TIGERS CLAIM FIRST BLOOD

RICHMOND RICHMON are one step closer to thee AFL premiershipremiership afterf lockinlocking away a top-four finish with a 27-point win over Brisbane at the MCG.

Sunday’s 12.10 (82) to 8.7 (55) victory means the Tigers will finish third on the ladder and face the second-placed Lions at the Gabba in a mouthwatering qualifying-final rematch.

Minor premiers Geelong will host Collingwood at the MCG in the other qualifying final.

Richmond dominated early on Sunday afternoon to lead by 26 points at half-time, but were made to fight tooth and nail in an electric third quarter during which the Lions pared the margin back to seven points.

But as they’ve so often been able to do, the Tigers found another gear and got the game back on to their terms. Jack Riewoldt was the hero for the hosts, booting four first-quarter goals in a domination of Lions opponent Marcus Adams.

The Tigers’ Dustin Martin (21 disposals, two goals) and Dion Prestia (30 touches) were typically busy in the midfield, while Nick Vlastuin strengthened his case for a maiden All-australian berth with an outstanding backline performance.

Brownlow Medal frontrunner Lachie Neale was superb for the Lions, gathering 25 touches to half-time and finishing with a career-high 51.

Playing at the MCG for just the second time this season and fronting the biggest crowd for a Lions, Bears or Fitzroy game (76,995), Chris Fagan’s cubs had always been at risk of being overawed on the big stage.

That looked the case early when Darcy

Gardiner’s dropped chest mark led to Riewoldt’s fourth major. But after responding strongly in the second half, the Lions will be confident of turning the tables at home. — Michael Ramsey