The Anzac Eve clash between Richmond and Melbourne is quickly becoming one of the best fixtures on the AFL calendar - but can the Tigers make a game of it?
Richmond Tigers vs Melbourne Demons
The winless Tigers have their work cut out in this Anzac Eve clash against a Melbourne side that has been a revelation under Steven King.
Richmond has been hit hard by injuries, with Tim Taranto sidelined alongside several key contributors.
Can they keep this competitive?
Leg 1 - Melbourne 40+
It’s hard to see Richmond staying with Melbourne here. The Tigers were competitive in Round 1 against Carlton, but since then their five losses have all been by 7+ goals, with an average losing margin of 60.2 points.
Melbourne thrives at the MCG, covering the line in nine of their last 11 at the ground, including all four games this season where they remain undefeated at the ‘G.
The return of Tom Lynch gives Richmond a focal point up forward, but with Taranto, Banks and Rioli all out, supply could be a major issue.
Leg 2 - Jack Ross 20+ Disposals
Ross has been attending around 50% of centre bounces this season, and that number should rise with Taranto out.
He’s averaging 21.7 disposals per game and has hit 20+ in four of six games.
Even with Melbourne’s strong form, opposition midfielders have still found plenty of the ball, giving Ross another opportunity for a big game after 26 disposals last week.
Leg 3 - Harry Sharp 1+ Goals
It’s been a breakout season for Sharp, perfectly suited to Steven King’s system with his running power.
He’s kicked eight goals this season and has scored in every game.
Against a vulnerable Richmond defence, he should get his chances again.
Leg 4 - Koltyn Tholstrup 20+ Disposals
Tholstrup has become a key piece under King, starting the season as a tagger before settling into a role across half-back.
He’s recorded 20+ disposals in each of the last two games, including 26 against Brisbane last week.
That performance featured 10 kick-ins, playing on from all of them, highlighting his growing role in Melbourne’s ball movement.
Same Game Multi
Melbourne 40+ / Ross 20+ Disposals / Sharp 1+ Goals / Tholstrup 20+ Disposals = $5.00
