The Tigers built a match-winning lead with a flurry of goals on either side of half time and maintained a healthy buffer for the rest of the game to clinch the inaugural Sir Doug Nicholls Cup.
Ruckman Orren Stephenson picked up the Sir Doug Nicholls best player award for his standout 20-disposal, 30-hit out, three-goal performance.
Anthony Miles was another contender for the award with a terrific performance that has become standard for the in-form midfielder. He gathered a team-high 35 disposals and always provided an option.
The teams traded goals early as Essendon constantly found loose men in the Richmond defence but a goal from Stephenson after the quarter-time siren kept his side in touch.
The Tigers lifted after the break and goals to Cadeyn Williams, Ross Young and Aaron Edwards – who finished with four – put Essendon on the back foot.
Young lead his team from the front all day. His strong contested work saw him win six clearances and lay five tackles. He was assisted by other hard-bodied ball-winners Brad Helbig (26 disposals) and Matt Arnot (25 disposals) who both found form with impressive performances.
The Tigers didn’t release the pressure after the main break. Sharp, smart ball movement, and a barrage of inside 50 entries saw them pile on seven goals and break the game open.
Luke Conca was lively up forward with two goals and Ty Vickery (21 disposals), Brett O’Hanlon (20) also played their roles well.
Ricky Petterd’s influence ensured that Essendon couldn’t respond. He entered the game after half time and had an immediate impact with his damaging run and carry. He collected 20 possessions and five clearances.
RICHMOND 4.4 7.7 14.10 16.15 (111)
ESSENDON 5.5 6.8 8.9 10.15 (75)
Goals: A.Edwards 4, Stephenson 3, Young 2, L.Conca 2, Wynne, Williams, O’Hanlon, Lloyd, Elton
Best: Stephenson, Miles, Young, Edwards, Helbig, Petterd
Injuries: McIntosh - foot
