Despite two consecutive disappointing performances against last year’s grand finalists, it’s far from doom and gloom at St Kilda, according to veteran defender Sam Gilbert.
Gilbert, 30, has played all 10 games so far this season and was one of St Kilda’s key contributors in Saturday’s 40-point loss to the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium.
While things were looking far better a fortnight ago, Gilbert says the Saints are still well placed at 5-5 and need to regroup ahead of the second half of the season.
“(His message was) not to be too disappointed. Obviously it’s a game we’re not happy with,” Gilbert told saints.com.au after the 40-point loss on Saturday.
“We know that we’re 5-5 and the season isn’t over.
“We really wanted to concentrate on rallying together and making sure over the next two weeks we get everything right so when we face Adelaide we’re right to go.”
After playing every game in 2016 following three injury-plagued seasons, Gilbert has built some strong form across the last three games, where he has averaged 21.7 possessions (10 contested).
“I’m very happy (with my form). Probably the main thing is just continuity with my football. A full pre-season is what really helps and just being able to stay on the track,” he said.
St Kilda Coach Alan Richardson has deployed Gilbert in several roles this season. He has spent the bulk of his time in his natural habitat down back, playing on key forwards and smalls, as well as pinch-hitting in the ruck from time to time.
While some players might not enjoy being thrown around, the Queenslander admits he enjoys playing multiple roles in games.
“All sorts of roles which I like. I’m happy to play anywhere but right now down back and in the ruck. It’s a little bit different but I really enjoy playing multiple positions,” he said.
