Assistant coach Robert Harvey has praised the work ethic of young forward Mattaes Phillipou, pointing to his blend of confidence and respect as a main factor behind the impressive start to his career.

Harvey has taken charge of St Kilda’s forward line since his return to the club last October, but has been forced to work around significant injuries to key spearheads Max King, Tim Membrey and Jack Hayes.

Although unconventional, the Saints have done more than 'make do' in their makeshift offensive, with the collective 12-game experience between Phillipou, Anthony Caminiti and Mitch Owens – alongside the seasoned Zaine Cordy, Dan Butler and Jack Higgins – holding their own to help the Saints to a 2-0 start to the season.  

Phillipou kicked three goals in last week’s 51-point win over the Western Bulldogs, opening the Saints’ scoring account in three quarters to snare himself two coaches’ votes.

“Mattaes is a fascinating kid in the fact that he has got confidence but he’s got great respect as well,” Harvey told SEN this morning as part of the club’s membership day.

“That’s a really good combination. Confidence on its own can be arrogance, but he’s got such respect for the game and the way he prepares. I don’t think I’ve seen a young kid come in and see it so well.

“You sit down with him to do his vision and he’s telling you before you can tell him what he’s done.

Phillipou has been open about his desire to play football in Victoria and on the biggest stages ever since he was drafted to St Kilda with pick No. 10 at last year’s National Draft.

This Saturday after just two senior appearances, he’ll take part in one St Kilda’s biggest occasions as the red, white and black celebrates its 150^th Year Anniversary Game at the MCG against Essendon.

Paying homage to the club’s past, present and future and the unwavering legends on and off the field who have stood through thick and thin, Round 3 will be a momentous occasion that fans new and old won’t want to miss.

Harvey, the Saints’ games record holder with 383 senior appearances, encouraged as many supporters to get down to the home of football in what is set to be an emotional, star-studded night.

“It’s a big milestone obviously, but it shows so much respect to people who have been before,” Harvey said.

“Having been there through some really tough times in the late ‘80s and ‘90s and known people well in that period, it just shows the ultimate respect to those who have been before.

“Obviously we’ve only had one Premiership in our history, but it doesn’t mean that people haven’t loved that club for a long time. It doesn’t mean you put in any less effort or you love the club any less. I know a good chunk of those will be there on Saturday night.

“We’re still here, we’re still strong and we’re still a presence. We’ve got to stay focussed on the job we have to do, but outside of that we’re hoping as many people get there as they can.

“If there’s one game you can get to, this is the one.”