The Dons don't really have a great list but somehow it clicks (I think our best players are better than theirs). But they all compete and are a team that spreads very well and moves the ball exceptionally.
Richmond's talent is (excepting Rance & Reiwoldt) concentrated in the middle.
The forward pockets aren't great, there's not a standout leading/midsize forward, the backline is light & a bit patchy, there's not a great defensive midfielder, there's no #2 ruck option, etc etc.
If you went down and made a 22 up of how Ess & Rich they're performing, most would end up with Richmond dominating the midfield, and majority of fwd and backlines would be Essendon.
Where we've really improved has been guys like Hardingham / Hibberd/Davey/ Bellchambers/ Jetta/Monfries/Howlett. Not superstars - but they're better & more consistent than their Richmond counterparts. All solid consistent players now.
All those little advantages our way, add up to far more than a lot of people are giving us credit for.
The 1st half and the late run (when your midfield was knackered) showed up what I'm saying IMHO - Richmond need to get to a point where they can win or at least compete without Cotchin / Deledio / Foley dominating in the middle.
EDIT: That said, Morris/Batch and maybe Ellis look like they might become those good little backmen. And obviously there are high hopes for talls like Griff/Elton who might well play some time in the ruck.
Should start to look at small forwards and defensive minded smalls IMHO.
