Noah Balta’s outstanding performance resulting in six coaches’ votes
"Coaching him the last couple of years at VFL level, you just know what he’s capable of. His highlights are as good as any and his ability to win the ball back was such a feature in the game we saw on the weekend…His ability to cover ground and have speed and be athletic has really added something."
Jake Aarts’ long-awaited debut
"It was really pleasing for Jake. The first VFL player to get drafted out of our program... (I'm) really proud of his resilience. He’s had a story,...years wearing the Richmond jumper before he got a chance to play at AFL level. He just slotted in, he knew everything that was required. He played his role extremely well and he’s a tough player. He showed everyone what he’s capable of."
Mabior Chol’s senior return
"At his best, he’s athletic, he can jump. We manage his game time accordingly to give him the right amount of energy to bring his best and whether it was forward or in the ruck, he really gave us something. He looks like he’ll get more opportunity in the coming weeks."
Injuries providing opportunity for young Tigers
"It’s inevitable, you take players out and you have to replace them. The confidence we have is that players will come in and put the jumper on and play the system. Regardless of the name and the face, it’s the system that we pride ourselves on to play your role. Marlion Pickett and Shai Bolton, even guys that haven’t been exposed like Riley Collier-Dawkins, these guys will get opportunities in the coming weeks and we have great confidence they’ll come in and play the Richmond way."
The enthusiasm within the group
"There’s certainly a buzz. We’re a long way from home and it’s hard to say farewell to your family but we’re up here and there’s a great energy in the group. We haven’t been able to connect like this for a number of weeks back in Melbourne. And then the opportunity presents for a few young guys, so there’s a good buzz at the moment."
