Matthew Richardson says Tigers fans have a right to be cocky
Matthew Richardson has offered some wise advice to Tiger fans who are having trouble staying humble, with the champion goal kicker saying there is a key reason why they should embrace the hate from other fans.
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Former Richmond star Matthew Richardson has given his pre-match review of the Tigers-Cats AFL Grand Final clash, and the confident attitude of the Punt Rd faithful.
Richardson, now an AFL commentator on Channel 7, said: “If I put my Richmond supporter hat on, I’m nervous. I think the best two teams have made it (to the Grand Final). And I think, during the season, some of the football Geelong played was the best of any team.
“As the year’s gone on, Richmond has got better and better. They’ve had some injuries in the early part of the year, and some form issues, but they’ve got everyone out there at the right time, and playing their best footy.
Richardson added: “I think it will be a real 50-50 game. I don’t see a clear favourite.”
Asked what gives him a good feeling about the Tigers chances, he answered: “They’ve shown they can do it on the big stage. They’ve won two premierships in three years. Most of the big games they’ve played in that time, they’ve stepped up to that level, and been able to win. That gives you confidence.
“But what makes me nervous is, I look at the stories at Geelong; Tom Hawkins has been brilliant all year, it’s Gary Ablett’s last game, Paddy Dangerfield has never won a flag, so they’re very motivated.
“You look at those stories and you think they’ve got a lot to play for as well,” Richardson said.
Does Richo think Tigers fans could be a little more humble?
“I’m well aware of the history of the club,” he replied, laughing.
“I know in the mid-1970s when Richmond won back to back flags — 1973 and 1974 — they were hated. I think people started feeling sorry for Richmond in the 1990s and 2000s, and they almost became people’s second team.
“But I think people hate them again now. That’s not a bad thing — it means you’re winning.”
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