Adem Yze earns first win as coach in Richmond’s upset over Sydney
Richmond have hung on for a thrilling five-point upset of the Sydney Swans at the MCG to give Adem Yze his maiden win as coach.
After opening the Yze era with three defeats, the Tigers rallied on Sunday to outwork the previously undefeated Swans.
Richmond found themselves 15 points down early in the third quarter but unleashed a five-goal run to set up the 11.16 (82) to 11.11 (77) victory in front of 45,122 fans.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The Swans slammed through the first two goals of the final term but Richmond - who were without Dustin Martin - absorbed the pressure to record their first win since round 23 last year.
An Errol Gulden goal with less than two minutes left cut the margin to six points.
The Swans then surged the ball forward to try to draw level, but their attempt was rushed through for a behind before Richmond swept out of danger.
Reigning Jack Dyer medallist Tim Taranto (35 possessions, one goal) was outstanding in the midfield, and the Tigers’ forward line functioned better than it has all year.
Star forward Tom Lynch showed what the Tigers were missing last season, kicking three important goals and providing a genuine target inside-50.
After playing just four games last year due to injury, Lynch gave Richmond supporters a scare late in the match, however, when he went to the rooms grabbing his knee.
After three impressive wins to open their season, premiership contenders Sydney were their own worst enemy with some diabolical decision making.
The Swans’ best were Isaac Heeney and Nick Blakey, while Logan McDonald kicked an equal game-high three goals.
Veteran Sydney defender Dane Rampe was subbed out of the game at halftime with what the Swans described as hamstring tightness.
Richmond hard nut Liam Baker faces an anxious wait after collecting Swans defender Lewis Melican with a high bump in the second quarter.
Working in Baker’s favour is Melican got up and played out the rest of the match without needing a concussion test.
The Swans should be able to rebound in Gather Round when they face hapless West Coast at Mt Barker.
Richmond will try to make it back-to-back wins when they take on St Kilda at Norwood Oval.
