BENDIGO Pioneers coach and former GWS Giants assistant Damian Truslove breaks down this weekend's AFL grand final between Richmond and Geelong.
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RICHMOND v GEELONG
Gabba - 7.30pm Saturday
RICHMOND
They'll look to create turnovers on the back of really good pressure at the ball and then look to move quick and score from that. That's their game and nothing has changed there.
They've improved their clearance numbers in the last month by throwing an extra number in at the stoppages. They've improved in that area, but that's not goin to win or lose them the game.
By throwing an extra number at the stoppages the Tigers are trying to ensure the opposition can't get a clean exit from the clearance and, potentially, they might get territory out of it.
Dustin Martin will do his normal thing by starting in at the stoppage and then spitting forward. A half-forward, most likely either Shai Bolton or Kane Lambert, will come up and cover for him. That move challenges every team and Geelong will probably be no different because Dusty is so good.
Richmond defenders will continue to zone and drop off opponents. Once they turn the ball over they want to play on and move the ball forward quickly.
X-factor - Shai Bolton.
It would be easy to put down Martin, but he's going to play well no matter what. Bolton is a star and he could get off the leash. I like him on the ball because I love fast feet around the stoppages and his agility when he gets the ball is vital.
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GEELONG
The Cats want to control the ball by hand and foot and be composed. They're not quick in terms of leg speed, so they want to be in control with the ball and not have a shootout.
Uncontested possessions and keeping the ball off the opposition are crucial factors for Geelong. They'll take the speed out of the game and make Richmond defend.
Jake Kolodjashnij is really important for Geelong. He'll get Martin as he spits forward out of stoppages.
X-factor - Gary Ablett.
Being his last game I think he'll do something special. If Geelong is to win the game I think Patrick Dangerfield will get the Norm Smith Medal, but I'm confident Ablett will be the one that will kick a crucial goal or two to get the Cats going.
Key match-ups
Trent Cotchin (Rich) v Joel Selwood (Geel)
Tom Lynch (Rich) v Harry Taylor (Geel)
Noah Balta (Rich) v Tom Hawkins (Geel)
Prediction
Richmond by 14 points. Speed and system will win the game in a close grand final.
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