Richmond youngster Matt McDonough has a simple goal for the 2014 season – play more senior football.

The 19-year-old, who is entering his second season with the Tigers, is using this pre-season as a springboard to add to his sole senior appearance in his debut season.

A small forward who also proved himself as a more-than-capable midfielder at VFL level in 2013, McDonough has zeroed in on the defensive side of his game as a way to break into the Richmond senior line-up.

“As a small forward, I just have to be tackling all day, and at training I have to be standing out in that regard,” McDonough told Roar Vision.

“You watch Jake King and his defensive work inside 50.  That’s what I have to get to if I want to play that position.

“If you don’t tackle, you don’t play these days.”

McDonough forced his way into the Tigers’ team in Round 21 of last year, following some outstanding form in the VFL.  He collected 11 disposals and laid three tackles against Carlton at the MCG.

“It went pretty quick.  I just remember running out in the warm up and seeing all the people in the stands,” McDonough said.

“Then running through the banner, the boys come up telling you good luck, and not to stress too much.

“Getting my first touch, I’ll never forget that.”

That experience gave McDonough an understanding of the level required to play in the AFL, and a hunger to grab his next opportunity.

As a result, he has been one of the standouts on the training track so far this pre-season.

“You’ve got to earn your spot. You have to try to overtake people who have proved they can play,” he said.

“For a young bloke like me, that’s what I have to try and do.  Just keep working hard, and try to prove that I’m the right man for the job.”