Richmond takes on West Coast in the opening round of the AFLW on Friday night from 9.15pm AEST (7.15pm local time).

Last time they met: Richmond 6.7 (43) defeated West Coast 3.6 (24), round seven, 2022 S7

There are high hopes for both sides this year, for differing reasons.

Richmond is determined to jump back into the finals race after a season marred by injury last year, while West Coast is focused on becoming consistently competitive and hard to play against under new coach Daisy Pearce. 

The game is likely to be played in Richmond's forward half thanks to the strength of its midfield unit.

Not only is reigning AFLW best and fairest winner Monique Conti a key part of that onball contingent, but the return of Ellie McKenzie from injury further bolsters the group.

The big question lies, however, around how the Tigers' forward line operates up against the likes of Charlie Thomas, Sophie McDonald and new recruit Jess Rentsch in the Eagles backline.