After three consecutive losses, Friday night’s win over North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium wasn’t pretty but it was important to put St Kilda’s season back on track, says midfielder Seb Ross.

The 24-year-old continued his exceptional start to 2017 against the Kangaroos, collecting 32 disposals – his ninth consecutive haul of 30 or more – 11 contested possessions, six tackles and five clearances.

“We knew North Melbourne were going to come off the bye (desperate for a win), so it was really good to come away with four points,” Ross told saints.com.au after St Kilda’s sixth win of the season.

“(Especially after) three losses in a row; give credit to the opposition we played; Sydney, the Bulldogs and Adelaide are all quality sides.”

“Our three losses, we were too easy to defend so that was a real focus to get back to our game style this week.”

With Friday night’s win drawing the Saints even at 6-6 after 13 rounds and level with two teams at the foot of the top eight, Ross says every game is crucial in the second half of the year.

“It’s a really even year. We are 6-6 now and there’s probably one game between fourth and 12^th. Every game is crucial this season,” he said.

Ross praised the form of wingman Jack Sinclair after the former rookie continued his strong run since returning to the senior side.

Sinclair, 22, was one of the Saints’ more damaging midfielders, finishing with 21 disposals, five inside 50s and five clearances.

“He’s been really good for us, Jack. The more games we get into him the more confidence he’s going to get,” he said.

“Jack’s a really good user, he’s really calm under pressure, so if we can get the ball into his hands we usually score.”