The VFL Tigers suffered a heartbreaking loss to Footscray in the final game of season, with the Bulldogs converting a 55-metre set shot after the siren to win by three points.
The Tigers were terrific for three quarters and lead for the majority of the game but Footscray stormed home to remove a 32-point margin, despite an important late goal from skipper Ross Young.
Sam Lloyd impressed up forward, booting three goals. The dynamic goalkicker was dangerous all day and also collected a team-high 25 possessions.
Todd Banfield was lively up forward, as was Aaron Edwards, who finished with two majors. McBean also booted two to finish second in the VFL goalkicking with 37 for the season.
Matt McDonough continued his impressive form with 17 disposals and another influential display up forward. Brad Helbig (20 possessions), and Dan Jackson (16 and a goal) were solid performers in the Richmond midfield.
Todd Elton rebounded with intent and used his 15 disposals well in what was his best game of the season while fellow big man Shaun Hampson marked strongly in packs and hit the scoreboard.
Skipper Young again led his team from the front and, along with influential defender Ed Barlow, was a strong contributor.
David Astbury played limited game time in his return from a knee injury but was a composed figure in defence and had 11 disposals and five marks.
The inaugural season for Richmond’s stand-alone VFL team now comes to a close, with the Tigers finishing 12th on the ladder.
RICHMOND 4.2 8.5 12.7 15.10 (100)
FOOTSCRAY 1.4 5.8 8.11 14.19 (103)
Goals: Lloyd 3, McDonough 2, Edwards 2, Williams 2, McBean 2, Banfield, Jackson, Hampson, Young
Best: Lloyd, McDonough, Young, Edwards, Barlow, Elton
