RFC - FORTY YEARS AGO, 1967

[Growl]

HE TAKES IT AS IT COMES
By John Craven​

John Northey, Richmond’s elusive, sharp-shooting half-forward flanker, who is the despair of League defenders, is a great believer in “doing what comes naturally” on the football field.

“I don’t make any plans before a game,” he said yesterday. “I watched the ball closely, try to anticipate well, then make up my mind in a split second what I will do.”

The sandy-haired Northey’s do-as-you-please plan has worked most satisfactorily for both himself and Richmond this year.

He is fourth on the goal-kicking list with an official 49 goals (he says it’s 50), the only non-full-forward in the top positions. “Because I’m kicking the goals, a lot of people think it is my best position,” he said. “I had plenty of kicks last year, too, but I was inaccurate.”

Northey’s best goal-kicking effort was seven goals against Fitzroy in 1965.

This year he twice kicked six goals, against Melbourne and Hawthorn.

“I have to get my kicks where I can. We play straight down the middle usually. I have to scout around and be prepared for a handpass.

“Sometimes I also can grab a bad relieving kick from a defender. I’ve been playing the same sort of game ever since I was a kid with Derrinallum in the Western Plains League.

“With Richmond I can go wherever I like, to the opposite flank if necessary. But I rarely do that, unless I have a good chance of getting the ball.”

Northey’s success, particularly on the MCG, has delighted Richmond officials, but it has left Footscray with mixed feelings. Footscray signed him when he was an unknown 16-year-old with Derrinallum, but he let the form run out.

Geelong, Collingwood and Richmond sought him, and he settled for Richmond. “I went to Richmond because they were down and I thought I would get a game,” he said.

“But now I often wonder whether it wouldn’t be better for country players to go to a top side. If they make it, they’re right.”

Northey is 24, 5ft 10, and 11st. and has played 69 games since he joined Richmond from Mortlake in the Hampden League in 1963.

He played one year with Mortlake and won their best first-year player award. Before that he had two years with Derrinallum, and won the best-and-fairest award.

“We’ve got a good chance of winning because we have a good, settled side,” Northey said.

“It’s a pity Neville Crowe is suspended. Some people criticise him because they say he doesn’t do much, but they’re wrong. He’s a great help with his hand-passing and talking on the field.

“We’re determined to win this flag to make up for last year. We looked a good chance, then we slumped and just missed the four. Coach Tom Hafey hasn’t let us forget it.

“Royce Hart is a great player, and has made a big difference.”

Northey’s grandfather, Mr. Robert Northey, played for St Kilda and his first opponent was the late Jock McHale, a star Collingwood player, and later a famous coach.

​

John Northey and wife, Sue, and 13 month-old son, David,
on their farm at Dundonnell, about 140 miles south-west of Melbourne​

 

[Growl]

Tigers set problem in Grand Final
By Marc Fiddian (The Age)​

Neville Crowe’ suspension will mean that Richmond selectors will have to re-organise their ruck set-up for Saturday’s Grand Final.

Selectors have several alternatives. Mike Green is likely to be fit after missing last Saturday’s game.

He could come into the team as a straight out replacement for Crowe, or resume his place on the backline with Barry Richardson moving from a forward flank to the ruck.

John Ronaldson and Mike Bowden, both of whom have had senior games this season, could be brought up from the Reserves.

Before attending the tribunal, Crowe trained, although he was still troubled by a badly bruised thumb. His thumb is still sore, but it is improving.

He is suffering no ill effects from his collapse after Saturday’s game. He has been told by medical officials that the cause of his collapse was a reaction to an injection during the game for the thumb injury.

Wingman *smile* Clay did not train because of an ankle strain suffered in the second semi-final. lay attended the rooms for treatment, and is expected to have a run tomorrow.

Back pocket-ruckman Mike Green, a last-minute withdrawal from last Saturday’s game because of fibrositis in the shoulder, had a run yesterday.

But Green did not use his left arm. He is receiving treatment for the shoulder, but is hopeful of the trouble clearing in a few days.

Full-back Fred Swift, who has a bruised hand, trained lightly. The injury is improving, and he should be able to train at top pace.

Players were given a fairly easy night’s training following their win on Saturday.

 

[Growl]

A real Tiger!
John Rice (Sporting Globe)​

Geoff Strang, Richmond’s star half-back flanker, waited more than 10 years for last Saturday.

I know you’ll say that the Tigers have waited longer because it’s 23 years since they made the Grand Final, but for Geoff it was something personal.

Saturday was the first time he’s ever played in a finals match.

That includes all the years he was with Albury juniors and seniors. “I was starting to think I’d never be in one,” Geoff told me.

