Improvements in the key on-field areas of defensive pressure and contested-ball work have been a highlight of Richmond’s JLT Community Series campaign so far.

The Tigers have displayed a keen desire throughout the two games they’ve played to apply plenty of pressure to the opposition, particularly in their forward-50.

As a result, they’ve been able to lock the ball in and have more scoring opportunities, which has been a significant factor in their JLT Community Series victories over Adelaide first-up, and then Port Adelaide in Mt Gambier on Sunday.

Also, importantly, Richmond has won the contested-ball count in both games – 141-128 against the Crows and 136-123 against Port.

“Our defensive intensity has been very good, our tackle pressure, our pressure inside 50 . . . we had 15 tackles again today (v Port Adelaide).  So we’ve been pleased with that aspect,” Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said at his post-match press conference yesterday.

“We’ve still got a bit of work to do – there are some areas we have to clean up – but it’s been a positive step, the first two games . . .

“Our contested-ball numbers were disappointing last year, as were our clearances, so we’re looking to rectify that. 

“(Toby) Nankervis certainly helps in that area and (Trent) Cotchin and (Dustin) Martin only played two and a bit quarters today.  But once those guys get up and going . . .

“Then we bring (Dion) Prestia back in the side – he didn’t play this week – and Josh Caddy’s had an influence . . . I thought (Anthony) Miles was terrific as well (against Port). 

“So, we’ve got a great deal of depth through there, and it’s probably our strength. 

“We’ve just got to make sure we spread that strength around, and use some of those guys up forward at various stages, also.”