Tigers up for tough Eagles test in AFL

Apr 7, 2017 - 8:10 AM Richmond are reaping the benefits of an off-season game plan tweak, but the rejuvenated Tigers will face their sternest test yet when they host West Coast at the MCG.

Damien Hardwick's men will be aiming to start a season with three wins for just the second time since 1995 when they take on the unbeaten Eagles on Saturday.

The Tigers are playing a more daring and direct style this season and have ratcheted up their pressure on the opposition.

Hardwick's side is ranked last in the competition in disposals and second overall for tackles, but assistant coach Ben Rutten says it's not all about the stats.

"We don't necessarily talk about what numbers our game style is going to produce but hopefully it's well-suited to the players that we've got," Rutten told AAP.

"The way that we play is constantly evolving, like all teams, and by no means do we think we're perfect or are we completely satisfied with the way that we're playing.

"But we're heading in the right direction. We're pleased with some of the growth and improvement that we've shown.

"We learnt a lot from our first two games. We were disappointed with last year so to get a bit of confidence and momentum early was good."

Richmond made two forced changes for the clash, bringing in Kamdyn McIntosh and Todd Elton for Shane Edwards (hip) and Ben Griffiths (concussion).

Dustin Martin suffered a fractured cheekbone in the win over the Pies but has received medical clearance to play.

"Dusty's a pretty tough sort of bloke ... it takes a bit to keep him down," Rutten said.

"He's important to the way that we're playing so it will be good to have him out there."

The Eagles made one change, bringing in Lewis Jetta at the expense of Dom Sheed.

Source: AAP