The Sydney Swans fought back from a 26-point deficit to produce an 11-point win over Richmond at the MCG in round 14.
The win marked the club’s ninth consecutive victory, and also saw first year Swan Zak Jones make his AFL debut.
In a low-scoring affair, which saw the Swans boot just one goal in the opening quarter, two late goals kept the Swans in touch with Richmond, who held a 14-point lead at the main change.
Following a disappointing opening half, the Swans upped the intensity in the third term, and hit the lead for the first time in the match, before the Tigers hit back to hold a one-point lead at three quarter time.
Much like the previous week, Lance Franklin stood up when required, with the star forward giving the Swans the lead early in the final term with a clever snap, before slotting an important set shot to secure the win.
Kieren Jack and Sam Reid, who both kicked two goals each, were the other multiple goal scorers in the win.
Addressing media after the win, Swans coach John Longmire admitted the match was not his side’s greatest display of football.
"In the first 10 minutes we weren't playing anywhere near the level we wanted to,” he said.
"We only had one tackle in the first 10 minutes and they had a lot of uncontested possession. Normally we're a lot better at closing that down.
"Fortunately, at half-time we were only 14 points down.
"Some players really lifted in the second half. We just willed ourselves over the line without playing well."
The win was soured by an ankle injury to veteran defender Rhyce Shaw, who was replaced by Jones at half time.
Richmond 4.2 6.4 7.6 7.9 (51)
Sydney Swans 1.2 4.2 7.5 9.8 (62)
Best: Franklin, Kennedy, Cunningham, Parker, Jetta, Malceski, K.Jack
Goals: Franklin 4, K. Jack 2, Reid 2, McVeigh
Official Crowd: 34,633 at the MCG
Brownlow Medal votes: Lance Franklin 3
Bob Skilton Medal votes: Lance Franklin 37, Harry Cunningham 34, Josh Kennedy 32, Ted Richards 27
