Matthew Richardson previews Friday night's semi final clash against St Kilda at Metricon Stadium.

1. Lynch Pin

Heading into Friday night’s semi-final against the Saints, Richmond’s forward line will be bolstered by the return of Tom Lynch. Lynch provides another long down the line target that will half the contest if he doesn’t mark it. Lynch has kicked 28 goals for the season and his inclusion means more one-vs-one opportunities for Jack Riewoldt.

2. Saints entries

The Saints have been exceptional this season at creating space inside their forward fifty, kicking 41.1 from the 0-15m range; that’s nine more than any other team. The main beneficiary in this area for the Saints is Dan Butler, who has kicked 28 goals in season 2020. The Tigers will need to slow down the Saints’ forward 50 entries and try to force them wide.

3. Ruck Duel

With unfortunate injuries to Saints big man, Paddy Ryder and Richmond’s Ivan Soldo, this week’s battle in the ruck will be one-vs-one, Marshall vs Nankervis. Both ruckmen average around 14 disposals, 15 hit-outs and 13 pressure acts, providing their teams an extra midfielder at ground level.