I think the Hawthorn game a week later cost you guys. With a win there we would've likely ended up with a West Coast vs Richmond grand final and a much closer contest.Rd 22 decided the flag, IMO.
Totally different dynamic with WC in the top 2/3 and Richmond having to win 4 on the bounce and potentially travel twice. Not saying we would've won the flag, but as soon as Richmond finished top 4 they were a huge chance and once they beat Brisbane were odds on.
I actually reckon Richmond 2019 were similar to us last year. Getting over Port in Rd 4 with players out and WC in Rd 22 were the difference. Last year we ground out a couple of wins and then beat Port after the siren then finished 2nd. Both teams finished 19-6 in the end and hit form when it mattered in the finals.
Hopefully in 2020 the numbnuts AFL schedule two Rich/WC games instead of just one like every other year.