Digby Beacham’s AFL Preview: Grand Final

Posted on September 26, 2019September 26, 2019 | Posted by Digby Beacham

Richmond v GWS, MCG, 12.30pm

Tradition v expansion. Richmond are an institution in Australian Rules football, a sleeping giant for many years before emerging from their slumber a few years back. GWS went through the inevitable growing pains that is aligned with being the new kids on the block before their undeniable elite talent shone through.

And it is that elite talent, coupled with a hard-nosed “we-don’t-fear-anyone” attitude that should have the Tigers nervous. The Giants have displayed admirable grit to edge Brisbane and Collingwood away from home and will be boosted for the decider by the availability of Toby Greene and Lachie Whitfield.

As for Richmond, their best is better than the rest. A winning streak that stretches into double figures highlights that. Their indisputable will to win and selfless attitude cannot be understated, nor can the star factor that coach Damien Hardwick has at his disposal. And if things get tough, the Tiger Army can spark their players big time.

VERDICT: Richmond by 15 points

NORM SMITH MEDAL: Shane Edwards

FIRST GOAL KICKER: Jeremy Cameron

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