The unusual timeslot of Monday night is another great opportunity for St Kilda players to perform in front of large crowds and TV audiences, according to head coach Scott Watters.
Following an historic Anzac Day clash in New Zealand and a Friday night game against Collingwood, the Saints have a 10 day break before they face Carlton in the first Monday night match of 2013.
“Our Monday night game we certainly enjoyed last year and again the opportunity to play on a slightly bigger stage is fantastic for our group,” Watters said.
“I think for the fans and players … it’s a positive.”
Watters praised the concept of more regular Monday night football, but said the commercial and fan benefits had to be balanced with a delicate schedule.
“I don’t mind Monday night footy,” he said. “As long as what happens after that is a decent break, it’s the effect on the fixture that is the issue.”
“We’ve had a pretty heavy travel schedule so far … To get a break at some point – you take it when it’s there.”
The Saints contested ball and pressure in the clinches has been impressive in the last fortnight, but it’s the efficiency in both general play and in front of goal that will be the primary focus this week.
“The contested elements are a basic fundamental of any side,” he said. “We’d still like to become more efficient and capitalise on our opportunities.”
Watters is also looking forward to the Saints regaining some stability in the coming weeks, admitting that it’s difficult to create team chemistry with players coming in and going out of the side on a regular basis.
“We could probably do with a dose of that,” he said.
He forecast “three or four changes” this week, with Koschitzke suspended and experienced duo Lenny Hayes and Sam Gilbert injured.
“There will be players who come in and get a chance. Most of these players have been putting their hand up for a number of weeks.” Watters said.
This Monday St Kilda Football Club will commemorate its 140th anniversary by wearing a jumper that replicates the strip the Saints wore in 1873.
You can follow Tom Morris on Twitter: @tommorris32
