Richmond coach Adem Yze expressed confidence following the club's heavy defeat to Western Bulldogs on Saturday that the Tigers would regain tall timber Noah Balta and Ben Miller for next week's match against West Coast.
The Tigers were badly exposed aerially against the Dogs, which took 20 contested marks to the Tigers' five as Mid-Season pickup Kye Annand was forced to play on Aaron Naughton and Luke Trainor was also forced to play as a tall.
As well as a poor second quarter, it proved to be the difference in the game as the Tigers otherwise competed well for extended periods.
"(Western Bulldogs) aerial game just dominated… both ends of the ground, which going into the game it's just what we've got left, but at the same time when you've got Kye Annand and Luke Trainor playing as your key pillars in defence against really good quality forwards, we'll be better for it, and they'll be better for it," Yze said.
Balta is currently sidelined with a toe injury and Miller with a heel complaint.
The match against West Coast is Richmond's best opportunity to avoid a second wooden spoon in three seasons with the club currently sitting last with one win.
After being criticised for a lack of effort in Round 19, Yze was pleased with his team's response on Saturday night.
"We came with the right intent, with the right method around pressure and our attitude," Yze said.
"Today was an execution thing and more than likely it was availability and lack of height at both ends of the ground which cost us. If we can make sure we maintain our attitude and effort, get some troops back next weekend, we'll be okay."