Last Year when he finally decided to stay at Richmond, Albury won the Ovens and Murray flag under Murray Weiderman.

Geoff had been coming back and forward for training runs with Richmond since he was 14. He’s a real Tiger! Doug, his Dad, and Uncle Gordon, both were in the Tigers’ 1934 line-up. [only Gordon Strang played in the 1934 premiership side]

And Geoff has only played for one jumper. Albury wear the same as Richmond.

So although he’s had a long wait, young Strang reckons it’s worth while to be able to play in a premiership Richmond side.

Incidentally, he wasn’t the slightest bit nervous. “It was just like any ordinary Saturday,” he said.

I wonder!

Just goes to show what a master move it was by the Tigers to change their lair to the MCG. Here we have young Strang, a recognised MCG specialist, and he’s never played in a finals match anywhere until last Saturday.

 

[Growl]

BLUES FLOUT KICKING RULE​

Carlton flouted a VFL ruling by allowing its players to kick footballs around the MCG before the start of the second semi-final on Saturday.

Because Carlton Football Club allowed its players to do this it is liable to a maximum fine of $200 by the VFL.

The VFL recently increased the maximum penalty for any team using footballs on the field before a match to $200.

Carlton’s action can be dealt with either by a report from field umpire Peter Sheales, in charge of Saturday’s game, or by the VFL.

The Blues kicked footballs around the MCG for nearly 10 minutes on Saturday before Richmond ran on to the field. The umpires also were on the ground before Richmond came out.

Carlton players did not kick the balls over the fence into the crowd as other clubs have done on previous occasions before the occurrence became a VFL offence.

The balls used were gathered in by Carlton staff members inside the oval.

* * *​

Richmond players got their kicking practice before the game without risking a fine. They have a large net hung between two pillars in the dressing rooms, and they can kick as hard as they like.

They’ve been doing it all the year.

* * *​

Tigers played it cool:–

In one simple and inexpensive operation, Richmond coach Tom Hafey could have hit Ron Barassi’s pre-match tactics for six at the MCG on Saturday.

Barassi had his team on the ground at 2:18 p.m. — 12 minutes before the start — for the second semi-final against the Tigers.

And because the Carlton players kicked footballs during their warm-up the club faces a $200 fine.

The Richmond camp could easily have taken full advantage of Carlton’s “early bird” tactics. For an outlay of only $21, Hafey could have kept his players in the dressing rooms until 14 minutes after the scheduled starting time of 2:30 p.m.

This would have left the Blues right on edge, wandering about the MCG in front of 100,000 people, with nothing to do but cool their heels.

But I suppose such stalling tactics would not have been cricket.

League rules say that a team not ready to start on time shall be fined a five guineas, if not ready five minutes later shall be fined a further five guineas and, if not ready 15 minutes later, shall forfeit the game.

This is unless in each instance a satisfactory reason for the delay is given to the League, which then has power to order the match to be played on a subsequent day, or otherwise decide the matter.

* * *​

Great ball mystery—Blues ‘puzzled’.
By Ron Carter (The Age)​

“Where did those footballs come from? . . . Who threw them out? . . . they came from the Richmond race . . .”

These were the tongue-in-cheek remarks of Carlton players after Saturday’s second semi-final when commenting on their pre-game warm up with three footballs on the MCG.

Carlton officials were just as cautious . . . they, too, would not give anything away.

But, no matter how long the Blues refuse to admit anything about their pre-game warm-up, they were watched by nearly 100,000 people, and can expect to pay a fine of up to $200.

The club is expected to be “pinched” and it will be up to the VFL match arrangement committee to determine the amount of the fine.

A VFL rule prohibits teams from kicking a ball on the field before a match, but only one man can report the Blues for Saturday’s offence – field umpire Peter Sheales.

When I asked Sheales if he would report Carlton, he replied: “I have no statement to make.”

But you can be sure his written report will arrive at the VFL office today.

In the second last home-and-away game, Geelong players kicked a ball before the game against South Melbourne. They claimed it just happened to be kicked on to the field and umpire Stan Fisher did not report the Cats.

There is no doubt the Blues’ warm-up on Saturday was planned beforehand, but the crowd appreciated it.

* * *​

Blues ‘on report’:–

Field umpire Peter Sheales has reported the Carlton team for taking footballs on to the MCG before the start of last Saturday’s VFL second semi-final.

His letter containing the report was received at VFL headquarters, Harrison House, today.

VFL assistant administrative director Mr Jack Hamilton said the report would be considered by a VFL meeting on September 20.

The offence, he said, earned a $200 penalty. — JOHN CRAVEN

* * *​

Lou Richards:– Thank goodness the Blues broke the rules and kicked balls around before Saturday’s semi.

