KEY RICHMOND VERSUS GEELONG MATCH-UPS
* Dustin Martin (Rich) v Jake Kolodjashnij (Geel)
Martin was stationed in attack in the qualifying final win against Brisbane and duly delivered a stunning six-goal performance which will tempt Tiger coach Damien Hardwick to again deploy him forward. While there’s arguably no-one in the competition that can match Martin’s explosiveness and innate footy smarts, Kolodjashnij has the physical tools to combat the Richmond megastar – the Cat backman is slightly taller, a kilogram heavier and has the defensive discipline required for a lockdown role.
* Dion Prestia (Rich) v Patrick Dangerfield (Geel)
Dangerfield is the ace in Geelong’s pack but also a conundrum for coach Chris Scott: does he put the Brownlow medallist on the ball, or use him in attack to cover the absence of suspended spearhead Tom Hawkins? Most likely, a bit of both. Dangerfield’s drive from midfield will be vital against the battle-hardened Tiger onball brigade featuring Prestia, who has the strength to match him around the packs and the speed to counter him in open play. Dangerfield can expect Dylan Grimes for company when he drifts forward.
* Jack Riewoldt (Rich) v Mark Blicavs (Geel)
Riewoldt was kept to just six disposals in the qualifying final triumph against Brisbane – but three of them were goals, evidencing his danger. The Richmond forward has just 20 goals from his nine finals but this is his first campaign where he isn’t the sole focal point. His work in attacking tandem with Tom Lynch looms as game-breaking on what is forecast as a warm night with no rain to dampen their marking abilities. Geelong’s Blicavs could find himself on both at various stages but his athleticism is best suited on Riewoldt, who prowls further and wider from goal than Lynch.