The high intensity of last Friday's practice match against Essendon was an ideal build-up to this week's season opener against the Gold Coast, according to midfielder Brandon Ellis.

The Tigers scored a 45-point win over the Bombers in the final match of the pre-season at the ME Bank Centre, with both sides eager to impress on the eve of the 2014 season.

Five per cent of each purchase at the Tigerland Superstore will support The Alannah and Madeline Foundation. Visit the Superstore now.

"It felt like a real game. Everyone was going pretty hard, because there are spots up for grabs next week," Ellis said.

"It was an audition today, and a lot of boys put their hands up.

"There were a few sore boys, but we'll be right.

Sign up as a Richmond member for the 2014 season and help the Club bring the roar home

"It's going to be tough for the coaches this week with selection, but that's what the coaches want."

Richmond ended the pre-season with two wins and one loss, and face a trip to face the Suns this Saturday in the first round of the home-and-away season.

"It's been a long month. I can't wait to get up to the Gold Coast next week and try to have a win up there and start the season off well," Ellis said.

"It's never been an easy game for us against the Gold Coast.  They play Metricon really well and it's going to be pretty humid up there, but we've trained all summer for it so I reckon we're ready to go."