Richmond vs Essendon: A Rivalry for the Ages

In the annals of Australian Rules football, few rivalries have captured the imagination and ignited the passions of fans like that between Richmond and Essendon. For over a century, these two iconic clubs have clashed on the field, creating countless memories and etching their names into the sport's folklore.

The origins of the Richmond-Essendon rivalry can be traced back to the late 19th century, when both clubs were competing in the Victorian Football League. In those days, the matches between these two bitter enemies were fiercely contested affairs, often marred by violence and controversy. The rivalry intensified in the 1900s, as Richmond and Essendon emerged as two of the most successful teams in the league.

• The Bloodbath of 1905: One of the most infamous incidents in the rivalry's history occurred in 1905, when a match between Richmond and Essendon descended into a bloody brawl. Several players were injured, and the game had to be abandoned.
• The "Maroons" and the "Big Red Machine": In the 1970s and 1980s, the rivalry reached new heights, with Richmond earning the nickname the "Maroons" and Essendon becoming known as the "Big Red Machine." This period was marked by some of the most epic matches in the rivalry's history.

Modern Day Rivalry


In recent years, the Richmond-Essendon rivalry has continued to burn brightly. Both clubs have enjoyed periods of success, and their matches are always among the most anticipated on the AFL calendar.

The "Dreamtime at the 'G" Match: In 2015, the rivalry took on a new dimension when Essendon and Richmond played an historic match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as part of Indigenous Round. The "Dreamtime at the 'G" match has become an annual event, celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

The "Tigers" and the "Bombers": Today, Richmond and Essendon are known as the "Tigers" and the "Bombers," respectively. The two clubs have developed their own unique traditions and rituals, which add to the passion and excitement of their matches. For example, Richmond fans traditionally sing the club song "Yellow and Black" after every win.


The Future of the Rivalry


The Richmond-Essendon rivalry is one of the most enduring in Australian sport. It is a rivalry that has been built on a long history of competition, passion, and mutual respect. As long as both clubs continue to strive for success, their matches will continue to captivate and inspire fans for generations to come.

In the words of AFL legend Kevin Bartlett, "The Richmond-Essendon rivalry is a part of what makes Australian Rules football so great. It's a rivalry that has everything: history, passion, and drama. I can't wait to see what the next chapter holds."