If they hadn’t strutted their stuff before the first bounce no one could have guessed they were first-class footballers.

When the exhibition kick-around stopped and the real business got underway, Richmond made them look strictly tourist-class!

* * *​

CARLTON FINED $200​

The VFL last night fined Carlton Football Club $200 for kicking footballs on the MCG before the second semi-final.

The League imposed the fine after receiving a report from the field umpire in charge of the match, Peter Sheales.

Sheales told the League that before the start of the semi-final the Carlton team kicked at least three footballs.

VFL chairman Sir Kenneth Luke, after hearing Sheales’ report, said: “There is an automatic fine of $200 for this, gentlemen.”

Carlton delegate, Mr. Perc Bentley: “Surely there must be some proof on who threw the balls out?”

Mr. A.L. King (Melb): It does not matter who threw the balls on to the ground — you kicked them.”

Sir Kenneth Luke: “That was proven, Mr. Bentley, it was the man in the brown coat.”

* * *​

 

[Growl]

2nd Semi-Final Richmond v. Carlton snippets​

WHAT THEY SAID:

TOM HAFEY (Richmond coach): I am very pleased with this victory, which came from a great team effort. Our players were determined to get there, and show they were the most determined side in the League.

The Tigers gave a great display, but I felt the team did not make maximum use of its brilliance.

RON BARASSI (Carlton captain-coach): Richmond was much too good, particularly in its backing-up, marking and kicking. We had no counter to those winning strengths. But I feel we are certain to have learned from the game,

FRED SWIFT (Richmond captain): This was a tremendous effort by every Richmond player. They gave everything they had in 100 minutes of football. I felt that overall we gained our drive from the ruck and the centre line. Our forwards were too elusive for the slow Carlton defenders.

* * *​

Hafey was quite adamant that Richmond could improve even further.

Asked when he thought Richmond had the game won, he replied: “At the first bounce of the first quarter.”

* * *​

Richmond rover Kevin Bartlett showed what quick thinking can do when he scored his team’s 10th goal in the second quarter.
Barry Richardson’s kick from the half-forward line landed in the middle of a pack of players in the goal mouth.

The ball rebounded and Bartlett, running towards goal, shot out his right foot as the ball bounced towards him and it went through the middle of the Goal.

* * *​

Did the Armoured Corps Band which played at the MCG on Saturday suggest a Richmond win? The bandsmen were in black tunics with yellow stripes running down the trouser legs.

* * *​

Before Saturday no team had scored 100 points against Carlton this season – but the Tigers had done it by three-quarter time.

* * *​

Paddy Guinane’s first venture as a coach ended in near-disaster.

He coached Richmond Thirds last week in the absence of regular coach Ray Jordon, who was ill. And what happened? Richmond, after 12 successive wins, played a draw in the semi-final with Footscray.

* * *​

It happens every year in the Reserves finals.

There are always four or five players who are not selected with the Firsts but, because they have played too many senior games during the year, they are precluded from the Reserves.
I know that this system was evolved to stop the wholesale playing of senior players in the finals. Surely there must be some method which will allow these players to appear for their club?
It’s about time that the VFL put their thinking cap on and came up with a solution.

* * *​

This was one of the quickest and smartest goals of the semi-final. In the last quarter Richmond centreman Bill Barrot kicked from near the middle of the MCG in the direction of Pat Guinane.

Guinane, with two Carlton defenders pressing him, took the ball on his chest, but instantly hand-passed it to rover Bill Brown, who was 10 yards away.

Brown then scored the Tigers’ 16th goal.

* * *​

Lightly-built Richmond half-forward flanker John Northey looked a “giant-killer” in the third term when he spread-eagled Ron Barassi after the Blues’ star had kicked the ball.

But there was little credit for Northey or Richmond.

The umpire awarded a free down field to Brian Kekovich, who scored Carlton’s eighth goal.

* * *​

​

Richmond players Geoff Strang and Pat Guinane provided a little slice of football history when Richmond beat Carlton.

The last time the teams met in the finals series — in the 1935 first semi-final, which Richmond won, also — their fathers, the late Doug Strang, and Dan Guinane played in the winning side. [it was Gordon and not Doug Strang who played in the 1935 semi]

Wingman John Perry added to the great Strang family football record when he took the field in the last quarter. He is a cousin of Geoff Strang, and a nephew of the late Doug Strang.

* * *​

Last goal of the VFL second semi-final by Carlton centre half-forward Alex Jesaulenko hardly raised a cheer, but it brought two important results.

First, it lifted Carlton’s score over the century to finish with 14.17101.

