AFL.com.au previews Carlton's Round 15 blockbuster away to Richmond at the MCG on Friday night...
SUMMARY
Six wins from seven games has Richmond sixth on the ladder and on track for a third consecutive finals berth. On Saturday afternoon, the Tigers won "ugly" against Greater Western Sydney, according to coach Damien Hardwick, and had to overcome a 15-point deficit to get over the injury-riddled Giants. Carlton pushed the Western Bulldogs on Saturday night but fell 11 points short in what was another competitive effort in John Barker's fifth game in charge. The Blues won their two previous games against Port Adelaide and Gold Coast, and are 16th on the ladder.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Friday, July 10, 7.50pm
AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R1, 2015, Richmond 15.15 (105) d Carlton 11.12 (78) at the MCG
R2, 2014, Richmond 14.14 (98) d Carlton 12.14 (86) at the MCG
1EF, 2013, Carlton 18.8 (116) d Richmond 14.12 (96) at the MCG
R21, 2013, Carlton 16.10 (106) d Richmond 14.12 (96) at the MCG
R1, 2013, Richmond 14.22 (106) d Carlton 14.17 (101) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. It was the Tigers' forwards who were the difference in their round one win over the Blues. Jack Riewoldt kicked four goals, and Ben Griffiths and Sam Lloyd three each.
2.Riewoldt has been in form since the Tigers turned their season around in round seven. He's kicked 20 goals from seven games, including three bags of four or more.
3. While the Tigers have recent good form against the Blues, you have to go back to 1977-78 for the last time they won three consecutive clashes against them.
4.Neither side has been strong on the tackle front this season. The Blues are ranked 18th with an average of 57.2 per game, and the Tigers 17th with 60.2.
5.The Blues have been better in the middle though, and are ranked the No.1 centre clearance team this season with an average of 41.2. In comparison, the Tigers have struggled and are 14th with 36.8.
6.Riewoldt has soared up the Official AFL Player Ratings this season with his impressive run of form. He started the year at No.79 overall and is now No.38, and is the top-ranked Tiger.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Shaun Hampson. With Ivan Maric suspended for a week, the opportunity has presented itself for Hampson to return to senior level against his former club. Despite not playing at any level since round nine because of a knee issue, the fact Hampson was held over from his VFL return on the weekend indicates an imminent return to the AFL stage.
