Richmond capitalised on a couple of early goal chances, scoring in the 12th and 21st minutes to put pressure on the Thunder from the onset.

The Thunder surged back into contention in the second half playing a hard and tight brand of football for the most part with 10 men.

Red-carded Thunder defender Aron Wilford will miss at least one match for disputing referee Alejandro Azcurra's decision on a careless tackle.

"In my opinion it was a certain free kick, possibly a yellow card," Thunder coach Stuart Munro said.

"A red card straight away - is a bit disappointing."

Despite trailing 2-0 at half time, Dandenong surged in the second half with five or six goal scoring opportunities.

Munro was pleased the side was able to break through Richmond's defences and put the goalkeeper under pressure.

"We were in with a show for a lot of the game. We're struggling for personnel at the moment. We just have to hang in there and be strong."

Thunder debutants Enes Sivic and Noel Bahnsen showed they were capable of handling the pressure at the top level.

Dandenong will have to be at their best this Friday night against competition leader and arch-rival Oakleigh Cannons.

The match at Jack Edwards Reserve in Oakleigh kicks off at 8.30pm.