After a courageous second half comeback, the Saints went down to Brisbane Lions in their first NAB Challenge match on Saturday by just three points.
The Lions held on to take the win 0.7.16 (58) to 0.8.7 (55) in humid and windy conditions at Burpengary, in Brisbane's north.
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No.1 draft pick Paddy McCartin showed promising signs in his first game, grabbing five marks and kicking a first-quarter goal.
Second-year ace Jack Billings was taken off in the first half with hamstring tightness, while Jack Steven was rested for the second half.
The Saints were outplayed for portions of the match but never went away, and were running over the Lions in the final quarter, with midfielders David Armitage (28 touches), Jarryn Geary (25) and Leigh Montagna (23) getting plenty of ball.
The Lions had control for much of the day but could not convert on the scoreboard.
Brisbane's Dayne Beams had 25 disposals in his first game in Lions colours after his high profile switch from Collingwood, while Daniel Rich racked up 20 touches in his first game in 11 months following an ACL injury.
Dayne Zorko's muffed attempt from the goalsquare under pressure from Shane Savage in the second quarter was indicative of their troubles.
WHAT WE LEARNED
St Kilda: While they might lack a little polish, you'll get plenty of pluck from the Saints this season. The midfield has the makings of a solid combination, with David Armitage, Leigh Montagna and Jack Newnes performing strongly to go alongside the classy Jack Steven. They have terrific endeavour, and even with the Lions trying to move the ball quickly, were rarely able to with the Saints' pressure. Paddy McCartin and Tim Membrey showed enough up forward.
NEW FACES
With limited chances in the forward 50, number one draft pick Paddy McCartin showed enough to get Saints fans excited. He kicked a goal in the first quarter and missed another relatively easy set shot, finishing with 10 disposals, five marks and 1.1. His forward partner and Sydney Swans recruit Tim Membrey was in the same boat, starved of chances, but kicking 1.1 and showing he could provide a contest. Small forward draftee Jack Lonie kicked a clever goal and was lively after coming on for Jack Billings. Jason Holmes also had his first outing in Saints colours and showed some positive signs.
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