With matches being held at the Tigers' home for the first time since 1964, fans will be able to watch the VFL teams in action from 2pm before walking to the MCG for the annual AFL blockbuster.

 

The VFL released its fixture for 2014 on Tuesday, with Richmond hosting nine matches at Punt Road Oval, the first against Williamstown on Saturday, April 19. 

 

The clash against the Bombers ahead of Dreamtime at the 'G will be the only VFL match scheduled for Saturday, May 31, with the VFL representative team hosting the SANFL.

 

There will be seven opportunities for Richmond supporters to watch their VFL team at Punt Road Oval before the senior team plays at the MCG on the same day.

 

With the Tigers ending their alignment with Coburg and the Western Bulldogs also breaking ties with Williamstown to launch a standalone reserves team, there will be 16 teams in the VFL in 2014.

 

The Bulldogs will play under their traditional name of Footscray, hosting matches at Whitten Oval for the first time since 1997.

 

The Bulldogs, who will host five matches at Whitten Oval, will also play two 'home' games at Geelong's Simonds Stadium.

 

Ahead of the round 16 AFL clash between the Cats and Bulldogs at Simonds Stadium, the clubs' VFL teams will play a curtain raiser at the ground. 

 

Other highlights of the VFL fixture include football on Good Friday, two Anzac Day matches and an increase to 10 night games.

 

Each club will have two byes, with the break aligned where possible with the bye of their AFL club.

 

After a 12-year alignment with Richmond, Coburg with be a standalone club in 2014, returning to its traditional nickname of the Lions.