Richmond assistant coach Justin Leppitsch spoke with Matthew Richardson about the Tigers’ Round 13 ‘Dreamtime in Darwin’ victory over Essendon in this week’s edition of Coaches Corner, presented by Hostplus.

Extra-special occasion

“It was a terrific night for the Club. Obviously, to get away with the win, which was really good, but the atmosphere and the occasion itself was brilliant. And to do it in Darwin, I think it was a bit extra special.” 

Inside-50 dominance (plus 42)

“It obviously means we didn’t score the first time we went in . . . It also shows that we need a little bit of work on our connection inside 50, which isn’t the first time this year that’s happened . . . We’ve spent a lot of time on that . . . To own the territory battle was really important and we did that.”

Bachar Houli’s return

“He was a little bit rusty, but I thought he got better and better as the game went on, which is really important. He pulled up well, he’s ready to go again. He said he felt like he’d played only half a game. We’ve got a very short break, so it’s good that he feels like that . . . It’s one thing with Bachar, he is highly professional – one of the most professional athletes I’ve seen. So he always gives himself the best chance to play well and to get up in these times. He’s a beauty.” 

Oleg Markov’s dash

“We’ve always known he’s had that run and dash. But his ability to compete as well in the air and on the ground also has been terrific. And then, added to that, is his run and dash . . . Really hoping to see even more of that, which are the strengths of his game. With every week he builds confidence. He’s doing a terrific job.”

Liam Baker’s influence

“Our leading possession-gain (intercept) player on the weekend. Normally Nick (Vlastuin) takes that title most weeks. Bakes’ ability also to go back in the air with the flight (of the ball ) and compete against bigger opposition, it’s an under-rated part of his  game . . . And he bounces up quickly and gets the ground-level ball as well. So he’s a really valuable player for us.”

Big challenge next-up v West Coast

“It’s going to be probably our toughest test for the whole season because you usually have at least one or two players in the opposition that don’t lack the offensive talent or flair or ability to kick a goal. Whereas West Coast sort of have it in every position. As a backline group, we can’t be asleep this week, obviously. They’ve got great aerial targets and then also great ground-level options as well.”