The Richmond Tigers claimed a second consecutive win to start the 2013 AFL season by defeating St Kilda 14.15.(99)-12.10.(82) on Friday night.
Jack Riewoldt managed seven goals from just 10 possessions to hold off a spirited Saints outfit that hung around well into the fourth quarter while midfield stars Trent Cotchin and Brett Deledio combined for 58 disposals, 14 inside 50s and 15 marks in a free running and exciting game in front of 58,000 at the MCG.
The Saints kicked the first goal of the match courtesy of Beau Maister, but it was Richmond that got the upper hand early. Riewoldt and a high-flying Luke McGuane shared two goals apiece until the Tigers faltered, allowing the Saints to close out the quarter with the final two goals and cut the lead to 10.
Cousin Nick Riewoldt brought the Saints within a kick with a fancy swipe of the ball off the deck, but Richmond maintained a healthy 16 point lead at the break thanks to some more Jack Reiwoldt accuracy, desperation from tiny Jake King and a bit of class from Reece Conca (25 disposals).
Jack Riewoldt booted number five early in the third, but a couple of Nick Riewoldt majors kept the Saints in touch. His three goal quarter again cut away a big margin and pulled the underdogs within single digits.
Ahmed Saad pinched a goal from a set shot on the boundary line five minutes into the final quarter, but it would be all the Saints could muster in the term. A nervous stretch that saw the Saints fight and claw their way into everything was finally put down thanks to finishing goals from Riewoldt and McGuane.
St Kilda now move to 0-2 on the season, but have a chance to regroup next week against Greater Western Sydney. Richmond will have every opportunity to continue its unbeaten run next Sunday afternoon against the Western Bulldogs.
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