Despite both teams finishing top of the ladder in their respective competitions, Richmond's Championship and Community Division sides suffered losses to Essendon in the first week of finals.

Fortunately, both teams finished with a double chance, giving them another opportunity this Sunday in a preliminary final to claim a spot in the Grand Final.

VWFL First Final Results

Championship Division: Essendon defeated Richmond 10.6 (66) to 6.13 (49)

Community Division: Essendon defeated Richmond 7.8 (50) to 5.9 (39)

Heading into the qualifying final, Richmond’s Championship team was 1-1 against Essendon this season, making it a must-watch matchup.

The game did not disappoint, with Richmond taking a one-point lead heading into the main break.

However, inaccuracy in front of goal in the final two quarters led to the Tigers' downfall, as the Bombers took their opportunities and outscored the minor premiers by 17 points.

Chris Kotsanas scored five of the team’s six goals, while team captain James Weinert scored the other major.

The Championship Division will now turn its focus to its preliminary final against Hawthorn this Sunday at La Trobe University, from 2:00pm.

Similarly, in the Community Division, the Tigers fell by just 11 points to the Bombers after a late surge in the fourth quarter, piling on two goals and keeping them goal-less.

However, the inspired fightback wasn’t enough, with the result making it Richmond’s second loss to the Bombers this season.

Bryant Parsons finished the outing with two goals, along with Bianca Meo, whilst Mark Titford had one.

The Community Division is set to face Collingwood in a preliminary final this Sunday at La Trobe University, from 1:00pm.