Waalitj Marawar putting themselves in a position to win against Richmond was another step in the right direction for the developing team, midfielder Jack Graham says.

For the second time in the four matches the Eagles went down by two points – after a Good Friday thriller against Essendon – following a see-sawing encounter at the MCG.

“It was tough. It was there to win – that’s the main thing, we’re putting ourselves into positions to win the game,” Graham said.

“As much as I would’ve loved to sing the song for the first time and get a win over the old mob, difficult, but we were in a position to win the game.

“We go again this week against the Saints. We look forward to the challenge.”

The Eagles reviewed the Tigers loss on Tuesday and found ‘a lot of good’ but also room for improvement.

“A lot of opportunities where we could’ve scored. They were pretty good at getting it in our forward 50 and taking it all the way down and scoring,” Graham said.

“If we can tidy up a few errors and fundamentals the game looks a little bit different.

“They would be saying the same as well, I suppose, Richmond but a better game from us. We acknowledge there is still a lot of work to do.”

Waalitj Marawar took a significant step forward with work around clearances, which they edged 35-34, and dominated centre clearances (16-9) thanks to some sharp work from Tyler Brockman, Harley Reid, Brady Hough and Liam Ryan (three apiece).

But ruck duo Matt Flynn and Bailey Williams were also prominent, combining for 35 hit-outs and five clearances.

Williams also snared two goals in an impressive return after a stint in the WAFL.

“’Baz’ and ‘Flynny’, the ability of them to work together (was important) and give each other a chop out and ‘Baz’ to go forward with his aerial power and ability to take marks, kick goals and get on the scoreboard,” Graham said.

“I think that worked well. I’m not too sure what the coaches will decide this week.”

Waalitj Marawar takes on Euro-Yroke (St Kilda) this Sunday in the opening weekend of Sir Doug Nicholls Round at Optus Stadium from 2.40pm.