In a match that lived up to its billing, Richmond have defeated Sydney by 26-points in a pulsating top-of-the-table clash at Etihad Stadium tonight.
Here's everything you need to know!
The Talking Point: The reigning premiers answer the challenge…again
They were challenged, but once again, Richmond reigned supreme.
A six goal to three opening term set the Tigers on their way, but the Swans recovered to serve it right up to the home side in an engrossing contest.
Game. Set. Match.
— AFL (@AFL) June 28, 2018
The Tigers are home! #AFLTigersSwans pic.twitter.com/JfbJsgd6Oc
The Bloods got to within five points in the final term, but what has become a trademark of Damien Hardwick’s side, they finished off the game full of run to stave off the Sydney resurgence to register a stirring win.
If we didn’t already know before tonight, Richmond are still the team to beat in 2018.
The Star: Jack Riewoldt
Jack Riewoldt had an absolute blinder this evening.
You could argue that tonight was Riewoldt’s best game of his career, as he tormented the Sydney defence.
This is Jack Riewoldt's world, we're just living in it!
— AFL (@AFL) June 28, 2018
What a performance from Richmond's #8. #AFLTigersSwans pic.twitter.com/AqA1KgN3d0
The Tigers veteran was everywhere, hauling in mark after mark as well as getting up the ground and collecting his fair share of the ball.
Riewoldt had 23 disposals, booted three goals and took 16 marks in an outstanding display of forward craftsmanship.
Medical room: Conca suffers horrific ankle injury
Richmond rebound defender Reece Conca has suffered what looks to be a broken ankle in his 100th game for the club.
Conca’s left ankle gave way after being tackle by Sydney’s Franklin and was stretchered from the field in considerable pain.
Graphic warning.
— AFL.com.au (@AFLcomau) June 28, 2018
Our thoughts are with Reece Conca after this ankle injury.#AFLTigersSwans pic.twitter.com/uZtYQ2NqpK
It’s a cruel blow for the 25-year-old who was enjoying a sustained run in the Tigers’ line-up after playing just 15 games in the last three years.
Taken at pick six in the 2010 draft, Conca is out of contract at the end of this season with this injury coming at the worst possible time for the luckless Tiger.
Conca’s teammates were on hand to lend their support as he was taken from the field.
A kiss for good luck? 😅
— AFL (@AFL) June 28, 2018
Daniel Rioli keeping it light as he gets around Reece Conca. #AFLTigersSwans pic.twitter.com/phuyakxafz
What’s next?
Both teams have blockbuster encounters to look forward to, with Richmond taking on Adelaide next Friday night at the MCG in a Grand Final rematch.
While Sydney tackle Geelong at the SCG next Thursday night.
Full Score
Richmond: 6.1, 7.2, 11.5, 14.9.93
Sydney: 3.1, 5.1, 10.1, 11.1.67
GOALS
Richmond: Riewoldt 3, Lambert 3, Butler 2, Short 2, Rioli, Vlastuin, Caddy, Rioli, Edwards
Sydney: Franklin 4, Ronke 2, Florent 2, Parker 2, Hayward
BEST
Richmond: Riewoldt, Lambert, Vlastuin, Nankervis, Short, Edwards, Cotchin
Sydney: Kennedy, Parker, Lloyd, Hewett, Franklin, Ronke, McVeigh
INJURIES
Richmond: Conca (ankle)
Sydney: Heeney (concussion)
Reports: Nil