Andrew McQualter speaks to Richmond Media about the semi-final win over St Kilda in this week’s edition of Coaches Corner, presented by Hostplus.

100 days in the hub

“It’s a bloody long time isn’t it? Yeah we have been here for a long time, but hopefully (there are) a couple more weeks to go.”

Tom Lynch return

“Even though the eight shots on goal that ‘Lynchy’ had is a huge amount (there is also) the amount he created for our smalls. A lot of our crumbing goals throughout the game were to do with ‘Lynchy’ and Jack (Riewoldt) and even Toby’s (Nankervis) marking and aerial contests. It was great to have him back for sure.”

Starting the game well

“I think any game, probably finals more so, getting off to a good start is critical. Probably after that, the scores are relatively even throughout the game. It will be even more important over in Port Adelaide this week to start well.”

Shai Bolton’s finishing

“He has got some pretty special traits which we have seen. He played forward for most of last year, so although he has been through the midfield for a lot of this year, he still knows how to play as a forward clearly. It was nice to have a different look for us.”

Prestia finding his feet

“Second game back is always hard from a long lay-off, I think Dion will improve again this week. He is such a great player for our midfield and a connection to our forward line as well.

“Competition in our midfield is pretty tough but (having) lots of good players is a good problem to have.” 

Shane Edwards finals performances 

“It is the type of magnet you put on the board and you know he is going to perform. As a coaching group we are just so privileged to have players like that. 

“Shane is a great player throughout the season and has shown he can step it up when needed in the finals as well.”

Better placed for centre clearances this week

“I think so, we have got some things in place that we can hopefully rectify, but territory is just so important at the Adelaide Oval being a pretty narrow ground. 

“Centre bounce will be a critical part of the game, so pressure is on Adam Kingsley to make sure we get everything right this week and have a good result in there.”

Hard to transition the ball at Adelaide Oval

“The oval has shown that is the case. It is a significant part of the game, so we will be putting a lot of work into that the next couple of days and we have so far this week.” 

Practicing setups on a narrow ground

“It is probably slightly more unique than people realise, the Adelaide Oval. It is a lot more narrow than the Gabba or MCG, so just to be able to get a feel for that at training we thought was important, it was worthwhile doing.”

Underdogs in a final

“It is a great challenge; we are definitely the underdogs. Port have been the form side of the competition this whole year and they finished on top for a reason.

“It is a challenge we are really excited about; we have got a mature group; the crowd is going to be loud and it’s going to be in their favour. It’s a big challenge, but one we can’t wait for.”