Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said a lack of composure at critical times was the difference in the Tigers' four-point loss to West Coast on Sunday night, particularly when going forward. 

"We had opportunities where we could have scored but we went too quick in forward 50," Hardwick said. 

"We spoke about it all day and we couldn't adhere to the plan. We had 38 giveaway turnovers, which hurt us all night as well."

"Their goal kicking is amazing and always has been."

Hardwick said the team's preparation for Sunday's clash, flying back to their Sydney base after the Dreamtime win last Saturday night and then back to Perth this weekend, had been positive. 

Having missed a chance to close in on the top four, he described the 7-6 Tigers' season as "spluttering".  

"We're in the hunt. We're like a lot of sides, spluttering along at the moment," he said. 

"We get some players back, then we lose some players. There are sides, I wouldn't say having a charmed run, but they are coping well with their injuries. 

"We probably haven't hit that run of form as yet. Hopefully it comes after bye."

Hardwick said he hoped young forward Callum Coleman-Jones would be able remain in the team when spearhead Tom Lynch returns after the bye, impressing again with two goals.  

"We just have to manage it the best we can," he said. 

"We'd love to keep them all and would love to reward them and keep them in the side. We just need change something to make sure it works."