Melbourne had its best quarter for the match, booting six goals.
The Demons kicked the first three goals of the term and outscored the Tigers. And at the 12-minute mark, the Demons got to within 20 points after Jamie Bennell kicked truly.
But a further four goals from Richmond, on top of strong first and third quarters, proved the difference in the finish.
Richmond 13.23 (101) d Melbourne 11.12 (78)
Third quarter
The third term had some frustrating passages of play. Plenty of errors were made by both sides, but Richmond managed to kick three goals to one and extend its lead.
Nathan Jones was Melbourne’s only goalscorer for the term, as Luke Tapscott and Daniel Nicholson copped injuries, after substitute Brent Moloney had replaced James Magner. Tapscott sustained a heavy hit from Tiger Steven Morris and Nicholson appeared to injure his shoulder.
At the final change, the Tigers led by 38 points.
Rich 9.20 (74) to Melb 5.6 (36)
Second quarter
Richmond extended its lead to 30 points early in the second term when Brett Deledio booted his second goal.
But the Demons hit back with three in a row, courtesy of Colin Garland, Jared Rivers and Jordie McKenzie to trail by just 11 points.
Tiger Luke McGuane added the last goal for the term and at half-time, Melbourne trailed by 20 points.
Rich 6.12 (48) to Melb 4.4 (28)
First quarter
The Tigers dominated the first term, but failed to fully capitalise on the scoreboard.
Richmond had nine scoring shots on the board (3.6), before Sam Blease kicked a beautiful goal on the run to open Melbourne’s account.
But the Demons trailed by 24 points at quarter-time.
Rich 4.6 (30) to Melb 1.0 (6)
