As Richmond prepares to host its first 2026 home game at the MCG on Saturday, leader Jayden Short is hopeful his team can combat Damien Hardwick’s fast-running Suns outfit.
“They're playing a great system under Dimma (Hardwick), and they've got some great players,” Short told the media.
“We've certainly done a lot of opposition analysis this week to see what they're going to bring. They've got a lot of powerful runners that we've got to watch, and I'm looking forward to a good contest out on the ‘G.
“I reckon they'd love coming down here, so we've got to be on top of our game.
“They've just got blokes that are probably willing to play a role, do a job. They seem very diligent in their roles, and their work rate over four quarters is probably something that they pride themselves on. I’m hoping we can match it.”
Despite achieving the pinnacle of the game with two premierships, Short remains as optimistic as ever, playing with freedom and embracing his role in guiding his younger teammates.
“You never really have expectations, that's the reality of the game we're in,” Short said.
“I never really had any expectations on winning premierships. I was lucky enough to get them, but that's never an expectation of when you sign a contract.
“I’d love to get back there because that's why you play footy, but I'm loving what's going on now, I'm loving the new guys we've got in.
“I'm loving the energy of the young boys, and I'm loving our new coaches. I'm just loving being around the footy club and trying to build with these younger guys.”
Come Saturday afternoon, Short won’t hesitate to lace up teammate Tom Lynch, who will be looking to have a big game against the Suns, after his 10 scoring shots in Round 1.
“I’m wrapped that he had 10 shots on goal. I think I might have kicked 30 goals in my career. If he had 10 shots in a game, I'm definitely going to be kicking him the ball again,” Short said.
“I certainly want the ball in his hands. I mean, I had a shot from 35 and didn't make the distance, so it was a bit of a breeze out there.
“We love what Lynchy brings, and if he's putting himself in the hole and going to mark them, I'm definitely giving the ball to him.”
Join us at the MCG on Saturday from 1:15pm to cheer on the Tigers as they take on the Suns. Get tickets here.