Second, it created a new record aggregate of 242 points for a second semi-final, as Richmond scored 20.21-141.

 

[Growl]

TIGERS ‘ON WAY TO FLAG’
FOOTY CLOSE-UP By Richmond forward PAT GUINANE
as told to JOHN CRAVEN​

​

Carlton fell for the old trap of leaving too much work to too few players in the VFL second semi-final against Richmond.

They were nowhere near good enough to upset a Richmond side which produced its best team effort for the season.

Carlton disappointed me. They’ll have to get stuck into it more, and pull something extra out of the bag if they want to beat Geelong next Saturday.

Geelong are favorites on form, but Carlton have the determination to fight their way back into the Grand Final.

I won't make up my mind on the respective chances until I see the teams next Thursday. It could be very close.

Without being smug, I’m not worried which side wins the preliminary final. I think that with normal luck, we will win the flag.

After our win against Carlton, a lot of people compared our style with Geelong’s. They’re way off beam.

There’s one big difference between Richmond and Geelong, and it’s the difference that wins hard finals matches – TACKLING.

Geelong don’t keep the opposition under pressure with tackling, while we’ve been drilled to play it hard all the time.

Carlton, not Geelong, are the best side we have met this season. Carlton played magnificently when they ran us to two points at Carlton.

We thought we would be a five-goal better side on the MCG, and so it proved. Richmond have improved, while Carlton have dropped back a bit.

On Saturday we planned to keep both the Carlton defence and main ruckman John Nicholls under pressure. It worked.

The changing of myself and Royce Hart in the key forward positions, plus the switching of our resting forward pockets upset the great co-operation between the Carlton backmen.

It didn’t help Carlton that Wes Lofts didn’t strike form. I know how he feels. I’ve had the same experience of failing in a match after passing all previous training tests.

Neville Crowe spent more time on the ball than usual, and I thought he nullified Nicholls to a fair degree.

Our players were not affected by finals nerves, although the tension and the fear of making a mistake, upset some of them briefly.

The physical clashes were not as fierce as I expected and there was never a completely desperate, do-or-die atmosphere.

Carlton kicked a good score, but it is worth pointing out that they scored about seven of their goals through our mistakes, rather than their own good work.

They haven’t our high marking ability, and they haven’t a star full-forward like Royce Hart, one of the best players I’ve ever seen.

I’m convinced that Hart has the potential to become the best player in the League. You could play him anywhere, and he would still be a star.

The driving force behind the Richmond team is coach Tom Hafey. His faith and confidence in the side is contagious.

He has worked out the strategy where our game is custom-built for the MCG. That’s why I think we can take the premiership.”

 

[Growl]

VFL Zoning​

​

The VFL must really change their postman. Not only has he regularly cost me my place at the League’s VIP luncheon table, but he’s also cost Richmond a heap of money and a band of star players.

That tardy postman is possibly an Essendon supporter. If he isn’t at least he’s entitled to a Bomber life membership.

When it became apparent that zoning was inevitable, Richmond moved in hard and fast on the cream of Victoria’s country recruits.

One of three prize recruits received a $1000 payment for his signature and a promise of another lump sum when he strode the turf for the Tigers.

And the financial position of the other top recruits spiralled at the same time for the sake of an autograph on a Form 4. No wonder there was a smile on the face of the tiger.

With what they already had and were about to receive they could be truly happy. But that darn postman.

Although Richmond posted those vital Form 4s at least three days before the closing day, they arrived too late. The VFL decided that no form received so much as a second after the prescribed closing date would be accepted.

All other mail sent by Richmond, on the same day as those forms, arrived with speed at their various destinations.

And that was that. The forms are worthless and at least one three-figure player has refused to pay back his inducement fee.

You can bet he will be playing next season in a similar guernsey to the Tiger brand except the sash will be red instead of yellow.

Tiger supporters aren’t happy. The Richmond administration offices are a scant two miles from Harrison House, and they reckon a cross-eyed tiger, bound foot and paw, could have delivered those forms a good 24 hours ahead of the deadline.

* * *​

TIGER ON THE JOB​

Richmond are opposed to the zoning of country areas but are reconciled to the scheme going through the League on Friday night and will work hard at making it a success.

They will employ a full-time coach to work in their newly-acquired country and metropolitan districts.

He will not be a man who has any coaching affiliations with Richmond at present, but the Tigers hope that a former player will take the job.

* * *​

Country football zones allotted yesterday to VFL clubs were:

RICHMOND:– DISTRICT No. 8:

NORTH CENTRAL Football League: (Birchip, Boort, Charlton, Donald, St Arnaud, Wedderburn, Wycheproof, Narraport, Watchem-Corack).

