Richmond got exactly what it wanted out of this morning’s practice match against Melbourne at Casey Fields . . . a solid hit-out, with seasoned stars easing their way back into the action, and young players showcasing their potential.

In a tight contest throughout, it was the Demons who prevailed by 11 points at the final siren – 14.9 (93) to 12.10 (82). But as is the case with practice matches, the result was largely immaterial.

Triple premiership veteran Shane Edwards demonstrated he’d lost none of his classy creativity, quality small backman Liam Baker was as busy as ever, Nick Vlastuin and Nathan Broad were typically reliable in defence, Jason Castagna, Shai Bolton and Jake Aarts (three goals) were lively in their small-forward roles, vice-captain Jack Riewoldt (two goals) moved well, Josh Caddy (two goals) was a valuable contributor on a wing, while Dustin Martin cruised through, providing a couple of trademark Dusty highlights along the way.

On the young talent front, midfielder Will Martyn continued his impressive pre-season, finding a fair bit of the ball and distributing it efficiently, Hugo Ralphsmith did some good things in his running role across the backline and Jack Ross was solid through the midfield.

In the final quarter, when the Tigers rested several experienced players, midfielder Thomson Dow and ruckman Callum Coleman-Jones came on and made the most of the opportunity provided to them at senior level.

Dow displayed slick Shane Edwards-type traits, while Coleman-Jones underlined his mobility for a big man and aerial ability, taking a superb one-handed mark at one stage.

Then, following a short break, Dow and Coleman-Jones proceeded to shine at the next level down, when Richmond and Melbourne played a three-term match comprising the other members of their respective playing lists, along with some VFL-listed players and those competing for a spot via the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period.

Apart from Dow and Coleman, other Tiger cubs to impress were defensive duo Ben Miller and Bigoa Nyuon, Patrick Naish, with his kicking skills, and Maurice Rioli Jr, who showed that innate Rioli ability around the big sticks, booting two goals in a spirited showing that would have warmed the hearts of the Tiger Army.

Richmond defeated Melbourne by 32 points in the second practice match – 11.5 (71) to 6.3 (39).