Richmond’s superior pressure and ball movement propelled them to a 45-point win on Friday afternoon in an AFL practice match against Essendon.

In a rare senior game at their Punt Rd home, the Tigers led at every change and won easily 15.11 (101) to 8.8 (56).

While the Tigers have to be a week ahead in their preparations for round one, Essendon will be concerned about a forward line that never fired during the match.

Bombers key forward Jake Carlile could also be in trouble for a second-term incident that involved Richmond defender Steve Morris.

Essendon midfielder David Zaharakis limped off in the last term after a collision.

Matt Thomas and Brett Deledio impressed through the midfield for the Tigers, while key defenders David Astbury and Alex Rance were very solid.

Key forward Jack Riewoldt played his first game this year and kicked two goals.

Captain Jobe Watson was Essendon’s best with his usual classy effort through the midfield.

Veteran defender Dustin Fletcher and young utility Martin Gleeson also were strong for the Bombers.

Essendon led the inside 50s 17-7 at quarter-time, but Richmond were much better in attack and had a 10-point break.

The Tigers’ tackling caused several Essendon turnovers in the second quarter and they had full control at halftime with a 28-point lead.

Richmond key forward Ty Vickery was subbed out at halftime.

With Ivan Maric injured, Richmond back-up ruckman Ben Griffiths continued to stake his claim for a regular senior berth.

Young Tigers defender Matt McDonough also continued his strong pre-season.

The big worry for Richmond is their reigning best-and-fairest winner Daniel Jackson, who has not played in the pre-season because of a groin or hamstring injury.

He would be their No.1 choice to play on Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett.

The Tigers start their season away against the Suns on Saturday week.

Essendon’s round-one match is on Friday, March 21 against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.