SUNRAYSIA Football League: (Imperials, Irymple, Merbein, Mildura, Mildura South, Red Cliffs, Robinvale, Wentworth Districts).

MINOR LEAGUES: (Mallee FL, Lameroo FL, Millewa FL, North Wimmera FL, Tyrrell FL, Mid Murray FL).

* * *​

 

[Growl]

It’s Tigers for sure!
Under 19s by BRUCE MATTHEWS
(Sporting Globe)​

Richmond and Footscray battle again this week in a replay of the second semi-final
all because of an amazing goal by Tiger half-forward Jim Carland.​

But this time Richmond should put the issue beyond doubt.

Last week, the boys from Tigerland raced to an early lead and appeared to be coasting into the Grand Final.

Then complacency spread through the team like a plague and the tight defence took its mind off the job for five minutes late in the final term

Bulldogs seized the opportunity and, with quick goals by McGregor, Stevens, Mitchell and Neal, raced to a 6-point lead.

* * *​

Several of the Tiger stars who’ve given tremendous drive all season, were sadly out of touch. Speedy winger Daryl Cumming found trouble getting kicks against under-rated Cerantonio although the Tigers took the points across the centre.

* * *​

Centreman Frank Loughran had the edge over Bean early but the tall Bulldog was instrumental in his side’s great fightback.

On the opposite wing Mick Maguire had a field day and won a million kicks although his disposal could be improved.

If Maguire can hold top form and Cumming comes out of the doldrums, Richmond should win hands down across the middle and Footscray will be in trouble.

Cumming, a great find from Merbein this year, is bursting with talent and should bounce back keener than ever.

* * *​

Match-winning spearhead Rex Hunt and promising ruck-rover Derek Peardon, two stars of this season, never hit their straps at any period of the game.

Hunt looked much happier when switched to full-forward late in the third term but never really got wound up.

The big Tiger received plenty of attention every time he ventured near the ball with either Bulldog full-back Ron Thompson or resting ruckman John Doll close on his heels ready to punch clear.

Peardon, a prize recruit from the Apple Isle, was chasing the leather all day and never caught up with it. He could never get into the fray but I doubt if a player of his potential can turn in two bad games in a row.

* * *​

 

[Growl]

TIGERS PIP BULLDOGS
Under 19s by BRUCE MATTHEWS
(Sporting Globe)​

​

Richmond fought off a late bid by Footscray to win the replay of the second semi-final by two points at the MCG.

The Tigers better team work kept them in front for most of the game after half-time, but the Bulldogs, winning in the air and aided by a strong wind, nearly snatched victory in the last minute.

With time-on being played Footscray’s 19th man Dalton had a flying shot for goal, but the ball bounced the wrong way.

FIRST QUARTER: Richmond came out with changes on every line. Hunt was at full-forward, Tully at centre half-forward, Owen at full-back and Salmon at centre half-back.

. . . Farrelly cleverly tapped across to McGhie for their first goal. The Tigers went forward from Ebert and the quick-thinking Barclay punched to Ferguson, alone in the square, for a quick reply.

McLeod was crashed heavily as he marked only 10 yards out, but recovered quickly to boot Footscray’s second goal.

. . . Farrelly increased the Bulldogs’ lead to 12 points when he steered through a 50-yarder right on the siren.

SECOND QUARTER: From the bounce, Ebert grabbed the ball to boot Richmond forward and Cumming coolly handballed to Hunt, but his angle shot was off line.

Ebert, well on top in the centre, handballed to Ferguson, who found Carland close to the boundary for Richmond’s second goal.

Richmond’s team work was beginning to function. Maguire to Peardon to Hunt deserved more than a behind. Seconds later Richmond hit the front when Hunt, moving better at full-forward, passed to Peardon who was freed right in front to kick their third.

. . . The lead again see-sawed when two Richmond defenders collided, allowing Cerantonio to steady and boot Footscray’s fourth.

Fire was creeping into the game as McGregor was heavily grassed on the Members’ wing and Salmon was also in the hands of the trainers after a hard knock.

Footscray were taking the game right up to the Tigers and gained a handy nine-point lead when Farrelly steered through his second goal after a towering mark.

. . . With time-on being played, Ebert drifting well down from the middle, spun out of the pack to snap Richmond’s fourth.

THIRD QUARTER: Stevens was freed in the middle to start the Bulldogs moving, but Cloke, a safe defender all day, dashed out to clear.

. . . Good handball allowed Ebert to boot a handy goal on the run against the wind and the Tigers led by four points.

