The Sydney Swans travel to Melbourne to take on Richmond in Round 13 this Saturday afternoon at the MCG.

Richmond is never an easy proposition at the MCG, especially considering the Swans recent form, highlighted by a 90-point loss to the Adelaide Crows in Round 12.

The Tigers’ form has been solid of late, narrowly losing to the Giants by just 3-points having led the match all game apart from the final minutes. Senior players Dion Prestia (31 disposals), Jacob Hopper (29 disposals) and Tim Taranto (23 disposals & 2 goals) were impressive for the Tigers while youngster Hugo Ralphsmith continues to improve.

For the Swans, the last two weeks have been disappointing, with coach Dean Cox ringing the changes after their loss to the Crows. Joel Hamling, Caiden Cleary and Caleb Mitchell have all been omitted, while Matt Roberts (sickness) and Peter Ladhams will miss the match.

Captain Callum Mills returns from suspension, Sam Wicks, Tom Hanily and Aaron Francis are welcomed back into the senior side, while Harry Cunningham has been named to play his first game of the season.

Noah Balta comes back in for the Tigers at the expense of Campbell Gray, who’s been omitted.

The last time these two sides met, Richmond upset the Swans at the MCG by 5-points back in Round 3 last season. Tim Taranto was outstanding on that day for the Tigers while Jake Lloyd was the best of the Swans.

Tigers coach Adem Yze said he’s expecting the Swans to be at their best, despite their recent form.

“You always do (expect a response). They're a proud footy club and they made the Grand Final for a reason, so we'll plan on them bringing their best,” Yze said.

“They have got some talent in there...we understand what's coming.

“They obviously had the performance they had on the weekend but we're planning for their best. The opportunity to give some of our younger players the chance to play on some All-Australians…we're doing that, and we have been doing that throughout the season.

“We'll obviously go head-to-head with our midfield crew against them, but at some stage it'll be nice to see some of our younger players leaning against some of their superstars, Yze said.

First bounce on Saturday afternoon is at 1.20pm at the MCG.