While AFL finals might be a stretch, knocking off flag favourites Hawthorn on Sunday would still be a feather in Richmond’s cap.

Tigers skipper Trent Cotchin said his team felt they could challenge the defending champions and ladder leaders when they met on Sunday afternoon at the MCG.

History backs his claims with Richmond winning three of their past five clashes while, in round seven, the Hawks only put the Tigers to the sword in the final term.

“We get excited about the challenge of beating the greatest team in a number of years who are obviously in fantastic form and on top of the ladder,” said Cotchin after teaching Juventus stars Paulo Dybala and Hernanes, in Melbourne for the International Champions Cup, a few tricks with the Sherrin.

“We’ve obviously had a disappointing year in comparison to what we wanted to achieve out of the year so it’s an opportunity for us to set a standard and compete against the best.”

Richmond go into the match in 13th position on the ladder after overcoming a dogged Essendon last round, although finals are only a mathematical possibility.

“It’s obviously a real challenge to get there but the reality is we need to be in control of what we can and that’s our performances,” Cotchin said.

He said the team had been given a buzz from contributions by some of the younger players such as Shaun Grigg.

“No doubt, it’s exciting; the speed that the majority of the guys we’ve brought in have shown, the composure, they’ve won the footy and it’s great for our club.”