. . . Richmond were gradually getting on top as Barclay found Hunt for their sixth goal. The big Tiger spearhead had another chance after a good pass by Ebert, but his long shot was forced through for a behind

Footscray bounced back as bean sent a sizzling pass to Stevens who booted into the square for McLeod to pick up and goal.

Salmon passed to Peardon, who in turn handballed to Barclay, to give Hunt another chance, but he was off-line.

Spiteful incidents were coming into the game as Cumming flashed down the Members’ wing for Hunt to juggle a great mark, but his kicking again let him down.

FINAL TERM: A bad mistake by a Richmond player, when he kicked the wrong way, allowed McLeod to race in and boot his third to level the scores.

Barclay swooped on the ball when a Footscray defender fumbled and passed to Hunt, who goaled to regain the lead for the Tigers.

. . . Owen, running against the flight of the ball, dragged down two well judged marks to save. The Tigers were leading in the race to the ball and shot to a 12-point lead when Maguire baulked two opponents to boot a glorious goal on the run.

But the Bulldogs refused to give in as Farrelly coolly handballed to James in the goal square for their eighth. It was goal for goal as Johnson weaved cleverly away from two Footscray defenders to snap Richmond’s ninth goal.

. . . Footscray trailed by only five points when Farrelly passed to James who booted their ninth. A doubtful free right in front gave James another chance to regain the lead for Footscray, but he missed from point blank range.

With time-on being played Footscray’s 19th man Dalton snapped for a goal, but it was scrambled for a behind and Footscray trailed by two points.

 

[Growl]

Bill did well in new role​

​

Richmond rover Bill Brown had to make a success of the job if he wanted to stay in the senior side this season.

That’s Brown (above) passing to a team-mate during training at the MCG.

Brown, 5.7½, 10.0, felt he was on “borrowed time” as a winger under Richmond’s plans to use six-footers on the wide flanks of the MCG.

“I knew coach Hafey and the selectors wanted taller players on the wings. I felt I could not hold a place there.

“The only place I could get into the side was roving. So I had to concentrate on that job. It has turned out all right,” he said.

Brown was used as a reserve three times before playing his first full game of the season against South Melbourne on July 1.

He has held a regular place with the Tigers in the last five games.

 

[Growl]

Grand Final – what the experts predict

I LIKE THE TIGERS
By NORM SMITH​

Confidence is one thing, over confidence another. One will win the flag for Richmond and the other will lose it.

The finals have shown me a new trend in football, a trend to attack at the expense of defence.

I still feel that defence is one of the fine arts of the game.

The Grand Final will be a game for the purists, a delight for the crowd, and should hold few worries for the umpires.

I lean towards Richmond because of their record over the season and the week’s rest. The major problem for Richmond is to contest Polly Farmer every inch of the way. They must deny him use of the ball.

I think Farmer is a more valuable player now than at any time in his career.

Often he stands down and becomes the ruck-rover and that’s where Bull Richardson may have to be used.

But in the aerial duels the Richmond rucks will do their job if they contest the ball and get it away from Farmer. Patterson’s job should be on the ball whenever Farmer is on it.

There won’t be much in this game but Geelong could feel the effects of the Carlton clash.

* * *​

TIGERS HOT FAVORITES:–

RICHMOND are red hot favorites with the public to win Saturday’s Grand Final. In Truth’s public opinion poll they voted 2 to 1 in favor of the Tigers.

Of 12 people questioned, eight tipped a Richmond victory and four went for Geelong.

* * *​

CARN TIGES – IT’S YOURS!
By JOHN RICE (Sporting Globe)​

The Tigers are hot pots to win their first post-war premiership when they meet the Cats in Saturday’s Grand Final.

Globe writers go for them 6-2. Only former stars Neil Roberts and Mick Aylett tip the Cats. It’s 23 years since Richmond had their last crack at the flag when they were beaten by Fitzroy.

The Tigers last won in 1943 under the dynamic leadership of Jack “Captain Blood” Dyer while Geelong took home their last pennant in 1963 when coached by Bob Davis.

Globe experts, six of them former champs, are unanimous it’ll be a crackerjack on Saturday and that it could be one of the fastest on record.

The MCG is a sell-out.

However, it’s unlikely the record crowd of 115,902 established in 1956 will ever be broken. That year fans jumped the fence and sat around the boundary.

Naturally winning the premiership will be the most important thought by all players, but one of the interesting sidelights will be Doug Wade’s performance.

Can “Dead-Eye” kick eight goals and become first to reach the 100 mark in a season since John Coleman last achieved the feat in 1952?

And who’ll be the “Bush Coach” to take the flag from the city-slickers — Tom Hafey or Peter Pianto? Both returned to the VFL last season, Hafey after coaching Shepparton and Pianto from Coragulac.

