A hot start and a surging finish have set up Richmond's vital seven-point AFLW win over Carlton at Ikon Park
The Tigers went almost three quarters without scoring a goal but were still able to come out winners by 7.5 (47) to 6.4 (40).
The victory means Richmond move to 3-1 this season, with their only defeat coming against perennial powerhouse Adelaide in round two.
The Tigers exploded out of the blocks with four goals in the first term, led by in-form captain Katie Brennan, who kicked two majors and had seven disposals before quarter-time.
But Richmond failed to kick a goal from the 14-minute mark of the first quarter until former St Kilda forward Caitlin Greiser slotted the Tigers' fifth of the match eight minutes into the final period.
Stella Reid put the Tigers seven points in front with another goal two minutes later, which was enough to see off Carlton's challenge.
Courtney Jones made a classy finish with 30 seconds remaining to put an exclamation mark on the result.
"Very happy with the outcome. I think Carlton are re-energised, got some really good talent, young and energetic and playing some good footy," Tigers coach Ryan Ferguson said.
"We were confident we could get there in the end but it was always going to take the better part of four quarters."
Star Monique Conti (30 possessions) and former Carlton player Grace Egan (28) led the way for the Tigers in an impressive performance in the midfield.
Carlton tall Breann Moody continued her transition from ruck more into the forward line with two goals, while Mia Austin also slotted two majors.
Richmond's Jemima Woods could be in trouble for a bump on Amelia Velardo after the Blues forward was left dazed and taken off the field in the second term.
Working in Woods' favour is the fact Velardo was able to return to the field and play out the game with a bandage around her head.
The Blues are 2-2 ahead of next Friday's clash with Sydney at Ikon Park, with the Tigers hosting Fremantle at the same venue earlier that day.
"Pleased with our team's effort. Richmond had a really good day and they're a really strong side," Blues coach Matthew Buck said.
"The Richmond connection with their mids and forwards got us, we're still working on that part of our game ... proud of the way our guys fought back."
Australian Associated Press
