Richmond coach Damien Hardwick says Geelong is the best side they’ve faced all season as the club searches for answers following their shock 63-point defeat at the MCG on Friday night.
While the first half of the Grand Final rematch was a close affair, the Cats took control of the match in the third term, kicking eight goals to one.
Jeremy Cameron (six goals), Gary Rohan (five goals) and Tom Hawkins (four goals) provided a constant threat up forward as Richmond’s defenders struggled to curtail Geelong’s three-pronged attack.
Hardwick said the difference between the two teams on the night was the ability to stick tackles, saying despite the margin he was clear where his side needed to improve.
“We'll look at some things that Geelong did,” Hardwick said post-match.
"They did some things really, really well that we'll take out of the game. There are some areas that we've certainly got to improve on.
"If you look at the tape, you'll see their ability to fight through tackles, that's the difference in the game.
"The game is 10 goals, but it's amazing (that) if you nullify those contests and we don't make a couple of errors, the game becomes a hell of a lot closer.
"They're a well-coached, well-drilled outfit that is probably the best side we've played this year."
Richmond will be looking to bounce back when they face GWS Giants at Marvel Stadium next Saturday night, while the Cats will take on St Kilda at the same venue in Round 9.