The sides have clashed 107 times. Richmond have won 56. Three have been drawn.

This year Richmond beat Geelong 18.11 (119) to 12.9 (81) at the MCG. Then downed them again at Kardinia Park 18.9 (117) to 15.15 (105)

​

 

[Growl]

FOOTBALL HAS MADE PROGRESS​

The football season, now drawing to a close, has been more significant than most others since World War II.

In spite of reduced attendances, and a lot of talk about the future of the game, there have been several heartening developments.

An emphasis on fitness, plus a skilfully organised recruiting system, resulted in all five Richmond teams reaching their respective grand finals.

The value of having top-class professional administrators in charge of clubs should never again be under-estimated.

The country zoning scheme will be another great step forward. And the proposed overseas tour is at least an effort towards giving the game some international flavor.

 

[Six Pack]

How would the Tigers have got hold of Judd in the old days Growl? A couple of pairs of new boots and a cheap suit?

 

[Growl]

THIS TIGER’S A REAL BRUISER — AT PLAY​

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Richmond follower Michael Patterson, who has given the club his best season in nine years, has “wrestled” his way to top form.

Patterson, 26, 6.4, 15.0, is a better balanced footballer than in previouys years because he has been taking a few “falls”.

The falls have not been on the football field. They’ve been on the mat in the wrestling ring at the Police gymnasium in Russell Street, Melbourne.

Former wrestling champion, Sid McRae—a member of Richmond’s training staff—began training Patterson as a wrestler last January.

“I did it for some building-up mainly, but found my balance and strength improved also,” Patterson said. “Tumbling around the ring with Sid has helped me take some falls on the football field.

“And it’s made me more relaxed when being knocked off balance.”

Patterson doesn’t plan to use any of his wrestling holds in ruck duels on the football field.

 

[Growl]

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Richmond ruckman Michael Patterson, a keen hunter, was hot on the trail of foxes at Eltham today . . . at the MCG on Saturday he’ll be after the “Cats”.

He keeps his bloodhounds, Portia, Brutus and Caesar, at the Eltham home of Mr. Douglas Mummery.

Picture by Bob Buchanan.

 

[Six Pack]

How very Shakespearian!

 

[Growl]

Tigers — two in a row
League Reserves – by DANNY BLAKE
(Sporting Globe)​

Richmond, unquestionably the best side in the competition, look set to win their second successive premiership by downing North in the grand Final on the MCG on Saturday.

The Tigers should have to much talent for North who rely on disciplined team-work rather than skill.

Unlike the second semi, when Richmond broke away in the first half and won easily, North will certainly make it tougher this time.

They showed a dramatic return to form against Geelong in the preliminary final and should not make the same mistakes as they did in the second semi.

North coach Les Foots must have been pleased with his boys on Saturday . It was their best effort for more than a month. However, their form still doesn’t appear good enough to match the Tigers.

Line for line, the Tigers have talent to burn. Across the centre Eric Moore is capable of beating anyone. He will get plenty of support from high-marking, fast-moving winger Graham Bond.

North centreman Noel McKernan found touch last Saturday but may not be physically strong enough to beat Moore in man-to-man duels.

In the ruck and in the air, Richmond might not take charge as they did two weeks ago. A lot will depend on team placings and the replacement for Neville Crowe in the seniors.

If John Ronaldson is promoted the Tigers might be struggling against improved Rodney Dell, Mick Howell and Gary Cameron.

When the ball hits the ground, North’s tenacious rovers, Mick Evans and John Scholes, could have the best of Don Davenport and Frank Dimattina. Davenport [pictured] is one of the most skilful players at Richmond but does not seem to relish pressure football.

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Although North might win around the packs it is doubtful if it will be able to penetrate Richmond’s strong defence often enough to kick a winning score.

Wayne Walsh has developed into a dashing back pocket player, after several ordinary seasons with the Tigers. In the other pocket dependable Neil Busse should counter North’s resting ruckman.

Half-backs Ross Warner and Graham Cliff are good in the air but will need to keep close tabs on Michael Gargan who is an elusive ground player.

North’s back line, led by Rus Hughes and Ray Davies, are steady without being spectacular. However, centre half-forward Ray Orchard should create enough opportunities for big full-forward Bill Walford to kick a winning score.

Summing up: I’m going for Richmond to win the flag because they have talented players all round the field.

 

[Growl]

Cartoonists’ comments on ’67 GF​

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[Growl]

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There’s an offer in the wind for Richmond’s star centre, Billy Barrot. Could the Tigers lose him?

