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Author: Alex Christodoulou
Mar 14, 2018 04:35 AM
AAP
The dawn of a new era
Key Ins: Logan Austin (Port Adelaide)
Key Outs: None
Overview
With St Kilda's favourite son Nick Reiwoldt and midfield maestro Leigh Montagna finally calling a close on their wonderful careers, it's time for the Saints' next generation of players to stand up. A team that hasn't tasted premiership glory since 1966, the Saints' fans are desperate for success. Unfortunately for them however, it looks as though 2018 will be another year where the Saints will be sitting out come September.
The stats were telling when analysing St Kilda's performances in 2017. Ranking 3rd in both disposals per game (398) and disposal efficiency (74.2%), an 11th place finish seems improbable. However, if one word could summarise St Kilda's season, it would be toothless. Despite their glut of possession and effective use of the ball in their hands, the Saints struggled for goals, averaging just over twelve per game which was the fifth worst in the league.
If the Saints struggled to score with Nick Reiwoldt in the side and with a wealth of possession, it begs the question of how they will fare this year.
St Kilda will be looking to steady the ship without their club legends, and coach Alan Richardson faces another tough task to guide his players to finals footy. Pencil this season in as another year in the club's development phase, before the Saints really have a red hot go in years to come. The question will be if the Saints' faithful can maintain their patience this year, because success is just around the corner.
Player to watch: 22-year old Jack Steele was outstanding for the Saints last year. With the most tackles (158) and second most contested possessions (210) among his teammates, this steely young midfielder bears all the hallmarks of a future great.
Key player: Midfielder Sebastian Ross is quickly emerging as the star player south of the Yarra. Lightning quick and ranking first in both contested possessions and disposals for St Kilda, this 24-year old gun can change games in a flash.
Defensive rating 5/10
Dylan Roberton and Jake Carlisle are tall marking and spoiling-machines. They have the capacity to fight in the air, but when the ball hits the ground, it will be up to reliable captain Jarryn Geary and the Saints other defenders to fight in every contest.
Attacking threat 4/10
Tim Membrey and Josh Bruce are the type of players who if they can get hot, they'll kick a bag. Scoring a respectable 38 and 36 goals last season respectively, they will both need to up their games if they want to play finals. The number one pick in the 2014 draft, Paddy McCartin, also has buckets of talent but has had an unfortunate run with injuries to date.
Midfield strength 6/10
With untapped talent, Seb Ross as well as the similarly named Jack Steele and Jack Steven will look to dominate the midfield against all opponents. Whether they have enough big game experience and mental toughness is a concern however.
| |
Bookies' Verdict |
Our Verdict |
| Top 8 |
$2.25 |
Looking for at least $3 |
| Premiership |
$34 |
$51 |
| 2018 Prediction |
12th |
13th |
