As Richmond searches for its first win of the season, coach Adem Yze is balancing the “blue sky” ahead for the Tigers, while honestly reviewing areas of current performances that aren’t up to standard.

Speaking after Sunday’s Gather Round defeat to GWS, Yze gave an overarching view of Richmond’s first five games of the 2026 campaign.

“We’ve dealt with a few injuries in the first few games, and in game, which was pretty tough,” Yze said post match.

“The last couple of weeks, when you’re winning inside-50s and clearances, and you’re giving our forwards opportunity…I’d be more worried if we lost by nine goals and it was 70 inside-50s to 35 and it’s just like our method’s off.

“I feel like we’re on the right path. We’ve played three of the top teams in the first five games as well. The draw, while we’re going through what we’re going through, was always going to be a bit of a test.

“Within that, there’s some blue sky within those games that we’ve just got to keep looking at and growing.

“At the same time, we need to be really honest with where we are. [We are] not up to standard and [we've] got to get better.

“Our players know that and they will come in during the week to do so.”

Some of the positive indicators out of the Giants clash included the Tigers recording 59 inside-50s, just one short of the 60 they generated in Round 1, and also winning 39 clearances, a season-high.

Richmond’s talented youngsters have also showcased promise to start the season, including an instant impact made by first-year player Sam Grlj, key forward Liam Fawcett kicking five goals in two games, Sam Lalor and Seth Campbell earning more midfield minutes, Luke Trainor winning his way back into the senior team, Maurice Rioli and Steely Green’s expanded growth, Tyler Sonsie’s consistency, Campbell Gray’s versatility, and more.

Playing the youth against seasoned, experienced AFL stars, is something Yze says will continue, as the Tigers look to fast-track the development of its youngsters.

“To get our young boys some opportunity and exposure against that type of calibre players [Toby Greene, Clayton Oliver, Finn Callaghan], we’re not going to shy away from that,” Yze said.

Richmond’s next challenge awaits on Sunday, a date with North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.

“Our focus will be reviewing this game (GWS) really honestly, training really hard, and looking forward to next week after that,” Yze said.