Tigers snag top four as Riewoldt retires

RICHMOND secured a topfour berth and sent AFL great Nick Riewoldt into retirement with a 41- point win over St Kilda yesterday.

The Saints were still a mathematical chance of making the finals if they had a big win and other results went their way, but the Tigers jumped them early to set up the 19.8 ( 122) to 12.9 ( 81) victory.

Damien Hardwick’s men were fourth going into Round 23 and they climbed to third with their 15th win of the season to set up a qualifying final against Geelong.

Red- hot Brownlow Medal favourite Dustin Martin put in another stunning performance, his 36 possessions and two goals a highlight.

Riewoldt had 15 touches and kicked a goal in his 336th and final AFL appearance. He was warmly applauded by the 69,104 fans in attendance as he was chaired off the MCG by teammate Josh Bruce and cousin Jack Riewoldt.

The win means the Tigers will drag Geelong down the highway to the MCG, despite the Cats having the right to host the game.

Cats president Colin Carter wants a broader discussion about finals scheduling, saying more certainty was needed.

Publicly, the Cats are being diplomatic over the issue.

“It’s a subject for a discussion when we’re not under the pressure of having to actually make the decision,” Carter said.

“And yes, clarity at the start of the year is important.”

Cats coach Chris Scott said on Saturday night that he did not plan on losing any sleep over a matter he had no control over.

“I think it’s a good debate to have,” he said.