The changes
In: K. Lambert
Out: B. Ellis
What to expect
Richmond deservedly took out their first minor premiership in 36 years after an impressive season which saw them lose just four games.
The Tigers have taken their game to another level in this year of premiership defence, as their rampant tackling pressure and multitude of offensive avenues have made them look invincible at times throughout the season.
Watch: The last time the Hawks met the Tiges
Their offensive power is exemplified by the number of forward 50 entries they are generating, averaging 59.3 inside 50s and 13.4 marks inside 50 per game, which both rank second in the competition behind Melbourne.
This resulted in an average of 97.4 points scored, which also rates second only to the Demons.
The Tigers’ strengths are well-known and well-documented, but the reigning premiers do also have some weaknesses which the Hawks will look to expose on Thursday night.
Despite a star-studded midfield, Richmond’s on-ball brigade does have its deficiencies, ranking 17thin the competition for clearances and hit-outs.
Ruckman Toby Nankervis, averaging 25 hit-outs per game, has struggled to give his midfielders first use this season and, despite the Tigers finding ways to overcome this issue, it figures as an area the Hawks will look to take full advantage of.
Player to watch
At the age of 29 and in his 12thseason in the AFL, Shane Edwards was rewarded with his maiden All Australian honour last week.
Seemingly behind an all-star cast at the Tigers, Edwards has proven one of his side’s most important players in 2018.
He ranks as the second-best midfield-forward in the competition behind only Patrick Dangerfield, primarily on the back of his rating as the number one score assists player in the competition.
