Geelong again got the better of reigning premier Richmond at the MCG, this time with a 15.5 (95) to 8.9 (57) win on Sunday afternoon.

The Tigers' injury-decimated side brought ferocity to the first quarter and had their noses in front late in the term, but the Cats' class started to show and by half-time they held a 41-point lead.

A much better Richmond took the field when play resumed, but poor conversion saw opportunities to narrow the gap wasted and a goal to Esava Ratugolea on the three-quarter time siren put any hopes of a comeback to bed.

Tom Hawkins was a powerhouse in front of Geelong's goals, finishing with four of his own to keep a second Coleman Medal in his sights and getting support from Ratugolea who also slotted four, while the Cats' defence was magnificent.

There was little for Richmond to take away beyond another good performance from Daniel Rioli in his new defensive role, Matthew Parker impressing in his second game in yellow and black, and getting games into young players.

Jayden Short (26 disposals, eight marks) was effective from half-back, while Jack Ross (25 disposals, nine marks) was combative through the midfield.

GEELONG      3.0    8.3   10.3    15.5 (95)
RICHMOND   1.2    1.4    3.7      8.9 (57)

GOALS
Geelong: Hawkins 4, Ratugolea 4, Close, Dangerfield, Miers, Narkle, Parfitt, Rowan, Stanley
Richmond: Aarts 2, Riewoldt 2, Castagna, Cotchin, Lambert, Lynch

BEST
Geelong: Dangerfield, Hawkins, Guthrie, Ratugolea, Stewart, Smith, Stanley
Richmond: Short, Rioli, Mansell, Parker, Ross
 
INJURIES
Geelong: Selwood (quad)
Richmond: Nil
 
SUBSTITUTES
Geelong: Narkle (replaced Selwood)
Richmond: Caddy (unused)