ANY concerns that Wellington could not replicate an AFL ground’s conditions were dismissed at St Kilda’s first training session at Westpac Stadium on Friday.

The Saints set foot on the ground on Friday for a training session three months ahead of the historic clash with the Sydney Swans.

Farren Ray said the stadium had a very familiar feel.

“The deck is probably similar to AAMI Stadium, but as for the size I’d say it’s like the SCG. We’ll be fine. Any conditions are our conditions and hopefully we’ll go well,” Ray said.

Coach Scott Watters was equally impressed with what he saw.

“It’s a great ground, pristine surface and not a blade of grass out of place,” he said.

“I hope the weather is like this when we play. It has a similar feel to Etihad Stadium which is a surface we’re very familiar with. You can just imagine what 25-28,000 people are going to be like in this stadium. It’s got a real cauldron atmosphere to it which is exciting for us.”

Tickets are already selling fast for the clash with the Swans on Anzac Day, April 25 and Ray said he was expecting an exciting atmosphere.

“There are a few people flying over for the game and we’re trying to get the New Zealand faithful to come over so hopefully we can pack out the stadium,” he said.

“Hopefully we’ll get close to 30,000.”

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