Richmond looked to be in great form during the first half, but a significant fadeout meant it went down by 82 points against the VFL ladder-leading Geelong at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday.

Liam Fawcett got off to a hot start, kicking the first goal of the game inside the first three minutes after taking a strong mark.

Jacob Molier responded straight away, taking a few bounces down the wing and kicking a brilliant goal, before James Milner gave the Tigers back the lead.

Jay Polkinghorne goaled but Richmond kept challenging the Cats, as debutant Zach O’Keefe launched a goal from 50. A late goal to Geelong gave it a three-point lead at quarter-time, before Tom Burton and Milner scored goals to start the second term.

But Geelong began to take control and pushed its lead out to a game-high 17 points in ominous signs for the Tigers, but Sam Toner kept Richmond alive. He kicked two late goals, getting the Tigers back to within five points at the main break.

Things got better for Richmond after the break, as Fawcett slotted his second goal of the day and Harry Armstrong got his first, giving the Tigers an eight-point lead. 

Geelong managed to flick the switch though and kicked four quick goals in the later half of the term, stretching the lead out to 19 points.

The home side finished the quarter with plenty of momentum, taking a 31-point lead into the last term as Richmond lost its way in the last 10 minutes of the third quarter. 

The Cats couldn't be stopped, kicking the first five goals of the final quarter and putting the game to bed. They showcased exactly why they are on top of the ladder in the VFL competition, with just one loss so far this season. 

It was a blistering finish from Geelong, running out 82-point winners in the end at GMHBA Stadium. Richmond will look to regroup ahead of its clash against the Box Hill Hawks next Sunday.

Tyler Sonsie impressed with 32 disposals and 10 clearances, Tom Sims made a successful return from his knee injury and Fawcett finished with three goals, in some positives for the Tigers.

Geelong   3.4   7.7   14.11   23.14 (152)
Richmond   3.1   7.2   10.4   11.4 (70)

Goalkickers: Fawcett 3, Milner 2, Toner 2, Armstrong, O’Keefe, Loftus, Burton