The first-year coach dismissed suggestions that the result will be at the forefront of his mind on Saturday evening, instead proposing that improved pressure and defensive intent will allow the scoreboard to take care of itself.
“We are not necessarily talking about winning or losing the game, but given our performance from an effort perspective last week, that’s our focus,” Richardson said at a press conference on Thursday morning prior to the team’s main training session of the week.
“When we come off the ground we should be pleased that we applied great effort and methodology to team defence.
“We’ve said right from the jump that we will review really strongly on our team defence, our pressure on the opposition and our contested footy. With that in mind, it was unacceptable on the weekend.”
St Kilda went down to Adelaide by 86 points on Sunday afternoon and failed to replicate the trademark ferocious endeavour it demonstrated for the majority of the first three games of the year.
The Saints closely reviewed every element of the match before turning their attention to Bombers' clash this Saturday night, who are also coming off a loss following a trip to Perth in round four.
“Because of the six-day break we’ve given the guys some time off. Certainly the review was a reflection of what we said to the guys after the game publically – that we were disappointed with our effort,” Richardson said.
“The way the players had input into that meeting and reflected their own performance has continued to follow that path.
“The group needs to move and we’ve been pretty good… We look forward to the opportunity to do something about it against the Bombers.”
Part of this improvement will come from players who are willing to put the team first and themselves second said Richardson.
“We speak often about the fact that it’s the jumper you wear not the number on your back. You are expected to play your role.”
“David [Armitage] has been really good for us. He’s been really strong and he’s a really combative warrior. He’s led really well for us and he’s one of our leaders. We’d rather have him out there but it will be a really good opportunity for another young player.”
