When Richmond coach Adem Yze walked among the change rooms following the ugly nine-point victory over Essendon, he witnessed "split personalities.
The contest at the MCG between the two rivals yielded a measly 10 goals, but more significantly, 23 behinds on the night.
Fans and onlookers were privy to a high-scoring, elite contest, but were subject to a rabble that remained close all game.
Yze revealed that among his 23 players, the younger contingent led by debutant Taj Hotton had "massive smiles", while the leaders and veterans of the club shook their heads, despite the all-important four points.
"It wasn't the prettiest game, but when we're sitting where we are and what we're going through on our build, we'll take these wins and celebrate them because they're really important for our group," Yze said.
"While we're trying to climb our way back up the ladder, these situations and moments are very, very good for our younger boys.
"Our leaders led the way, but our young boys gave some real spark and energy.
"When we sit in a room and we look at the game, we've got split personalities. Our older boys call it an ugly game, our younger boys have got a massive smile on their face, and when they haven't won too often, they're just enjoying the ride, and that's where our group's at.
"As a coaching staff and as a footy club, we want to enjoy these wins and make sure the boys do as well."
Tim Taranto was immense through the midfield, while the return of dashing defender Jayden Short paid dividends in the close match.
Jacob Hopper also performed strongly, as did Sam Banks, who continues to make strides towards making a meaningful impact at AFL level.
But all eyes were on Hotton, who was the Tigers' ninth debutant of 2025, and seventh from last year's monster draft haul (Josh Smillie the last one remaining).
The reigning Pick 12 is coming off an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during his draft year, and after three weeks in the VFL, forced his way into Yze's side.
Taj Hotton kicks his first goal in the AFL ๐ฅบ#AFLTigersDons pic.twitter.com/SRcQHgsQrI
โ AFL (@AFL) July 12, 2025
Hotton gathered 10 disposals, three tackles and a goal.
Saturday's victory over the Bombers was the Tigers' fourth of the year, and inches them closer to North Melbourne (two points behind) on the ladder.
Richmond will look to continue their winning ways as they now prepare to travel to Perth to take on West Coast at Optus Stadium.
