Despite a valiant effort, Richmond’s VWFL Community Division team came up short against Essendon in Sunday's Grand Final.

The minor premier Tigers had a great start, ending the quarter with two goals and three behinds, taking an eight-point lead at the first break.

Richmond then took a two-point lead heading into the second half, however, Essendon responded strongly, scoring three goals in the third quarter to the Tigers’ none.

Despite an impressive effort from Richmond’s Mark Titford, who scored six goals, the Tigers came up short by 24 points at the final siren.

The final score reflected Essendon 10.4 (64) to Richmond 6.4 (40).

Richmond's Sustainability and Inclusion Lead, Gabrielle McKeown, lauded the effort of the group and was proud of the season they produced. 

"We are really proud of this group. With four new players in the team and to make the Grand Final is a massive achievement," McKeown said. 

"They played their style of football, and on the day Essendon were just the better team. It's always such a strong battle between these two clubs, and I love the energy they showed out on the court. Huge congratulations to Essendon, and we hope to come back even more hungry for a premiership next year."

Both of Richmond’s VWFL teams enjoyed an impressive season before putting together a strong and competitive finals campaign, and will now prepare for the 2027 campaigns.