There were four points in Alan Richardson's back pocket when he left Etihad Stadium last night, and plenty of positives.
While the Lions proved hard to shake in the season opener, and the Saints rusty at times, there was plenty to gleam from the first-up win.
The debutant
Hunter’s Clark’s first two touches of the leather were met with a cheer from Saints fans, but it was his third that saw Etihad Stadium erupt.
A massive Blake Acres smother, and some clever work from Jack Billings, saw Clark collect the ball at the top of the goal square for a toe-poke goal.
Every St Kilda player got to the 18-year-old as supporters celebrated the arrival of a future star.
His composure with ball in hand was on show in the third term, when he had a hand in two of St Kilda’s three late goals that saw the hosts establish a 10-point break.
His versatility was another feature with Richardson sending his young gun into defence in the final term, where he again showed his poise under pressure.
Clark’s running mate Nick Coffield was close to Round 1 selection and will no doubt be in the mix to make his debut against the Kangaroos on Good Friday.
It’s good to see you back
The return of Paddy McCartin and David Armitage to the senior side was another positive for the Saints.
With both missing a large chunk of the 2017 season, the pair were like new recruits when lining up against the Lions.
McCartin showed some nerves early, spilling a mark on the back flank, but moments later pounced to kick the first goal of the season.
He could have easily kicked another in the third term, but unselfishly passed off to Josh Bruce. He also seemed to grow in confidence as the match wore on.
Armitage was back to his ferocious best in the first half, making his presence felt in close.
The left-footer finished with 24 disposals, including 4 clearances, but it was perhaps one possession that reminded fans what they were missing last year.
With the Saints under pressure in the third term, Armitage sent Dylan Roberton into space with a raking kick across the centre of the ground.
It was all class and a promise of things to come.
Jimmy’s made of the right stuff
Richardson has spoke at length during the summer of the need for his core group of youngsters to step up this season.
Yesterday, Jimmy Webster did exactly that.
His rebound from defensive 50 set the Saints up, but it was his defensive work that earned the plaudits of his coach.
Playing on the Lions’ dangerous small forwards, Webster stood tall, receiving a massive roar from the crowd when he sent a spoil 30 metres to the boundary when the Lions were pressing in the final term.
Selection dilemma
Before the first bounce on Saturday, there was already plenty of positives in the Saints camp after a VFL practice match at Sandringham.
While Mav Weller and Rowan Marshall sat out the hit-out as the carry-over emergencies, Luke Dunstan, Bailey Rice and Nick Coffield were among the Saints in action for the Zebras.
In wet and wild conditions, the trio led the possession count and loaded up on match minutes to ensure they are ready to fire should they be called upon in Round 2.
The Saints return to Etihad Stadium this Friday to take on North Melbourne in the second ever Kick for the Kids match at 4.20pm.
Enjoy Good Friday footy and contribute $10 towards the RCH Good Friday Appeal by purchasing our special #KickForTheKids 3-game home and away membership. Available now on the Saints membership site.
