Relying less on Jack Riewoldt is making Richmond, and the star goalkicker, more dangerous.

That’s the view of Tigers AFL coach Damien Hardwick, believing the club’s unearthing of a spread of goalkickers has helped the club’s bid for a first finals appearance in 12 years.

St Kilda have earmarked Riewoldt as the dangerman in their Sunday clash at the MCG – the forward having kicked 15 goals in his past two matches against the Saints.

But Hardwick believes the Tigers finding multiple avenues to goal has allowed Riewoldt to be more consistent, and therefore his team more menacing.

“The great thing about our spread of goalkickers this season is that Jack’s had his best season since I’ve been at the footy club,” Hardwick said.

“He’s on track for about 60 goals, he’s impacting games, he’s been bigger and better than years previous.

“The thing he’s not relying on is kicking seven, then kicking one.

“He regularly kicks his three or four goals, which is a great result and which brings into the game Ty Vickery, Aaron Edwards, and our midfielders are kicking goals.

“He does his role as required, and we’re winning as well.”

St Kilda coach Scott Watters this week pinpointed Riewoldt as the player who must be curtailed if the Saints are to add to their three wins for the season.

But with defenders Sam Fisher injured and Tom Simpkin suspended, Riewoldt’s likely opponent James Gwilt will be short of crucial support.

Hardwick believes St Kilda’s struggles this season don’t tell the full tale of what a decent side they are.

“The 3-9 they’re on isn’t a reflection of how they’re playing,” Hardwick said.

“They beat a good side in Carlton, lost on the last kick against West Coast, we just beat them last time.

“They’re a side that’s a lot better than their record suggests.”

The Tigers have been forced into two changes, with ruckman Ivan Maric and defender David Astbury out injured.

Orren Stephenson and Jake Batchelor are recalled.

St Kilda have resisted the temptation to rush star onballer Lenny Hayes back from injury against the Tigers.

He will instead return from injury in the reserves rather than be thrust straight into a battle with Richmond’s blue-chip midfield.

Youngster Nathan Wright comes in for Simpkin in their only change.