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If by chance, Richmond’s bustlin’ Billy Barrot [pictured] is allowed to tackle and drop-kick at his best in Saturday’s Grand Final, he could be the player to end up eating oysters and talking terms with the mighty Rugby Saints of Sydney.

That’s the opinion of North Melbourne’s Laurie Dwyer, the last man who went to dinner with the champion St. George Club; felt the bone-jarring strength of its team and still silently regrets not being able to accept what the Saints had to offer.

“It’s a marvellous place,” says Dwyer of the St. George Club’s $2.5m real estate: “If you go there for dinner, you get oysters and the lot . . . and the facilities for the players . . . are they something!”

. . . Now St. George, whose amazing string of 11 premierships ended this season, is again looking for a Melbourne footballer with ‘certain requirements’ and will have its secretary and talent scout Mr. Frank Facer at the MCG to look over the grand finalists.

“I’m coming with an open mind,” said Mr. Facer yesterday. “I have no special names in mind. Naturally, we will be more interested in the bigger player, but when we were here last in 1961 we took Laurie Dwyer, a small player.

. . .”We’ve heard of Ron Barassi and watched the TV replay of the second semi-final between Carlton and Richmond, but I’m playing this strictly by ear. If I see someone I like likely I might seek an interview with him or take his name back to Sydney.”

Mr. Facer remarked: “That’s wonderful when told that some of the best kicks in the VFL could cover between 60 and 70 yards consistently. The best they are doing in Sydney this season was about 40 yards, he said.

After examining the possible Grand Final line-ups of Geelong and Richmond, Dwyer said yesterday Barrot would be the type of player St. George was looking for.

“He’s big enough, can take the buffeting but can still accelerate fast, turn beautifully, and can kick,” he said. . . “For the stars it is a dedicated life, but it can be quite glamorous in Rugby League.”

He said players were paid a basic $40 a win, $30 a draw and $20 a defeat, but also received handsome signing-on fees and bonuses.

 

[Growl]

GRAND FINAL QUERIES
Ronaldson is likely for ruck
By Ron Carter (The Age)​

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John Ronaldson is almost certain to get the vacant follower’s job in Richmond’s Grand Final team ahead of Michael Green.

It is not official, but after Richmond had trained at the MCG last night a tip that Ronaldson would be in the side was too strong to be ignored.

Green is still likely to get a run in the Grand Final — as 19th man.

Coach Tom Hafey said after training: “I have made up my mind who I want to replace Neville Crowe. I will tell the player concerned later tonight.” Hafey refused to say whether he favored Ronaldson or Green.

The selection of a ruckman to replace suspended Crowe is the only problem facing the Tigers. The selectors met last night and no doubt have already picked their Grand Final team.

Ronaldson who played the first four games this season as a ruckman and forward pocket, and was 19th man for the next game, is 20, 6ft. 5in. and 16 st. If selected, he will be the heaviest man in the tigers’ team—half a stone heavier than Pat Guinane.

Green who played in 17 of the 18 home-and-away games as a ruckman stationed permanently in a back pocket, is 19, 6ft. 4in. and 14½ st.

Special attention was given to Green and Ronaldson at training last night. However both Hafey and Crowe, who assisted in the training of the followers, admitted the workout did not prove very much.

Halfway through training Hafey called his ruck combinations to the centre of the field for a 10-minute chat. Players concerned were Ronaldson, Green, Alan Richardson, Michael Patterson, rovers Bill Brown and Kevin Bartlett, and Crowe.

“I told them what was expected of them on Saturday,” Hafey said. Later, Hafey and Crowe took them to one end of the ground, where Green and Ronaldson had about 20 ruck duels. Crowe threw in the ball from the boundary line and Hafey watched the result. Ronaldson and Green broke about even. Then they were given goal-kicking practice from the forward pocket, still watched by Hafey.

Ronaldson looks likely to get the ruck berth because he was the player under most consideration when Crowe’s form dropped during the season. He also has played much more on the forward line and he is the type of player the Tigers are looking for on Saturday.

The ruckman to replace suspended Crowe will probably be asked to do only about 30 per cent of the actual ruck work. The other tall ruckman, Patterson, will do the rest. Because of this, Crowe’s replacement will spend much of his time in the forward pocket.

Tonight the Richmond team will go to a television station to watch films of the second semi-final and last Saturday’s preliminary final.

Richmond must also field a Reserves Grade Grand Final team on Saturday but it has only one minor worry with this side. Centreman Eric Moore has developed a knee soreness from an old injury, but he is expected to train at top pace tomorrow night.

A new player given the honor of training with the grand Final team was Old Paradians centre half-back Ed Murphy. Murphy, 20, 6ft. 3in., and 13st. 13 was in the Victorian interstate amateur side this year.